Temple Description

The Kamakshi Amman Temple, also known as Kamakoti Nayaki Kovil, is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kamakshi, a major aspect of Adi Parashakti, the supreme goddess in Shaktism. Located in the historic city of Kanchipuram, near Chennai, India, it is one of the most significant centers of Shaktism in Tamil Nadu.

**History**

The temple’s origins are debated. It is believed to have been founded by the Pallava kings between the 5th and 8th centuries, when Kanchipuram was their capital. Some sources suggest it was built by the Cholas in the 14th century, while a local legend claims it was constructed as recently as 1783. The temple is mentioned in the 6th-9th century Vaishnavite Alvars’ hymns compiled in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham. The temple underwent modifications in the 14th and 17th centuries, and according to a legend, a golden statue of Kamakshi, after being carried throughout South India following the fall of the Vijayanagar Empire, was finally enshrined in the temple in 1783.

**Significance**

The temple is dedicated primarily to Kamakshi, who is worshipped in five different forms within the shrine. It also features a shrine for Vishnu in his Varaha form. The Kamakshi Amman Temple serves as the center for the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, an important institution in Hindu religious life.

**Shaktism**

The Kamakshi Amman Temple is a key center of Shaktism, along with other important sites like Madurai, Varanasi, and Thiruvanaikovil. The goddess Kamakshi is revered as ‘Sri Mata’ (respected mother) and is considered one of the highest forms of Adi Parashakti, reflecting her significant role in Shaktism.