Ashtabujakaram, Dravidian temple in Kanchipuram, India
Ashtabujakaram is a temple centered on a four-tiered gateway tower with multiple shrine spaces and two water bodies surrounded by granite walls. The layout reflects traditional Dravidian temple design with carved stone details and carefully organized worship areas.
The temple was renovated in the 8th century during the Pallava dynasty, a powerful kingdom in south India. Later, the Chola rulers left inscriptions between the 11th and 12th centuries that indicate the site's continued religious importance.
The temple is dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi, honored here as Alamelumangai alongside Vishnu in his eight-armed form as Ashta Bhuja Perumal. Visitors encounter pilgrims participating in daily worship that connects them to centuries of devotional practice in this sacred space.
The temple is open daily from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and again from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with regular worship ceremonies throughout these hours. Visitors should dress modestly and be prepared for warm weather, as customs at Hindu temples ask for respectful conduct near the shrines.
The main deity appears here in a rare eight-armed form facing west, with different weapons and objects held in each hand. This representation follows ancient Hindu teachings and sets it apart from many other temples in the surrounding area.
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