Thillai Kali Temple, Chidambaram

Thillai Kali Temple(Tamil : ) is a Hindu Temple located on the outskirts of the town of Chidambaram, Cuddalore District Tamil Nadu in India. It was built by Chola King Kopperunjingan who ruled between 1229 and 1278.

This Temple is on the outskirts of the city of Chidhambaram. Legend says that Lord Kaali moved here after losing to Lord Siva in the celestial dance contest.

It was an argument that who is superior, either 'Sivam' (Lord Siva) or Shakthi (Parvathi). In order to resolve thus, they performed a dance programme at Chidambaram in front of Vishnu, Bhrama and points. While they were playing dance, Siva was about to be defeated.

But knowing fully well Siva played on "OORTHAVA THANDAVA" i.e. raising is leg above his head. This 'Ooorthava Thandava' is one of the posture in the dance. It could not be played by the women folk due to their modesty and shyness. In this Parvathi could not play equally well to this posture and agreed her defeat. She had to go outside the borders of the town in order to contain her haughtiness and to teach a lesson that Sivam and Shakthi are both equally important in our life.

'Thillai Kali' is a deity in anger. This anger was pacified by Brahma by Chanting Veda and also praising her. Because of the penance of Lord Brahma 'Kali' became cool. So that Goddess 'Thillai Amman' in this temple seems with four faces.

Location

Chidambaram is 245 km away from Chennai International airport and has a railway station that is connected with Trichy, Madurai and Chennai

References

thillaikali.com/history.htm

• http://www.theindiatravel.com/travel/favourites/pilgrimage/Chidambaram.htm
• Google Maps - Thillai Kali Temple