️ Culture,
Tradition, and Lifestyle
Kancheepuram is steeped in history, serving as a major seat of learning
(Ghatikas) and spirituality for over a thousand years.
·
Spiritual Hub: Uniquely, the city is sacred to both
Shaivites (Shiva worshippers) and Vaishnavites (Vishnu worshippers). The city is divided into
Shiva Kanchi and Vishnu Kanchi, with
the Goddess Kamakshi reigning over both as the supreme power.
·
Weaving Heritage: The city is synonymous with the Kanchipuram Silk Saree. Thousands of families have been
engaged in weaving for generations, creating sarees that are an integral part
of South Indian weddings and traditions. The rhythmic clacking of handlooms is
the heartbeat of this town.
·
Lifestyle: The lifestyle here is deeply
traditional. Mornings begin with temple bells and the smell of jasmine. However,
as a neighbor to Chennai and an industrial hub (Sriperumbudur nearby), the city
is also modernizing rapidly.
Culinary Heritage
and Famous Food
Kancheepuram offers a unique culinary treat that is famous worldwide.
·
Kanchipuram Idli: This is the city's signature dish.
Unlike the regular soft white idli, the Kanchipuram Idli is
cylindrical, spiced with cumin, pepper, ginger, and curry leaves, and often
steamed in mandharai leaves or bamboo baskets. It has a distinct
flavor and is offered as prasadam in the
Varadharaja Perumal Temple.
·
Temple Prasadam: The food offered in the temples
here, especially the Puliyodarai (Tamarind Rice) and Sweet Pongal, is legendary for its taste.
·
South Indian Meals: The local mess
halls serve authentic, spicy vegetarian meals on banana leaves, staying true to
the town's orthodox roots.
Administration
and Infrastructure
Kancheepuram is a district of immense historical and industrial
importance.
·
City Profile: Kancheepuram functions as a City Municipal Corporation, reflecting its significance
and population growth.
·
Parliamentary Constituency (MP): The district falls
under the Kancheepuram (SC) Lok Sabha constituency.
·
Assembly Constituencies (MLA): Key legislative
assemblies include Kancheepuram, Uthiramerur, and Sriperumbudur.
·
Economy:
o Silk Industry: The handloom silk
industry is a massive economic driver, employing thousands of weavers.
o Automobile Hub: The nearby
Sriperumbudur and Oragadam belts are known as the "Detroit of India,"
hosting giants like Hyundai and Saint-Gobain, significantly boosting the
district's economy.
Education Hub:
Schools and Colleges
Historically known as a center of learning (Ghatika),
Kancheepuram continues that legacy today.
·
Universities: The Sri Chandrasekharendra
Saraswathi Viswa Mahavidyalaya (SCSVMV) is a prominent deemed
university.
·
Medical & Engineering: The district hosts
Meenakshi Medical College and several top-tier
engineering colleges like Sri Venkateswara College of Engineering (SVCE) in the
industrial belt.
·
Schools: The city has historic schools like
Anderson Higher Secondary School alongside modern CBSE institutions.
Major Festivals
·
Brahmotsavam & Garuda Sevai: Held at the
Varadharaja Perumal Temple in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May-June).
The sight of the deity on the Garuda Vahanam is spectacular and draws lakhs of
devotees.
·
Panguni Uthiram: Celebrated grandly at the
Ekambareswarar Temple, marking the wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
·
Silk Saree Shopping Season: During the wedding
seasons (Thai and Aavani months), the city turns into a bustling marketplace
for silk shoppers from across the globe.
Unique Highlights:
Why Kancheepuram is Special
1. The Silk Mark: The Kancheepuram Silk Saree holds a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag. Pure mulberry silk
woven with gold zari makes these sarees family
heirlooms passed down for generations.
2. Architectural
Marvels: The Kailasanathar Temple, built by the Pallavas in the 8th
century, is one of the oldest structures in Tamil Nadu and is made entirely of
sandstone. It is a masterpiece of Dravidian art.
3. Democracy
Inscriptions: The nearby village of Uthiramerur contains
10th-century inscriptions that detail an ancient system of democracy and
elections (Kudavolai system), proving the advanced administrative
skills of the Cholas.
Top Tourist
Attractions and Sightseeing Places
Kancheepuram is a treasure trove of temples and heritage.
1. Kamakshi Amman Temple
The heart of the city. This is one of the 51 Shakti
Peethams. It is unique because Goddess Kamakshi is the only main
deity in the city; there are no separate Ambal shrines in the local Shiva
temples, as she represents all of them.
2. Ekambareswarar Temple
One of the "Pancha Bhoota Sthalams" representing the element
of Earth (Prithvi). It features a massive 59-foot tall Raja Gopuram and a sacred mango tree believed to be
3,500 years old.
3. Varadharaja Perumal Temple
A massive Vishnu temple known for its 100-pillared hall and the holy Golden and Silver Lizards which devotees touch for
luck. The temple tank houses the idol of Athi Varadar, which
is brought out only once every 40 years (next in 2059).
4. Kailasanathar Temple
The finest example of Pallava architecture. Unlike other temples, this
is largely a monument of art with intricate stone carvings and minimal active
worship, offering a peaceful atmosphere for history lovers.
5. Kanchi Kudil
A heritage home turned into a museum. It showcases the traditional
lifestyle, architecture, and household items of a typical Kancheepuram family
from a century ago.
Experience the
Divine and the Royal in Kancheepuram!
From buying the perfect wedding saree to bowing before the majestic
gopurams, Kancheepuram is a journey of a lifetime.
For
customized temple tours, silk shopping guidance, and travel packages, contact
us:
Mobile: +91 77088
94141
Website:
www.renghaholidays.com
Rengha
Holidays – Your Gateway to Heritage and Spirituality.
