Banapuriswarar Temple is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. The Goddeds here is Somakamalambal.It is one of the 12 Shiva temples in Kumbakonam associated with the grand Mahamaham festival, which takes place once every 12 years.
According to Hindu mythology, the site was the place from where Shiva took his aim at a pot of amrita with his bow and arrow.
It is believed that the revered sage Agastya performed penance here. Agastya is credited with bringing the Tamil language to South India.
The temple is believed to have been built in the 8th or 9th century CE and later renovated, most notably in the 16th century CE.
Built in the Dravidian architectural style, the temple features a tall gopuram (gateway tower) adorned with intricate carvings. The inner sanctum houses a Swayambhu (self-manifested) lingam, worshipped as Banapuriswarar.
According to legend, the sage Kambatta Munivar was a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu and performed intense penance to seek his divine vision.
One day, Vishnu appeared before him in the form of a dwarf and asked him to build a temple in Kumbakonam. The sage agreed and, with divine grace, completed the temple in a single night. When the temple was ready, Vishnu revealed his true form, blessed Kambatta Munivar, and granted him a boon.
Banasura, a mighty but arrogant demon king, was a great devotee of Lord Shiva. He built a magnificent temple for Shiva but was known for his cruelty toward his subjects.
Lord Vishnu took the form of a beautiful woman to teach him a lesson and visited Banasura’s court. Enchanted by her beauty, Banasura proposed marriage. The woman agreed, but on one condition—he had to defeat her in battle.
Banasura was sure he would win the battle, so he agreed to fight. They fought for many days, but neither could defeat the other. In the end, Vishnu revealed his true identity and killed Banasura.
After Banasura’s death, his kingdom, Banasurapuram, was destroyed. The temple he built was also ruined, but a new temple was later built in its place. This temple is Banapuriswarar Temple, which stands today.
The temple hosts several vibrant festivals annually, drawing thousands of devotees. The Brahmotsavam, the grandest celebration, takes place in May with elaborate processions and special rituals. Maha Shivaratri is observed with night-long prayers and chanting in honor of Lord Shiva. During Karthigai Deepam, the temple glows with countless lamps, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. Navaratri, a nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga, is marked by devotional music, dance, and religious ceremonies. Each festival enhances the temple’s spiritual energy, making it a cherished pilgrimage and cultural destination.