Jurahareswarar temple (also called Jvarahareswara temple) is located in the temple town of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu. Constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture, the temple is dedicated to Shiva, who is worshipped as Jurahareswarar.
The temple is considered one of the smaller shrines in Kanchipuram. Its sacred tank, Jurahara Theertham, is believed to have healing properties. Like the Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam, the temple’s vimana (tower) has openings on all four sides for ventilation, which is also thought to have curative effects. The temple priests perform daily rituals and special poojas during festivals.
The Jurahareswarar Temple is believed to have been built either by Pallava King Narasimhavarman II (690–725 CE) or later during the reign of Chola King Kulottunga III (1178–1218 CE). The three-tiered gopuram is a later addition. The temple features a unique semicircular sanctum and follows a rectangular layout with a single shrine for Jurahareswarar as a Lingam. Built on an elevated platform, the sanctum is preceded by a rectangular Ardhamandapa (prayer hall) and a Mukhamandapa (entrance porch) with eight intricately carved Pallava-style pillars.
In front of the shrine, a small Nandi shrine is aligned with the sanctum, followed by a Bali Pitham (offering platform). The temple is adorned with sculptures depicting various Hindu legends. The Archaeological Survey of India maintains and administers the temple.
According to Hindu legend, a person’s well-being in their current life is determined by the austerities performed in previous births. The name “Jurahareswarar” comes from the Sanskrit words Jvara (fever), Hara (destroy), and Ishvara (Shiva), symbolizing Shiva’s power to heal diseases.
The celestial deities (devas) were troubled by a demon named Sura. They wanted to seek Shiva’s help, but since he was in deep penance, they were hesitant to approach him directly. Instead, they sought the help of Brahma, who conveyed their request to Shiva. In response, Shiva opened his third eye and released a fiery energy, which caused the devas to suffer from fever (Jvara).
In distress, they prayed to Shiva, and pleased by their devotion, he appeared as Jurahareswarar at this place. The devas worshipped him and were purified by the waters of Jurahara Theertham. With Shiva’s blessings, they eventually defeated the demon king.
The temple has weekly rituals like Somavaram (Monday) and Sukravaram (Friday), fortnightly rituals like Pradosham, and monthly festivals such as Amavasai (New Moon Day), Kiruthigai, Pournami (Full Moon Day) and Chathurthi.
