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The Mahamaham tank in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, has several mythological stories associated with it. Here are some of the most popular ones:
Origin of the Mahamaham tank:
According to legend, the Mahamaham tank was created by Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe. He used the waters of all the holy rivers in India to create the tank, which is why it is considered to be a sacred spot. It is believed that taking a dip in the Mahamaham tank during the Mahamaham festival washes away all sins and purifies the soul.
Connection to Lord Shiva:
Another legend states that Lord Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and regeneration, came to Kumbakonam to perform a sacred dance known as the Tandava. He created the Mahamaham tank by striking the ground with his trident, and filled it with water from the Ganges river. It is believed that Lord Shiva himself takes a dip in the Mahamaham tank during the Mahamaham festival.
Story of the Kaveri river:
The Mahamaham tank is connected to the Kaveri river, which is considered to be a sacred river in Hinduism. According to legend, the Kaveri river was born as a result of the penance of a sage named Agastya. The river is believed to be the embodiment of several holy rivers, including the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati. It is said that taking a dip in the Kaveri river during the Mahamaham festival is equivalent to taking a dip in all the holy rivers of India.
Connection to the Chola dynasty:
The Mahamaham tank is believed to have been renovated several times over the centuries by various rulers, including the Chola dynasty. It is said that during the reign of the Cholas, the Mahamaham festival became an important event, and was celebrated with great pomp and splendor. The Chola kings built several temples around the Mahamaham tank, including the Nageswara temple and the Adi Kumbeswarar temple.
These mythological stories add to the spiritual significance of the Mahamaham tank, and attract millions of devotees and tourists to Kumbakonam during the Mahamaham festival.
