The Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Chennai, the capital city of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the city.
Here are some key details about the Kapaleeshwarar Temple:
Location: The temple is situated in the Mylapore neighborhood of Chennai, near the Triplicane area. Its exact address is No. 12, North Mada Street, Mylapore, Chennai.
Architecture: The temple showcases the Dravidian style of architecture, which is typical of many South Indian temples. It features intricate carvings, colorful sculptures, and towering gopurams (gateways). The main gopuram of the temple is adorned with detailed sculptures of various gods and goddesses.
Deities: The primary deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, who is worshipped in the form of Kapaleeshwarar. The goddess Parvati, in the form of Karpagambal, is also worshipped here. The temple complex includes smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, such as Murugan (Lord Kartikeya), Ganesha, and Vishnu.
Legend: According to local legend, the temple is believed to have been built around the 7th century CE. The story goes that Goddess Parvati, in the form of a peacock, performed penance here to seek redemption for a sin. Lord Shiva granted her wish and turned her into a peahen, leading to the name “Kapaleeshwarar” (Kapala meaning peacock and Eeshwarar meaning Lord Shiva).
Festivals: The temple is known for celebrating various festivals with great enthusiasm. The annual Arupathimoovar festival, also known as the Panguni Peruvizha, is a major event, drawing large crowds. Other important festivals celebrated here include Maha Shivaratri, Navaratri, and Aadi Pooram.
Visiting the Temple: The Kapaleeshwarar Temple is open to devotees throughout the year. Visitors are expected to follow traditional dress code and remove their footwear before entering the temple premises. Photography and videography may have certain restrictions, so it’s best to inquire on-site.
The Kapaleeshwarar Temple holds both religious and historical significance and is a popular place of worship and tourist attraction in Chennai. Its rich architectural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual ambiance make it a must-visit destination for devotees and tourists alike.