Embedded within the annals of history, Chennai boasts captivating religious landmarks, among which stands the Marundeeswarar temple. This glorious abode of Lord Shiva is among the esteemed 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams, drawing pilgrims seeking healing. These temples, eulogized by Saiva Nayanars, honor Lord Shiva.
Themarundeeswarar templeresonates with the hymns of Arunagirinathar and is renowned for his Thirupuggazh. It echoes divine verses and glorifies Lord Subramanya. In unity with Kapaleeswarar and Thiruvottiyur Thyagaraja Swamy Temples, Marundeeswarar contributes to the Trinity Sea Shore temples.
The self-manifested (Swayambhu Murti) Shiva Lingam embodies profound spiritual significance. Here is more information about this temple:
Entry fees and Timings of Marundeeswarar Temple:
The Chennai Marundeeswarar temple does not charge an entry fee. The hours of operation are 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM in the morning and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM at night.
Festivals are celebrated at Marundeeswarar Temple:
The temple hosts a number of celebrations throughout the year, including the full moon days known as the Kruthika Star Days, Panguni Brahmmotsavam in March–April, Shivrathri in February–March, Vinayaka Chaturthi, and Skanda Sashti. Your visit will be more enjoyable and enthusiastic if you go tochennai shiva temple during these celebrations.
Marundeeswarar Temple events:
Six rituals are performed daily, and twelve festivals are observed yearly. Every day from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM, sessions on the Shiva Siddhanta are held in the Devasriyan mandapam. A huge crowd attends the Brahmotsavam festival, which is held from March through April. Additionally, well-observed holidays in the temple include Shivaratri, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Skanda Sashti. During Pradosham, many people visit the temple.
Temple location:The Marundeeswarar temple is located at Lalitha Nagar in Chennai’s Thiruvanmiyur and is adjacent to the beach of the Bay of Bengal.
Who built the Marundeeswarar Temple?
While later additions are credited to the Vijayanagar emperors, the current masonry structure was constructed in the 9th century under the Chola era.
History of Marundeeswarar Temple:
Nestled by the Bay of Bengal, the ancient Marundeeswarar Temple in Thiruvanmiyur holds a 1300-year legacy.
Celebrated by Nayanars Appar and Thirugnana Sambandar, it expanded during Chola and Vijayanagar’s reigns. Thechennai templeboasts rich legends, including Sage Valmiki’s worship.
The sacredness of this place was augmented by Sage Bharadwaja’s reverential prayers at the Lingam. Markandeyar’s profound penance and Lord Brahma’s organized festival further enriched its spiritual significance.
Folklore tells of Kamadhenu, the revered sacred cow, anointing the Lingam with milk, leading to its designation as Palvananathar, symbolic of its radiant whiteness.
The main shrine, oriented towards the west, witnesses the daily sunset homage bestowed upon the Lord by the Sun and Moon, encapsulating the awe-inspiring spiritual aura of the temple.
Its 2008 Kumbhabhishekam marked a milestone as the 25th Thondai temple in Thevaram hymns, praising Lord Shiva’s medicinal teachings as Marundeeswarar.
How to reach Marundeeswarar Temple
Air:The Marundeeswarar Temple is located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, and is easily accessible from Chennai International Airport. It is situated 15–16 kilometers from the Thiruvanmiyur region. You can easily catch a cab at the airport to travel to the temple after departing.
Road:Lalitha Nagar in Thiruvanmiyur is home to the Marundeeswarar Temple. Thiruvanmiyur is the closest bus stop. Regular bus services connect to the Marundeeswara temple on the East Coast Road in Tiruvanmiyur.
Train:Both Chennai Central and Chennai Egmore railway stations offer access to trains connecting Temples in Chennai with other cities in India and Tamil Nadu.
Final thoughts:
Don’t forget to visit the Marundeeswarar temple to relive history, receive blessings, and find profound mental peace. Its rich heritage and sacred ambiance offer a soul-enriching experience for all seekers.
Liturgical Temples are grouped into Structural Temples of the Pandiyas, Cave temples of the Pallavas, Great living temples of the Cholasand Sangam Age temples.