Chennai, a vibrant metropolis and the 31st largest metropolitan area globally, offers a diverse array of attractions to travelers. Among its significant religious landmarks is the renowned Kapaleeswarar Temple, a cultural spectacle situated in Chennai’s Mylapore district.
This mylapore kapaleeswarar temple draws a large crowd, particularly during its mesmerizing spring festival. The temple’s Shiva Lingam is believed to be self-manifested (suyambulingam), with the site holding associations with the four Vedas and the restoration of Sukracharya’s eyesight, earning it the names Vedapuri and Sukrapuri.
The name “Kapaleeswarar” itself is a fusion of “Kapalam” (head) and “eswarar” (Lord Shiva). Read more to know about this temple.
Who built the Kapaleeswarar temple?
Originally constructed in the 7th century CE by the Pallavas, the temple was situated where the current Santhome Church stands. After being destroyed by the Portuguese in 1566 A.D., the Vijayanagara kings later rebuilt the temple in the Dravidian architectural style.
History of Kapaleeswarar temple Chennai
Legend has it that the place’s name originates from Goddess Uma’s worship of Lord Shiva in the form of a peacock. Due to a distraction involving a peacock, Goddess Uma was cursed by Lord Shiva and sought solace at this site.
Her eventual restoration led to her being named Karpagavalli. The temple is also notable for Goddess Parvati gifting Lord Muruga the Sakthi Vel spear to defeat a demon.
The kapileshwar mandir holds significance as Lord Brahma’s penance spot to regain creative power from Lord Shiva.
Entry fees and timings of Kapaleeswarar temple
The kapaleeswarar temple timings are long. It stays open from 5:00 AM in the morning until 12:00 PM in the afternoon and from 4:00 PM in the evening until 9:30 PM at night. Visitors no need to pay entrance fees to enter the Kapaleeswarar temple.
Events at Kapaleeswarar Temple Chennai
Poojas or prayers are conducted six times daily at Kapaleeswarar Temple. Those are Ko Pooja (morning Kala Shanthi), Vaikarai Pooja, Kaala Sandhi Pooja, Uchchikala Pooja (mid-day), Sayamkala Pooja (evening), and Ardhajama Pooja (late midnight). Particularly notable is the cherished sixteen-step Shodasa Upacharas ritual held in the evening.
Monthly observances like Pradhosa and Panchaparva attract numerous visitors, while Shivratri sees special prayers. The spring festival, Panguni Peruvizha, held from mid-March to mid-April, draws a substantial crowd.
The nine-day event includes dwajarohanam (flag hoisting), therotsavam (chariot procession), Arupathimoovar festival, Brahmotsava, and Thirukalyanam. Kapaleeswarar and Karpagambal idols, adorned and placed on vahanas, complete circumambulation for these days.
Notably, the significant Arupathimoovar involves all 63 Nayanmars trailing the chariot-driven Kapaleeswarar, guided by Lord Brahma. Navratri festival also holds prominence within the temple’s celebrations.
How to reach Kapaleeswarar Temple
Chennai boasts one of the nation’s busiest airports, serving as a global and domestic flight hub. Well-connected by flights, buses, and trains, the city offers easy access to various destinations.
Buses operate from CMBT (Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminal), while daily trains depart from Chennai Central Station to cities across India. Chennai Egmore station connects the capital with state cities.
5.4 kilometers from Chennai Central and 11.1 kilometers from the airport, the famous Kapaleeswarar Temple is situated on Kutchery Road in Mylapore.
Travelers can opt for cabs, taxis, local buses, or auto rickshaws from the airport, bus terminal, or railway station to reach this temple in Chennai.
Final thoughts: – Chennai’s kabalishwarar kovil astonishes visitors with its intricate weaving of devotion and history. Do plan to visit because this cultural treasure awaits, delivering a spiritual journey through time, and is reachable through well-connected ways. Liturgical Temples is established with the intention of educating our visitors about the history, location, routes and other crucial details pertaining to the most Oldest temples in the state.
