Kapaleeshwar Temple

Kapaleeshwar Temple was built in the 8th century by the Pallavas. It is situated at Mylapore of Chennai. Lord Shiva is the main deity of this temple. One can locate a shrine of Goddess Parvathi in the courtyard. Besides, there are shrines dedicated to Ganesha, Muruga, Deivayani and Valli. Arupathu Moovar Vilzha Festival and Therotsavam are celebrated with extreme enthusiasm in this temple.

Kapaleeshwar Temple that breathes of 8th century Pallavan architecture is situated at Mylapore of Chennai. It is one of the oldest Hindu temples of the city of Chennai. Lord Shiva (Kapaleeshwarar) is the presiding deity of this temple. There is a small shrine inside the courtyard of the temple dedicated to Goddess Parvathi. Parvathi is shown as a peacock worshipping Lord Shiva. Parvathi is known by Karpagambal in this temple.

The outer courtyard of the Kapaleeshwar Temple of Chennai has got images of 63 Saivaite saints (Nayanmars). The main entrance faces the east and has got inscriptions of Puranic legends. Some of the inscriptions of the temple dates back to 1250 AD. The beautifully carved mandapams and gopurams are really a marvel. There is also a tank inside the temple.

Arupathu Moovar Vilzha Festival is celebrated with great devotion in the months of March-April at the Chennai Kapaleeshwar Temple. The temple witnesses a huge crowd during this part of the year. It continues for 10 days and takes place in honor of the 63 Nayanmars. Bronze idols are taken out for procession. Various musical performances of the locals can be seen during this festival. 'Kokkalikattai' and 'Koothu' dances are performed. Traditional puppet show called 'thoippavai' is also organized.

Another festival that is celebrated in this temple is the 'Therotsavam' or the car festival. The images of Lord Shiva and Parvathi are beautifully adorned with jewels. They are then taken for a circumbulation of the temple and the water tank. It continues for a period of 9 days.

The other shrines that can be located at the Kapaleeshwar Temple in Chennai are dedicated to Ganesha, Muruga, Deivayani and Valli. There are also some smaller shrines dedicated to various forms of Lord Shiva like Jagatheswarar, Sundareswarar and Annamalaiar. There is also a separate shrine dedicated to Sani Bhagavan. This temple is one of the major tourist attractions of Chennai.

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