Experience Divinity at The Marundeeswarar Temple, Chennai

by Manish Kumar Marketing Head

The ancient city of Madras (Chennai) and a modern metropolitan, has been one of the most important destinations of Southern Indian. Chennai has been of great importance in its fascinating past. It also is a popular tourist and business destination. It attracts numerous visitors, looking for business opportunities, seeking cultural and religious retreat, or merely a getaway. Serving as the political capital for many kingdoms like the Pallavas and Cholas, the city saw many developments. Today, one can find numerous historical religious structures dotted around the city. The Marundeeswarar Temple is one such magnificent structure. So, while you plan a visit to Chennai, staying at some 3-star hotels in Chennai, you should definitely visit this temple.

The origin

The Marundeeswarar Temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and is related to various Hindu legends. It is believed the Marundeeswarar Lingam was formed naturally. As there are no mentions about the origin of the temple in any relic. However, during the 7th and 8th century the temple was glorified and promoted by Nayanars, Appar and other saints. Later in the 11th century, the temple saw significant expansion and construction, under the Chola Reign

The legend

The Marundeeswarar Temple is involved in many divine legends. Lord Marundeeswarar imparted the knowledge of herbs and medicine to Sage Agastya at this place. And, so devotees seek blessings for good health and cure diseases. Another legend talks about the Kamadenu (Holy Cow). An angry sage cursed Kamadenu, making it lose its divine power. After pouring milk on the Lingam and worshipping Lord Shiva, the cow regained its divinity. The scar on the Lingam is believed to be caused when Kamadenu ran fearing Sage Valmiki, pressing its feet on the structure. Sage Valmiki and Markandeyar also worshipped Shiva in this temple for his blessings.

The architecture

Most parts of the temple were constructed during the Pallava and Chola reign and so, it follows the Dravidian architecture. There are 2 main entrances to the temple complex, each made in form of 5-tiered gopurams. There are numerous beautiful carvings on the 36 massive pillars that support the complex.

There are shrines of Lord Ganesha and Murugan housed in the complex. The 3 shrines of Ganesh are a symbol of him controlling the three times – past, present and future.

Culture

There are numerous rituals performed every day and discipline is followed diligently. From the morning prayers to offering the treats and teaching lectures, everyone follows a timetable.

The temple offers a uniquely divine experience and a piece of mind. The temple is situated on the ECR road as is easily reachable. Numerous devotees offer their prayers at this Shiva Temple. And the crowd increases during its 12 yearly festivals. During your visit to Chennai, you could choose from many budget hotels near Chennai airport for a comfortable stay.