Jump to content

Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Difference between revisions

Coordinates: 13°02′01″N 80°16′12″E / 13.0337°N 80.2699°E / 13.0337; 80.2699
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Content deleted Content added
Sapta Sthana Shiva temples paragraph added
m Legend: Punctuation
 
(44 intermediate revisions by 25 users not shown)
Line 8: Line 8:
| caption =
| caption =
| map_type = India Chennai
| map_type = India Chennai
| map_caption = Location in Chennai
| map_caption = Kapaleeshwarar Temple, [[Mylapore]], [[Chennai]], [[Tamil Nadu]]
| coordinates = {{coord|13|02|0|N|80|16|6|E|type:landmark_region:IN|display=inline,title}}
| coordinates = {{coord|13.0337|N|80.2699|E|type:landmark_region:IN|display=inline,title}}[https://geohack.toolforge.org/geohack.php?pagename=Kapaleeshwarar_Temple&params=13.0337_N_80.2699_E_type:landmark_region:IN]
| native_name =
| native_name =
| country = [[India]]
| country = {{flag|India}}
| state = [[Tamil Nadu]]
| state = [[Tamil Nadu]]
| district = [[Chennai]]
| district = [[Chennai]]
| location = [[Mylapore]]
| location = [[Mylapore]]
| elevation_m =
| elevation_m = 54
| deity = Kapaleeswarar ([[Shiva]]), Karpagambal
| deity = Kapaleeshwarar ([[Shiva]]), Karpagambal ([[Parvati]])
| facade_direction =
| facade_direction =
| temple_tank =
| temple_tank =
Line 29: Line 29:
| website =
| website =
}}
}}
'''Kapaleeshwarar Temple'''<ref name="ta.wikipedia.org">[[:ta:மயிலாப்பூர் கபாலீசுவரர் கோயில்]]</ref> is a [[Hindu temple]] dedicated to lord [[Shiva]] located in [[Mylapore]], [[Chennai]] in the [[India]]n state of [[Tamil Nadu]]. The form of Shiva's consort [[Parvati]] worshipped at this temple is called Karpagambal is from [[Tamil language|Tamil]] ("Goddess of the Wish-Yielding Tree"). The temple was built around the 7th century CE and is an example of [[Dravidian architecture]].<ref>[[#Silas|Silas 2007]], p. 114</ref><ref name="kamath">[[#Kamath|Kamath 2002]], pp.28-31</ref>


The '''Kapaleeshwarar Temple''' is a [[Hindu temple]] dedicated to the god [[Shiva]] located in [[Mylapore]], [[Chennai]] in the [[India]]n state of [[Tamil Nadu]]. The temple was built around the 7th century CE and is an example of [[South Indian Architecture]].<ref>[[#Silas|Silas 2007]], p. 114</ref><ref name="kamath">[[#Kamath|Kamath 2002]], pp.28-31</ref>
According to the [[Puranas]], [[Shakti]] worshipped Shiva in the form of a [[peacock]], giving the vernacular name ''Mylai'' ({{IAST|Mayilāi}}) to the area that developed around the temple – ''mayil'' is Tamil for "peacock".<ref>[[#Hurd|Hurd 2010]], p. 36</ref> Shiva is worshiped as Kapaleeswarar, and is represented by the ''[[lingam]]''. His consort [[Parvati]] is depicted as Karpagambal. The presiding deity is revered in the 7th-century Tamil Saiva canonical work, the ''[[Tevaram]]'', written by Tamil saint poets known as the [[Nayanars]] and classified as ''[[Paadal Petra Sthalam]]''.


According to the ''[[Puranas]]'', [[Parvati]] worshipped her husband Shiva in the form of a [[peacock|peahen]] (''mayil'' in [[Tamil language|Tamil]]), giving the vernacular name ''Mylai'' ({{IAST|Mayilāi}}) to the area that developed around the temple.<ref>[[#Hurd|Hurd 2010]], p. 36</ref> Shiva is worshiped as Kapaleeshwarar, and is represented by the ''[[lingam]]''. Parvati is worshipped as Karpagambal (goddess of the wish-yielding tree). The presiding deity is revered in the 7th-century Tamil Shaiva canonical work, the ''[[Tevaram]]'', written by Tamil saint poets known as the [[Nayanars]] and classified as one of the ''[[Paadal Petra Sthalam]]''.
The temple has numerous shrines, with those of Kapaleeswarar and Karpagambal being the most prominent. The temple complex houses many halls. The temple has six daily rituals at various times from 5:30&nbsp;a.m. to 10 p.m., and four yearly festivals on its calendar. The Arubathimoovar festival celebrated during the Tamil month of ''Panguni'' as part of the ப்ரஹ்மோத்சவம் is the most prominent festival in the temple.

The temple has numerous shrines, with those of Kapaleeshwarar and Karpagambal being the most prominent. The temple complex houses many halls. The temple has six daily rituals at various times from 5:30&nbsp;a.m. to 10 p.m., and four yearly festivals on its calendar. The [[Aṟupatimūvar]] festival celebrated during the Tamil month of ''Panguni'' as part of the [[brahmotsava]] is the most prominent festival in the temple.


The temple is maintained and administered by the [[Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department]] of the [[Government of Tamil Nadu]].<ref>[http://www.tnhrce.org/hrce_act_1959.html Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, 1959]</ref>
The temple is maintained and administered by the [[Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department]] of the [[Government of Tamil Nadu]].<ref>[http://www.tnhrce.org/hrce_act_1959.html Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, 1959]</ref>


== Legend ==
== Legend ==
[[File:KapaliKarpagambal.JPG|200x200px|thumb|left|Image of Karpagambal and Kapaleeswarar]]
[[File:KapaliKarpagambal.JPG|200x200px|thumb|left|Image of Karpagambal and Kapaleeshwarar]]
The temple's name is derived from the words ''kapāla'' (head) and ''Īśvara'' an alias of lord [[Shiva]]. According to the Puranas, during the meeting of Brahma and Shiva at top of [[Mount Kailash]] Brahma failed to show the due respect to Shiva. Due to this, Shiva plucked of one of Brahma's heads (''kapalams''). In an act of penance, Brahma came down to the site of Mylapore and installed a [[Lingam]] to please Shiva.<ref name=Meena>{{cite book|title=Temples in South India|last=V.|first=Meena|publisher=Harikumar Arts|location=Kanniyakumari|year=1974|edition=1st|page=46}}</ref> This place is known as Sukra Puri, Veda Puri, among many other names including "Kailaye Mayilai and Mayilaye Kayilai "which means this place is equal to kailash. Goddess Karpagambal, a form of Shiva's consort [[Parvati]], due to a curse became a pea-hen and did penance here to get back her original personality. Shiva's son [[Murugan]] received the spear (Sakthi Vel) for the destruction of a demon from Parvati here. Brahma had worshipped here to get rid of his ego and get back his power to create. The four Vedas have worshipped here. Sukracharya worshipped the Lord here and got back his lost eye. Rama has worshipped here and won the war against Ravana and brought back Sita from Lanka. The daughter of Sivanesa Chettiar Angam Poompavai got her lost life due to snake bite was later resurrected here by the powers of [[Sambandar|Thirugnana Sambandar]].<ref name="kamath" /> [[Vayilar]] Nayanar, a saiva saint, attained salvation here and Mylapore is also the birth place of [[Thiruvalluvar]] who wrote the [[Thirukkural]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Kapaleeshwarar Temple|url=https://www.lankapradeepa.com/2021/08/kapaleeshwarar-temple.html|publisher=Lankapradeepa|date=22 August 2021|access-date=4 November 2021}}</ref> In Thevaram special mention is made about the beautiful Madaveedhi as "Malgun Mathri Thavazhum Maada Veedhi Mylappil Ullar". Thiruganana Sambandar, Arunagirinathar have sung the glory of Karpagambal, Singara Velar. The 10-day festival during March / April is a treat to watch and Arubathu Moovar festival is attended by lakhs of devotees every year.<ref name="kamath" />
The temple's name is derived from the words ''[[kapala]]'' (head) and ''[[Ishvara]]'', an epithet of Shiva. According to the ''[[Puranas]]'', during the meeting of the deities Brahma and Shiva at top of [[Mount Kailash]], Brahma failed to show the due respect to Shiva. Due to this, Shiva plucked off one of the five heads (''kapala'') of Brahma. In an act of penance, Brahma came down to the site of Mylapore and installed a [[lingam]] to please Shiva.<ref name=Meena>{{cite book|title=Temples in South India|last=V.|first=Meena|publisher=Harikumar Arts|location=Kanniyakumari|year=1974|edition=1st|page=46}}</ref> This place is known as Sukra Puri, Veda Puri, among many other names including "Kailaye Mayilai" and "Mayilaye Kayilai" ({{Lit|Mylapore is Kailash}}). According to [[Sthala purana|regional legend]], Shiva's consort [[Parvati]] (Karpagambal), due to a curse became a pea-hen and did penance here to get back her original form. Her son [[Murugan]] received the spear ([[vel]]) for the destruction of a demon from Parvati here. Brahma had worshipped here to get rid of his ego and get back his power to create. The four Vedas have worshipped here. [[Shukra]] worshipped Shiva here and got back his lost eye. The daughter of Sivanesa Chettiar Angam Poompavai, who died due to snake bite, was resurrected here by the powers of the [[Nayanars|Nayanar]] saint [[Sambandar]].<ref name="kamath" /> [[Vayilar]], another Nayanar saint, attained salvation here.<ref>{{cite web|title=Kapaleeshwarar Temple|url=https://www.lankapradeepa.com/2021/08/kapaleeshwarar-temple.html|publisher=Lankapradeepa|date=22 August 2021|access-date=4 November 2021}}</ref>


== History ==
== History ==
[[File:Kabali-granite-plate.jpg|thumb|left|Placade in the East Entrance]]
[[File:Mylapore Kapaleeshwarar temple facade.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Facade of the temple]]
[[File:Mylapore Kapaleeshwarar temple facade.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Facade of the temple]]
[[File:Kapalisvar temple festival in mayilai circa 1940.jpg|thumb|200px|right|The temple festival in c. 1940]]
[[File:Kapalisvar temple festival in mayilai circa 1940.jpg|thumb|200px|right|The temple festival in c. 1940]]
The commonly held view is that the temple was built in the 7th century CE by the ruling [[Pallava]]s.<ref name="V.">[[#V.|V. 2006]], p. 13</ref> This view is based on references to the temple in the hymns of the [[Nayanars]] (which, however, place it by a sea shore). Thirugnanasambandar's 6th song in Poompavaipathikam and Arunagirinathar's 697th song in Thirumylai Thirupugazh, make clear reference to the Kapaleeswarar temple being located by a seashore.<ref name="dinamalar" /> There are inscriptions dating back to 12th century inside the temple.<ref name="frommers">[[#de|de Bruyn 2010]], p. 320</ref> The temple's 120&nbsp;ft ''[[gopuram]]''<ref name="frommers" /> (gateway tower) was built during 1906 with stucco figures adorning it.<ref name="kamath" /><ref name="V." /> The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the [[Government of Tamil Nadu]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Administration details|url=http://www.mylaikapaleeswarar.tnhrce.in/admin-kapaleeswar.html|publisher=Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Temple|location=Mylapore, Chennai|access-date=22 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131121074703/http://www.mylaikapaleeswarar.tnhrce.in/admin-kapaleeswar.html|archive-date=21 November 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref>
The temple is generally thought to be built in the 7th century CE by the ruling [[Pallava]]s.<ref name="V.">[[#V.|V. 2006]], p. 13</ref> This view is based on references to the temple in the hymns of the Nayanar saints. However, the Nayanar Sambandar and the saint [[Arunagirinathar]] make clear reference to the Kapaleeshwarar temple being located by a seashore.<ref name="dinamalar" /> There are inscriptions dating back to 12th century inside the temple.<ref name="frommers">[[#de|de Bruyn 2010]], p. 320</ref> The temple's 120&nbsp;ft ''[[gopuram]]''<ref name="frommers" /> (gateway tower) was built during 1906 with stucco figures adorning it.<ref name="kamath" /><ref name="V." /> The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the [[Government of Tamil Nadu]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Administration details|url=http://www.mylaikapaleeswarar.tnhrce.in/admin-kapaleeswar.html|publisher=Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Temple|location=Mylapore, Chennai|access-date=22 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131121074703/http://www.mylaikapaleeswarar.tnhrce.in/admin-kapaleeswar.html|archive-date=21 November 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref>


==The Temple==
==The Temple==
Line 53: Line 53:
The Kapaleeshwarar temple is of typical [[Dravidian architecture|Dravidian architectural]] style, with the ''[[gopuram]]'' overpowering the street on which the temple sits. This temple is also a testimonial for the [[vishwakarmas]] sthapathis. There are two entrances to the temple marked by the ''gopuram'' on either side. The east ''gopuram'' is about 40 m high, while the smaller western gopuram faces the sacred [[tank]].<ref name="about">{{cite web|title=About the Temple|url=http://www.mylaikapaleeswarar.tnhrce.in/history-kapaleeswarar.html|publisher=Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Temple|location=Mylapore, Chennai|access-date=22 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131117212802/http://www.mylaikapaleeswarar.tnhrce.in/history-kapaleeswarar.html|archive-date=17 November 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref>
The Kapaleeshwarar temple is of typical [[Dravidian architecture|Dravidian architectural]] style, with the ''[[gopuram]]'' overpowering the street on which the temple sits. This temple is also a testimonial for the [[vishwakarmas]] sthapathis. There are two entrances to the temple marked by the ''gopuram'' on either side. The east ''gopuram'' is about 40 m high, while the smaller western gopuram faces the sacred [[tank]].<ref name="about">{{cite web|title=About the Temple|url=http://www.mylaikapaleeswarar.tnhrce.in/history-kapaleeswarar.html|publisher=Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Temple|location=Mylapore, Chennai|access-date=22 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131117212802/http://www.mylaikapaleeswarar.tnhrce.in/history-kapaleeswarar.html|archive-date=17 November 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref>


The ''[[vahana]]''s ([[Sanskrit]] for "vehicles") at the temple include the [[bull]], Adhikaranandi, [[elephant]], [[bandicoot]], [[peacock]], [[goat]] and [[parrot]], while a golden chariot is a recent addition. Statues of the god and the goddess are seated on a ''vahana'' or chariot which is brought in a procession around the temple while the temple band plays music. Devotees gather around the ''vahanas'' and consider it a privilege to pull / lift the God and the Goddess on the ''vahana''. There is also a peacock and a [[peafowl|peahen]] caged inside the temple, to symbolize the tradition that Karpagambal had come in the form of peahen to plead to Kapaleeshwarar.
The ''[[vahana]]''s ("vehicles") at the temple include the [[bull]], [[Nandi (Hinduism)|adhikaranandi]], [[elephant]], [[bandicoot]], peacock, [[goat]] and [[parrot]], while a golden chariot is a recent addition. Statues of the presiding divine couple are seated on a ''vahana'' or chariot which is brought in a procession around the temple while the temple band plays music. Devotees gather around the ''vahanas'' and consider it a privilege to pull / lift the deities on the ''vahana''. There is also a peacock and a peahen caged inside the temple, to symbolize the tradition that Karpagambal had come in the form of peahen to plead to Kapaleeshwarar.


==Sapta Sthana Shiva temples==
==Sapta Sthana Shiva temples==
Line 61: Line 61:
# [[Tirttapaleeswarar Temple, Triplicane|Tirttapaleeswarar Temple]]
# [[Tirttapaleeswarar Temple, Triplicane|Tirttapaleeswarar Temple]]
# [[Velleeswarar Temple]]
# [[Velleeswarar Temple]]
# [[Virupakshiswarar Temple, Mylapore|Virupakshiswarar Temple]]
# Viruppattiswarar Temple
# Valeeswarar Temple
# [[Valeeswarar Temple, Mylapore|Valeeswarar Temple]]
# Malleeswarar Temple
# [[Malleeswarar Temple, Mylapore|Malleeswarar Temple]]
# [[Kapaleeshwarar Temple]]
# Kapaleeshwarar Temple

In addition to these "Sapta Sthana Shiva sthalas", the [[Ekambareshwarar–Valluvar temple]] in the neighbourhood is traditionally considered the indispensable eighth.<ref name="Vikatan2019">{{cite web
| url = https://www.vikatan.com/spiritual/temples/mylapore-thiruvalluvar-temple-spot-visit
| title = மயிலாப்பூர் திருவள்ளுவர் கோயிலில் என்ன நடக்கிறது? - ஸ்பாட் விசிட் #Video
| last = Muthukumaran
| first = M.
| date = 6 November 2019
| website = Vikatan.com
| publisher = Vikatan
| access-date = 10 January 2023
| quote = }}</ref>


==The tank==
==The tank==
The ''theppakulam'' or the temple tank lies to the west of the temple. Also known as the '''Kapaleeshwarar Tank''' or the '''Mylapore Tank''', it is one of the oldest and well-maintained theppakulams in the city, measuring about 190&nbsp;m in length and 143&nbsp;m in breadth.<ref name="DC_TakeAStroll"/> The tank has a storage capacity of 119,000 cubic metre and has water all through the year.<ref name="DC_TakeAStroll"/> The 16-pillared, granite-roofed structure, known as the ''mandapam'' at the centre of this tank is known for its significance during the three-day annual float festival, when idols of Lord Kapaleeshwarar and other deities are taken around the tank to the chanting of Vedic hymns.<ref name="DC_TakeAStroll">{{cite news
The ''theppakulam'' or the temple tank lies to the west of the temple. Known as the '''Kapaleeshwarar Tank''' or the '''Mylapore Tank''', it is one of the oldest and well-maintained theppakulams in the city, measuring about 190&nbsp;m in length and 143&nbsp;m in breadth.<ref name="DC_TakeAStroll"/> The tank has a storage capacity of 119,000 cubic metre and has water all through the year.<ref name="DC_TakeAStroll"/> The 16-pillared, granite-roofed structure, known as the ''mandapam'' at the centre of this tank is known for its significance during the three-day annual float festival, when idols of Kapaleeshwarar and other deities are taken around the tank to the chanting of Vedic hymns.<ref name="DC_TakeAStroll">{{cite news
| last =
| last =
| first =
| first =
Line 83: Line 94:


==Religious practises==
==Religious practises==
The temple priests perform the ''[[puja (Hinduism)|pooja]]'' (rituals) during festivals and on a daily basis. Like other Shiva temples of Tamil Nadu, the priests belong to the [[Shaivism|Shaivaite]] community. The temple rituals are performed six times a day; Ushathkalam at 6:00&nbsp;a.m., Kalasanthi at 9:00&nbsp;a.m., Uchikalam at 1:00&nbsp;p.m., Sayarakshai at 5:00&nbsp;p.m., Irandamkalam at 7:00&nbsp;p.m. and Ardha Jamam at 9:00&nbsp;p.m. There is a separate calendar for the Rahu Abhishekam (sacred ablution): it is performed twice in a day at 11:30 a.m and 5:30&nbsp;p.m. and additionally twice at various times in the day. Each ritual comprises four steps: ''abhisheka'' (sacred bath), ''alangaram'' (decoration), ''neivethanam'' (food offering) and ''deepa aradanai'' (waving of lamps) for both Kapaleeswarar and Karpagambal. The worship is held amidst music with ''[[nagaswaram]]'' (pipe instrument) and ''[[tavil]]'' (percussion instrument), religious instructions in the [[Vedas]] (sacred text) read by priests and prostration by worshippers in front of the temple mast. There are weekly rituals like ''{{lang|te-Latn|somavaram}}'' and ''{{lang|te-Latn|sukravaram}}'', fortnightly rituals like ''[[pradosha]]m'' and monthly festivals like ''[[amavasya|amavasai]]'' (new moon day), ''kiruthigai'', ''[[pournami (festival)|pournami]]'' (full moon day) and ''sathurthi''.<ref name="dinamalar">{{cite web|title=Sri Kapaleeswarar temple|url=http://temple.dinamalar.com/en/new_en.php?id=628|publisher=Dinamalar|access-date=22 November 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Pooja details|url=http://www.mylaikapaleeswarar.tnhrce.in/Pooja-details-kapaleeswar.html|publisher=Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Temple|location=Mylapore, Chennai|access-date=22 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203010949/http://www.mylaikapaleeswarar.tnhrce.in/Pooja-details-kapaleeswar.html|archive-date=3 December 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> During Friday worship, the statue of the goddess Karpagambal is decorated with a ''kaasu maala'', a garland made of gold coins.
The temple priests perform the ''[[puja (Hinduism)|puja]]'' (rituals) on a daily basis and during festivals. Like other Shiva temples of Tamil Nadu, the priests belong to the [[Shaivism|Shaiva]] community. The temple rituals are performed six times a day; Ushathkalam at 6:00&nbsp;a.m., Kalasanthi at 9:00&nbsp;a.m., Uchikalam at 1:00&nbsp;p.m., Sayarakshai at 5:00&nbsp;p.m., Irandamkalam at 7:00&nbsp;p.m. and Ardha Jamam at 9:00&nbsp;p.m. There is a separate calendar for the Rahu Abhishekam (sacred ablution): it is performed twice in a day at 11:30 a.m and 5:30&nbsp;p.m. and additionally twice at various times in the day. Each ritual comprises four steps: ''[[abhisheka]]'' (sacred bath), ''alangaram'' (decoration), ''[[Naivedhya|neivethanam]]'' (food offering) and ''[[Arti (Hinduism)|deepa aradanai]]'' (waving of lamps) for both Kapaleeshwarar and Karpagambal. The worship is held amidst music with ''[[nagaswaram|nadasvaram]]'' (pipe instrument) and ''[[tavil]]'' (percussion instrument), religious instructions in the [[Vedas]] (sacred text) read by priests and prostration by worshippers in front of the temple mast. There are weekly rituals like ''{{lang|te-Latn|somavaram}}'' and ''{{lang|te-Latn|sukravaram}}'', fortnightly rituals like ''[[pradosha]]m'' and monthly festivals like ''[[amavasya|amavasai]]'' (new moon day), ''kiruthigai'', ''[[pournami (festival)|pournami]]'' (full moon day) and ''sathurthi''.<ref name="dinamalar">{{cite web|title=Sri Kapaleeswarar temple|url=https://temple.dinamalar.com/en/new_en.php?id=628|publisher=Dinamalar|access-date=22 November 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Pooja details|url=http://www.mylaikapaleeswarar.tnhrce.in/Pooja-details-kapaleeswar.html|publisher=Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Temple|location=Mylapore, Chennai|access-date=22 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203010949/http://www.mylaikapaleeswarar.tnhrce.in/Pooja-details-kapaleeswar.html|archive-date=3 December 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> During Friday worship, Karpagambal is decorated with a ''kasu mala'', a garland made of gold coins.


==Festivals==
==Festivals==
[[File:Karpagambalkapaleeswrar.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Goddess Karpagambal with Lord Kapaleeshwarar]]
[[File:Karpagambalkapaleeswrar.jpg|left|thumb|200px|''[[Murti]]''s of Karpagambal and Kapaleeshwarar]]
[[File:Devotees praying at KapaleeshwararTemple, Chennai. 2010.jpg|thumb|Devotees praying at KapaleeshwararTemple, [[Chennai]]. 2010]]
[[File:Devotees praying at KapaleeshwararTemple, Chennai. 2010.jpg|thumb|Devotees praying at KapaleeshwararTemple, [[Chennai]]. 2010]]
During the Tamil month of ''[[Tamil calendar|Panguni]]'', the traditional brahmotsavam (annual festival) takes place when the entire neighborhood comes alive with a ''[[mela|mela (carnival)]]''-like atmosphere. Since this month corresponds to the mid-March to mid-April duration, the Kapaleeshwarar temple celebrates the nine day-long as ''Panguni Peruvizha'' (Spring festival).<ref>[[#Bhargava|Bhargava 2006]], p. 451</ref> The festival starts with ''Dwajarohanam'' (flag hoisting), includes the ''therotsavam'', (Tamil, ''[[Temple car|ther]]'', "car/chariot"; ''utsavam'', "festival"), Arupathimoovar festival and concludes with the Tirukkalyanam (Marriage of Kapaleeswarar & Karpagambal). In ''Brahmotsavam'', the idols of Kapaleeshwarar and Karpagambal are decorated with clothes and jewels, are mounted on a ''vahana'', and then taken around the temple and its water tank in a ''pradakshinam'' (a clockwise path when seen from above). This is repeated with different ''vahanas'' over the next nine days. The more important of the individual ''pradakshinams'' are the ''Athigara Nandhi'' on the third day, the ''Rishaba Vahanam'' on the midnight of the fifth day, the ''ther'' (about 13 meters in height and pulled by people) on the seventh morning, and the ''Arupathimoovar'' festival on the eighth day.<ref>{{cite web|title=Festival details|url=http://www.mylaikapaleeswarar.tnhrce.in/festival-kapaleeswar.html|publisher=Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Temple|location=Mylapore, Chennai|access-date=22 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131121081717/http://www.mylaikapaleeswarar.tnhrce.in/festival-kapaleeswar.html|archive-date=21 November 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref>
During the Tamil month of ''[[Tamil calendar|Panguni]]'', the traditional ''[[Brahmotsava]]m'' (annual festival) takes place when the entire neighborhood comes alive with a ''[[mela|mela (carnival)]]''-like atmosphere. Since this month corresponds to the mid-March to mid-April duration, the Kapaleeshwarar temple celebrates the nine day-long as ''Panguni Peruvila'' (Spring festival).<ref>[[#Bhargava|Bhargava 2006]], p. 451</ref> The festival starts with ''dhvajarohanam'' (flag hoisting), includes the ''terotsavam'', (festival of chariot), Arupathimoovar festival and concludes with the ''Tirukkalyanam'' (Marriage of Kapaleeshwararand Karpagambal). In ''Brahmotsavam'', the idols of Kapaleeshwarar and Karpagambal are decorated with clothes and jewels, are mounted on a ''vahana'', and then taken around the temple and its water tank in a ''[[pradakshina]]m'' (a clockwise path when seen from above). This is repeated with different ''vahanas'' over the next nine days. The more important of the individual ''pradakshinams'' are the ''Athigara Nandhi'' on the third day, the ''Rishaba Vahanam'' on the midnight of the fifth day, the ''[[Temple car|ther]]'' (about 13 meters in height and pulled by people) on the seventh morning, and the ''Aṟupatimūvar'' festival on the eighth day.<ref>{{cite web|title=Festival details|url=http://www.mylaikapaleeswarar.tnhrce.in/festival-kapaleeswar.html|publisher=Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Temple|location=Mylapore, Chennai|access-date=22 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131121081717/http://www.mylaikapaleeswarar.tnhrce.in/festival-kapaleeswar.html|archive-date=21 November 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref>


The ''Arupathimoovar'' festival is the most important procession.<ref name="V."/> It is named after the sixty-three ''Nayanmar''s who have attained salvation by their love & devotion to the all-compassionate Lord Shiva. All sixty-three Nayanmar idols follow the Kapaleeshwarar idol on this procession. During the car festival, Kapaleeshwarar is depicted holding a bow while seated on a throne, with his wife Karpagambal alongside.<ref>[[#Hurd|Hurd 2010]], p. 43</ref> Brahma is depicted riding the ''ther''. The chariot is decorated with flowers and statues, and there are huge gatherings of devotees to pull the ''ther''. The car festival of 1968 is documented in the documentary film ''Phantom India'' by [[Louis Malle]].{{Citation needed|date=August 2017}}
The ''Arupathimoovar'' festival is the most important procession.<ref name="V."/> It is named after the sixty-three Nayanar saints. All sixty-three Nayanar idols follow the Kapaleeshwarar idol on this procession. During the car festival, Kapaleeshwarar is depicted holding a bow while seated on a throne, with Karpagambal alongside.<ref>[[#Hurd|Hurd 2010]], p. 43</ref> Brahma is depicted as driving the ''ther''. The chariot is decorated with flowers and statues; there are huge gatherings of devotees to pull the ''ther''. The car festival of 1968 is documented in the documentary film ''Phantom India'' by [[Louis Malle]].{{Citation needed|date=August 2017}}


==Religious work and saints==
==Religious work and saints==
[[File:Mylapore tank at dawn panorama.jpg|thumb|800px|center|{{center|View of the temple tank at dawn.}}]]
[[File:Mylapore tank at dawn panorama.jpg|thumb|800px|center|{{center|View of the temple tank at dawn.}}]]
[[File:Chennai, Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar, templi interni 01.jpg|thumb|220px|Inner prakaram (corridor) of the temple.]]
[[File:Chennai, Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar, templi interni 01.jpg|thumb|220px|Inner prakaram (corridor) of the temple.]]
[[File:மயிலாப்பூர் கபாலீசுவரர் ஆலயக்கோபுரம்.jpg|thumb|220px|The main tower at the temple.]]
There is a reference to the temple in [[Sangam period|Sangam]] literature of the 1st to 5th centuries and the earliest post-Sangam mention is found in the 6th century [[Tamil literature]]. The temple and the deity were immortalized in [[Tamil language|Tamil]] poetry in the works of ''[[Tevaram]]'' by poet saint belonging to the 7th century – [[Thirugnana Sambanthar]] has composed the 6th ''Poompavai pathigam'' in praise of the temple.<ref name="dinamalar"/> [[Arunagirinathar]], a 15th-century poet, sings praise of the temple in ''Tirumayilai Tirupugazh''. The 12th-century poet Gunaveera Pandithar sings about Neminathan under ''Theerthangar neminathar pugazh''.<ref name="Nar">[[#Narasiah|Narasiah 2008]], pp. 220-223</ref> ''Tirumayilai Prabanthangal'' is a compilation of four works on the temple and the deity.<ref name="Nar"/>
There is a reference to the temple in [[Sangam period|Sangam]] literature of the 1st to 5th centuries and the earliest post-Sangam mention is found in the 6th century [[Tamil literature]]. The temple and the deity were immortalized in [[Tamil language|Tamil]] poetry in the works of ''[[Tevaram]]'' by poet saint belonging to the 7th century – [[Thirugnana Sambanthar]] has composed the 6th ''Poompavai pathigam'' in praise of the temple.<ref name="dinamalar"/> [[Arunagirinathar]], a 15th-century poet, sings praise of the temple in ''Tirumayilai Tirupugal''. The 12th-century poet Gunaveera Pandithar sings about Neminathan under ''Theerthangar neminathar pugazh''.<ref name="Nar">[[#Narasiah|Narasiah 2008]], pp. 220-223</ref> ''Tirumayilai Prabanthangal'' is a compilation of four works on the temple and the deity.<ref name="Nar"/>


==See also==
==See also==
* [[Parthasarathy Temple, Chennai|Parthasarathy Temple]]
* [[Religion in Chennai]]
* [[Heritage structures in Chennai]]
* [[Heritage structures in Chennai]]


Line 104: Line 118:


==References==
==References==
{{refbegin|3}}
{{refbegin|20em}}
*{{cite book |last=Bhargava|first=Gopal K.|title=Land and people of Indian states and union territories. 25. Tamil Nadu|year=2006|publisher=Kalpaz Publications |location=USA|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=wyCoMKZmRBoC&q=kapaleeswarar+temple&pg=PA451|isbn=8178353814|ref=Bhargava}}
*{{cite book |last=Bhargava|first=Gopal K.|title=Land and people of Indian states and union territories. 25. Tamil Nadu|year=2006|publisher=Kalpaz Publications |location=USA|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=wyCoMKZmRBoC&q=kapaleeswarar+temple&pg=PA451|isbn=8178353814|ref=Bhargava}}
*{{cite book |last=Hurd|first=James|title=Temples of Tamilnad|year=2010|publisher=Xilbris Corporation |location=USA|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=MaDQ5nqymXAC&q=kapaleeswarar+temple&pg=PA43|isbn=978-1-4134-3843-7|ref=Hurd}}
*{{cite book |last=Hurd|first=James|title=Temples of Tamilnad|year=2010|publisher=Xilbris Corporation |location=USA|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=MaDQ5nqymXAC&q=kapaleeswarar+temple&pg=PA43|isbn=978-1-4134-3843-7|ref=Hurd}}
Line 113: Line 127:
* {{cite book|title=Frommer's India|url-access=registration|first1=Pippa|last1=de Bruyn|first2=Keith|last2=Bain|first3=David|last3=Allardice|publisher=Frommer's|year=2010|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HlqM2CR4vfUC&q=parthasarathy+temple+legend&pg=PA320|ref=de|isbn=978-0-470-55610-8}} [https://archive.org/details/frommersindia0000debr Alt URL]
* {{cite book|title=Frommer's India|url-access=registration|first1=Pippa|last1=de Bruyn|first2=Keith|last2=Bain|first3=David|last3=Allardice|publisher=Frommer's|year=2010|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HlqM2CR4vfUC&q=parthasarathy+temple+legend&pg=PA320|ref=de|isbn=978-0-470-55610-8}} [https://archive.org/details/frommersindia0000debr Alt URL]
{{refend}}
{{refend}}

==See also==
* [[Parthasarathy Temple, Triplicane|Parthasarathy Temple]]
* [[Religion in Chennai]]


==External links==
==External links==
{{commons category}}
{{commons category}}

* [https://geohack.toolforge.org/geohack.php?pagename=Kapaleeshwarar_Temple&params=13.0337_N_80.2699_E_type:landmark_region:IN GeoHack - Kapaleeshwarar Temple]

*[https://web.archive.org/web/20161005115940/http://kapaleeshwarartemple.com/ Temple Information]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20161005115940/http://kapaleeshwarartemple.com/ Temple Information]
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5NxaYhfHtc Festivals of Mylapore]
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5NxaYhfHtc Festivals of Mylapore]
*[http://www.contentstudy.com/kapaleeswarar-temple-timings/ Kapaleeswarar Temple Timings]
*[http://www.contentstudy.com/kapaleeswarar-temple-timings/ Kapaleeshwarar Temple Timings]


{{Chennai Topics}}
{{Chennai Topics}}
Line 133: Line 146:
[[Category:Padal Petra Stalam]]
[[Category:Padal Petra Stalam]]
[[Category:Hindu temples in Chennai]]
[[Category:Hindu temples in Chennai]]
[[Category:Shiva temples in Tamil Nadu]]
[[Category:Shiva temples in Chennai district]]

Latest revision as of 08:14, 14 November 2024

Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Religion
AffiliationHinduism
DistrictChennai
DeityKapaleeshwarar (Shiva), Karpagambal (Parvati)
Location
LocationMylapore
StateTamil Nadu
Country India
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is located in Chennai
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Geographic coordinates13°02′01″N 80°16′12″E / 13.0337°N 80.2699°E / 13.0337; 80.2699[1]
Architecture
TypeDravidian architecture
Elevation54 m (177 ft)

The Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Shiva located in Mylapore, Chennai in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The temple was built around the 7th century CE and is an example of South Indian Architecture.[1][2]

According to the Puranas, Parvati worshipped her husband Shiva in the form of a peahen (mayil in Tamil), giving the vernacular name Mylai (Mayilāi) to the area that developed around the temple.[3] Shiva is worshiped as Kapaleeshwarar, and is represented by the lingam. Parvati is worshipped as Karpagambal (goddess of the wish-yielding tree). The presiding deity is revered in the 7th-century Tamil Shaiva canonical work, the Tevaram, written by Tamil saint poets known as the Nayanars and classified as one of the Paadal Petra Sthalam.

The temple has numerous shrines, with those of Kapaleeshwarar and Karpagambal being the most prominent. The temple complex houses many halls. The temple has six daily rituals at various times from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and four yearly festivals on its calendar. The Aṟupatimūvar festival celebrated during the Tamil month of Panguni as part of the brahmotsava is the most prominent festival in the temple.

The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu.[4]

Legend

[edit]
Image of Karpagambal and Kapaleeshwarar

The temple's name is derived from the words kapala (head) and Ishvara, an epithet of Shiva. According to the Puranas, during the meeting of the deities Brahma and Shiva at top of Mount Kailash, Brahma failed to show the due respect to Shiva. Due to this, Shiva plucked off one of the five heads (kapala) of Brahma. In an act of penance, Brahma came down to the site of Mylapore and installed a lingam to please Shiva.[5] This place is known as Sukra Puri, Veda Puri, among many other names including "Kailaye Mayilai" and "Mayilaye Kayilai" (lit.'Mylapore is Kailash'). According to regional legend, Shiva's consort Parvati (Karpagambal), due to a curse became a pea-hen and did penance here to get back her original form. Her son Murugan received the spear (vel) for the destruction of a demon from Parvati here. Brahma had worshipped here to get rid of his ego and get back his power to create. The four Vedas have worshipped here. Shukra worshipped Shiva here and got back his lost eye. The daughter of Sivanesa Chettiar Angam Poompavai, who died due to snake bite, was resurrected here by the powers of the Nayanar saint Sambandar.[2] Vayilar, another Nayanar saint, attained salvation here.[6]

History

[edit]
Facade of the temple
The temple festival in c. 1940

The temple is generally thought to be built in the 7th century CE by the ruling Pallavas.[7] This view is based on references to the temple in the hymns of the Nayanar saints. However, the Nayanar Sambandar and the saint Arunagirinathar make clear reference to the Kapaleeshwarar temple being located by a seashore.[8] There are inscriptions dating back to 12th century inside the temple.[9] The temple's 120 ft gopuram[9] (gateway tower) was built during 1906 with stucco figures adorning it.[2][7] The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu.[10]

The Temple

[edit]
Bulls depicted in the decorated gopuram of the Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Chennai. 2010
Pilgrims taking offerings to festival from Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Chennai. 2010

The Kapaleeshwarar temple is of typical Dravidian architectural style, with the gopuram overpowering the street on which the temple sits. This temple is also a testimonial for the vishwakarmas sthapathis. There are two entrances to the temple marked by the gopuram on either side. The east gopuram is about 40 m high, while the smaller western gopuram faces the sacred tank.[11]

The vahanas ("vehicles") at the temple include the bull, adhikaranandi, elephant, bandicoot, peacock, goat and parrot, while a golden chariot is a recent addition. Statues of the presiding divine couple are seated on a vahana or chariot which is brought in a procession around the temple while the temple band plays music. Devotees gather around the vahanas and consider it a privilege to pull / lift the deities on the vahana. There is also a peacock and a peahen caged inside the temple, to symbolize the tradition that Karpagambal had come in the form of peahen to plead to Kapaleeshwarar.

Sapta Sthana Shiva temples

[edit]

This temple is one of the Sapta Sthana Shiva temples in Mylapore area. (one of the seven sacred Shiva temples in Mylapore).[12] They are:

  1. Karaneeswarar Temple
  2. Tirttapaleeswarar Temple
  3. Velleeswarar Temple
  4. Virupakshiswarar Temple
  5. Valeeswarar Temple
  6. Malleeswarar Temple
  7. Kapaleeshwarar Temple

In addition to these "Sapta Sthana Shiva sthalas", the Ekambareshwarar–Valluvar temple in the neighbourhood is traditionally considered the indispensable eighth.[13]

The tank

[edit]

The theppakulam or the temple tank lies to the west of the temple. Known as the Kapaleeshwarar Tank or the Mylapore Tank, it is one of the oldest and well-maintained theppakulams in the city, measuring about 190 m in length and 143 m in breadth.[14] The tank has a storage capacity of 119,000 cubic metre and has water all through the year.[14] The 16-pillared, granite-roofed structure, known as the mandapam at the centre of this tank is known for its significance during the three-day annual float festival, when idols of Kapaleeshwarar and other deities are taken around the tank to the chanting of Vedic hymns.[14]

In 2014, 56.5 million was allotted to build a 2,150-meter-long pavement around the tank.[14]

Religious practises

[edit]

The temple priests perform the puja (rituals) on a daily basis and during festivals. Like other Shiva temples of Tamil Nadu, the priests belong to the Shaiva community. The temple rituals are performed six times a day; Ushathkalam at 6:00 a.m., Kalasanthi at 9:00 a.m., Uchikalam at 1:00 p.m., Sayarakshai at 5:00 p.m., Irandamkalam at 7:00 p.m. and Ardha Jamam at 9:00 p.m. There is a separate calendar for the Rahu Abhishekam (sacred ablution): it is performed twice in a day at 11:30 a.m and 5:30 p.m. and additionally twice at various times in the day. Each ritual comprises four steps: abhisheka (sacred bath), alangaram (decoration), neivethanam (food offering) and deepa aradanai (waving of lamps) for both Kapaleeshwarar and Karpagambal. The worship is held amidst music with nadasvaram (pipe instrument) and tavil (percussion instrument), religious instructions in the Vedas (sacred text) read by priests and prostration by worshippers in front of the temple mast. There are weekly rituals like somavaram and sukravaram, fortnightly rituals like pradosham and monthly festivals like amavasai (new moon day), kiruthigai, pournami (full moon day) and sathurthi.[8][15] During Friday worship, Karpagambal is decorated with a kasu mala, a garland made of gold coins.

Festivals

[edit]
Murtis of Karpagambal and Kapaleeshwarar
Devotees praying at KapaleeshwararTemple, Chennai. 2010

During the Tamil month of Panguni, the traditional Brahmotsavam (annual festival) takes place when the entire neighborhood comes alive with a mela (carnival)-like atmosphere. Since this month corresponds to the mid-March to mid-April duration, the Kapaleeshwarar temple celebrates the nine day-long as Panguni Peruvila (Spring festival).[16] The festival starts with dhvajarohanam (flag hoisting), includes the terotsavam, (festival of chariot), Arupathimoovar festival and concludes with the Tirukkalyanam (Marriage of Kapaleeshwararand Karpagambal). In Brahmotsavam, the idols of Kapaleeshwarar and Karpagambal are decorated with clothes and jewels, are mounted on a vahana, and then taken around the temple and its water tank in a pradakshinam (a clockwise path when seen from above). This is repeated with different vahanas over the next nine days. The more important of the individual pradakshinams are the Athigara Nandhi on the third day, the Rishaba Vahanam on the midnight of the fifth day, the ther (about 13 meters in height and pulled by people) on the seventh morning, and the Aṟupatimūvar festival on the eighth day.[17]

The Arupathimoovar festival is the most important procession.[7] It is named after the sixty-three Nayanar saints. All sixty-three Nayanar idols follow the Kapaleeshwarar idol on this procession. During the car festival, Kapaleeshwarar is depicted holding a bow while seated on a throne, with Karpagambal alongside.[18] Brahma is depicted as driving the ther. The chariot is decorated with flowers and statues; there are huge gatherings of devotees to pull the ther. The car festival of 1968 is documented in the documentary film Phantom India by Louis Malle.[citation needed]

Religious work and saints

[edit]
View of the temple tank at dawn.
Inner prakaram (corridor) of the temple.
The main tower at the temple.

There is a reference to the temple in Sangam literature of the 1st to 5th centuries and the earliest post-Sangam mention is found in the 6th century Tamil literature. The temple and the deity were immortalized in Tamil poetry in the works of Tevaram by poet saint belonging to the 7th century – Thirugnana Sambanthar has composed the 6th Poompavai pathigam in praise of the temple.[8] Arunagirinathar, a 15th-century poet, sings praise of the temple in Tirumayilai Tirupugal. The 12th-century poet Gunaveera Pandithar sings about Neminathan under Theerthangar neminathar pugazh.[19] Tirumayilai Prabanthangal is a compilation of four works on the temple and the deity.[19]

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]
  1. ^ Silas 2007, p. 114
  2. ^ a b c Kamath 2002, pp.28-31
  3. ^ Hurd 2010, p. 36
  4. ^ Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, 1959
  5. ^ V., Meena (1974). Temples in South India (1st ed.). Kanniyakumari: Harikumar Arts. p. 46.
  6. ^ "Kapaleeshwarar Temple". Lankapradeepa. 22 August 2021. Retrieved 4 November 2021.
  7. ^ a b c V. 2006, p. 13
  8. ^ a b c "Sri Kapaleeswarar temple". Dinamalar. Retrieved 22 November 2013.
  9. ^ a b de Bruyn 2010, p. 320
  10. ^ "Administration details". Mylapore, Chennai: Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Temple. Archived from the original on 21 November 2013. Retrieved 22 November 2013.
  11. ^ "About the Temple". Mylapore, Chennai: Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Temple. Archived from the original on 17 November 2013. Retrieved 22 November 2013.
  12. ^ ஆரூர்.சுந்தரசேகர், பெருமைமிக்க மயிலாப்பூரில் சப்த சிவஸ்தலங்கள்!! விகடகவி, 16 மே 2020
  13. ^ Muthukumaran, M. (6 November 2019). "மயிலாப்பூர் திருவள்ளுவர் கோயிலில் என்ன நடக்கிறது? - ஸ்பாட் விசிட் #Video". Vikatan.com. Vikatan. Retrieved 10 January 2023.
  14. ^ a b c d "Take a stroll along Kapali tank". The Deccan Chronicle. Chennai: Deccan Chronicle. 21 November 2014. Retrieved 26 November 2021.
  15. ^ "Pooja details". Mylapore, Chennai: Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Temple. Archived from the original on 3 December 2013. Retrieved 22 November 2013.
  16. ^ Bhargava 2006, p. 451
  17. ^ "Festival details". Mylapore, Chennai: Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Temple. Archived from the original on 21 November 2013. Retrieved 22 November 2013.
  18. ^ Hurd 2010, p. 43
  19. ^ a b Narasiah 2008, pp. 220-223

References

[edit]
[edit]