- Shiva
Kasi Viswanathar Temple
- Ayanavaram,Tamil Nadu
- View on map
- Tell us about this temple
Overview
The deity of God Shiva and Goddess Shakti is worshipped at the holy Kasi Vishwanathar Temple located at Chinna Chembarambakkam in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. God Shiva is worshipped as Kasi Viswanatha at this temple and Goddess Shakti as Kasi Visalakshmi.
About the deity
The deity of Kasi Viswanatha is worshipped at the temple. The Shiva Lingam is enshrined in the Peedam and deity of Nandi is installed opposite it. The deities of God Vinyakar, God Ganapathi, God Muruga with his consorts Devayani and Valli, Goddess Durgai, God MahaVishnu, God Brahma, God Kala Bhairava, God Dakshinamurthy, God Nayanmars, God Navagrahas and God Chandikeswara are enshrined in the temple. The temple’s structure comprises of a Navagraha Mandapa and Vasantha Mandapa to accommodate large masses of people.
About the Temple
This holy temple dates back to the 17th century and is also known to the devotees as Mahabilva Kshrtra. The region of Mambalam was earlier known as Mahabilam as it was full of Bilva trees four hundred years ago. As per a legend, a swayambhu lingam appeared in this region and the devotees decided to build a temple around it. This temple was constructed by the Nayakka King of Vijaynagar Empire in Tenkasi as God Shiva appeared in his dream and asked him to build this temple. This temple was also constructed during this era according to the Sthala Purana. All the buildings that were constructed by the Nayakka Kings consist an engraving of a fish on the walls. The icon of fish is engraved on the granite roof of this temple.
Festivals
The festivals of Arudra Vizha, Pradosham and Shivarathri are celebrated with great joy at the temple.
How to reach
Road
Frequent buses are available till the temple from Chennai and other places in Tamil Nadu.
Railways
The railway station of Chennai is nearest to the temple. The devotees can take a taxi, bus or auto-rickshaw to reach the temple in West Mambalam.
Airport
After reaching Chennai airport. One can take a private cab or taxi to reach the temple situated in West Mambalam in Chennai.
Temple Address
Kasi Viswanathar Temple,
Vasantha nagar,
Chinna Chembarambakkam,
Ayanavaram, Chennai,
Tamil Nadu - 600023
Significance
Devotees visit this temple to seek fulfillment of the following:-
- To pray for removal of obstacles in marriage and for children
- For success in education and career
Shlokas
Kailaasarana Shiva Chandramouli Phaneendra Maathaa Mukutee Zalaalee Kaarunya Sindhu Bhava Dukha Haaree Thujaveena Shambho Maja Kona Taaree
Meaning -Oh Lord Shiva who is seated on Mount Kailash, where the moon decorates his forehead and the king of serpents crown his head, who is merciful and removes delusion, You alone can protect me. I surrender to thee.
Aum Trayambakam Yajaamahey Sugandhim Pusti Vardhanam Urvaarukamiva Bandhanaath Mrutyor Muksheeya Maamritaat
Meaning -We worship the fragrant Lord Shiva, who has 3 eyes and who cultivates all beings. May He free me from death, for immortality, as even a cucumber is separated from its bond with the vine.
Timings
The devotees can visit the temple from 6:30am to 11am in the morning and from 5pm to 9pm in the evening.