Mangadu Velleeswarar Temple

In my previous post, I wrote about the famous Kamakshi Amman temple of Mangadu near Chennai. This post will introduce you to an ancient temple located just behind the Kamakshi Amman temple. The beautiful small ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Velleeswarar (Shiva). 

As per the legend, Shukracharya worshipped this Shiva linga and hence the deity got this name. Velli means Shukra and Velleeswara means the Lord of Shukra. (There is another Velleeswarar temple in Chennai, about which I have already written.)

The principal deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, named Velleeswarar. Interestingly, there is no Goddess found in the temple. However, Kamakshi's footprints are found near Nandi. As per a version, Kamakshi performed penance towards Shiva in this temple. 

The ardha mandapa has the icons of Ganesha holding mango and Subramanya with his consorts sculpted in a single stone.

Ganesha, Dakshinamurti, Lingodbhava and Durga are found as the Koshta (niche) images. Vishnu and Brahma are seen seated with their hands folded on either side of Lingodbhava, which is unusual depiction.

Some of the other idols and sub-shrines in the temple include Kasi Vishwanatha and Vishalakshi, Kala Samhara Murti, Nalvar, Nataraja, Surya, Bhairav, processional (utsav) icons, Siddhi Vinayaka, Veerabhadra, Subramanya with his consorts, Balambikai and Navagrahas.

I wish people who visit Kamakshi temple should also visit this beautiful temple too.

Happy travelling.

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