Shiva Temple of St. Thomas Mount

There exists a theory held by some individuals that the St. Thomas Mount area in Chennai has no historical connection with St. Thomas himself. According to this perspective, the mount originally housed a Hindu temple and was known as Bhringi Malai, named after a sage who was believed to have resided there. Over time, the name evolved from Bhringi Malai to Parangi Malai and eventually to St. Thomas Mount. It is suggested that the Kasi Vishwanathar Temple, situated on St. Thomas Mount, may have been one of the original temples atop the mount, and it was later relocated, possibly when the mount came under the Church's authority.

The current temple is situated in a narrow lane at the base of St. Thomas Mount. This east-facing temple features a modest gopura (entrance tower).

Inside the sanctum, you'll find a small Shiv Linga  known as Kasi Vishwanatha. In the Maha mandapa area, there is a south-facing shrine dedicated to Vishalakshi.

Upon entering the sanctum, you'll encounter images of Maha Ganapati and Subramanya. Within the Maha mandapa area, you'll also find icons of Surya, Chandra, Shani, and Nalvar.

Towards the entrance of the courtyard, which encloses the sanctum, the shrine of the Goddess, and the Maha Mandapa, there are icons of Ganesha and Subramanya. The flag staff, bali peetha (sacrificial altar), and Nandi mandapa are positioned facing the sanctum.

The wall surrounding the sanctum features niche images of Ganesha, Dakshinamurti, Vishnu, Brahma, and Durga. Chandikeshwara is situated in its customary location.

Within the prakara (temple precincts), the Navagrahas (nine planetary deities) and an image of Ganesha beneath a sacred tree can be found.

Happy travelling.