Senkunda Kottam

Chennai is home to several significant temples dedicated to Subramanya, and the Senkunda Kottam temple in Saidapet is one of them.

Constructed in the early 1800s by the Senkunda Community, this expansive temple features a grand five-tiered gopuram facing the north. Right next to the entrance is a prominently large Senkunda Vinayaka shrine that warmly greets visitors.

The presiding deity, Murugan, flanked by his consorts Valli and Devasena, is enshrined in the east-facing sanctum. Vishaka, Skanda and Jayanta, three different forms of Murugan, adorn the niches around the sanctum. (I have visited and recorded the temple ten years ago. There were different niche imagesfound here.) In its customary position, Chandikeshwarar, known as Sumitra Chandikeshwarar, can be found in a small shrine facing north.

In the Maha mandapa, the bronze images of Shanmukha with his two consorts, Murugan with his two consorts, Uma Chandrashekhara, and Natarja-Sivakami are enshrined in separate shrines.

The temple is overcrowded with numerous shrines and icons, lacking a systematic organization.

There is a distinct and sizable shrine dedicated to Shanmukha and his consorts, accompanied by niche images depicting various forms of Murugan.

Kasi Vishwanatha Linga and Vishalakshi are seen in a shrine. Dakshinamurti, Vishnu and Brahma are the Koshta deities here. Chandikeshwara is also found. 

Somaskanda Murti, Shaneeswara, Surya, Veera Bhadra, Angaraka, Nava Veeras, Nava Grahas, Hanuman, and various devotees of Murugan are all found across the temple. Besides, there are many stucco images.

Valli and Devasena, both in similar posture, are enshrined in two separate shrines in the prakara. They are depicted with four arms and seated on a platform. It is unique for this temple.

Happy travelling.