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Navapashanam Murugan at Hastinapuram temple, Chennai When we think of Navapashanam deities , known for their medicinal and spiritual significance, our minds often go to the ancient and sacred shrine at Palani . However, tucked away in the quiet locality of Hastinapuram near Chrompet in Chennai lies a relatively unknown temple where Lord Murugan is enshrined as a Navapashanam icon —an unexpected find in a bustling metropolitan city. What is Navapashanam? Navapashanam refers to a rare amalgamation of nine sacred herbal and mineral elements believed to possess immense healing powers. The tradition of crafting icons from Navapashanam is attributed to Siddhar Bhogar , a legendary saint closely associated with Lord Murugan worship. Temples featuring these unique deities are exceptionally rare, making the discovery of such a shrine in Chennai truly remarkable. Navapashanam Murugan at Hastinapuram temple, Chennai The Temple at Hastinapuram Located in Hastinapuram , a developing...

A Hidden Shrine in the Heart of Chennai – The Nimishamba Temple of Sowcarpet

By Indian Columbus

Entrance of Nimishamba Temple in Sowcarpet, Chennai Chennai, often hailed as the gateway to South India, is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. While it is known for its iconic temples, colonial-era landmarks, museums, and beaches, the city also hides lesser-known treasures tucked away in its bustling neighborhoods. One such hidden gem is the Nimishamba Temple , located in the congested lanes of Kasi Chetty Street in Sowcarpet , a commercial hub in North Chennai. Who is Nimishamba? Nimishamba is a revered form of Goddess Parvati , the consort of Lord Shiva. The name 'Nimishamba' comes from the Sanskrit word nimisha , meaning ‘minute.’ It is believed that the Goddess responds to her devotees’ prayers and dispels their troubles within a minute—thus earning her the name Nimishamba . According to legend, Muktharaja , a king from the Somavanshi Mutharasa dynasty, was once granted a divine boon that Nimishamba would appear within a minute to aid him in battle ag...

The Tallest Murugan of Chennai

By Indian Columbus

Consecrated in March 2021, the 40 feet high Bala Murugan icon at Saveetha Medical College campus is the tallest image of Murugan in Chennai. Malaysia has 140 feet tall Murugan. In April 2022, the 146 feet tall image of Murugan was consecrated near Salem in Tamil Nadu. However, they are all stucco images. But, the one that we find on the college campus is a monolithic granite icon. Thus, it is the tallest stone icon of Murugan in the entire world. A stone weighing 320 tonnes was brought from Siruvambur near Wallajah, and it was carved to 140 tonnes to get this beautiful and gigantic sculpture. The entire temple complex is designed in the shape of the Devanagiri letter "Om", which can be appreciated in the aerial view. The west-facing gigantic sculpture is located atop the star-shaped pedestal. It dominates the entire landscape. A large meditation hall is situated below the pedestal. On the open corridor in front of the presiding deity, smaller shrines are found. They enshrine...