Koyambedu Sri Kusa Lavapureeswarar Samundra Ambigai temple- Chennai

Address

Koyambedu Sri Kusa Lavapureeswarar Samundra Ambigai temple- Sivan Koil St, Virrugambakkam, Koyambedu, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600107

Diety

Sri Kurungaaleeswarar ( Sri Kusalavapureeswarar) Amman: Sri Dharmasamvardhani

Introduction

The Kurungaleeswarar Temple, also known as the Kusalavapureeswarar Temple, is a significant Hindu temple located in Koyambedu, a neighborhood in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

Puranic Significance

Presiding Deity: The main deity of the temple is known as Kurungaleeswarar, which is another name for Lord Shiva.

Goddess: The temple also houses a shrine dedicated to Goddess Dharmasamvardhini, also known as Aram Valartha Nayagi.

Historical Significance:

This temple dates back to the Medieval Chola period and is adorned with inscriptions from the time of Kulothunga Chozha III and the Vijayanagara kings.
The temple is said to have been constructed by the Tawker clan of the Gujarati community, who were instrumental in the development of the region.

Legend: The temple has a legendary connection to the Ramayana. During their stay in the ashram of Sage Valmiki, Sita Devi gave birth to her two sons, Lava and Kusa. When they were later involved in a conflict with Lord Rama’s army, they built a temple to Lord Shiva in Koyambedu to absolve their sins.

Special Features

Temple Architecture:

The temple has a compact structure with a modest tower.
It features a five-tiered Raja Gopuram (temple tower).
In front of the temple, there is a stone-pillared Mandapam, where Sri Sarabeswarar is depicted on one of the pillars.

Deities and Shrines:

The main deity, Kurungaleeswarar, is relatively small in size as it was installed by Lava and Kusa when they were children.
The temple has shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Sri Visaalaakshi Samedha Sri Kaasi Viswanathar, Sri Valli Devasena Samedha Sri Subramanyar, Sri Nandhigeswarar, and more.
The temple garden, known as Nandhavanam, is well-maintained and adds to the overall beauty.

Additional Details:

The temple’s Sthala Viruksham (sacred tree) is the “Palaa Maram” or jack tree, which can be found on the outer prakaram.
The temple’s theertham (sacred water body) is called Lava Kusa Theertham, believed to have been created by Lava and Kusa.
The temple showcases several intricate sculptures and carvings, including depictions of Lord Rama performing puja to Lord Shiva and Lord Shiva saving Markandeya from Yama.

Festivals

The temple celebrates various festivals, including the Brahmotsavam in Chithirai (April–May) and Arudra Darshan (December–January).
Monthly Pradosham is also observed with enthusiasm, along with other Shiva-related festivals.