Ayanavaram Parasurama Lingeswarar Temple, Chennai

Address

Ayanavaram, Chennai district,

Tamil Nadu

Moolavar

Parasurama Lingeswarar

Amman

Parvatambika

Introduction

The Parasurama Lingeswarar Temple in Ayanavaram, Chennai, is a significant place of worship dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Puranic Significance

Presiding Deity: The main deity of the temple is known as Parasuramalingeswarar, representing Lord Shiva.

Mother Goddess: The temple also houses a shrine dedicated to the Mother Goddess, called Parvatambika. She is a significant aspect of the temple’s worship.

Historical Significance:

While the current structure of the temple may not appear very old, the presiding deity, Parasuramalingeswarar, is believed to be at least 1,000 years old, adding to the temple’s historical significance.
The temple holds legends and myths related to its origin, including its association with Lord Parasurama and Lord Brahma (Ayan), which have contributed to its cultural and religious significance.

Theertham and Sthala Vriksham:

The temple is associated with a sacred tank called Brahma Theertham.
The sacred tree (Sthala Vriksham) within the temple complex is a Peepul tree (Ficus religiosa) and a Neem tree (Azadirachta indica), both of which are considered auspicious in Hindu tradition

Special Features

Architectural Features:

The temple is east-facing and features a five-tiered Rajagopuram, which is the monumental entrance tower to the temple complex.
The flagstaff, Nandi Mandapam (housing the sacred bull Nandi), and Balipeedam (sacrificial platform) face towards the sanctum, creating a sacred atmosphere within the temple complex.
The sanctum sanctorum enshrines a tall and thin Shiva Linga known as Parasurama Lingeswarar. The base of the Lingam is square, and it is made of sandstone, with a silver crescent moon on its face. The Lingam is known to change color with the seasons, varying between black and a golden hue. It is also said to radiate heat at times.
The Vimana (roof tower) of the sanctum is designed in a unique architectural style known as Gaja Brishtam, resembling the rear of an elephant, making it architecturally distinctive.

Deities and Koshta Idols:

The temple complex features several shrines and Koshta idols, including those of Lord Ganesha, Dakshina Murti, Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma, and Goddess Durga.
There are also shrines for Chandikeswara, Pateeswarar Shiva Linga, the Navagrahas (nine planetary deities), Lord Surya (the Sun God), Lord Chandra (the Moon God), Lord Bhairava, and Lord Saneeswara (Saturn), all located in the inner prakaram (circumambulatory path) around the sanctum.
The temple also houses a separate shrine for Nataraja (Lord Shiva in his cosmic dance form) with his consort Sivakami.