Mogappair Karpageswarar Temple, Chennai

Address

Sivan, 5th Block Road, Koil Street,

Sivan Koil St, Mogappair West, Mogappair,

Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600037

Moolavar

Karpageswarar

Amman

Karpaga Soundhari

Introduction

Karpageswarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Mogappair near Anna Nagar in Chennai City of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the well-known temples of lord Siva in Mogappair Area. This temple was initially Kummathamman Temple and later turned into Lord Shiva Temple. Presiding Deity is called as Karpageswarar and Mother is called as Karpaga Soundhari. All Shiva related festivals are celebrated here.

Puranic Significance

The Shiva Lingam, erected about two thousand years ago, underwent worship for many years before being buried in the earth for several hundred years. Recently, it was rediscovered, astonishingly pristine despite its age.

Legend has it that during the churning of the milky sea by the Devas and Asuras for the elixir, the celestial tree known as Kalpavriksha, or Karpagathar, appeared. This tree granted whatever was asked of it, and the Devas decided it should reside in Indraloka. During a drought in the mortal realm, it was revealed by Narada that Karpagathar was performing penance in Indraloka to alleviate the famine. Upon hearing this, the earthly king prayed for rain and relief. Lord Varuna, pleased with his devotion, granted the boon, causing rain to fall.

Over time, the temple was forgotten and became buried. However, a devotee discovered the lingam while digging the ground to build a house. Devotees decided to reserve land for a temple and sought divine permission to build it. The temple eventually rose after many trials, and it was decided to name the deity Karpakeswarar, in honour of the celestial tree.

Special Features

The temple offers darshan of Karpakeswarar, Nandi Mandapam, and Mother Karpaka Soundari. Devotees believe that worshipping her brings brightness and removes decay from life. Additionally, the temple houses idols of Karpaka Ganapati, Murugan, and Durga, among others.

A separate shrine dedicated to Pitari Kommathamman, representing Ambikai, is also present. She is revered for her grace and is worshipped with abhishekam and offering of one hundred and eight lamps on new moon days. Surrounded by vines, the temple stands as a testament to divine grace and the devotion of its worshippers.