A 7th-century Dravidian temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the heart of Mylapore.
Did you know?
The Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore was originally located closer to the shore and was rebuilt at its current site after Portuguese colonial forces damaged the original structure in the 16th century.
History
The Kapaleeshwarar Temple is believed to have been originally built during the Pallava dynasty around the 7th century CE, though the current structure dates to the Vijayanagara period in the 16th century. The original temple, thought to have been closer to the coast, was likely destroyed during Portuguese colonial rule. References to the temple appear in the hymns of the Nayanar saints Thirugnanasambandar and Thirunavukkarasar, placing its spiritual significance well over a thousand years into the past.
Architecture
The temple is a classic example of Dravidian architecture, with a towering 37-metre gopuram (gateway tower) adorned with hundreds of painted stucco figures of deities, mythical beings, and saints. The temple complex includes a sacred tank called Sivaganga, a Nandi mandapam, and shrines to various deities. The pillared halls showcase intricate stone carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
Visiting Information
The temple is located in the heart of Mylapore and is easily accessible by bus, metro (Luz station), and auto-rickshaw. The annual Panguni Peruvizha festival (March/April) draws thousands of devotees with its grand chariot procession through the streets of Mylapore.
Festivals
Panguni Peruvizha
March/AprilA grand 10-day festival featuring the chariot procession of Lord Shiva and Goddess Karpagambal through the streets of Mylapore. The Arupathimoovar festival, honouring the 63 Nayanar saints, is a highlight. Thousands of devotees and visitors line the streets to witness the decorated chariot.
Brahmostavam
MarchA multi-day celebration that begins with flag raising (Dwajarohanam) and includes processions of the deities on various vahanas (celestial vehicles), culminating in the Tirukkalyanam, the divine marriage ceremony of Kapaleeshwarar and Karpagambal.
Maha Shivaratri
February/MarchAn all-night vigil dedicated to Lord Shiva with continuous abhishekam (ritual bathing) of the Shiva lingam, recitation of Shiva Puranam, and special pujas through the four jaamams (quarters) of the night.
Arudra Darisanam
December/JanuaryCelebrates the cosmic dance of Lord Nataraja. The temple hosts special pujas and a procession of Nataraja through the Mylapore streets at dawn.
Events & Activities
Mylapore Festival
CulturalAn annual cultural extravaganza held in the streets surrounding the temple, featuring Bharatanatyam performances, Carnatic music concerts, heritage walks, kolam competitions, and street food stalls celebrating Mylapore's living heritage.
Nayanar Saints Discourse Series
SpiritualRegular discourses on the Thevaram and Thiruvasagam hymns of the Nayanar saints, held in the temple mandapam during the Tamil month of Margazhi.
Location
Explore Mylapore
Discover more about the Mylapore neighbourhood, including transport, healthcare, and other attractions.
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