Why is Nandi facing the entrance instead of Lord Shiva here at Somanatheswar Temple? This temple is not just another Shiva temple. It’s a Navagraha Sthalam near Chennai dedicated to Chandra the Moon. According to legend Chandra was cursed. He lost his divine charm. He worshiped Lord Shiva here to regain his beauty. Thus the Lord is called Somanatheeswarar. The village became Somangalam.
Somanatheswar Temple is an ancient shrine. It is located in a picturesque village surrounded by a beautiful lake. The temple’s history dates back to the Chola period. It features inscriptions from the Cholas Pandyas and Vijayanagaras.
The temple is renowned for its unique features. The sculpture of Chandra in a separate shrine is a highlight. The Nataraja here is in Chatura tandava posture which is rare. Unusually the Koshta deities have carvings of their mounts. Three images of Brahma Shasta are present.
Appar a 7th-century Shaivite saint mentioned this site in his hymn. This suggests that the original temple dates back to that era. The current structure was likely built between the 11th and 12th centuries. Kulotunga Chola I or Rajadhiraja Chola II might have built it.
Another legend explains Nandi’s unusual position. A Chola king was building the temple when enemies attacked. Lord Shiva ordered Nandi to face the enemies. Nandi blew them away with his breath. So Nandi permanently faces the entrance.
Inside Somanatheswar Temple the sanctum enshrines a Shiva Linga called Somanatheeswara. Dwarapalas are missing but a Ganesha icon is present. The south wall has bas-relief images of Adhikara Nandi and his wife.
The architecture is Gajaprshtha resembling an elephant’s back. Koshta Devas include Ganesha Dakshinamurti Vishnu Brahma and Vishnu Durga. Each deity is with their mount. Kamakshi Amman the presiding Goddess faces south in her shrine.
Near Kamakshi’s shrine are Navagrahas. A sub-shrine has an exquisitely carved icon of Chandra. Another sub-shrine features Surya. Five Sapta Matrikas sculptures are in the prakara.
Somanatheswar Temple stands as a testament to ancient beliefs and architectural marvels. Its legends and unique features continue to attract devotees. The temple is a sacred space. It is a place of historical significance. It embodies Chennai’s rich cultural heritage.