Golden ornaments adorned Ambika. That’s what I want you to picture as we stand before the Sri Agastheeswarar Temple. This isn’t just any temple. It’s a place steeped in history and legend.
The Sri Agastheeswarar Temple in Villivakkam Chennai holds a special place in Hindu lore. It’s dedicated to Lord Shiva revered as Agastheeswarar. The temple is also known as the Mars Temple or Sevvai Koil. This is because of a legend linked to the planet Mars.
According to the temple’s history during Shiva’s wedding to Parvati sage Agasthya performed a puja here. Two demons Vilvalan and Vatapi disrupted his prayer. Agasthya destroyed them incurring a sin. He prayed to Shiva for relief. Lord Veerabadra helped the sage. Thus Veerabadra has his own shrine in this temple.
The Sri Agastheeswarar Temple isn’t just about grand legends. It also boasts a unique architectural style. Notice the three prakarams and the three-tiered rajagopuram. The central shrine houses a granite lingam representing Agastheeswarar. The shrine of Parvati faces west. The temple also features shrines dedicated to Ganesha Murugan Nandi and the Navagraha.
Many festivals are celebrated at this sacred place. The 10-day Brahmmotsavam following Vaikasi Visakam is one example. The 1008 Conch abishek in Karthikai and Panguni Wedding Festival are equally important.
Devotees come here for various reasons. Those facing obstacles in marriage due to perceived adverse Mars effects often pray here. Others seek prosperity. The temple’s theertha a sacred spring is said to have been created by Mars himself.
This temple is much more than stone and mortar. It’s a living testament to faith legend and the enduring power of devotion. It’s a place where history and spirituality intertwine. As we leave remember the golden ornaments on Ambika and the story of the Sri Agastheeswarar Temple.