Whispers of ancient legends echo within the walls of Veleeswarar Temple. This sacred place stands as a testament to devotion and the restoration of sight. Are you ready to delve into its story?
Veleeswarar Temple is one of Mylapore’s seven Shiva temples. This temple is not just a place of worship. It’s a living narrative of faith. Its location on South Mada Street, near the famed Kapaleeshwarar Temple, adds to its spiritual significance.
The tale of Veleeswarar Temple is interwoven with the legend of Sukracharya. He was the preceptor of the Asuras. The story goes that King Mahabali was about to grant Vamana land. Vamana was an incarnation of Vishnu. Sukracharya suspected foul play. He tried to stop Bali but Bali insisted on giving alms to the young Brahmin.
Sukracharya transformed into a bee. He blocked the water flow from Mahabali’s kamandalu. This prevented the ritual offering. Lord Vamana used a blade of darbha grass to prick the nozzle. This act blinded Sukracharya.
In despair, Sukracharya meditated upon Shiva at this very place in Mylapore. His devotion was rewarded. Shiva restored his eyesight. This miracle is why Shiva is worshipped here as Velleeswarar. Vellee means Sukra. Velleeswara means Lord of Sukracharya.
As you enter Veleeswarar Temple, you’ll notice Lord Ganesha. He stands with his consorts Siddhi and Buddhi. This posture is considered rare. Then, you’ll see Lord Velleeswara as a Linga facing east. Goddess Kamakshi faces south.
Circumambulating Lord Shiva’s shrine, you can see the idols of the Saptamathrikas. Goddess Varahi is especially venerated here. Behind Lord Shiva’s shrine, an idol of Lord Vishnu stands in the TriVikrama posture. Devi Durga faces north. Further on, you’ll find Lord Kartikeya as Lord Muthukumaraswamy with his consorts Valli and Devasena.
In the outer courtyard, you’ll find Lord Bhairava. To the left are shrines for Lord Sarabeshwara, Goddess Pratyangira, and Sukracharya praying to Shiva. Shrines for Lord Shaneeswara and the Navagrahas are also in the outer courtyard. The flagstaff stands tall.
Many believe that Veleeswarar can bless devotees with spiritual vision. The eyes are seen as windows to the soul. In this Kali Yuga, our eyes are exposed to many desires. Sri Velleeswarar protects us from these temptations. He ensures that our eyes see only what is good.
In the material world, Veleeswarar is considered the divine eye doctor. The Siddhas advise eye doctors to worship at this shrine. It is believed that Veleeswarar can solve eye-related diseases and problems.
Velleeswarar Temple is not just a mid-sized temple spread over two acres. It is one of the Sapta Sthana Shiva temples in Mylapore. The five-tiered vimana faces south, a striking feature of the temple’s architecture.
So, as we stand here, remember the legend of Sukracharya. Remember the power of devotion. May Veleeswarar bless us all with clear vision and spiritual insight. This temple is a beacon of hope. It is a testament to the power of faith.