The Kalikambal temple not only has the sanctity of the two Pancha Bhootha Sthalams, Kanchipuram and Tiruvannamalai, but it is also seeped in religious history and is a part of Chennai.
The temple, a familiar landmark of Chennai on Thambu Chetty Street, is a thriving commercial centre. It was shifted to its present location in 1640 AD from where the Fort St. George is now situated after the British decided to raise the fort.
It is said that the city was earlier called Chennamman Kuppam after the Goddess Chennamman and later Chenna pattinam.
The deity of this ancient Kalikambal temple was believed to have been in a fearful form and was later replaced with the benign countenance or Shanta Swaroopam of Goddess Sri Kamakshi.
Sri Adi Shankaracharya, who worshipped the Goddess here, installed the Arthameru at the foot of the Ambal.
There are also images of Adi Shankaracharya and poet Subramanya Bharathiar worshipping the goddess engraved on the walls.
The Lord at this temple is known as Kamateshwarar and he is present in a separate shrine. The annual Bhramotsavam in Vaikasi month attracts a large number of devotees.
The temple has a unique and excellently-crafted Vahanam Kinnitter or the Sri Chakra Vimamaanam lined with metal cymbals.
Tuesdays and Fridays are special here and several devotees light lamps made from lemon at ragu kalam. It is said that the turmeric paste obtained from the abishekams of Sri Moolavar is effective in treating ailments and is particularly useful for childless couples.
There are images of Kathirgama Murugan with his consorts Valli and Devasena, Agora Veerabhadrar and Mahakali.
Garlanding Agora Veerabhadra Swamy on Pournami — full moon day — with betel leaves is said to nullify the malefic effects of the Navagrahas.
It is said that Guberan got all his wealth after worshipping Kalikambal here.
The Maratha king Shivaji apparently visited the temple and worshipped the Goddess Kalikambal on October 3, 1667.
Renowned singer T.M. Soundararajan’s song Ullamurukuthayya was composed by Andavar Pitchai in this temple in 1952.
The temple is easily accessible by road and is near the Broadway bus terminus. The nearest railway station is Beach.
sivaprasanna@deccanmail.com