Sri Vadaranyeswarar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and it is located at Thiruvalangadu in Tiruvallur district in the Tamil Nadu State. The presiding deity is called as “Sri Vadaranyeswarar”. This is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams and 15th Shiva Sthalam in Thondai Nadu. It is said before visiting the temple someone needs to visit Kali temple behind this temple.
Legend
According to the legend, in ancient times the area was covered with the banyan forest. Two demons Sumba and Nisumba , stood in this forest , started harassing the Devas. Then the Devas appealed lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi to help protection. As Lord Shiva’s wish Goddess Parvathi created furious Kali and destroyed the demons. Kali consumed the blood of the demons and their army and grew more furious.
To solve the problem, Lord Shiva challenged Kali for a dance competition. It is believed that the dance competition was witnessed by Goddess Parvathi , Lord Mahavishnu, Lord Brahma, Rishi Naradar, Sage Munjikesa (Sage Anantha) and serpent Karkodakar. Lord Shiva played his “Oordhuva Thandavam” – a dance with very fast movements. Lord Shiva dropped His right ear ring on the ground, picked it by the toe of His left leg and fixed it back on His ear in the dance. Kali accepted her defeat and said that she could not do such a marvelous dance. Lord Shiva said that He alone was equal to Her and said further that those coming to worship Him here, should worship Her first to reap the full benefit of the worship.
History
It is believed that this ancient temple was constructed by the Chola during the 12th century. Though the stone inscriptions made in 5th century available in this temple is evidence that in the time of Pallava dynasties the temple was built. Later it was reconstructed and modified in the Chola Rule.
Festival
The major festivals celebrated in this temple are Maha Shivarathri in February-March and Margazhi Tiruvadhirai in December-January. Also another all lord Shiva related festivals are devotionally celebrated in the temple.
Temple Timings
The temple opens Morning from 06:00 AM – 12:00 PM and Evening 4:00 P.M – 8:00 P.M.
How to Reach
By Air
The nearest airport Chennai International airport is about 33 KM away.
By Rail
Thiruvalangadu railway station is at 4 KM distance from the temple.
By Bus
The Temple is located at about 1 Km from Thiruvalangadu Bus Stop. Town buses available from Chennai.
