Kalikambal Temple

Kalikambal Temple, in the heart of Chennai, in Thambu Street, is a really old one. It is devoted to the Shaivite Gods, Shiva as consort Kamakshi in her benign avatar. Originally the Kalikambal temple was situated inside the Fort St. George. During the course of time,  it has moved to its present venue in George Town. It is also said that the fierce form of Kali was which was worshipped earlier has been replaced with a serene form subsequently. The temple was once located inside the St George fort and later shifted here during the British regime as per the records found. The temple has the sanctity of the two Pancha booth Sthalams – Kanchipuram and Thiruvannamalai. At the foot of the Goddess is present the Arthameru installed by Sankaracharya Sri Aadhi Shankarar. Many Sages Sri Vyasar, Sri Parasar, Sri Agasthiar, Sri Ankiresar, Sri Pulasthiar and Varunan and Celestial Gods Indhran, Guberan and Viswakarma worshipped Sri Kalikambal. It is said that Sri Guberan got all his wealth only after worshipping this Sri Kalikambal here Sri Kamadeswarar is present in a separate shrine Faith in worship itself brings miracles! But the temple itself is steeped in History. The great Maratha warrior Chatrapathi Shivaji Rao(17th century) along with his trusted Minister was here to worship Kali. Chathrabathi Shivaji worshipped Kalikambal in 1677. This is showed separately in a Big Photo. The Biggest Poet of Tamil Nadu Bharathiar used to worship Sri Kalikambal while working in Suthesamithran magazine and his verse ‘Yathumahi Mineral Kali’ was sung on Sri Kalikambal only. This is one of the few temples where the God and Goddess are placed back to back A visit to Chennai must include a visit to this temple. Do not expect a peaceful one on one time with the Goddess!! It is pretty crowded always, especially on Tuesdays and Fridays.