Sri Shenbakeswarar Temple: A 1200-Year-Old Lord Shiva Temple in Natham Parameswara Mangalam, Chengalpattu | Exploring a Unique Temple Where Nandi Faces Opposite direction of Lord Shiva – Visit, Temple Timings, History, Contact Number, Travel Guide (Updated)
– shiva temple representing the grand pallava architecture
Sri Shenbakeswarar Swamy Temple is a 1200-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Natham Parameswara Mangalam in Chengalpattu, located around 80 kilometers from Chennai. The presiding deity is called Shenbakeswarar and Goddess is called Sountharyanayagi.
History of Shenbakeswarar Temple, Natham Parameswara Mangalam, Chengalpattu
The Shenbakeswarar Temple has a rich history, dating back to the reign of Pallava King Nirupathungan in 869-880 AD. Over time, it was expanded during the rule of the Chola, Pandyas, and Vijayanagara dynasties. Inscriptions from various rulers like Kulothunga Chola-I, Rajendra Chola-I, and Rajaraja-III adorn the temple walls, revealing its past glory. 
This temple was originally known as “Nikarili Chozha Chathurvedi Mangalam,” the temple was managed by twelve elected members called “Samvathsara Variyam,” as recorded by Great King Rajaraja’s inscription. Later, it came to be called “Chozhakula Chathurvedi Mangalam.” The temple underwent reconstruction during the Uthama Chozha/Parantaka Chozha period, with various structures like the 16 Pillar mandapa built during Rajendra Chozha’s reign.
Currently, reconstruction efforts are underway to restore the temple to its former grandeur. Throughout the temple grounds, visitors can find scattered relics like Mandapa Simha pillars, Dwarapalakas, and Shiva Lingas with Nandhis, symbolizing the five elements. At this temple Goddess Lakshmi performed penance in the Shenbaka forest, guarded by Nandhi, and another where Lord Shiva blessed Ganesha Parvati on a nearby island, leading Nandhi to still expect Lord Shiva’s return, facing the Kailasanathar temple.
The Shenbakeswarar Temple faces east and is home to the presiding deity, Lord Shenbakeswarar, housed in the form of a Lingam. Interestingly, Nandi, usually facing Lord Shiva, here faces the opposite direction. The Mother deity, Sountharyanayagi, holds significant importance, receiving the first worship.
There are two shrines dedicated to Lord Murugan and shrines for Saneeswarar, Rama, Seetha, Lakshmana, and Anjaneyar.
Within the temple premises, there are seven koshtams, housing deities such as Vinayagar, Pichadanar, Dakshinamurthy, Maha Vishnu, Brahma, Sankaranarayanan, and Durgai. Ambal, facing south, holds Nilothpala and lotus flowers. Other deities like Arumugar, Brahma Sastha, and Vinayagar are also present.
While some sections of the temple are still under construction, worship of Lord Shiva continues in the sanctum sanctorum, comprising Sanctum, artha mandapam, Maha mandapam, and a Mukha mandapam. New sanctums for various deities like Nalvar, Vinayagar, Subramaniyar, Navagrahas, Bhairavar, Suryan, and Chandran are being built as part of the renovation efforts.
Around the sanctum walls, you’ll find Koshta Idols including Sankaranarayana, Bhikshadana, Ganesha, Dhakshinamurthy, Lingodhbhava, Brahma, Durga, and Harihara.
At the Shenbakeswarar Temple, nestled amidst serene surroundings, a tranquil lotus pond adds to the divine ambiance. Encircled by lush greenery and adorned with vibrant lotus flowers, the pond embodies purity and spirituality.
Travel Tips for Shenbakeswarar Temple, Natham Parameswara Mangalam, Chengalpattu
Address of Shenbakeswarar Temple, Natham Parameswara Mangalam, Chengalpattu :
Shenbakeswarar Temple, Natham Parameswara Mangalam, Chengalpattu.
Phone: +91 – 8940281959 / 97900 70473
Temple Timings of Shenbakeswarar Temple, Natham Parameswara Mangalam, Chengalpattu: 6.00 AM to 7:00 AM – 5.00 PM to 6.30 PM
How to reach Shenbakeswarar Temple, Natham Parameswara Mangalam, Chengalpattu
On Road: The temple is situated approximately 80 kilometers away from Chennai. To reach the temple, you can take Bus No. 188 D from Chennai.
By Train: Nearest Railway Station is Chengalpattu Railway Station.
On Flight: Nearest Airport is Chennai Airport.
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