Kumaran Kundram Temple
Kumara Kundram Temple, located in Chromepet, Chennai, is dedicated to Lord Murugan. It was built on a small hill during the 1980s, Lord Murugan is worshipped here with Valli and Deivanai. The temple’s hilltop location symbolizes spiritual elevation, and it offers a serene and sacred atmosphere. It is especially crowded during festivals like Thaipusam and Kanda Sashti, attracting devotees who seek Lord Murugan’s blessings for courage and success in their lives. The presiding deity in Kumaran Kundram is believed to be equivalent to the one in Swamimalai and stands atop the hillock facing north. It can be reached by a flight of about 80 steps.
Kumaran Kundram Temple History
The Kumaran Kundram Temple in Chromepet is a revered shrine with a rich history and spiritual significance. Its origins can be traced back to 1956 when Chandrashekarendra Saraswati Swamigal of the Kanchi Mutt visited the area and envisioned a temple for Lord Muruga on the hill. In the same year, a temple dedicated to Siddhi Vinayagar was built.
In 1976, a divine discovery of a lance, symbolizing Lord Muruga’s weapon, on the hill inspired devotees to accelerate their efforts, culminating in the consecration of the Sri Swaminathaswamy Temple in 1979. Over the years, additional shrines for Lord Shiva, Sarabeshwara, Goddess Ambal, and the Navagrahas were constructed, enriching the temple’s spiritual landscape.
Modern Developments
- A five-tier Rajagopuram was constructed, starting in 2011-12 and completed in January 2014, along with renovations and the addition of a new Artha Mandapam.
- The Mahakumbhabhishekam (consecration ceremony) was held on 9 February 2014, drawing thousands of devotees and including vibrant cultural events.
- A new Dwajasthambam (Flag Mast) was installed as part of the renovations.
Religious and Cultural Highlights
- Girivalam (hill circumambulation) on full moon nights is a regular monthly event attracting hundreds of devotees.
- The annual Soorasamhaaram Festival in October/November and Karthigai Deepam celebrations in November/December are major festivities.
- The temple is supported by “Sri Padam,” a group of devoted volunteers who assist with temple activities.
The temple stands as a serene and spiritually significant site, blending rich traditions with ongoing community efforts.
