Siruvapuri Murugan Temple

Siruvapuri Murugan Temple is situated approximately 40 kilometres from Chennai along the Chennai-Kolkata highway, with the temple nestled about 3 kilometres away from the main highway.

Siruvapuri is also known by many names Chinnambedu, Siruvai, Siruvapuri, Kusalapuri, among others. It is believed that this land is named Siruvapuri (meaning “City of Children”) because it was here that the divine children Lava and Kusha, and in another context, Bala Murugan (young Muruga), played significant roles.

Located in Thiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu, Siruvapuri is about 30–40 km from Chennai, along the Chennai–Kolkata highway. The deity of this temple is known as Sri Bala Subramanya Swami. Devotees believe that even thinking of Lord Muruga of Siruvapuri with devotion is enough to fulfill desires.

Siruvapuri Murugan Temple History

In the Treta Yuga, Lord Rama wished to perform the Ashwamedha Yagna (horse sacrifice). As per the tradition, a ceremonial horse was released to roam freely, and any kingdom that stopped the horse had to face battle. The horse wandered into the ashram of Sage Valmiki, where Lava and Kusha, the sons of Rama raised in secrecy, captured and tied the horse.

Upon hearing this, Rama ordered his brother Lakshmana to retrieve the horse. However, Lakshmana was unable to defeat the young boys in battle. Eventually, Lord Rama himself had to come to retrieve the horse, and a fierce battle broke out between the father and his sons, who were unaware of their relationship.

After a long confrontation, the truth was revealed, and the children finally surrendered to Rama. Since this was the place where young children fought bravely, the land was called “Siruvar Por Puri” in Tamil — “Siruvar” means children, and “Por Puri” means battlefield. Initially, it was called “Siruvar Ambu Edu”, referring to the place where the children took up their bows to fight. Over time, this evolved into the name Siruvarpur.

Murugan’s Connection to Siruvarpur

It is also believed that on his way to marry Valli, Lord Murugan rested at Siruvarpur. According to the Sthala Purana (temple legend), Indra, after receiving the divine meal (Amudu) here, was relieved of his burdens, along with the other celestial beings, by the grace of Velavan (Lord Murugan).

Mythological History

A long time ago, a woman named Murugammai lived in Siruvapuri. She was a very devoted follower of Lord Murugan and always kept chanting his name with love and faith.

But her husband did not like this. One day, he became very angry and, in a moment of rage, cut off her arms.

Even though she was in great pain, Murugammai did not stop praying. She kept calling out to Lord Murugan.

Seeing her strong faith, Lord Murugan appeared in front of her. He was very pleased with her devotion. He miraculously made her arms grow back — there was no wound or scar left.

This amazing event happened at Siruvapuri, and later, a great saint named Thavathiru Murugadas Swamigal sang about it in his songs.

Temple Structure and Deity

The Siruvapuri Murugan Temple is over 500 years old. Its five-tiered Rajagopuram (main tower) marks its architectural grandeur. In front of the majestic flagpole, one can see a rare and radiant emerald-green peacock — a feature not commonly found elsewhere.

In the temple’s southwest corner lies a Sun God shrine sculpted from emerald stone, and in the east, Raja Ganapathy also appears carved from emerald.

To the south of the sanctum, there are shrines for Annamalai and Unnamalai, and next to them, Murugan and Valli are seen in a rare wedding posture, holding hands — a divine sight unique to this temple. It is believed that those facing delays in marriage will find their prayers answered by worshiping here.

Miracles and Devotees’ Belief

It is firmly believed that those desiring to own land or a home should visit this temple and pray for six consecutive Tuesdays. Many devotees testify that their wishes were fulfilled through the grace of Siruvapuri Murugan.

So deeply is this belief rooted, that it is often said:

“Just as meditating on Tiruvannamalai grants moksha (liberation), thinking of Siruvapuri Murugan is enough to fulfill any desire.”

Temple Amenities

Marriage Hall

The marriage hall is equipped with basic facilities such as seating, stage area, restrooms, water supply, and power backup. It is suitable for both small and medium gatherings. Temple authorities offer support with pooja arrangements, including Murugan Thirukalyanam-themed rituals, making the occasion spiritually rich and traditional.

Devotees are advised to book the hall in advance through the temple office, especially during auspicious months like Panguni, Vaikasi, and Aadi, when demand is high.

Tonsure facility

A tonsure (head-shaving) facility is available for devotees who wish to offer their hair as a form of prayer or thanksgiving.

Vechile Parking

The Siruvapuri Murugan Temple offers a spacious vehicle parking area to accommodate the needs of devotees arriving by two-wheelers, cars, and vans. The parking zone is located near the temple entrance, allowing for easy access to the temple premises. During regular days, parking is generally smooth and well-organized, while during festivals and special occasions, temple volunteers help manage the crowd and guide vehicles efficiently.

The area is open and secured, with temple staff and basic surveillance to ensure safety. Devotees are encouraged to arrive early during peak days like Thaipusam, Skanda Sashti, or Vaikasi Visakam, as parking can fill up quickly.

Information Center

An information centre is located near the entrance to help devotees with guidance, pooja details, ticketing, and general queries. Templeditionally, there is a drinking water facility, clean restrooms, annadhanam hall for free meals, shops for pooja items and prasadam, wheelchair access, and shaded rest areas for senior citizens and families. The temple also maintains security with CCTV surveillance, and notice boards display daily pooja schedules and upcoming events.