How Do You Spell KAPALEESHWARAR TEMPLE?

Pronunciation: [kˈapɐlˌiːʃwɔːɹˌɑː tˈɛmpə͡l] (IPA)

The Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a famous Hindu temple in Chennai, India. While the spelling might seem daunting, it can be broken down phonetically as [kʌpəliːʃwɔrər tɛmpl]. The first syllable "ka" is pronounced like "cup," the "a" in "pa" is spoken like "uh," and "leesh" is said like "leash" without the "sh" sound. "War" sounds like "war," and the last syllable is pronounced as "tem-pull." The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is a popular tourist destination.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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KAPALEESHWARAR TEMPLE Meaning and Definition

  1. Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a famous Hindu shrine located in Mylapore, a neighborhood in the city of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Chennai, serving as a spiritual and cultural landmark.

    The temple's name, "Kapaleeshwarar," is derived from two words: "kapala" meaning "skull" and "Eeshwarar" referring to Lord Shiva. This name signifies Lord Shiva's role as the destroyer of ego and ignorance, leading devotees to enlightenment and self-realization.

    The architectural style of the temple reflects ancient Dravidian traditions that encompass intricate carvings, towering gopurams (entrance towers), and a large temple tank. The main deity, Lord Kapaleeshwarar, is depicted in the form of a lingam, symbolizing the cosmic energy and power of Lord Shiva. The goddess Parvati is also worshipped here as Karpagambal or Goddess of the Wish-Fulfilling Tree.

    Visitors and devotees flock to Kapaleeshwarar Temple to seek blessings, experience spiritual tranquility, and witness various religious ceremonies, particularly during the vibrant Brahmotsavam festival held in the Tamil month of Panguni. This ten-day celebration attracts thousands of devotees who take part in colorful processions, cultural performances, and religious rituals.

    Kapaleeshwarar Temple holds immense historical and cultural significance for the people of Chennai and serves as a hub of religious activity, embodying the profound devotion and religious diversity of the region.

Etymology of KAPALEESHWARAR TEMPLE

The word "Kapaleeshwarar" is derived from two components: "Kapalam" and "Eeshwarar", which both have Sanskrit origins.

1. "Kapalam" translates to "skull", and it refers to Lord Shiva, who is often represented wearing a garland of skulls (kapala mala) around his neck. This representation symbolizes the cycle of birth and death and the impermanence of life.

2. "Eeshwarar" is a term used to address Lord Shiva, which translates to "the Supreme God" or "the Lord".

Therefore, the composite term "Kapaleeshwarar" refers to Lord Shiva as the deity worshipped in the temple. The temple, known as the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in Mylapore, Chennai, India.