The main temple is dedicated to Shiva (Ekambareswarar) and
Goddess Parvati (Kamakshi).
The main murti worshipped in the temple is a Shivling. The
murti of Mother Goddess is located on the base of the Shivling. There is a Sri
Chakra in front of the Goddess.
Story of Chennai
Ekambareswarar Temple
Legend has it that there lived an ardent devotee of Shiva in
the Sowcarpet region in Chennai. He used to visit the famous Ekambareswarar Temple
at Kanchipuram on all important occasions and also on Pradosh days. But once on
a Pradosham fasting day he had lot of work and his employer did not allow him
to go to Kanchipuram. But still the devotee managed to reach the Kanchipuram
temple.
While returning back he was dead tired and slept at place in
Sowcarpet. Moved by his devotion, Shiva and Goddess Parvati gave him darshan in
his sleep. They also told him that he need not go all the way to Kanchipuram
again and told him that He is present in Swayambhu form in the place that he is
taking rest. The devotee woke up and was surprised to see a Swayambhu Shivling
in the place.
Shani Bhagvan and Ekambareswarar
Temple
The temple attracts thousands of devotees during Shani
Peyarachi (transit of Saturn). This is because Shani faces Mother Goddess Ambal
in the temple. This is a separate shrine of Ambal. The belief is that She helps
a devotee to overcome troubles associated with the bad positioning of Shani in
horoscope.
Rare Murtis in the Temple
Hanuman Murti
There is a rare Hanuman murti in temple known as Shiva
Anjaneyar. The belief is that 0ffering silver color silk thread – zari and
Tulsi leaves garland to this Hanuman murti will help in fulfillment of dreams. Those
who had good dreams can offer prayers here for its fulfillment. Those that had
bad dreams can do prayers for non-fulfillment of the dream.
Ganesha and Muruga Murti
The temple houses a Ganesha Murti which has a
canopy made by serpent. The back portion of the same murti is has Muruga murti
with another serpent canopy. It is rare to have Ganesha and Muruga in the same
murti – one facing front and another facing back.