At the famous Kapaleeswarar
Temple
Legend has it that once Shiva was narrating about the
importance of Panchakshari Mantra to Goddess Parvati. But instead of listening
to the discourse her attention was captured by a dancing peacock. Shiva was
incensed by this act and he cursed her to be born on earth as a peacock.
Goddess Parvati repented and Shiva told her that she will
attain back her original form when she completed her penance on earth under an
Indian Laurel Tree (Punnai).
Goddess Parvati did here penance at the present day Kapaleeswarar Temple
The sanctum sanctorum of Karpagambal is located to the south
of the main sanctum sanctorum in the temple.
The murti of Goddess Karpagambal is 4 feet tall and is in
standing posture. She has four arms and a beautiful face.
Every Friday special pujas are performed and the utsava
murti (bronze murti used for temple rituals) is placed on a palanquin and
carried around the temple three times to the accompaniment of traditional music
and chanting of mantras.