Renovation work has begun at the over 1000-year-old Maragathambikai sametha Sri Manneeswarar temple in Manivakkam near Vandalur in Chengalpattu district. The temple, believed to be built by King Kulothuinga Chola III, is being restored with government funds at a cost of Rs. 45.20 lakh.
One of the main features of the temple is the Linga of Sri Manneeswarar., which is a Suyambu, or self-manifested form. There is also a rare Nandhikeshwara idol facing outward from the temple. A few inscriptions have been found inside, but many of them were painted over during earlier renovations. These will now be carefully cleaned and studied.
Initial works including lime-wash painting, and laying cut granite flooring around the temple will be taken up as part of the renovation. The temple which stands on about 25 cents of land, has several shrines including one for Lord Ganesha, Nandhi and the Navagraha. The walls and roofs of these shrines will be cleaned and the older layers of paint on the stone surfaces will be removed. The vimanas over the sanctum sanctorum’s of Manneeswarar and Maragathambikai would be repainted. The roofs would also get a weathering course to prevent rainwater seepage.
The walls of the two Maha mandapams that have a few lose stones, will be dismantled and re-constructed in place. The temple tank will be fitted with cut-stone steps in all four directions.Since it has been over 50 years since the last consecration ceremony, the Navagraha shrine would be shifted as per rituals and a temporary structure will be constructed for the idols ahead of the ceremony, which is to be held on Monday.
A devotee, Karthik said that the temple needs a Raja gopuram. “We only have a half-built structure, which we have no idea as to when it was constructed. Considering that it was built by a Chola king, it would be nice if it is built as a five tier one, we are also requesting the department to take steps to construct a new shrine for Lord Muruga.”
Published – July 13, 2025 12:38 am IST
