Mangadu is a small beautiful hamlet from the madding crowd of Chennai. Situated on the Chennai- Bangalore high way this temple is a very old one. The presiding deity is Kamakshi. and is one of the important Shakthi Sthalas. There is an important story about the incarnation of Kamakshi in Mangadu. In mount Kailash - the abode of lord Shiva the celestial couple -Shiva and Parvathi were playing like children. Suddenly for the sake of fun Parvathi closed the eyes of the cosmic dancer Shiva who was taken aback. His eyes which represent Surya and Chandra were shut and the result is obvious. The entire universe was shrouded in darkness. Shiva became furious at this act and cursed her to be born in the world. He also promised her that he will marry her there. Thus Parvathi took the avatar as Kamakshi at Mangadu.

Thus Kamakshi did penance propitiating Shiva in the dense forest of Mangadu. For several years. Shiva did not appear to Kamakshi and the urge to see her Lord became intense in her. She promptly set up five agni kundam - five fire pits and lit the agni in the pits.

Kamakshi then stood in one leg- Ottrai kaal in the midst of the Agni kundam in deep penance. She came to be called as Thava Kamakshi. Shiva became compassionate on viewing this unique difficult posture of his consort. The goddess placed her left toe on the periphery of the agni kundam and placed her right leg on the right thigh. She also placed her left hand on the chest and meditated holding a japa mala on her right hand. Which was placed high above her head. She closed her eyes tightly and stood in deep meditation. Shiva took pity on her and decided to bless her. Let us read as to how he blessed her in the next article.

Mangadu on Google Map

(To be contd.)