Othandeeswarar Temple

Othandeeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Thirumazhisai, Tiruvallur District, Tamil Nadu, about 20 km west of Chennai. It is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams revered in Tamil Saivite tradition and is noted for its Chola-era architecture with later Vijayanagara additions. The temple is known for its east-facing sanctum, Dravidian gopuram, stone inscriptions and association with hymns by the Nayanars Thirugnanasambandar and Appar.

Visitors can expect a traditional South Indian Shiva temple complex with a tiered gopuram, pillared mandapams, stone sculptures and a central sanctum housing the Shiva lingam as Othandeeswarar with Goddess Kulirvithanayaki. The temple courtyard is paved and surrounded by shrine enclosures and temple tank area. The setting is a quiet suburban temple town environment. Visitors can observe daily pujas, explore architectural details and inscriptions, and experience a calm devotional atmosphere.

The temple is attributed to the Chola period (around 11th-12th century) with later contributions from Vijayanagara rulers, as evidenced by inscriptions and architectural style. It is classified as a Paadal Petra Sthalam, mentioned in Thevaram hymns by 7th-8th century Nayanars Thirugnanasambandar and Appar. Inscriptions record endowments and renovations by Chola and Vijayanagara kings.

The temple is an important Shaivite pilgrimage centre dedicated to Shiva as Othandeeswarar and Parvati as Kulirvithanayaki. As a Paadal Petra Sthalam, it holds high religious significance for Tamil Shaivites. Major observances include Maha Shivaratri, Pradosham, and Karthigai Deepam, drawing devotees for special pujas and abhishekams.