The Kaalikambal Kamadeswarar Temple in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Shri Kāligāmbāl (Kāmākshi) and Lord Kamadeswarar. Situated in Parry's Corner on Thambu Chetty Street, a historic financial hub in Georgetown, the temple attracts numerous devotees. Initially located by the seashore near present-day Fort St. George, it was relocated to its current site on March 1, 1640 CE, as the British East India Company developed the fort area.
The temple’s relocation marked a new chapter, with construction extending until 1678. This temple has witnessed significant historical events, including a visit from Chhatrapati Shivaji, the great Maratha warrior-king, on October 3, 1677. Originally, the deity worshipped here embodied a fierce form of the Goddess, which was later transformed to a calm posture by Adi Shankara. Subramaniya Bharathi, a famous Tamil poet, was a regular visitor during the early 20th century.
The temple’s architectural beauty evolved over centuries. A major addition was made in the 1980s when a 10-meter-high tower (rajagopuram) was constructed. This iconic tower construction began on January 22, 1976, and was completed on January 21, 1983, adding grandeur to the existing structure. This rajagopuram remains a distinguishing feature, symbolizing the temple’s significance within Chennai’s spiritual landscape and as a gathering point for devotees.
Further expansion efforts continued, and in 2014, the temple underwent another major development. Known also as Kottaiamman due to its original location near the fort (Kottai meaning “fort”) and as Chennamman, the temple holds deep cultural significance. The Tamil hymn “Ullam Uruguthaiya,” composed in 1952 by Andavan Picchi, captures its essence, reflecting the temple’s enduring influence on Chennai’s spiritual heritage.