Arulmigu Shri Kanthaswamy Temple in Cheyyur, located in Chengalpattu district of Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to the Hindu god Murugan. Built in the Dravidian style during the 10th century by the Cholas, the temple enshrines Murugan, worshipped as Kanthaswamy, along with his consorts Valli and Deivasena. The temple is enclosed by a granite wall, and features a peaceful atmosphere for devotees. Its daily rituals and yearly festivals, especially Vaikasi Visagam and Kanthasasti, attract many worshippers.
According to Hindu legend, Murugan received the Vel from his mother Parvathi at the Sikkal Singaravelan Temple and later defeated the demon Sooran at Tiruchendur in the event known as Soorasamharam. However, after the battle, Murugan sought to absolve himself of the sin by worshipping Shiva, installed as Somanatha in Cheyyur. This legend explains the name "Cheyyur" and its connection to Murugan’s divine deeds.
The architecture of Arulmigu Shri Kanthaswamy Temple includes a flat rajagopuram at the entrance and a sanctum facing east. Inside, the presiding deity Kanthaswamy is flanked by Valli and Deivasena. The temple's structure is adorned with intricate sculptures, including 27 Bhutaganas personifying stars and various deities. Unique to this temple, Brahma and Vishnu guard the sanctum, a rare feature in Murugan temples. The temple precincts were once home to large halls for religious recitals and gatherings.
The temple follows the Saivite tradition, with rituals performed four times daily, including decoration, food offering, and lamp waving. A significant event during the daily rituals is Kanthaswamy’s symbolic worship of Somanatha, accompanied by the 27 Bhutaganas. Several important festivals are celebrated here, including Thaipoosam, Panguni Uthiram, and Soorasamharam. Devotional music, especially songs by historical musicians like Chengalvaraya Sastri, continues to be an essential part of temple ceremonies.