Lord Shiva as Kapaleeshwarar Kapali Karpagambal Paper Mache Statue Golu Doll 13 inches

The Shiva Purana also describes the origin of the lingam, known as Shiva-linga, as the beginning-less and endless cosmic pillar (Stambha) of fire, the cause of all causes. Shiva is pictured as emerging from the lingam – the cosmic pillar of fire – proving his superiority over the gods Brahma and Vishnu.

The Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a historic, 7th-century temple in Chennai dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped as Kapaleeshwarar, “Lord of the Skull”. Parvati Devi after regaining her most beautiful and enchanting form decided to make Mayura-puri her abode along with Sri Kapaleeswara for the sake of devotees.Shiva Panchakshara.

Legend states that this name comes from an event where Lord Shiva taught Lord Brahma a lesson by appearing with a skull as a begging bowl, an origin tied to the meaning of Kapalam (skull).