Read More on Ashtalakshmi Temple
History
Constructed on the wishes of Swamigal of Kanchi Mutt, Sri Chandrashekarendra Saraswati, Lakshmi Temple Chennai are a beautiful edifice and a must-visit place for worshippers of Goddess Lakshmi. Sri Mukkur Srinivasa Varadhachariar was the man with the major accreditation behind fulfilling the dreams of Kanchi Periyava.
The most interesting fact about the construction of this holy spot is that his followers collectively laid the foundation stone in January 1974. On 5 April 1976, this place was consecrated in the blissful presence of the 44th Guru of the Ahobila Mutt Vedhantha Dhesika Yatheendhra Mahadhesikan Swami.
Architecture
Measuring 65 feet in length and 45 feet in breadth, this temple has the wow factor to behold anyone. In its unique architecture, the deities have been engraved in four levels. The main shrine of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu is on level 2. The complex levels symbolize the most sacred symbol in Hindu mythology, Om. The 8 forms of the Goddess have been expressed using the Ashtanga Vimana or the 8 part style of architecture.
The third tier has the shrines of Gajalakshmi, Santhanalakshmi, Vidyalakshmi, Vijayalakshmi while the fourth one has a shrine dedicated to Dhanalakshmi. The shrine also showcases 32 kalasams which are pointed tips seen at the apex of the temple tower.
Activities
- Climb up the stairs to worship each level and shrine, while you pray with a clear heart to get blessed by Goddess Lakshmi.
- There are even shrines of Lord Vishnu in his Dashavtar to worship and pray as well.
- To offer your tribute to the goddess, nearby kiosks can be helpful as they sell the offerings accepted in the temple.
- Spend a few tranquil moments at Elliot’s beach nearby after worshipping the Goddess.
- If you reach there near sunset time, make sure you watch the golden hour from the top of the temple to get the best sunset view ever!
Tips for visiting
- The worship timings may vary in the festival season.
- You must take care of your belongings.
- Wear comfortable clothes and avoid inappropriate clothes.
- Reaching the top of the temple requires climbing stairs, which could be difficult for people with mobility issues.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the Ashtalaskmi Temple is between November and February. The weather is comfortable during winters and this way the monsoons can be avoided. Out of these months, early morning is the best time to avoid long queues. Weekdays have fewer crowds, so that could be a good time to visit.
Nearby Atractions
- Annai Vailankanni Church
- Light House
- Adyar Poonga River Restoration Park
- MGR Memorial
- San Thome Church
- Ripon Building
Nearby market/ shopping places
T Nagar, Ranganathan Street: Known for being the spot to buy the famous local delights, this market is the closest to Ashtalakshmi temple and is the favorite shopping center of all the visitors.
Express Avenue Mall: It is a grand office park and mall which also happens to be a famous landmark spot due to its closeness to the business district and top hotels.
Spencer Plaza: This mall is one of the city’s finest destinations for fashion, entertainment, and luxury. If you are looking for a futuristic shopping experience, you must visit this mall.
Nearby Hotels
- Lemon Tree
- Holiday Inn
- The Leela Palace
- Staylite Suites
- Crowne Plaza
Interesting Facts About Ashtalakshmi Temple
- Its design is inspired by the Sundhararaja Perumal Temple in Uthiramerur.
- 8 forms of Goddess Lakshmi are separated into 4 levels and 9 sanctums.
- A huge crowd can be seen flocking the temple during festival seasons and on New Year.
- The temple is built in the shape of Om, the first Vedic letter and mantra.
- The temple committee believes that every day in the morning, the cow receives the darshan of Goddess Lakshmi, as it is the embodiment of all the deities.
- People who come here with clean souls believe that all their problems vanish away and their wishes are granted here.