Category: Temple
Timings: 5:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Pooja Timings:
- Palliyarai: 5:30 AM
- Kala Shanthi Puja: 6:30 AM
- Uchi Kaala Puja: 12:00 PM
- Sayaraksha Puja: 5:00 PM
- Arthajama Pooja: 9:00 PM
Overview:
Vadapalani Murugan Temple, one of Chennai’s most revered shrines dedicated to Lord Murugan, is famous for offering solutions to life's challenges, including marital, academic, and career problems. Devotees believe that worshipping here is as powerful as praying at the original Palani temple, and many find peace and resolution through their prayers.
History & Legend:
The temple’s story begins with Annaswamy Naikar, its founder, who once suffered from chronic stomach pain. After a sage guided him in a dream to worship Murugan at home, Naikar set up a small shrine, which later grew into the grand temple we see today. He was believed to possess miraculous powers of foretelling and healing, helping devotees find solutions to their struggles.
Architecture:
The temple showcases traditional South Indian architecture, with a grand Rajagopuram and multiple shrines to deities such as Ganesh, Shiva, Meenakshi, and Mahalakshmi. The primary idol of Lord Murugan, standing with one foot forward and his footwear on, symbolizes humility and readiness to help his followers.
Festivals:
Vadapalani Murugan Temple hosts numerous vibrant festivals:
- Vaikasi Brahmotsavam: A grand 11-day festival featuring processions and special rituals.
- Purattasi Navaratri: Celebrates Amman and other deities over nine days.
- Iypasi Kanda Shashthi: Marks Murugan’s victory over the demon Suran with re-enactments and rituals.
- Panguni Uthiram: A 10-day celebration marking the divine marriage of Murugan.
How to Reach:
The temple is well-connected by bus routes and is a short drive (30-40 minutes) from Chennai Railway Station and the airport. You can easily reach it by bus or cab.
