K Vijay Anand
CHENNAI:
Deepavali is a time for new beginnings, family gatherings and prayers for prosperity and well-being. As Chennai prepares to celebrate the festival, temples across the city are expected to welcome devotees seeking divine blessings. From historic Shiva shrines to temples dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu, the city offers several places for a spiritual visit during the festival.
Here are five prominent temples in Chennai that devotees can consider visiting this Deepavali.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Mylapore
One of Chennai’s best-known landmarks, the Kapaleeshwarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped as Kapaleeshwarar, and Goddess Parvathi, known here as Karpagambal. Its imposing Dravidian-style gopuram, traditional rituals and historic temple tank make it an important centre of worship. The surrounding streets of Mylapore retain a distinct traditional atmosphere, making a visit to the temple an opportunity to experience Chennai’s religious heritage.
Ashtalakshmi Temple, Besant Nagar
For devotees seeking the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi during Deepavali, the Ashtalakshmi Temple in Besant Nagar is a natural choice. Dedicated to the eight forms of Lakshmi, associated with different aspects of prosperity and well-being, the temple has a distinctive multi-level structure overlooking the Bay of Bengal. Deepavali’s association with wealth, abundance and new beginnings makes the shrine particularly relevant during the festival.
Parthasarathy Swamy Temple, Triplicane
The historic Parthasarathy Swamy Temple in Triplicane is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped as Parthasarathy, a form of Lord Krishna associated with the Mahabharata. One of Chennai’s important Vaishnavite shrines, the temple is known for its traditional architecture, religious festivals and longstanding connection with the city’s cultural history. Devotees can include the temple in their Deepavali visits to seek the blessings of Lord Krishna and experience the spiritual atmosphere of old Triplicane.
Vadapalani Andavar Temple, Vadapalani
The Vadapalani Andavar Temple is among Chennai’s most popular shrines dedicated to Lord Murugan. Devotees visit throughout the year to pray for success, family welfare, marriage and the fulfilment of personal wishes. Its location within the city makes it accessible to families planning a temple visit during the festival. The temple’s regular rituals and devotional traditions attract worshippers from Chennai and neighbouring districts.
Kalikambal Kamadeswarar Temple, George Town
Located in the busy commercial neighbourhood of George Town, the Kalikambal Kamadeswarar Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kalikambal and Lord Kamadeswarar. The historic shrine is an important part of north Chennai’s religious heritage. Devotees worship Goddess Kalikambal for courage, protection and well-being. A visit offers an opportunity to explore one of the city’s traditional temples amid the historic streets and markets of George Town.
With their varied traditions and distinctive histories, these five temples offer devotees different ways to mark Deepavali through prayer, reflection and the seeking of blessings for the year ahead.