Sri Anjaneyar Temple
A prominent temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman in Nanganallur, drawing devotees from across south Chennai, especially on Saturdays and Tuesdays.
History
The Sri Anjaneyar Temple in Nanganallur is dedicated to Lord Anjaneya (Hanuman), the devoted servant of Lord Rama. The temple has earned a devoted following among residents of Nanganallur, Pazhavanthangal, and the wider south Chennai area. Lord Hanuman is worshipped here as a remover of obstacles, a protector against negative planetary influences (especially Saturn), and a bestower of courage and strength. The temple sees its largest crowds on Saturdays, when devotees light ghee lamps and offer vada garlands to Hanuman, and on Tuesdays, another auspicious day for Hanuman worship.
Architecture
The temple features a large idol of Lord Anjaneya in a standing posture, holding a mace (gada) in one hand and a mountain (representing the Sanjeevani mountain from the Ramayana) in the other. The sanctum is designed to allow devotees a clear view of the deity from the entrance itself. The mandapam walls are painted with scenes from the Ramayana depicting Hanuman's exploits, including the burning of Lanka and the retrieval of the Sanjeevani herb.
Visiting Information
Located in Nanganallur, accessible by bus from Pazhavanthangal railway station and Alandur metro station. Saturdays and Tuesdays are the busiest days. Sri Ramanavami (March/April) and Hanuman Jayanthi (December/January) feature special celebrations.
Festivals
Sri Ramanavami
March/AprilCommemorates the birth of Lord Rama with special pujas, Ramayana parayanam (recitation), and Hanuman processions. The temple is decorated with flowers and lights, and devotees perform Rama bhajans through the day.
Hanuman Jayanthi
December/JanuaryThe birth anniversary of Lord Hanuman is celebrated with special abhishekam, 108 vada mala (garland of 108 vadas) offering, and Sundara Kanda parayanam (recitation of the chapter of Ramayana featuring Hanuman's journey to Lanka).
Aadi Amavasai
July/AugustThe new moon day in the Tamil month of Aadi is observed with special pujas believed to be particularly effective for removing negative influences and ancestral curses.
Events & Activities
Sundara Kanda Parayanam
SpiritualGroup recitation of the Sundara Kanda (the section of the Ramayana narrating Hanuman's adventures) held every Saturday morning, drawing regular participants who believe the recitation brings protection and prosperity.