“Arokia Mata” or Our Lady of Health awaits. This apparition of Mary is often referred to as Lourdes of the East. We are standing before the Annai Velankanni Church in Chennai. It is a beacon of faith and a testament to the city’s diverse religious landscape.
The Annai Velankanni Church stands proudly on the shores of Elliot’s Beach. It offers solace and blessings to countless devotees. People see this shrine as heaven. They worship Mother Mary as the ‘lady of health’. Thousands visit this church. They seek her blessings.
The story of this church began in 1971. Mother Mary appeared in a dream to Father PT Arulappa. She asked for a shrine by the sea. He built a small hut near Elliot’s Beach. The release of a Tamil film, Annai Velankanni, brought the church into existence. The film documented miracles at the Velankanni shrine. It starred Gemini Ganesan and Jayalalithaa. Kamal Haasan had a cameo role. The film brought the basilica in Velankanni into the spotlight. By association it brought the Chennai shrine as well.
In 1973, a small church was built as a replica of the Basilica in Velankanni. Since then, it has expanded greatly. This accommodates the many devotees. They swear by its healing powers.
The church has grown. Now, it includes a large community hall. There is also a museum and classroom blocks. In May 2000, more land was purchased. A large stage was constructed. During festivals, masses are held on this stage. It helps accommodate more people. A small chapel was built in 2001. It is for the Blessed Sacrament. In 2002, a grotto was built. It shows the miracles of Mother Mary. Devotees offer sarees to the shrine. They give thanks to Annai Velankanni. In 2003, Mother Mary’s Square and Reconciliation Chapel were constructed.
This church is more than just a building. It is a place of worship and pilgrimage. It is a place of reconciliation. It welcomes pilgrims and tourists from all over the world. Nearly one million people visit every year.
The museum displays articles of Mother Mary’s miracles. For the ‘lady of health’, people offer candles. These candles are shaped like diseased body parts. People also offer flowers and garlands. The church offers three masses every day. It also offers many hours of confessions. Special services happen during festivals.
Interestingly, the Indian Madonna here is draped in a traditional sari. She holds the infant Jesus. Both are crowned in gold. Pilgrims walk or cycle to the church. Some dress in saffron. This shows their devotion. Some even shave their heads. This offering of hair mirrors rituals at Tirupati.
Prayers and wishes are written on paper. Then they are tied to the shrine’s grill. Some tie long threads soaked in turmeric. Couples wanting a child tie wooden cradles or locks. This unique blend of traditions makes the Annai Velankanni Church special. It highlights the unifying power of faith.