What if I told you that this temple is one of the eight significant Amman temples in Chennai? We are standing before the Vembaliamman Koil. It is also known as one of the “Ashta Lakshmi Temples”.
The Vembaliamman Koil is a revered Hindu temple. It is dedicated to Goddess Vembuliamman. Legend says that the temple was established in the 16th century. A local chieftain named Chennappa Nayak built it. The deity is a manifestation of Goddess Shakti. She is known for warding off evil. She also brings prosperity to those who worship her.
Devotees believe that offering prayers at this Vembaliamman Koil on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays brings good fortune. It also brings blessings to their lives.
Inside the Vembaliamman Koil, Goddess Vembuliamman is depicted with four arms. She is adorned with beautiful ornaments. She holds various weapons in her hands. Her presence is believed to bestow protection on her devotees. She also provides prosperity and healing.
The Vembaliamman Koil is located in Virugambakkam. It is easily accessible by public transport and private vehicles. The temple is situated off 100 Feet Road. You can reach it by buses and taxis. The nearest railway station is Guindy, which is five kilometers away. Chennai International Airport is 30 kilometers from the temple.
Interestingly, the Sri Vembuli Amman temple is also located on Harrington Road in Aminjikarai. It is near the Holy River Cooum. This temple is called Arulmigu Kolaathamman Vembuliamman Thirukoil. Kolaathamman is considered the elder sister of Vembuli Amman.
An inscription from 1823 CE records a donation. Visaka Venkatachalam, his wife and children donated for the temple’s renovation. They also helped excavate a tank.
Another inscription from 1938 mentions the construction of a zinc sheet mandapam. It was built by N Ponnusamy Mudaliar’s sister and M Sambasiva Mudaliar’s wife.
The Vembaliamman Koil has a rich history. A 250 to 300-year-old neem tree once stood here. It fell in 2004. A new sapling was planted. The trunk of the old tree is on display. You can see Amman’s face on it.
Legend says that Vembuli Amman was initially under a neem tree. She revealed her power by offering boons and blessings. It is believed that she never lets down devotees who pray with true love and devotion. The earthen cooking stoves are proof of her power.
Special poojas and festivals are conducted during the month of Adi. The Utsavar is decorated with flowers. A grand procession is held.
The Vembaliamman Koil stands as a testament to faith. It is a beacon of hope for those seeking divine intervention. Its rich history, intricate architecture and the powerful presence of Goddess Vembuliamman make it a must-visit destination. It offers a unique spiritual experience in Chennai. Take a moment to reflect on the blessings and protection that Goddess Vembuliamman offers.