Doesn’t it feel peaceful here at Mylapore Anjaneya Temple? This is not just any temple. It is the oldest Hanuman temple in Chennai. Let’s uncover its story.
The Mylapore Anjaneya Temple history began in the 18th century. Salivahana Chettiars from Mysore migrated to Mylapore. The Nawab of the Carnatic granted them land. They built two Vinayagar temples. While digging a well, they discovered a self-manifested Hanuman idol. Right there, they constructed this Hanuman temple. A shrine to Rama was added in 1954. The temple celebrated its 200th anniversary in 2000.
For over two centuries, the Salivahana Chettiyar Trust has managed the temple. They also oversee the nearby Sundara Vinayagar and Selva Vinayagar temples. The Hanuman idol is believed to be over 600 years old. The last kumbabhishekam, or consecration, took place in 2012.
Initially, only the Hanuman sanctum existed. Later, the temple expanded. Now, two sanctums face west near the main entrance. One is for Hanuman. The other is for Kothandaramar with Lakshmana and Sitadevi.
What’s unique here? The Hanuman idol’s face turns to its left, facing south. You won’t see this anywhere else. Utsava murthies are on the left side of the sanctums.
Several special occasions are observed at the Mylapore Anjaneya Temple. Hanumath Jayanthi celebrates Hanuman’s birthday. Rama Navami celebrates Rama’s birthday. Gokulashtami celebrates Krishna’s birthday. During Hanumath Jayanthi and Rama Navami, the utsava murthies of Rama and Anjaneyar go on a procession.
Before Hanumath Jayanthi, laksharchanai happens for three days. During Rama Navami, laksharchanai occurs for nine days. Every month, Sudarshana homam takes place on Sundays. Sri Suktham Mantra is chanted on Fridays with kumkumarchanai and vilvarchanai for Thaayar.
So here at Mylapore Anjaneya Temple, we find more than a place of worship. We discover a living story of faith, tradition and community. The temple stands as a testament to the enduring power of belief. It shows the unique cultural heritage of Chennai.