Atop Gajagiri hill stands the magnificent Lord Perumal and Anjaneyar Temple. This isn’t just any temple. It’s a place steeped in history a testament to faith and devotion.
The Lord Perumal and Anjaneyar Temple in Pudupakkam Chennai is a hilltop shrine. It boasts a 6-foot-tall statue of Anjaneyar. This majestic figure is poised mid-flight his face turned north towards the Sanjeevi mountain. His right foot is grounded his left ready to soar. Notice the Abhaya Mudra a gesture of protection. See the bell adorning his raised tail. The lotus symbol on his navel is unique.
Legend connects this temple to the epic Ramayana. Anjaneyar the loyal devotee of Lord Rama visited Lanka three times. His first journey was to find Sita. He identified himself with her wedding ring. He then received her jewel as proof of their meeting. He played a diplomatic role persuading Ravana to release Sita. When Ravana refused Anjaneyar demonstrated his power by setting fire to Lanka.
His second visit was during the march of the Vanara army. The third and most crucial involved bringing the life-saving Sanjeevi mountain to revive the injured Lakshmana. During his return journey Anjaneyar stopped at Pudupakkam. He performed his evening prayers Sandhyavandhana. This spot is now hallowed ground the site of the Lord Perumal and Anjaneyar Temple.
The temple’s 108 steps symbolize the 108 temples supposedly established by Sage Vyasa for Lord Hanuman. A close link exists between the Lord Perumal and Anjaneyar Temple and the Sri Nitya Kalyana Perumal Temple in Thiruvidanthai. Annual processions connect these two sacred places.
Devotees flock to the Lord Perumal and Anjaneyar Temple for various reasons. They seek relief from illnesses. They pray for marital bliss. They come for strength against mental challenges. They hope to fulfill their heart’s desires.
The temple celebrates Hanuman Jayanthi and Sri Rama Navami with grandeur. These festivals in March-April mark the birthdays of Hanuman and Rama. They are filled with vibrant traditions and devout worship. The temple itself is open from 6 am to 10 am and again from 5 pm to 8 pm.
As you stand here you feel the weight of history. You’re surrounded by devotion and faith. The Lord Perumal and Anjaneyar Temple is more than just stones and carvings. It is a living testament to a powerful story. It’s a place where history legend and faith intertwine. It’s a story waiting to be experienced.