Craving spiritual serenity in Chennai? Here at Sri Akshaya Sai Baba Temple, you’ll find a haven of peace. This temple is dedicated to Sai Baba. He was a revered saint known for his message of universal love.
Sri Akshaya Sai Baba Temple is more than just a place of worship. It is a center for community and devotion. The story of this temple began with Narasimha Swamiji. He was an ardent devotee of Sai Baba.
Narasimha Swamiji, a lawyer by profession, founded the All India Sai Samaj in 1941. Initially, he worshipped a picture of Baba under a tamarind tree. Later, he moved the picture to a small house. With help from his friend J.D. Pannalal, he constructed the present temple. The temple aimed to serve humanity, especially the downtrodden.
The Sri Akshaya Sai Baba Temple officially opened in 1952. It quickly became known as the Shirdi of the South. Over time, the temple has expanded. It has been renovated to accommodate the growing number of devotees.
In 1987, Muthu Venkatraman, a devotee, installed a marble idol of Baba. The temple also houses the samadhi of Narasimha Swamiji. The temple stands as a testament to his devotion.
Inside, a vast room welcomes you with a dazzling white marble floor. Painted pictures of Sai Baba adorn the walls. The altar is beautiful. It features a marble statue of Baba. Votive pedestals depict his holy feet.
Here at Sri Akshaya Sai Baba Temple five times rituals are continuously being done. The temple is open to all faiths. On Thursdays, a Muslim gentleman chants the Koran. On Sundays, there is a Bible reading. Bhajans also fill the air on Thursdays.
Navratri is a major celebration here. The temple also observes Guru Purnima. The birth anniversary of Narasimha Swamiji is celebrated every year on August 21.
The temple provides free medical services. It also runs a library. It provides a space for learning and community engagement.
Sri Akshaya Sai Baba Temple underwent a significant renovation in 2010. Two gopurams were built. The one above the main deity is 37 feet high. The other, above the new hall for Narasimha Swamiji, is 23 feet high. A three-storied structure was added behind the sanctum sanctorum. It includes a meditation hall and a prayer chamber for Narasimha Swamiji.
Today, Sri Akshaya Sai Baba Temple continues to be a beacon of faith. People from all over the country visit. They seek blessings and experience peace. Remember the story of Narasimha Swamiji. His devotion shaped this sacred space. May the blessings of Sai Baba be with you.