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Tamilnadu Ashta Lakshmi Temple
The Ashta Lakshmi Temple needs no introduction among the pious. Situated off the coast of Chennai, it is among the few exclusive temples for worshipping the Hindu Goddess Lakshmi. Lakshmi is regarded as the Hindu Goddess of wealth. "Ashta" means eight. Ashta Lakshmi is used to mean the eight principle forms of the Goddess.
The temple has been built in the shape of 'Aum', the first Vedic incantation. The temple was opened on the 5th of April in 1976, two years after construction began. The construction took place under the leadership of Mukkur Srinivasa Vardachariyar.
In the interior, the temple has three floors built in Ashtanga Vimana style.
History
Scriptures says that the battle of the 'Asuras' and the 'Devas' churned the ocean. It is a belief that at that time Lakshmi emerged from the ocean. Later, she became the wife of Mahavishnu. The temple was created in honor of the eightfold forms of wealth the Goddess is credited with. It is from Ashta Lakshmi kovil that Mahavishnu and Mahalakshmi bestows their blessing to humanity.
How To Reach
By Air
Chennai is a place with easy accessibility from anywhere in India. Chennai International Airport is a destination of flights from all major places in India and the world. The airport is 15 kilometers away from the temple, with bus and taxi services available at frequent intervals.
By Rail
Chennai Central is the busiest railway station in the city. It connects the city to all parts of India via the Indian Railways network. Besant Nagar is a mere 15 kilometers from the station. Regular buses ply to Thirunvanmiyur, which is a stone's throw away from the temple. Besides, the city has a reliable service of auto rickshaws.
By Road
Chennai is the southern locus of the Golden Quadrilateral of the National Highways. Major highways provide all year transit to and fro the city.
Important Shrines
Adhilakshmi Shrine is present in the ground floor facing south. The deity sits in composure among the eight items that reflect wealth, prosperity, health and longevity.
Dhanyalakshmi Shrine faces west. Here, the Goddess possesses six hands holding various agricultural equipments.The third is the Dahiryalakshmi Shrine. Goddess Lakshmi faces north and is projected as bestowing strength and courage to overcome difficulties.
The Gajalakshmi Shrine is present on the second floor. The Goddess has four hands carved out of a single rock.
The deity of Vidyalakshmi Shrine is seen to face the north and bestow devotees with the gift of knowledge and enlightenment.
The Vijayalakshmi Shrine carries the Goddess on the back of a swan. Here, Lakshmi is used to project purity and victory.
The Santhanlakshmi Shrine is present on the first floor and she faces south. Here, she has the divine power to bestow children and cleanse oneself of sins.
The Dhanalakshmi Shrine, present on the second floor grants wealth or 'dhan' to the devotees.
Significance Of The Temple
The temple is a place of pilgrimage for the Hindus. This is especially so because it houses both Mahalakshmi and Mahavishnu in the same structure. It is one of the few temples dedicated to Mahalakshmi.
Weather And Time To Visit
In summers, Chennai can be scorching with temperatures soaring above 40° C. Winter is the best time to visit Chennai and the Ashta Lakshmi Temple between the months of October and March. The weather is pleasant during this time and the cool sea breeze can have a soothing effect.
Accomodation
Chennai is an important commercial and cultural hub. Thus, there is no dearth of accommodation in the form of luxury hotels, hostels, ashrams or guest houses. The prices may vary depending on the locality and furnishing of the hotel.
Chennai boasts of branches of well known five star hotel chains such as Hyatt, Le Meridian, Taj and Greentree. They are ideal for high end tourists and foreigners with deep pockets.
Budget hotels catering to the average tourist are abundant in Chennai municipal area. Their charges vary from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 5000 for twin bed occupancy.
Cheap hostels and dormitories are available from as cheap as Rs. 300. However, the hygienic conditions of these may not be good.
- Some shrines maintain accommodation for devotees at nominal charges. Prior availability and reservations need to be confirmed with the authorities.
Tips For DevoteesEVOTEES
Tamil is the dominant language in the region. Therefore, language may be a problem while communicating with the locals. It is advisable to take along someone who has a rudimentary understanding of the language.
Chennai is infested with pickpockets and beggars. While travelling around town, it is important to keep a close watch on belongings and money bags.
- While travelling by train, advance reservations are a good way to ease the mind of unnecessary worry. The reservation charts of major trains are filled weeks before the actual departure of the train.
Rules And Rituals Of The Temple
The temple remains open from 6.30 in the morning to 12 in the afternoon. In the evening, 'darshan' can be done from 4 PM to 8.30 PM. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, the shrine remains open till 12.30 in the morning.
The temple follows a daily schedule of 'pooja'. Devotees wishing to take part in these are required to confirm the timings beforehand.
Hindu festivals are celebrated in the temple following strict rituals unique to the temple.
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