Anjaneya Temple, Nanganallur

The Anjaneya Temple in Nanganallur, Chennai, is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. One of its most remarkable features is the 32-foot tall idol of Hanuman, sculpted from a single piece of granite, making it the second tallest Hanuman idol after the one near Panchavatee near Puducherry.

History:

• The idol was installed in 1989 and consecrated in 1995 by the 35th Sringeri Shankaracharya, Shri Abhinava Vidyatheertha Mahaswamiji.
• The Sri Maruthi Bhaktha Samajam Trust, comprising individuals with strong spiritual beliefs, initiated the establishment of this temple.
• The 32-foot tall idol carved from a single rock is a distinguished feature of the temple.

Temple Structure:

• The main shrine houses the 32-foot tall idol of Anjaneya within a 90-foot tall Temple Tower.
• Anjaneya faces west, with the main entrance located on the west side. An auxiliary entrance on the southern side is used during temple festivals.
• The temple building features pathways around the sanctum sanctorum and a large covered space (Mandapam) for devotees to assemble and offer worship.
• Adjacent to the main shrine, there is a Sannidhi for Lord Rama with Seetha and Lakshmana, facing east, symbolizing Rama’s role as the protector and ruler.
• Another Sannidhi for Lord Krishna with Rukmini and Satyabhama, facing east, is located on the southwest side. This is a rare feature as temples dedicated to Anjaneya usually include a Sannidhi for Lord Rama but not always for Lord Krishna.
• Additionally, a small platform houses Vinayaka facing east, and another platform houses ‘Naga’. Saint Raghavendra is also enshrined in the temple facing Lord Krishna.

Administrative Issues:

• The temple was initially managed by the Sri Maruthi Bhaktha Samajam Trust but faced allegations of financial irregularities.
• Complaints and petitions to the Government of Tamil Nadu led to a review and enquiry, resulting in the Hindu Religious and Charity Endowment Department (HR&CE) taking over the administration of the temple since July 2013.
• The actions taken by HR&CE were criticized by the former management, Sri Maruthi Bhaktha Samajam Trust, which was accused of financial irregularities.

Despite administrative challenges, the Anjaneya Temple remains a significant spiritual landmark in Nanganallur, attracting devotees from far and wide to worship Lord Hanuman and other deities housed within its premises.

Operating Hours:

• Sunday – Monday : 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM

Phone: 098845 77728

Address: Anjaneyar temple, 2nd Main Rd, Ram Nagar, Nanganallur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600061