Temples In India

Tamilnadu Sanjeevirayar Temple

Sri Sanjeevirayar temple in located in a place called Iyenkulam (Kanchipuram) in Tamil Nadu state and is evident to the art and architecture of the Vijayanagar dynasty ruled by king Venkatapathi  Maharaj. The main highlight of this temple is the mandapam, huge lake behind the temple and the clean surrounding. It is said that this is the biggest Anjenaya temple in India and also has the Sri Mahalakshmi sanctum on the right hand side of the entrance. The Utsav Moorthi ceremony conducted on the day of Ram Navami festivals is one of the famous holy events of the country.

History

Sri Sanjeevirayar temple has a unique history unlike other temples. During the rule of Vijayanagar Kingdom, Nettor Sri Thathacharyar, who was one of the administrative ministers of the kingdom, had established many temples in the region. It is said that he had the blessings of Lakshmi Devi due to which he was capable of conducting one crore marriages in his lifetime. He was also considered as the son of Goddess Lakshmi Devi and nicknamed as "Ubaya vedanthaachar". Though his descendants were from Thirumalai, one of his great grandfathers moved to Aanaikunthi to receive prize from King Sri Veerupaksh in Aanaikunthi. After seeing the place, he got so impressed that he expressed his desire to discourse the Mahabaharata episodes. The king agreed to his plea and granted him permission. The discourses were done for 18 days and the next day he was shocked to see that there were no one present at that palace in Aanaikunthi . After carefully understanding the discourses of Mahabharata, the king and citizens understood that the place had spirits of those people who died during the war and shifted to a new capital, which is nearby Humpi. Being a descendant of such Mahapurush, Sri Thathacharyar built this beautiful temple near Kanchipuram.

Discovery

Sri Sanjeevirayar temple is known to people since the 15th century. This temple is blessed with the strength of Anjeneya, and the generosity of Lakshmi Devi. Thousands of devotees, including foreigners have benefitted from visiting this holy place during all seasons.

How To Reach

By Air

Chennai International airport is just about 61 kms away from Kanchipuram city and the nearest one indeed. There are night and day flights to Chennai from all around the country.

By Rail

If you are reaching Kanchipuram by train, the temple is not too far. Sri Sanjeevirayar temple is only 2 kms away from the New Kanchipuram Railway station. There are many interconnecting trains that travel to and from New Kanchipuram station throughout the day.

By Road

There are many buses available to reach the temple. However own vehicles and pre booked vehicles are more convenient and recommended for long distance travelers. The temple can be reached by tourist buses, vans, auto rickshaws and taxis also.

Important Shrines

The Vijaynagar art and architecture is clearly depicted in each inch of this stone temple. Besides the Anjaneya temple, the Mahalakshmi sanctum is another important spot in this place. Four small mandapam carved in a single stone with 4 pillars and beautiful cupola over them adds majesty and brings divine presence to this place. The views of Lord Sanjeevi Rayar's sanctum, with the anjali hasta help everyone to reach their heights of spirituality. There is also a chakra and conch at the backdoors of this temple.

Signification Of This Temple

It is believed that Lord Hanuman had visited here with the Sanjeevini and therefore this place has very good healing power for mind and body. The 136 acre wide lake is known for curing diseases and pains. Also the greenery in this place has a soothing influence on everyone.

Weather And Time To Visit

Anytime is a good time to visit this temple. However the humidity factor in Tamil Nadu is high during summer season hence monsoon and winter seasons are often recommended.

Accommodation

The temple has a separate mandapam for devotees however reasonable private accommodations are also available in the city. But due to large number of visitor, booking them in advance is a safe option.

Tips For Dwevotees

Ask the temple administrators for the details for various poojas and rituals that are scheduled

• Take prior appointment to organize and attend the pooja you want to perform

Rules And Regulations

• Do not bribe any temple officials
• Follow the instruction mentioned inside and outside the temple area to avoid theft, fights and other issues
• Do not wear heavy jewelries. Wear clean Indian ethnic clothes

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