Akkur Lakshmi Narayana Temple, Thiruvannamalai

Address

Akkur village, Thiruvannamalai district,

Tamil Nadu – 631701

Moolavar

Lakshmi Narayana Perumal

Amman

Ambujavalli.

Introduction

The Lakshmi Narayana Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Akkur Village, Thiruvannamalai District, Tamil Nadu. This sacred site, believed to be nearly 1500 years old, houses the presiding deity Lakshmi Narayana Perumal along with his consort Ambujavalli Thayar. The divine idol of Lakshmi Narayana Perumal, depicted in a seated posture holding Goddess Lakshmi, is a remarkable sight that draws devotees.

Akkur Village is situated approximately 20 km from Kanchipuram, along the Vandavasi Road, and lies west of the Pesum Perumal Temple at Koozhamandal.

Puranic Significance

According to legend, Lord Vishnu appeared at Tumburu Theertham in Thirumala Hills to a devotee named Doddacharyar, who later discovered the idols of Lakshmi Narayana, Goddess Ambujavalli, Garuda, and Viswaksenar hidden in the earth.
Doddacharyar enshrined these idols in Akkur Village and constructed the temple.
Over time, revered saints and acharyas such as Sri Ramanuja, Sri Nigamantha Mahadesikan, and Saint Srimad Akkur Andavan became associated with this temple, further elevating its sanctity.
Devotees believe that worshiping the Lord here brings prosperity and well-being.

The temple underwent renovation in 2003, with the completion of a Mahasamprokshanam (consecration ceremony).

Temple Features

Architecture: Though small, the temple features intricate craftsmanship and houses a few shrines, including those for Andal and Ambujavalli Thayar.
Inscriptions: Ancient inscriptions in the temple offer insights into its rich historical and cultural heritage.
Historical Background: Archaeologists suggest that Akkur originally consisted of six hamlets: Samburanatham, Singili Pattarai, Thatha Pattarai, Dhaneswaran Modu, Purangavasam, and Srinivasapuram.

Festivals and Beliefs

The temple hosts several vibrant festivals and rituals, attracting devotees from the surrounding areas:

Annual Celebrations:
- Sri Jayanthi
- Hanumath Jayanthi
- Vaikunta Ekadasi Garuda Seva
- Purattasi Third Saturday
- Panguni Uthiram
- Tamil New Year’s Day
Major Festivals:
- Purattasi Brahmotsavam
- Panguni Uthiram
- Masi Makam
- Vaikasi Visakam
- Thiru Karthikai
- Vaikunta Ekadasi
- Sravana Deepam