Nandhambakkam Sri Kothandaramar Temple – Chennai

Address

Nandhambakkam Sri Kothandaramar Temple – Chennai

Ramar Koil St, Nandambakkam,

Chennai district,

Tamil Nadu 600089

Moolavar

Srinivasa Perumal

Amman

Sri Alarmelmangai Thayar

Introduction

• Location: The Kothandaramaswami Temple is situated in Nandambakkam, a suburb of Chennai, India. It is located on the Mount Poonamallee Road, approximately 2 kilometers from the Guindy Kathipara junction. The temple is easily accessible, located just 100 meters from the main road on the opposite side of the Chennai Trade Center.

Puranic Significance

1. Historical Background:
   • The temple was originally built by Sanjeevi Rayar, the Prime Minister of Sri Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Kingdom, around 750 years ago. While there are no inscriptions, the mandapam pillars and ceiling are quite ancient.
   • Initially, the temple had shrines dedicated to Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita. Over time, additional shrines were added for Srinivasa, Alwars, Hanuman, and other deities.
2. Connection to Bringi Rishi:
   • The temple is linked to the legendary sage Bringi Rishi, who was performing penance in the area. The hill nearby, where he meditated, was known as Bringi Malai (Bringi Hill), which later became Parangi Malai, and is now called St. Thomas Mount.
   • The story goes that upon learning that Sri Rama was passing through, Bringi Rishi invited Rama to stay with him for a few days. Rama agreed, and Bringi Rishi created a small garden (Nandhavanam) for his comfort. This place came to be known as Nandhavanam, which later evolved into Nandhambakkam.
   • The neighboring area, Ramapuram, is believed to have derived its name from Rama’s stay here. This story is mentioned in the Aaranya Kaandam of the Kamba Ramayanam (the Tamil version of the Ramayana by poet Kambar).

Beliefs

• It is believed that worshiping at this temple will cure devotees of all diseases and bring peace and prosperity into their lives.

Special Features

1. Temple Structure:
   • The temple has a rich history with several renovations. A Vishnu devotee named Thirukkachi Nambi originally constructed a small temple for Sri Rama at this location. During the reign of Krishna Devaraaya, Sanjeevi Raayar expanded and renovated the temple, making it larger and more significant.
   • In the temple, Sri Rama is depicted in the Pattaabishega posture (the coronation pose), accompanied by Lakshmana, Bharatha, and Chatrugna. Sita Devi is shown sitting on Sri Rama’s lap, radiating beauty. All of them are facing south.
   • Sri Anjaneyar (Hanuman) is depicted facing north, while Sri Srinivasa Perumal is shown facing east.
   • A beautiful Nandhavanam (garden) is located outside the sanctum on the southern side of the temple, where Sri Krishna is depicted as a child, referred to as Nandhavana Kannan.
2. Additional Shrines:
   • A separate shrine dedicated to Sri Anjaneyar is located on the prakaaram (temple corridor), where Hanuman is shown in a standing posture.
   • The temple has a large pond called Bringi Rishi Theertham, situated opposite the temple. This pond is an important feature but requires maintenance.

Festivals

• Rama Navami, Brahmotsavam, and Garuda Sevai are celebrated with great enthusiasm and grandeur at the temple. These festivals draw large crowds and are significant events for devotees.

Century/Period

750 years old

Nearest Bus Station

Nandambakkam

Nearest Railway Station

Guindy 

Nearest Airport

Chennai

Location on Map

lightuptemple