Nenmeli Lakshmi Narayanan Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram

Address

Nenmeli Lakshmi Narayanan Perumal Temple, Nenmeli, Chengalpattu circle, Kanchipuram district -603003 Phone: +91 – 44 – 27420053.

Diety

Sri Lakshmi Narayana Perumal

Introduction

The Srardha Samrakshana Narayanan Temple in Nenmeli, near Chengalpet Town in Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and holds great significance for its role in performing Srardham and Pithru Poojai for the ancestors and forefathers.

Location: Nenmeli, also known as Pundarikanallur or Pindam Vaiththa Nallur, is where this temple is situated. It is believed to be a sacred place equivalent to Gaya and Kasi for performing rituals related to ancestors.
History of Devotees: The temple’s history is closely associated with a devoted couple, Yagna Narayana Sharma and Sarasavani, who lived in the kingdom of Arcot Nawab. They had deep devotion to Lord Narayana and used their money for Deiva Kainkaryam (service to the divine) instead of paying taxes to the Nawab. Consequently, they were imprisoned, but they chose to let their lives end in the Pushkarani (temple tank) of Thiruvidanthai Divyadesam.
Fulfillment of Wishes: Yagna Narayana Sharma and Sarasavani had no children to perform Srardham for them after their passing. However, Lord Narayana, who understands the desires of His devotees, performed the Srardham and Thithi (rituals for the deceased) for the couple. Even today, the temple continues the tradition by performing Srardham for people who don’t have descendants to conduct these rituals.
Sri Srardha Samrakshana Narayanan: The main deity of the temple is known as “Sri Lakshmi Narayana Perumal,” while the processional deity is “Sri Srardha Samrakshana Narayanan.” The Maha Lakshmi Salagramam found in the main sanctum is considered highly sacred and powerful, blessing devotees with wealth and health when worshipped.
Rituals and Practices: To perform Srardham in this temple, devotees can participate during the time of Pithru Poojai by making a Sankalpam (sacred resolution) and dedicating it to the Lord. The Neivedhyam (offering) to the Perumal includes Ven Pongal or curd rice, along with Perandai and Yel Thuvayal. Pithru Poojai is performed during Amavasai (new moon) and Ekadesi Thithi and is believed to be equivalent to Srardham performed in Gaya.
Significance: The temple is revered for its role in helping people honor their ancestors through Srardham and Pithru Poojai. The Lord’s compassion and fulfillment of devotees’ wishes are central to its significance.

The Srardha Samrakshana Narayanan Temple in Nenmeli serves as a place where devotees can seek blessings for the welfare of their ancestors and fulfill their religious duties through rituals and offerings. It holds a special place in the hearts of those who wish to honor their forefathers in a manner equivalent to the rituals performed in other sacred places like Gaya.