Ashtabujakaram, Chennai

Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Nestled in the sacred surroundings of Chennai, Ashtabujakaram stands as a prominent pilgrimage site that draws worshippers from near and far. This temple is celebrated for its spiritual energy, captivating architecture, and the unwavering faith it inspires in all who visit. Generations of devotees have made their journey here, seeking divine grace and spiritual fulfilment. The temple grounds often come alive during festivals, with vibrant decorations, traditional music, and devotional activities that reflect the region’s rich culture. Even on quiet days, the gentle sounds of temple bells and the sight of flickering lamps create a deeply calming environment. For many, a visit to Ashtabujakaram is not just a religious journey but also a soulful retreat that renews the heart and mind. This cherished shrine stands alongside many Popular temples in Tamil Nadu, celebrated for their devotion and heritage.

Ashtabujakaram History and Significance

The Ashtabujakaram temple is believed to have been built during the rule of the Pallavas. The temple has inscriptions from the period of Kulothunga Chola I (1070 - 1120) indicating gifts of land to the temple. Contributions from local people for perpetual lighting of the temple are also mentioned. Another inscription indicates the sale of lands by Rajasundari Chaturvedimangalam to meet the kitchen expenses of the temple. There are many gifts endowed to the temple during the Pallavan kings.

Ashtabujakaram Pooja Timing
Ashtabujakaram Interesting Facts
Ashtabujakaram Nearby Temples
Other Vishnu Temples
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Ashtabujakaram Pooja Timing

Pooja Name	Timings
Ushathkala Pooja	6:00 AM
Kalasanthi Pooja	8:00 AM
Uchikala Pooja	12:00 PM
Sayaraksha Pooja	6:00 PM

Ashtabujakaram Location Details

How to Reach Ashtabujakaram

By Road:

Kanchipuram is well-connected by road to major towns in Tamil Nadu. State Transport Buses and private taxis operate regularly.

By Train:

Nearest railway stations: Kanchipuram Railway Station and Chennai Central Railway Station. From these stations, buses or taxis are available to Kanchipuram.

By Air:

Nearest airport: Chennai International Airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Kanchipuram via connecting cities.

Ashtabujakaram Nearby Temples

Best time to visit (season/months):

October to March is the best time to visit. Avoid the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall and potential travel disruptions. Summers can be hot, so plan accordingly.

Other Vishnu Temples

Legends Beliefs

Legends and BeliefsAccording to legend, there was an argument between Saraswati and Lakshmi on their superiority. Indra and Brahma judged Lakshmi to be superior. Saraswati, unhappy with the decision, tried to disrupt Brahma's penance. Vishnu interfered and took the form of Ashtabhuja Perumal, holding eight different weapons to kill a snake sent by Saraswati. Another legend associates the temple with Gajendra Moksha, where Vishnu saved the elephant king Gajendra from a crocodile.
Deities and Sub Deities

Deities and Sub-DeitiesThe presiding deity of the temple is Ashtabhuja Perumal, who is worshipped as Adikesava Perumal, Gajendra Varadhan, and Chakradhar. The deity is depicted with eight hands holding various weapons. The consort of Perumal is Pushpakavalli Thayar. The temple also has shrines dedicated to Varaha Perumal, Hanuman, the Alvars, Andal, Sudarshana Chakra, and Sharabha.
Offerings

OfferingsDevotees offer various items to the deities, including flowers, fruits, and sweets. Special offerings are made during festivals and important rituals. The temple also receives contributions from devotees for the maintenance and lighting of the temple.
Architecture

ArchitectureThe Ashtabujakaram temple is constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture. It has a three-tiered gopuram (gateway tower) that pierces the concentric rectangular walls. The temple has a tank in front and a granite wall surrounding all the shrines. The presiding deity is sported with eight hands, holding a sword, shield, mace, bow, arrow, lotus, conch, and chakra. The temple also has a four-pillared hall named Friday Mandapam and a separate shrine for Pushpakavalli Thayar.
Festivals

FestivalsThe temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year. The most prominent festival is the 10-day Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrated during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December - January). Other important festivals include Rama Navami, Navarathri, and Gajendra Moksha, celebrated during the Tamil month of Aadi (July - August).
Religious Practices

Religious PracticesThe temple priests perform six daily rituals: Ushathkalam, Kalasanthi, Uchikalam, Sayarakshai, Irandamkalam, and Ardha Jamam. Each ritual includes decoration, food offering, and waving of lamps. Weekly, monthly, and fortnightly rituals are also performed. The temple follows the Vaishnavite tradition, and the priests belong to the Vaishnava community from the Brahmin class.

FAQ's

Where is the Ashtabujakaram located?

The Ashtabujakaram is located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Specifically, it is situated in the Chennai district.

Which God is Adi Kesava Perumal (Vishnu), Alamelu Mangai (Lakshmi)?

Adi Kesava Perumal (Vishnu), Alamelu Mangai (Lakshmi) is a major Hindu deity.

What is the best time to visit Ashtabujakaram?

October to March is the best time to visit. Avoid the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall and potential travel disruptions. Summers can be hot, so plan accordingly.

How to reach Ashtabujakaram from near City or Town?

Nearest railway stations: Kanchipuram Railway Station and Chennai Central Railway Station. From these stations, buses or taxis are available to Kanchipuram. Nearest airport: Chennai International Airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Kanchipuram via connecting cities.