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Parthasarathy Temple in Chennai is truly outstanding among the legions of temples in South India with its striking features. The Parthasarathy Temple dates back to the 8th c. It was originally built by the Pallavas and later reformed by the Vijayanagar Kings during 11th century. Parthasarathy Temple is devoted to the various incarnations of Lord Vishnu. The temple is conveniently located at the heart of the Chennai city.
Features of Parthasarathy Temple in Chennai
- The literal meaning of 'Parthasarathy' is the charioteer. According to the great Indian epic 'Mahabharata', 'Partha' meant Arjuna while 'Sarathy' is the charioteer. The epic has it that during the great battle of Mahabharata, Lord Krishna was the charioteer of Arjuna. Arjuna or Partha was a brave warrior and Lord Krishna was the legendary friend, philosopher and guide to Arjuna.
- The main deity of the temple is 'Lord Krishna', one of the incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
- There is the colored rising tower at the entrance of the temple among the other exquisite feature of this Parthasarathy temple.
- The main shrine is for Venkatakrishnan with Rukmini, Balaraman, Satyaki, Anirudha and Pradyumna - in a standing posture facing the east.
- There are shrines for Ranganathar in a lean-back position with a separate sanctum for his consort Vedavalli.
- There are shrines facing the east for Rama along with Sita, Lakshmana, Bharata, Shatrugna, Hanuman, Varadarajan seated on the Garuda and Narasimhar in a seated posture.
- There is also a separate shrine for Andal. - The annual Bhrammotsavam festival is celebrated in the month of Chittirai. Vaikuntha Ekadasi is celebrated in Margazhi and it is one of the important festivals.
- The float festival is held in the month of Feb-Mar.
How to Reach Parthasarathy Temple in Chennai
By Air
The Kamaraj Domestic Airport and the Anna International Airport are located at Tirusulam at a distance of 20 km from the city.
By Rail
Chennai is also well connected to all the major cities in India through a wide network of railways. The rail service connects to all the main cities of the neighboring state and the country. By Road
The excellent road network of Chennai makes it easily accessible from other important cities of Tamil Nadu and the neighboring states.
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