Chennai comes alive during the
Aadi month with a unique spiritual energy, and the pulse of the city beats
loud—quite literally. Fridays, in particular, witness a festive frenzy as Amman
temples become hubs of devotion. Loudspeakers blare devotional songs and
announcements from dawn till dusk, filling neighborhoods with rhythmic chants
and beats of traditional drums.
The air is thick with reverence as
devotees carry paal kudams (milk pots), take part in special pujas, and gather
for processions. Streets near temples are decked with colorful lights and
festoons, while spiritual discourses and lamp rituals add to the vibrance.
Though the soundscape may test the patience of a few, for many, it's the
unmistakable voice of Chennai’s devotion during Aadi.
Here are some famous Amman temples
in Chennai that are especially vibrant during the Aadi month:
1.
Kalikambal Temple – George Town
Deity: Goddess Kalikambal (a form
of Kamakshi/Parvati)
Speciality: Visited by historical
figures like Chhatrapati Shivaji. This ancient temple is packed during Aadi
Fridays and Navaratri.
2. Vadapalani Andavar Temple – Vadapalani
Deity: While primarily a Murugan temple,
the shrine for Vadapalani Amman is also widely revered.
Speciality: Large crowds gather
for Thiruvilakku pujas and special Friday rituals in Aadi.
3. Kamakshi Amman Temple – Saidapet
Deity: Goddess Kamakshi
Speciality: One of the most
visited temples during Aadi, especially for paal kudam offerings and women-led
pujas.
4. Angala Parameswari Temple – Royapuram
Deity: Angala Parameswari (a
fierce form of Amman)
Speciality: Known for intense
spiritual fervor and colorful Amman thiruvizha (festival) during Aadi.
5. Ellaiamman Temple – Mylapore
Deity: Ellaiamman (protector
goddess of boundaries)
Speciality: A traditional Amman
temple deeply rooted in local folklore. Aadi Fridays are celebrated with
devotion and community events.
6. Mundakanni Amman Temple – Mylapore
Deity: Mundakanni Amman
Speciality: An ancient temple
often referred to as the grama devata (village goddess). Devotees flock here
with turmeric, neem, and lemon offerings.
7. Kaliamman Temple – Thiruvottiyur
Deity: Kaliamman
Speciality: A well-known North
Chennai temple where Aadi month sees long processions and firewalking rituals.
8. Mariamman Temple – Perambur
Deity: Mariamman
Speciality: Famous for paal kudam,
kavadi, and public feasts during Aadi Fridays.
"Today is no exception — being Friday, the whole city of Chennai is buzzing with devotion."
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