Nestled in the serene and well-connected neighborhood of Nanganallur in Chennai, the Nanganallur Anjaneya Temple is a beacon of divine grace, courage, and unwavering faith. This temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman—also known as Anjaneya—is one of the most spiritually powerful and architecturally impressive temples in South India. Known primarily for its 32-foot-tall idol of Lord Hanuman, carved from a single piece of granite, the temple draws thousands of devotees from across Tamil Nadu and beyond.
Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a devotee of Lord Hanuman, or a curious traveler exploring Tamil Nadu’s rich temple heritage, the Nanganallur Anjaneya Temple offers a unique blend of tranquility, divine energy, and cultural depth.
| Location | Nanganallur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu |
| Main Deity | Lord Anjaneya (Hanuman) |
| Key Feature | 32-foot-tall monolithic idol carved from a single granite stone |
| Year of Establishment | 1980s (idol installed in 1989) |
| Idol Posture | Standing, right hand in Abhaya Mudra, facing east |
| Spiritual Beliefs | Protection from evil, courage, mental strength, relief from Saturn’s effects |
| Special Days | Tuesdays and Saturdays |
| Important Festivals | Hanuman Jayanti, Rama Navami, Tamil New Year, Navaratri, Deepavali |
| Additional Shrines | Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Krishna, Vinayaka, Subramanya, Nava Grahas |
| Rituals | Oil abhishekam, Hanuman Chalisa, Sundarakanda recitation, Alankaram |
| How to Reach | Near Chennai Airport; close to Palavanthangal/Meenambakkam railway stations |
| Temple Management | Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department |
| Visitor Tips | Visit early or evenings, dress modestly, avoid rush on festivals/Saturdays |
History and Origin
The Nanganallur Anjaneya Temple was established in the 1980s and is managed by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Tamil Nadu. The temple gained popularity rapidly after the installation of the 32-foot Anjaneya idol in 1989.
The massive idol was carved from a single rock in Andhra Pradesh and transported to Chennai in a special truck. It was erected without the use of cement or any structural support—a testament to the ancient Indian science of temple architecture. According to devotees, the idol was installed under divine guidance and inspiration from saints and Hanuman devotees.
The Idol: A Marvel in Stone
What makes the Nanganallur Anjaneya Temple stand out is its monolithic idol—standing tall and proud at 32 feet, with no foundation beneath it. This makes it one of the tallest Hanuman statues in South India housed within a temple.
The statue portrays Hanuman in a standing posture, facing east, with his right hand raised in abhaya mudra (gesture of protection) and his left hand resting on his waist. The sheer size and aura of the idol inspire awe and reverence. Devotees believe that even a few moments spent in front of the deity can remove fear, anxiety, and negative thoughts.
Spiritual Significance
Lord Anjaneya (Hanuman) is revered across India as the embodiment of strength, humility, wisdom, and devotion. He is a Chiranjeevi (immortal) and is said to still be present wherever the name of Lord Rama is chanted. At the Nanganallur temple, Hanuman is worshipped as the guardian deity who protects devotees from evil, blesses them with courage, and helps overcome obstacles.
Many visit this temple to:
Seek protection from evil forces and black magic
Overcome fears and health issues
Gain mental strength and focus
Get relief from the adverse effects of Saturn (Shani) in astrology
Devotees also report success in exams, job interviews, and personal challenges after praying sincerely at this temple.
Daily Rituals and Poojas
The temple follows traditional South Indian rituals and is open to devotees throughout the week. Key highlights include:
Morning and Evening Archanas
Alankaram (decorating the idol with flowers and jewels)
Tailabhishekam (anointing the idol with oil) on Saturdays
Chanting of the Hanuman Chalisa and Sundarakanda parayanam
Tuesdays and Saturdays are considered especially auspicious and attract large crowds. Special poojas and homams are conducted during festivals and important astrological days.
Festivals Celebrated
The temple celebrates many festivals with grandeur and devotion, with thousands of devotees participating in rituals and spiritual activities.
1. Hanuman Jayanti
This is the most significant festival celebrated with great enthusiasm, usually during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January) or Chaitra Purnima (March–April), depending on local tradition.
2. Rama Navami
As the most devoted follower of Lord Rama, Hanuman is worshipped alongside Rama during this festival. Special poojas, kirtans, and prasadam distribution mark the day.
3. Tamil New Year, Navaratri, and Deepavali
The temple becomes a hub of activity during these festivals, with colorful decorations, musical events, and spiritual programs.
Temple Complex and Deities
The temple complex is clean, well-maintained, and designed to accommodate hundreds of devotees. Apart from the main Anjaneya idol, the temple also houses shrines for:
Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman
Lord Vinayaka (Ganesha)
Lord Krishna with Rukmini and Satyabhama
Lord Subramanya (Murugan) with Valli and Deivanai
Lord Garuda and Nava Grahas (nine planetary deities)
The temple premises include a meditation hall, prasadam counter, and resting area for elderly devotees.
How to Reach Nanganallur Anjaneya Temple
The temple is easily accessible due to its location in Chennai city.
By Air: Just 4 km from Chennai International Airport.
By Train: Nearest railway stations are Palavanthangal and Meenambakkam, within walking distance.
By Road: Well connected by buses, autos, and cabs. Parking is available nearby.
Visitor Tips
Dress conservatively as per temple norms.
Visit during early morning or evening for a peaceful darshan.
Avoid peak hours on Saturdays and festival days if you prefer a quieter experience.
Participate in Hanuman Chalisa recitation for a spiritually uplifting visit.
Purchase prasadam and temple souvenirs from authorized counters only.