Shree Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal temple

Shree Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal temple

Sri Prasanna Venkata Narasimha Perumal is a Hindu temple in Saidapet, Chennai, in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is dedicated to Venkateswara, an incarnation of the Hindu deity Vishnu. It was constructed during the 12th century, but, according to historical records and inscriptions found within the temple, may consist of elements dating back more than 1000 years. The temple was constructed during the era when the South India was under the rule of the Vijayanagara Empire.

The temple is also known as “Prasanna Venkata Narshimar” due to the visit of Theliyasingher who is kovthugar of the temple.

The temple’s regional legend states that Sri Prasanna Venkata Narasimha is incarnated with his divine consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi, facing east, in the Garbha Graha (sanctum sanctorum) of the temple.

History

The temple is believed to have been constructed by the Balija Chetty community. When Vijayanagara monarchs like Krishnadeva Raya and Achyuta Raya who were devotees of Venkatesvara at Tirumala (Tirupati) ruled the region until the 16th century CE, many temples for Venkatesa Perumal were built in the Tamil region.

The Ramanuja Vijaya Vilasam hall near the temple was built in 1901, which is now known as Ramanuja Koodam.

Features

The temple’s 36-feet-tall wooden chariot is taken in procession during the annual festival. A Thanjavur painting of Rama Pattabhisekam is being worshipped in the temple.