The Prathyangira Devi Temple is an ancient temple in the stunning state of Kerala. It bears witness to the region’s rich spiritual and cultural traditions and legacy. The intricate woodwork and fine carvings on this traditional Keralan-style temple are a testament to the talented craftspeople of the area. There is a sense of reverence and peace within the temple’s hallowed walls as the aroma of sacred incense and the lovely chanting of hymns fill the air. Pilgrims swarm this hallowed site in search of the graces of the goddess Prathyangira Devi, who presides over the area. Let’s embark on this enchanting journey where we will unfold its divine charm.
Prathyangira Devi Temple: An Overview
The Sri Prathyangira Devi temple is a Hindu temple located in Sholinganallur district of Chennai. It lies adjacent to the beach of the Bay of Bengal. This sacred temple sits gracefully on the banks of the Buckingham Canal. The primary deity worshipped here is Prathyangira, specifically in her form as Maha Prathyangira Devi. She is revered as a powerful protector against the evil influences of witchcraft. She is believed to be able to punish Adharma.
Devotees visit seeking blessings for overcoming problems, diseases, and curses. The temple is built based on Vastu Shastra principles, which are believed to create a harmonious environment for prayer. There is no entry fee.
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Prathyangira Devi Temple History
The Prathyangira Devi temple is relatively young, but it holds significance for devotees of Prathyangira Devi. The history of the temple is as follows:
Founding And Significance
Prathyangira Devi temple’s history dates back to 1998 when Sri Prathyangira Swamigal established it. The temple is considered one of the first dedicated solely to Prathyangira Devi, particularly in her calmer form as Shri Maha Prathyangira Devi. The Kumbhabhishekam, a consecration ceremony, was performed in 1999 with blessings from renowned institutions like Sringeri Saradha Peetam and Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham.
Unique Dedication
Prathyangira Devi is a powerful goddess often associated with warding off negative influences like witchcraft and black magic. This temple focuses on her “Shanta” form, representing peace and serenity.
Legends And Origins
Prathyangira Devi’s origin stories vary across different traditions and interpretations within Hindu mythology. One widely accepted belief is that she emerged from Lord Shiva’s third eye, symbolizing her fierce and protective nature. In this manifestation, she embodies a half-lion, half-human form, representing a powerful blend of divine energies. Another legend says that Prathyangira Devi is linked to calming Lord Narasimha’s rage, which arises from the combined energies of Parvati, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. She embodies a formidable form to soothe Narasimha’s fury and restore cosmic harmony.
Significance Of Prathyangira Devi Temple
The Prathyangira Devi temple holds significant spiritual and cultural importance for devotees. It is as follows:
1. Protection And Repellence
Maha Prathyangira Devi, a potent manifestation of the Divine Mother, is renowned for the intense protection of her devotees. She is revered for her ability to safeguard her followers from harmful energies, evil forces, and detrimental influences. This protection extends beyond the physical realm, encompassing spiritual and emotional well-being.
The goddess is said to consume the negativity that burdens her devotees, guiding them towards liberation with her swift and potent energy. Furthermore, she is recognised for her power to counteract black magic and other forms of witchcraft. Her energy is believed to form a protective shield around individuals, safeguarding them from psychic attacks and negative influences.
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2. Justice And Dharma
Maha Prathyangira Devi embodies Dharma (righteousness), Satya (truth), and flawless justice. She upholds justice and maintains cosmic balance. When the universe’s equilibrium is disrupted, she manifests herself. She ushers the world into the era of Satya Yuga. Her wrath is directed at those who commit injustices or harm others. She consumes a devotee’s karmas and responds to their prayers, provided they harbour pure intentions, accept responsibility for their karmas, and follow the path of Dharma.
3. Sunday Poojas
Special poojas are held every Sunday in honour of Maha Prathyangira Devi. These rituals attract pilgrims seeking comfort and divine intervention. Offerings of lemons, coconuts, and red chillies symbolise the goddess’s ability to absorb negativity. These offerings are thought to please the goddess and invoke her blessings. The rituals serve as a spiritual refuge for devotees, providing them a sense of peace and divine connection.
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Prathyangira Devi Temple: Design And Architecture
The architecture of this temple is unique compared to other temples. The Raja Gopuram, the big tower at the temple’s entrance, is built according to Vaastu principles and is very grand. The temple complex has many sanctums for gods and goddesses, which is uncommon in other temples. These include Varahi, Neela Saraswathi, Kalikambal, Ganesha, Muruga, Agni, Narasimha, Anjaneya, Shiva, Guruvayurappa, Saneeswara, Rahu, and Ketu. This temple is unique because it has a rare statue of Prathyankaradevi in a peaceful pose. The temple’s design and architecture show the area’s rich cultural and religious history.
The temple is known for its Swayambu—a self-formed, herbal structure of the deity completely covered with Kumkuma (Red Bidni—herbal powder). Above the shrine and the place of worship is a roof made out of Rudraksha seeds. As the deity has a natural structure, no Abhishkam (holy bathing ritual) is performed for the main deity.
Prathyangira Devi Temple: Best Time To Visit
While the Prathyangira Devi temple welcomes visitors throughout the year, many pilgrims favour the period between November and February, coinciding with Chennai’s milder climate marked by lower temperatures and humidity. This time frame offers a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for exploring the temple and its surroundings. It is ideal for immersing yourself in the spiritual ambience while avoiding the discomforts of extreme weather conditions.
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Prathyangira Devi Temple: Opening And Pooja Timings
The Prathyangira Devi temple opens its doors to devotees during the following hours:
| Days/Rituals | Timings (Morning) | Timings (Evening) |
| Abhishekam | 6:00 am to 6:30 am | – |
| First Puja | 7:00 am | – |
| Darshan | 7:30 am to 12:30 pm | 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm (except Sundays) |
| Sunday | – | 4:00 pm to 8:30 pm |
How To Reach Prathyangira Devi Temple?
You can reach the Sri Prathyangira Devi temple in various ways. Some of the ways to reach the Prathyangira Devi temple:
By Road
The Prathyangira Devi temple is in Sholinganallur, near the Bay of Bengal beach, along the Buckingham Canal. It’s a short 2 km detour from the old Mahabalipuram Road, which connects to the East Coast Road. You can reach the temple by taxi, autorickshaw, local bus, or private cab from various parts of Chennai
By Air
Chennai International Airport, one of the busiest in India, is your landing spot if you’re coming by air. The airport has numerous international flights operating from the Anna terminal. Once you land, you can reach the temple by taxi, autorickshaw, local bus, or private cab. The temple is approximately 14.5 Km away from the airport.
By Train
Chennai’s extensive railway network connects it to various parts of India. When you arrive at the railway station, you can hire a taxi, autorickshaw, or private cab or take a local bus to the temple. The closest railway station to the temple is Thirumayilai MRTS Station, just a 14-minute walk away. If you’re arriving at the Chennai Central Train Station, the temple is about 5 Km away.
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A visit to the Prathyangira Devi temple promises an unforgettable spiritual experience steeped in rich history and sincere devotion. Feel the peacefulness of the temple and see the joy of others getting blessed by the Goddess. You will find solace and strength in her divine presence. Don’t miss the opportunity to venture on this soul-enriching journey. So why wait? Go on a transformative journey to Kerala and experience the divine blessings of Prathyangira Devi temple firsthand. Book your trip to Kerala today and immerse yourself in the beauty and spirituality of this enchanting land.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Prathyangira Devi Temple
Which god is Pratyangira Devi?
Pratyangira Devi, also revered as Atharvana Bhadrakali, Narasimhi, Simhamukhi, and Nikumbala, is a significant deity in Hinduism, particularly in the Shaktism tradition. She is portrayed as the feminine energy and partner of Narasimha. Among the pantheon of Hindu deities, she is regarded as one of the most potent.
How to worship to Pratyangira Devi?
To appease Pratyangira Devi, reciting specific texts like the Pratyangira Kavacham, stotras, and mantras is advised. Engaging in spiritual practices, known as sadhana, dedicated to Pratyangira Devi, is considered powerful. These practices can be undertaken in either the Dakshanachara or Vamachara traditions. It's commonly suggested that you commence chanting the Pratyangira mantra on a Tuesday or Friday.
Which day is for Pratyangira Devi?
The fourteenth day (Chaturdashi) of the Shukla Paksha, or the waxing phase of the moon in Vaishakha, is especially auspicious for Pratyangira Devi. Additionally, Tuesdays or Fridays are also seen as favourable days for her worship.
Which day is good for Pratyangira Devi?
Pratyangira Devi is traditionally worshipped on Tuesdays and Fridays. It is also considered auspicious to begin the mantra sadhana on an Ashtami day or a Purnima (Full Moon) or Amavasya (New Moon) day, particularly if these days coincide with a Tuesday or Friday. These specific days are believed to be most favourable for worshipping Pratyangira Devi.
What is the Speciality of Pratyangira Devi?
Pratyangira Devi is unique in that she embodies a powerful facet of the Divine Mother, often referred to as the Mother of Moksha (liberation). She liberates her devotees from their karmic cycles and the endless loop of life, death, and rebirth. Known for her fierce protection, she devours the negativity of her devotees, propelling them towards liberation with her swift and potent energy.
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