Description
The Ashtalakshmi Temple lays ashore the Eliot's Beach in the Chennai. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and her eight forms which are called the Ashtalakshmi. The eight forms of the goddess are associated to eight forms of wealth which include success, offspring, wealth, prosperity, courage, bravery, knowledge and food. Ashtlakshmi- the eight forms of Goddess are present in 4 levels and the worship starts at level two where the shrine of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu is present. Other forms of goddess are present on other levels, which can be reached using the stairs. The Dashawatar of Vishnu, Ganesha and Dhanwantri are also other prominent deities present in the temple.
History
The foundation of the temple was cast in the year 1974 and was constructed as the fulfilment of the wishes of Sri Chandrashekarendra Saraswati. It was the effort of the devotees and eminent personality Mukkur Srinivasa Vardachariyar that the only temple dedicated to the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi was developed. The consecration of the temple was completed in the year 1976and is administrated by The Department of Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments, Tamil Nadu.
Importance/Significance
Goddess Lakshmi is regarded as the goddess of wealth and prosperity and is one of the most respected Deity of Hindu Religion. The Ahstlakshmi Temple is constructed in Om shape and the one can constantly listen to the reverberating sound of Bay of Bengal. As the temple is dedicated to eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi, it is constructed in eight parts, an ancient tradition of temple construction. Each of the three floors of the temple depicts standing, sitting and reclining Vishnu.
Facts/Mythology
According to Vedas, Puranas and ancient scriptures of Hindu religion, Goddess Lakshmi had emerged from the oceans when it was being churned by the Asura, the demons and Suras, the Gods. Mahavishnu married goddess Lakhsmi and fulfilled the desires of the devotees.Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped on the occasion of Diwali when we welcome her by lighting lamps and candles. According to the Hindu Mythology, Goddess Lakshmi is the deity of wealth and prosperity and is worshipped by all Hindus with great respect and reverence. Mention of goddess Lakshmi can be found in Rig Veda and Atharva Veda and many Upnishads and Puranas.The goddess of wealth and prosperity grants eightfold wish, which include eightfold achievements and eightfold wealth. The temple is called Ashtlakshmi Temple because Mahavishnu and Mahalakshmi reside in the temple in their eight forms. Considering the fact that the sea is the birthplace of Goddess Lakshmi, it is a quite a commendable decision to construct a magnificent temple on the shores of the sea.
Festivals/Events/Gatherings
Navratra: The festival is celebrated for ten days in the temple. During the festival there is a Sri Sooktam Aaradhana performed at 10 in the morning. There is procession conducted during the day.Pavitra Ursawam: It is a purification ceremony held every year in the temple. The idols of the deities are adorned with new silk and cotton yarn dresses
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