Detailed information about the temples

Architecture: The architecture of the temple is exclusive, with the deities installed in four levels. At the ground level, is the shrine for Dhanya Lakshmi, Aadhi Lakshmi and Dhairya Lakshmi. The shrine of Lord Vishnu and Mahalakshmi (the main deities of the temple) can be seen in level two. From this point you can see the magnificent sea. Walk up the stairs and reach the third level which leads to the shrine of Santana Lakshmi (facing south) and Vijaya Lakshmi (on the western side). On the same level, is the sanctum for Vidyalakshmi (facing north direction) and Gajalakshmi (East side). Take the next flight of steps and you reach the 4th level. Here you may see Dhanalakshmi (Facing east). This is the only shrine on this level. The temple looks totally different than the other South Indian temples as it is a modern construction (34 year old temple). It portrays a superb combination of modern and Dravidian architecture.

Importance of the temple: This is the first temple devoted exclusively to Ashta Lakshmi where Lakshmi is given bigger significance than Lord Vishnu. The temple is also known as a Omkara Kshetram , the sound of sea resembles the Pranava Mantram or the original Om sound.

Famous for: "This holy place is regarded as the only temple featuring the eight manifestations of Goddess Mahalakshmi. There is a conviction that during the Tamil months of Chitra, Thai and Puratasi, Lord Vishnu performs the Mahalakshmi pooja in the middle of the ocean. It is also assumed that the central Vimana shadow, where the principal deities – Lord Vishnu and Mahalakshmi are installed, does not fall on the ground all through the year. This is a special importance of the temple!"

Legend: The Ashtalakshmi temple traces its history from the year 1976, when it came into being under the patronage of a trust comprising of five members chaired by Mukkur Srinivasa Varadhachriyar, a devotee. Later, with great dedication and effort the temple was built through contributions, a major donor being Sri Lakshmi Mills of Coimbatore. Seventeen years later, the temple was taken over by the State Government of Tamil Nadu after the Kumbhabhishekam. Currently, it’s being run by the Hindu Religious Endowments and Administrative Department.

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