Parthasarathy Temple

HISTORY:- 

Temples are the places of worship of the Hindus. Since Hindus form a large part of the population of Chennai, it is but natural that of all the religious places of Chennai, temples are largest in number. Many of the temples of Chennai/Madras city are so popular that thousands of devotees throng them to pray and worship everyday. Lets have a quick glance of temples of Chennai city.



Parthasarathy Temple

To add some variety to your temple journey visit the Parthasarathy temple in Chennai. Though the common features of ancient temples are very much prevalent in this ancestral temple but it has some striking features, which makes the temple outstanding among others.

Journey to the Parthasarathy temple in Madras is very easy as it is situated in the heart of the Chennai city. Madras is the earlier name of the present Chennai city. Parthasarathy temple is in the Peter's Road, which is at Triplicane. You can visit this temple either by bus or auto rickshaw or by hired luxurious cabs. If you are going by auto rickshaw be careful about the fares. The standard charge for the auto rickshaws Rs. 8 for every kilometer you travel. Even if it is metered it is better to negotiate the fare first. The same concept applies for the luxurious cabs.

The Parthasarathy temple in Chennai has its origin back in 8th century. It was generally built by the Pallavas and later reformed by the Vijayanagar Kings during 11th century. The literal meaning of 'Parthasarathy' is the charioteer. According to the great Indian epic 'Mahabharata' 'Partha' meant Arjuna while sarathy is meant as charioteer. In the epic it is said during the great battle of Mahabharata Lord Krishna was the charioteer of Arjuna. In the epic Arjuna or partha was a brave warrior and Lord Krishna was a good friend, philosopher and guide to the Partha or Arjuna.

Though the Parthasarathy temple is devoted to the various incarnations of Lord Vishnu the main deity is 'Lord Krishna' one of the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Also the other exquisite feature of this Parthasarathy temple is the colored gopuram. 'Gopuram' is said to the pyramidical shaped temple top which is a stereotyped feature of the South Indian temples.

Aranmula is famous for Sree Parthasarathi temple, also called Aranmula Parthasarathi temple. It is one of the famous temples in Kerala, dedicated to Lord Krishna. Parthasarathi deity is named for recognizing Krishna as a charioteer in Kurukshetra War. The temple is situated on the banks of the river Pampa

It said that the temple of Parthasarathi was constructed near Sabarimala. Experts estimate the temple to 1700 years old. It is a popular saying that Lord Krishna crossed river Pampa here. The famous boat race of Aranmula vallamkali is celebrated to commemorate Lord Krishna’s crossing of the river. This festival is also viewed as anniversary celebrations of Sri Krishna deity installation at Parthasarathi temple.

Aranmula Vallamkali CelebrationsThe annual boat race, Aranmula vallamkali attracts thousands of tourists all over the world. This event is organized by authorities of Kerala Tourism. The snake boats are center of attraction in this festival. These are peculiar boats resemble snakes and are about 100 feet long. About 40 such boats come to racing spot and participate in the event, accommodating more than 100 people.

The boat race of vallamkali is organized in a grand way. Songs called “Vanchipattu” are specially dedicated to the event. They are sung throughout the races. Participants row up and down the river with great enthusiasm. The boats are decorated with colorful flags, silk banners and golden umbrellas to make this a spectacular show. All this provide a mystical air to the festival of Aranmula vallamkali.

The festival is more than just a boat race. Temple is thronged with devotees glorifying Lord Krishna. On the day of race, rituals and offerings are paid to Lord Krishna in the early morning. People seek blessings of Lord Krishna for the race. The race starts at afternoon with men and singers shouting and singing in a tune, showing their happiness