Madhya Kailash Temple: Visit this shrine, which houses rare half-Ganesha, half-Hanuman deity
The Madhya Kailash Temple in Chennai is renowned for housing a unique idol of half-Ganesha and half-Hanuman. Explore more about this revered temple.
New Delhi: Chennai is home to many beautifully designed temples, each reflecting the city’s cultural depth. Among them, the Madhya Kailash Temple stands out as a landmark of both faith and architectural identity. Also called Nadukkayilai by locals, the temple sits near IIT Madras at a key junction in South Chennai. Its name is inspired by its placement between two revered pilgrimage destinations known as Kasi in the north and Rameshwaram in the south, making it a symbolic midpoint.
The temple may be a relatively modern structure, but its spiritual importance is firmly rooted in a divine vision. At the heart of the complex is a rare deity that blends Lord Ganesha and Lord Hanuman into one form. This unique idol has become the primary reason devotees and curious visitors come to this sacred space. Know here why the temple is a meaningful stop for worship in the city.
Madhya Kailash Temple: Key aspects
1. Adhyantha Prabhu
The main deity is a combined form of Lord Ganesha (right side) and Lord Hanuman (left side). This rare idol symbolises the union of strength, wisdom, devotion, and courage. These are the qualities both deities represent in Hindu tradition. It’s believed that worshipping Adhyantha Prabhu grants clarity, determination, and the power to overcome both visible and invisible challenges.
2. Born from a divine vision
The creation of the idol is linked to a dream experienced by a temple official. Inspired by this vision, sculptors brought the combined form to life, making it the defining feature of the temple. It is open from 5:30 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm daily.
3. Shrines of other deities
Along with the main deity Venkata Ananda Vinayakar, the temple has shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Surya, offering devotees a complete place of worship.
4. A landmark location
Positioned at a major intersection connecting Adyar, Sardar Patel Road, and Rajiv Gandhi Salai, the temple naturally draws visitors, students, and commuters due to its accessibility and presence.
5. Modern yet spiritually deep
Though not ancient, ongoing developments and elevation work highlight the temple’s growing significance and the devotion it continues to attract.
A visit to Madhya Kailash Temple is an opportunity to witness a rare representation of the divine while experiencing Chennai’s spiritual side in a contemporary setting.