- June 13, 2026
| Temple | Arulmigu Vaitheeswaran Temple, Poonamallee |
|---|---|
| Presiding Deity | Sri Vaitheeswarar (Lord Shiva) |
| Goddess | Sri Thaiyal Nayagi |
| Significance | Chennai Navagraha Temple (Mars/Angaraka Sthalam) |
| Parihara Deity | Angaraka (Planet Mars) |
| Sacred Tank (Theertham) | Angaraka Theertham (Sacred Pond for Removal of Karmic Sins) |
| Sacred Tree (Sthala Vriksham) | Thantri Tree |
| Location | Poonamallee, Chennai |
Among the Navagraha temples of the ancient Thondai Nadu region surrounding Chennai, the Arulmigu Vaitheeswaran Temple with Goddess Thaiyal Nayagi at Poonamallee is revered as the sacred temple dedicated to Mars (Angaraka/Chevvai). Devotees who are unable to visit the famous Vaitheeswaran Temple near Kumbakonam can worship here and are believed to receive similar spiritual benefits. This temple is considered one of the most powerful Mars Parihara Sthalams in Chennai.
According to temple legend, Angaraka (Mars), one of the Navagrahas, was afflicted with a severe form of leprosy. Seeking relief from his suffering, he performed intense penance to Lord Shiva.
Pleased with his unwavering devotion, Lord Shiva appeared before him in the form of a divine physician (Vaidya). Goddess Thaiyal Nayagi accompanied Him, carrying a sacred pot filled with Sanjeevi medicinal oil, renowned for its healing powers. Together, Lord Shiva and Goddess Thaiyal Nayagi cured Angaraka of his disease.
Since Lord Shiva offered divine medical treatment at this place, He came to be known as Vaitheeswarar (“Lord of Healing”), while the Goddess became known as Thaiyal Nayagi, the compassionate Mother who assists in healing devotees.
This temple is widely believed to possess extraordinary healing powers. Devotees suffering from chronic illnesses visit the temple, bathe in the sacred Angaraka Theertham, and perform abhishekam to Lord Vaitheeswarar and Goddess Thaiyal Nayagi. It is believed that sincere prayers here help alleviate physical ailments and promote good health.
The temple is regarded as spiritually equivalent to the famous Vaitheeswaran Temple near Kumbakonam. Pilgrims undertaking the Navagraha Temple pilgrimage across Thondai Nadu visit this shrine specifically to seek relief from Chevvai Dosha (Mars afflictions).
A separate shrine dedicated to Lord Angaraka (Mars) is located close to the main sanctum. Here, the deity is seen in a meditative posture, facing Lord Shiva while performing penance.
Lord Murugan is worshipped here as Muthukumara Swamy, accompanied by Valli and Deivanai in a separate shrine. Since Lord Murugan is the Adhi Devata (presiding deity) of Mars, worshipping Him here is considered especially auspicious for overcoming Mars-related doshas.
While Goddess shrines in Shiva temples usually face east or south, Goddess Thaiyal Nayagi here faces south with a compassionate expression, symbolizing Her readiness to listen to the prayers and difficulties of devotees and bless them with relief.
Visiting the temple on Tuesdays, the day dedicated to Mars, is considered highly auspicious.
Those affected by Chevvai Dosha (Manglik Dosha) or facing delays in marriage should visit the temple on Tuesday, preferably during Rahu Kalam or in the morning. Offering a red cloth to Lord Angaraka and praying with devotion is believed to remove obstacles.
Devotees are advised to perform archana using red oleander flowers and offer cooked rice prepared with toor dal (pigeon peas) as naivedyam. These offerings are considered highly pleasing to Lord Angaraka and are believed to bring favorable results.
Lighting a lamp during Mars Hora and praying sincerely is believed to help resolve:
Devotees planning their visit may note the following timings:
On Tuesdays and special occasions such as Krittika Nakshatra, the temple may open earlier and conduct special poojas.
The temple is situated approximately 1 km from the Poonamallee Bus Stand, making it easily accessible. Devotees can conveniently reach the temple by bus or private vehicle from any part of Chennai.
Arulmigu Vaitheeswaran Temple,
Poonamallee,
Chennai – 600056,
Tamil Nadu, India.
Phone: +91 44 2649 1444
