Tiruvallur
The two-centuries old temple, is a famous pilgrimage spot in the state, sees a footfall of more than a lakh pilgrims during festivals, especially during the Tamil month of Aadi. The temple attracts devotees from across the state and even neighbouring states. Legend has it that Bhavani Amman, who warned Kamsa about his death at the hands of Lord Krishna had found her abode in Periyapalayam.
A source from the temple said that Government Orders (GO) have been issued for the annadhanam building and devotees darshan queue complex. The construction will begin by January 2017, after calling for tenders soon after the Aadi festival he addedl. “The annadhanam building will have a 300-seater capacity. Around 10,000 people can have food on Sundays. The queue complex, which can accommodate around 3,000 people, can facilitate the movement of a lakh people at a time. The movement will be smooth and convenient for devotees, especially on peak days like Sundays,” he said.
Among other changes are a small marriage hall and another inside the temple complex. The latter will consist of five halls for economically challenged people to get married at a very low cost. The source said that many wanted their marriages to be performed in front of the deity and at the moment, the space is too cramped.
“These halls can accommodate close to 50 people. The other marriage halls will have a seating capacity of over 300 people with space. There are plans for a shopping complex, apart from a space for preparation of prasadam for the public,” he said. While these are part of the Phase I overhaul, the temple authorities are working on Phase II of developments for which they are awaiting clearance of land acquisition in the area. The source added that the makeover will result in a number of job opportunities for the local people.
“Currently, there are barren lands surrounding the temple premises that can be put to good use by the temple resulting in job creation,” the source added. Those who have donated for annadhanam can watch the live stream during lunch, apart from the Utsavar Sannidhi, which can be viewed 24X7, said the source. The constructions are expected to be completed by 2019, he added.
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