Nandala Temple - Chennai

Mylapore in Chennai carries the flavour of old tradition, shaped by the Kapaleeswarar Temple and a cluster of rare, time-worn shrines scattered through its streets. Amid these older landmarks, one relatively new temple has begun to draw attention in recent years, the Nandalala Temple.

Nandalala is a beloved name of Lord Krishna. Located on Dr. Ranga Road, close to the Mylapore MRTS station, this is a private temple built only a few years ago. Even so, it has quickly gained a following, especially during Navaratri, when the temple hosts Kolu displays and related festivities, along with other devotional events through the year.

At the heart of the temple is a striking icon of Nandalala. The black-coloured image is said to be made of touchstone, traditionally used to test the purity of gold. Krishna is shown with a flute in his hands, with a cow standing behind him, an arrangement that instantly evokes the pastoral charm of Krishna worship.

The temple also has an attractive Ganesha icon. Another shrine shows Krishna with his consorts, Rukmini and Bhama. You will also notice Rama, Lakshmana, Sita, and Hanuman here in the form of utsava bronzes, adding to the temple’s warm, devotional atmosphere.

Quiet, clean, and thoughtfully maintained, this small temple offers a peaceful pause in the middle of Mylapore’s busy heritage circuit. If you are visiting the area, consider adding this new shrine to your walk along with Mylapore’s older temples.

Happy travelling.