The Nanganallur Anjaneyar Temple at Nanganallur in Chennai is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to the god Hanuman. Its principal feature is the 32-foot tall Hanuman idol, sculpted from a single granite piece, making it one of the tallest Hanuman statues in India, second only to the Panchavatee Hanuman near Puducherry. This imposing idol was installed in 1989 and consecrated in 1995, an initiative led by Sri Maruthi Bhaktha Samajam Trust, founded by spiritually devoted individuals.
The installation of the Hanuman idol was overseen by Sri Chandrashekarendra Saraswati Mahaswamiji of the Kanchi Mutt, who conducted the Kumbabishekam ceremony in 1995. The main shrine, with Anjaneya facing west, is housed in a 90-foot-high tower, and the temple features spacious pathways surrounding the sanctum sanctorum. A large mandapa provides ample space for devotees, creating a place for prayers, festivals, and devotion in front of the deity.
In addition to the main shrine, the temple includes a unique sannidhi, or shrine, for Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman in the northwest corner, with Rama depicted as Kodanda Rama, symbolizing his role as protector. The temple also features a rare sannidhi for Lord Krishna, along with Rukmini and Satyabhama, underscoring Hanuman’s significance in both the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Additionally, there are small shrines for Vinayaka, Naga, and Saint Raghavendra, creating a diverse and spiritually rich atmosphere.
The temple was originally managed by Sri Maruthi Bhaktha Samajam Trust. However, allegations of financial irregularities led to several complaints and petitions to the Government of Tamil Nadu. In response, the Hindu Religious and Charity Endowment Department (HR&CE) reviewed the administration, ultimately taking control in July 2013 due to insufficient explanations from the trust. This transition was met with opposition from the former trust, which denied the allegations.