The Shri Ashtalakshmi Kovil is a Hindu temple located along the scenic shorelines near Elliot’s Beach in Chennai, India. It is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and her eight primary forms, collectively known as Shri Ashtalakshmi, who represent eight distinct aspects of wealth, including prosperity, success, offspring, food, courage, and knowledge. The temple’s unique design allows visitors to worship at all the shrines without stepping over any sanctum, reflecting a thoughtfully structured multi-tier complex.
The temple was constructed in response to the wishes of Sri Chandrashekarendra Saraswati Swamigal of the Kanchi Mutt. Sri Mukkur Srinivasa Varadhachariar was instrumental in bringing this vision to life. The foundation stone was laid in January 1974, with significant public participation. The consecration ceremony took place on April 5, 1976, with the 44th guru of the Ahobila Mutt, Vedhantha Dhesika Yatheendhra Mahadhesikan Swami, presiding over the sacred event.
Measuring 65 feet in length and 45 feet in breadth, the temple is modeled after the Sundara Varadaraja Perumal temple in Uthiramerur. The Shri Ashtalakshmis are placed in four levels within nine separate sanctums. The second level houses the shrine of Goddess Lakshmi alongside her consort, Lord Vishnu, which is the starting point for the worship process. The subsequent floors are arranged with the various forms of Lakshmi for devotees to visit.
On the third level, shrines dedicated to Santhanalakshmi, Vijayalakshmi, Vidyalakshmi, and Gajalakshmi are located, while the fourth level is home to Dhanalakshmi’s shrine. Upon exiting the main shrine, devotees can find Aadilakshmi, Dhaanya Lakshmi, and Dharyalakshmi on the first level. Additionally, the temple features deities such as Dashavatara (ten avatars of Vishnu), Guruvayoorappan, Ganesha, Dhanvanthari, and Anjaneya, making it a significant pilgrimage site.