Arulmigu Shri Jagannatha Swamy Temple, also known as Tirumazhisai Temple, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located in Tirumazhisai, Chennai City, within the Tiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu. Built in the exquisite Dravidian architectural style, this temple honors Vishnu as Jagannatha Perumal and his consort Lakshmi as Thirumangaivalli. It is notably the birthplace of Thirumazhisai Alvar, one of the twelve Alvars, whose works are integral to the Divya Prabandha, the ancient Tamil canon.
The temple is classified as one of the 108 Abhimana Kshethrams in the Vaishnavite tradition, attracting countless devotees. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., the temple conducts six daily rituals throughout the day. Among the many festivals celebrated here, the Aani Brahmotsavam and Aipasi Manavala Maamuni festival during October and November, along with the Maasi float festival in February and March, stand out as the most significant events.
According to Hindu legend, the Saptarishis, or seven sages, wished to see Madhya Jagannatha. It is believed that Vishnu manifested as Madhya Jagannatha in this temple, with the ones at Puri and Thirupullani being referred to as Vada Jagannatha and Keeḻa Jagannatha, respectively. Additionally, the temple marks the birthplace of Thirumalisai Alvar, whose significant works include Tiruvanthai and Tiruchanda Viruttam, which are part of the sacred Divya Prabandha.
Historically, Thirumazhisai was known by various names, such as Chrukuravalli-Chaturvedimanagalam and Mahisaram, due to its early Vedic settlements during the Chola and Vijayanagara periods. The temple features inscriptions from the Chola regime and Vijayanagara period, documenting land grants and donations to the temple. The oldest inscription dates back to Kulothunga Chola III, while notable contributions were also made by Vijaya Gandagopala and rulers like Harihara Raya II, showcasing the temple's rich heritage. Today, it is maintained by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu.