Arulmigu Vadapalani Andavar Temple, dedicated to Lord Muruga, is located in Vadapalani, Chennai, and has grown in popularity over time, partly due to the patronage of cinema stars. Initially, the temple was a simple thatched hut built by Murugan's devotee, Annaswami Nayakar, who worshipped a portrait of the deity. The temple was renovated in the 1920s, and a majestic Rajagopuram was added, making it a significant spiritual landmark in Chennai.
The temple's origin traces back to Annaswami Nayakar, who was known for his deep devotion and Arul Vaakku, the ability to foretell events and offer divine solutions to devotees. People visited him seeking guidance for problems such as education, marriage, and health issues. His disciple, Rathinasamy Chettiyar, inherited the same spiritual energy, continuing the tradition of offering divine truths, which attracted large numbers of devotees to the temple.
Annaswami Nayakar had initially set up a small shrine at his home in Chennai after a pilgrimage to various Murugan temples. He believed Murugan resided in his home, which led to his decision to offer worship and Arul Vaakku at the site. Inspired by divine visions, Annaswami Nayakar and his disciple Rathinasamy Chettiyar built the temple, with the sacred idol of Palaniandavar installed, and its consecration performed through a grand Kumbabishekam.
After Annaswami Nayakar’s spiritual departure, Rathinasamy Chettiyar continued to oversee the temple's rituals and divine practices. The temple was named Vadapalani Temple under his guidance, and he passed on the responsibilities to Bagyalingam, another ardent follower of Murugan. Bagyalingam continued the tradition of offering Arul Vaakku and conducting poojas, helping the temple flourish as a center for devotion and divine intervention.