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India’s bustling capital, Delhi, is an amalgamation of different traditions, cultures, and religions.There are many religious sites found in Delhi but among them, the South Indian temples occupy a special status for displaying the rich culture and architectural excellence of South India. Besides being places of worship, these temples are also cultural centres for South Indians living in Delhi. This blog post explores 10 renowned South Indian temples in Delhi looking into their architecture, history and importance.
South Indian Temples In Delhi
Delhi is dotted with many South Indian temples. The temples not only serve as places of worship but also are an embodiment of the rich culture that Delhi possesses. Let’s explore some of the significant South Indian temples in Delhi.
1. Sri Meenakshi Temple
Photo: Jean-Pierre Dalbera / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sri Meenakshi Temple situated in Shalimar Bagh, is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi who is regarded as an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. This particular temple is a replica of the well-known Madurai Meenakshi Temple located in Tamil Nadu. The Tamil community in Delhi uses it as a center for spiritual activities and worshippers from diverse origins visit it too. The temple has elaborate carvings and sculptures illustrating different gods and legendary stories. The shrine hosts different festivals such as the annual celebration of Meenakshi Kalyanam. During this occasion, believers are engaged in rituals and musical and dance performances.
Location: Shalimar Bagh West, BB-5, Block BB, Shalimar Bagh, Delhi, 110088
Timings: 6 AM – 11 AM, 5:30 PM – 9 PM
2. Sri Venkateswara Balaji Temple
Photo: Sankoswal / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sri Venkateswara Balaji Temple was made to honour Lord Venkateswara, who is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is one of the popular South Indian temples in Delhi where devotees visit to seek the blessing of wealth and a good life. The temple conforms to traditional South Indian architecture and features a massive gopuram as well as intricately carved pillars. The inner sanctum has a beautifully adorned statue of Lord Venkateswara which serves as the center of attraction for worshippers.
Location: Sri Venkateshwara Mandir Marg, Sector 3, Rama Krishna Puram, New Delhi, 110022
Timings: 6 AM – 11 AM, 4:30 AM – 8:30 PM
3. Uttara Guruvayurappan Temple
Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons
The Uttara Guruvayurappan Temple, a replica of the famous Guruvayur Temple in Kerala is dedicated to Lord Krishna and serves as a major pilgrimage centre for South Indians in Delhi. The temple features traditional Kerala-style architecture with a wooden structure and serene ambience. In the temple, Lord Guruvayurappan stands with all the jewellery and flowers. The temple is known for its rich celebrations during festivals like Janmashtami and Vishu where devotees organize bhajans along with other rites that create an exciting environment.
Location: Temple Complex, Sahakarita Marg, Pocket 3, Mayur Vihar, Delhi, 110091
Timings: 5:30 AM – 11 AM, 6: 30 PM – 9 PM
4. Uttara Swami Malai Temple
Photo: Ravik / Wikimedia Commons
The Uttara Swami Malai Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan. This temple is specifically significant to the Tamil community during the festival of Skanda Shashti. The tall gopuram and intricate carving on this temple illustrate traditional South Indian architecture. The main deity Lord Subramania has depicted a spear symbolizing power and victory. Various festivals like Thaipusam and Skanda Shashti are hosted by the temple where many devotees come for attendance. There are special rituals that involve the procession of the deity conducted over these celebrations.
Location: Palam Marg, Sector 7, Rama Krishna Puram, New Delhi, Delhi 110022
Timings: 6:30 AM – 11 AM, 5:30 PM – 9 PM
5. Sri Devi Kamakshi Temple
Photo: Rahul / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Sri Devi Kamakshi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, who is an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. Under the aegis of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam, this temple has become a spiritual centre for those who seek blessings from the goddess. The temple has traditional South Indian architectural elements and a wonderfully carved entrance with a serene atmosphere. The main idol of Goddess Kamakshi wears beautiful ornaments and flowers. The temple is known for its vibrant celebrations of various festivals such as Navaratri and Kumbhabhishekam. During these occasions, devotees participate in special prayers, cultural programs, and processions.
Location: Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, Block A, Qutab Institutional Area, New Delhi, Delhi 110016
Timings: 7 AM – 11 AM, 5 PM – 9 PM
6. Sri Ganesh Mandir
Photo: Archana Bakshi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sri Ganesh Mandir ranks among the earliest South Indian temples in Delhi. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesh, who is said to be the god of new beginnings and removal of obstacles. South Indian architecture is represented in this temple through elaborate carvings and bright colours. Lord Ganesha’s main idol is decorated magnificently and pulls worshippers all year round. Thousands flock here for the festivities surrounding Ganesh Chaturthi that are conducted with great jubilation in this temple celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi where many devotees come together. During this occasion, special prayers, cultural programs, and community feasts are organized.
Location: Baba Kharak Singh Rd, Hanuman Road Area, Connaught Place, New Delhi, 110001
Timings: 7 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
7. Prachin Shiv Mandir
Photo: Navneet Sharma / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Prachin Shiv Mandir which sits in the heart of New Delhi is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It serves as a centre for spirituality among South Indians through worship and cultural activities. The temple has traditional South Indian architectural patterns. The main deities Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are represented in well-decorated figures. Various festivals such as Maha Shivaratri or Navaratri are part of its agenda with special pujas or religious songs that accompany other cultural shows. People come together during these celebrations by taking part in rituals followed by community feasts.
Location: Prachin Shiv Mandir, 142 B, Chirag Dilli, New Delhi, Delhi 110017
Timings: 10:30 AM – 7 PM
8. Shri Sankatahara Ganapathy Temple
Photo: kalpesh salunke / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Shri Sankatahara Ganapathy Temple is devoted to Lord Ganesh, who is known as the remover of obstacles. The temple is a religious hub for East Delhi’s South Indian community. The temple embodies traditional South Indian architecture; it has an exquisitely carved entryway and an aura of tranquillity. The principal statue of Lord Ganesh depicts him seated and decorated with flowers and ornaments. Ganesh Chaturthi and other festivities are celebrated at the temple on a large scale. These events involve special prayers, cultural programs as well as community feasts.
Location: Ganpati Mandir Marg, Vasundhara Enclave, Delhi, 110096
Timings: 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM
9. Shri Subha Siddhi Vinayaka Mandir
Photo: Renjith Tomy Pkm / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Shri Subha Siddhi Vinayaka Mandir located at Mayur Vihar is meant for Lord Ganesh. It acts as a spiritual centre for the South Indian community in Delhi. The temple has traditional South Indian architecture with elaborate carvings and vibrant colours highlighted therein. All through the year, devotees stream to this shrine, drawn by its central deity, Lord Ganesha beautifully dressed up. Every year on Ganesh Chaturthi day, hundreds of people gather to celebrate this occasion together with various activities like special prayers, and cultural programs among others that draw thousands of people to it at once.
Location: Pocket 4, Near MV 1 Metro Station, Mayur Vihar Phase 1, New Delhi, Delhi 110091
Timings: 6 AM – 11 AM, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
10. Sri Ganesh Temple
Photo: Samitakalla / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sri Ganesh Temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesh. It also provides spiritual guidance mainly to South Indians residing within Delhi’s confines. Traditional South Indian architecture is seen here characterized by elaborate carvings creating an atmosphere of peace surrounding it; the main idol depicts lord Ganesh seated with flowers and ornaments on him. This place also celebrates all sorts of festivals including Ganesh Chaturthi with enthusiasm among others characterized by special prayers besides cultural programs done during these occasions together with feasting communities.
Location: Main Chowk, Sis Ganj Gurudwara, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, 110006
The South Indian temples in Delhi are quiet places where one can associate with God amidst city noise; whether you live in that place or just passing by, they invite you to discover more about these temples. Pack your bags now and let TripXL shoulder the burden of bookings and the best deals.
Cover Photo: Dan Lundberg / Wikimedia Commons
