The temple was originally constructed in the 17th century within the confines of Fort St. George before being relocated by the British East India Company in 1762.
The temple's relocation process involved the East India Company providing land and compensation to the displaced community, a rare event for that era.
It is part of a rare twin-temple arrangement, sharing cultural and historical ties with the neighboring Shiva temple, Sri Chenna Mallikeswarar.
The name 'Chennapatnam' (the original name for Madras) is often attributed to the Chenna Kesava Perumal temple complex.
The temple authorities maintain historical inscriptions detailing the land grants and relocation history associated with the colonial period.
The Sri Chenna Kesava Perumal Temple is a significant Vaishnavite shrine located in the historic Rattan Bazaar area of George Town, Chennai. The temple is historically linked to the founding of Madras, as its construction and the subsequent relocation of the community played a role in the urban development of the British-era settlement. It is often paired with the adjacent Sri Chenna Mallikeswarar Temple, forming a twin-temple complex known as the Chenna Kesava-Chenna Mallikeswarar temple. The current structure replaced an original 17th-century temple that was demolished by the East India Company to clear space for Fort St. George. The deity, Lord Vishnu, is worshipped alongside his consort, Goddess Lakshmi. The temple complex features traditional Dravidian architecture, including a towering gopuram visible from the dense market streets. It serves as a focal point for local Hindu festivals and daily rituals for the residents of George Town.
The view of the gopuram from the street entrance before entering the complex.
Visit during the weekday mornings to avoid the peak crowds associated with the surrounding Rattan Bazaar wholesale market.
Ensure you remove your footwear at the designated stands outside the main temple entrance.
The surrounding streets are very narrow and crowded; arrive on foot to avoid traffic congestion.
Do not attempt to drive a vehicle into the narrow lanes of Rattan Bazaar, as parking is virtually non-existent.
Modest dress is required; cover shoulders and knees. Photography inside the sanctum sanctorum is prohibited. Maintain silence near the inner shrines.
