Arulmigu Madana Gopala Swamy Temple, Madurai

Arulmigu Madana Gopala Swamy Temple is situated on the Melamasi street in Madurai. It is exactly located at the Periyar bus stand on the eastern side of Immayil Nanmai Tharuvar Koil.

Here, the main deity is Madana Gopala Swamy with Bama and Rukmini. A goddess shrine in the temple is in the name of Madhuravalli Thayar. Main vrishksha in the temple is Plantain tree.

History says that Lord Shiva after marrying Meenakshi, ascended to the throne of Madurai as Sundara Pandiyan. Then he went into penance deep and got engulfed in flames of fire due to his body’s temperature. Destruction of the world commenced, and devas approached Lord Vishnu. Then Vishnu tries to stop Lord Shiva, but in vain. Then Vishnu understands divine music from his flute can calm down Lord Shiva. Hence, he becomes Madana Gopalan and starts playing his flute and Lord Shiva immediately comes out of his penance.

As per the request of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu resides in Madurai taking the form of Madana Gopalan under the Ashtanga vimanam holding the flute as Vishwaroopa Kanna.

The general belief is that, one who aspires to shine as musicians, come to this temple seek blessings. It is said that Andal came here with periyazhwar, and prayed the Lord here before becoming one with the God.

The temple is open for the devotees 6.40 a.m. To 12.00 a.m. And from 5.00 p.m. To 9.00 p.m. So, now you know what to do? Isn’t it? Don’t delay. Go and meet Krishna in the form of Madanagopalan if you visit Madurai or if you are a resident of Madurai.