The foundation, strength and inspiration of Annalakshmi, is Swami Shantanand Saraswathi, who was born on 7th April 1934 as Chandrasekaran, in Thirukovillur, Tamil Nadu. Swamiji, as we endearingly call him, was initiated into divine Sanyas by Swami Sivananda, in 1951. Swamiji was instrumental for the formation of dedicated institutions for numerous volunteers to practice Karma Yoga or Selfless Service. Annalakshmi, being one of these institutions, is where He allowed us to practice this infinite concept: “Where we do service, not for financial gain, name or fame, but just to bring a little joy to our guests.” We are grateful and delighted at the opportunity to serve you and thank you for your continued patronage and trust.
Annalakshmi
An ode to the Goddess of Food and Abundance, Annalakshmi redefines heart-warming hospitality. Service is the beam that illuminates our restaurant and our hospitality shines through in every facet of the dining experience. ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ – The Guest is God, is the ethos of our operations, and one can feel the emanating warmth and servitude in every meal that graces our diner’s plates. Our cuisine is a result of fresh ingredients that are a gift from the earth, cooked with traditional recipes that have been passed on for generations, served with a dollop of humble hospitality and utmost warmth. Our team of largely voluntary staff imbibe love and divinity in all they do and our meals are prepared with the quintessence of our founder - to serve, love and give selflessly. Annalakshmi has curated a menu encompassing generations of traditional lore, customs and culture to bring you a celebration on every plate. Our delectable vegetarian fare has been thoughtfully prepared and in tune with the season’s best produce. Fine dining that is graced by homestyle cooking to enliven the palate, fill the tummy and invigorate the soul. Along with our dedicated set menus transcending North and South Indian specialties, our celebrated thalis hold new delights each day to satiate the senses. Come and immerse yourself in a divine dining experience at Annalakshmi.
Temple of Fine Arts
Adoration of the divine through the performing Arts The founding of The Temple of Fine Arts in India in 1996 was a step, both into the past, as well as the future. Based on an idea as old as Vedas, and yet contemporary in its appeal to the young, it seeks to harness the energy of youth to preserve values that are timeless. Voluntary, non-sectarian and liberal, its growth over the years proves that the arts need not be mere thes events to be enjoyed sensually but to serve as a vehicle for the celebration of the spirit. If art expresses life and life is an expression of the spirit, it follows that all art is spiritual expressing he deepest impulses in man.
The Temple of Fine Arts is thus more than a temple of learning, it is an enclave of the past whose heritage and traditions have sustained society, whose life-giving energy holds out a promise for a better future.
The Temple of Fine Arts is a cultural and service oriented organization which has centers in Kuala Lampur, Penang Malacca, Johor Bauru, Singapore, Chennai, Coimbatore and Perth. Today, we are a well known organization in these countries, recognized and respected as an institution whose primary motive is that of service. Our story is simply the story of a Guru who touched hearts and lives of many, whose unconditional love for mankind inspired us to serve, love and give.