During World War II, as Japanese forces advanced toward India and the threat to Madras grew, fear spread and the city was nearly deserted. In this tense time, during a special service on 5 September 1942 at St. Mary’s Cathedral, the Archbishop consecrated the Archdiocese to the Immaculate Heart of Mary and made a solemn vow to build a Votive Church in Madras after the war, seeking Our Lady’s protection.

Efforts to raise funds began but met with limited success, until a series of unexpected blessings followed. A contractor agreed to build the Shrine without profit, and an architect offered his services free of charge, designing a church that beautifully blended Indian and ecclesiastical styles.

The most remarkable gift came on 2 May 1951, when Mr. Prudhomme, a French resident of Madras, donated his Kilpauk property “Fontenoy” along with ₹1,50,000 for the construction of the Shrine, and an adjoining property for priests’ quarters.

With funds providentially secured, construction began immediately. The foundation stone was laid on 20 April 1952, and the Shrine was solemnly blessed on 6 December 1953. The statue of Our Lady of Fatima above the main altar was crowned on 11 December 1954, marking the fulfillment of the vow and the birth of the Votive Shrine of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Kilpauk, Chennai.