Sri Azhagiya Singar Perumal Temple, Tiruvelukkai

TamilNadu, Kanchipuram, Chennai

In the holy city of Kanchipuram stands the divyadesam of Azhagiya Singar Perumal, revered in the hymns of the Alwar(Azhvar) saints. The presiding deity is Narasimhar, the half lion-half man incarnation of the Lord to annihilate the demons. The temple is believed to have been built by the Pallavas in the late 8th century AD, with contributions from Cholas and Vijayanagar kings. The inscriptions is the temple sate back to the reign of Kulothunga Chola and Rajadhiraja Chola

Legend

The legend regarding the temple revolves around a yagna conducted by Lord Brahma. Goddess Saraswathy, angry that she was not a part of it, sent demons to create obstruction. Lord Vishnu defeated the deomons so that the yang could go on smoothly. She sent an asura named Kapalika, and the Lord took the form of Narasimha to kill him. The Lord then decided to stay here to protect his devotees from evil. Sage Brugu his said to have worshipped Perumal in this temple.

This temple is part of the famous Kanchipuram Divya Desam Yatra.

Architecture

The temple is built in Dravidian style, with Pallava and Chola influences. The gopuram is tiered and has sculptures. The main deity is Sri Azhagiya Singar in standing posture.The temple also has shrine for Amruthavalli and Garuda. A granite wall encloses the shrines and the temple ponds. The shrine's structure has faded over the years from its earlier fineness.

Darsan Info

Sri Azhagiya Singar Perumal Temple timings : 7 AM to 10.30 AM and in the evening from 5 PM to 7.30 PM.

Darsan Dresscode

Devotees are advised to wear clean and conservative attire. Western dresses are not allowed in the temples of Tamil Nadu

Famous Festival

September - Janmashtami (Aug/Sept)

December - Vaikunta Ekadashi

Culture

Kanchipuram, in the state of Tamil Nadu is one of the important religious places in India and a holy pilgrimage site for both Saivites and Vaishnavites. Historically, it was a centre for education and popular for the architectural beauty of its temples. Silk saree weaving is a major industry and Kanchipuram pattu(silk) is famous all around the country.