Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple

TamilNadu, Kanchipuram, Chennai

In the holy city of Kanchipuram, stands the divyadesam temple of Sri Varadaraja Perumal, praised by the Alwar saints in their hymns. The temple along with Ekambareswarar Temple and Kamakshi Amman Temple in Kanchipuram is popularly known as Mumurtivasam (abode of trio). This temple was renovated and expanded during the reign of Kulottunga Chola I, and his son Vikrama Chola. The later Chola kings also contributed to the renovation of the structure. It is said that during the Mughul invasion, the main deity was taken to Udayarpalayam, Trichy. Robert Clive, a British General is described as having donated a valuable necklace to the Lord.

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, decided to create obstruction. She too the form of Vegavathi, a fast flowing river to destroy the yaga shala. Lord Vishnu lay down across the flowing river to stop its flow. Sarswathi, not having the power to cross the Lord, surrendered herself. At the end of yagna, Lord Varadaraja appeared and Brahma requested him to stay in the place and bless his devotees which he agreed to.

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

Architecture

The Temple is huge and showcases the artisanship of the bygone eras. Built in Dravidian style, it has a tiered gopurams at the entrance. The temple has five prakarams. One of the prominent architectural marvel in the temple is the huge stone chain sculpted in a single stone. The pillared mandapams, sculptures, carvings, mural paintings epitomises the architectural brilliance of the Chola and Vijayanagara empire. The shrine of Varadarajaswamy is on a small hillock. Carved lizards in gold adorn the sanctum. There are shrines for Narasimha and Goddess Perundevi Thayar along with other Gods and Alwars.

Darsan Info

Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple timings :

Morning : 6.00 - 12.30

Evening : 3.30 - 8.30 P.M

Garuda Seva, celebrated on the third day of the 10-day Brahmotsavam is celebrated with pomp and splendour. Lakhs of devotees throng to worship at the temple on the day.

Darsan Dresscode

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

Famous Festival

May - Brahmotsavam, Garuda Seva

July - Thiruaadipooram

October - Navrathri

November - Thiru Karthigai

December - Vaiunda ekadasi

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.

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Temple Rituals

The priests perform regular pujas and rituals to the deity. Four worship services are offered daily

Special Rituals

Thirumanjanam to Perumal is performed on every Friday and on Hustha star Days. Thirumanjanam are also performed at the shrines of Chakrath Alwar, Thiruvananth Alwar and Anjeneyar Sannadhi .