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Introduction to Shri Varadaraja Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram
Nestled in the sacred town of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, the Shri Varadaraja Perumal Temple—also known as Perarulalan Temple—stands as one of the most revered Divya Desams, or 108 sacred abodes of Lord Vishnu, praised in the Tamil hymns of the Alwars. Dedicated to Lord Varadaraja Perumal, a benevolent form of Lord Vishnu, this ancient temple is not only a major pilgrimage destination for Vaishnavites but also a magnificent specimen of Dravidian temple architecture, spiritual legacy, and cultural richness.
The temple is located in Vishnu Kanchi, the part of Kanchipuram known for its Vishnu temples, and is considered one of the Pancha Kanchi Kshetrams. It holds immense significance in Sri Vaishnavism, especially for followers of Ramanujacharya, the great theologian and proponent of Vishishtadvaita philosophy, who is believed to have been closely associated with the temple.
Historical Legacy
Believed to have been originally built by the Cholas in the 11th century CE and later expanded by the Vijayanagara kings, especially during the reign of Krishnadevaraya, the temple complex spans a massive area and showcases intricate sculptures, towering gopurams (gateway towers), and elaborately carved pillars. Several dynasties including the Pallavas, Cholas, and Vijayanagara rulers have contributed to the temple’s expansion, making it a living chronicle of South Indian temple-building traditions.
One of the most iconic aspects of the temple is the ‘Atthi Varadar’ festival, during which the rare wooden idol of Lord Varadaraja made from the sacred Atthi tree (fig tree) is taken out from the temple tank and worshipped once every 40 years for a period of 48 days. This tradition draws lakhs of devotees from across the country and even abroad, underscoring the deep devotion the deity inspires.
Architectural Grandeur
The temple complex is a masterpiece of traditional Tamil temple architecture. It features:
- A 100-pillared mandapam (hall) that is a sculptural marvel, showcasing artistic brilliance in stone.
- A seven-tiered rajagopuram (main gateway tower) rising majestically at the entrance.
- The gold-covered vimana (sanctum tower) above the sanctum sanctorum.
- Intricate carvings and stone reliefs depicting episodes from the epics and Puranas.
- Several mandapams (halls), shrines, and tanks, each with its own spiritual and architectural significance.
The main deity, Lord Varadaraja Perumal, is enshrined in a majestic standing posture, flanked by consorts Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi, exuding grace and divine majesty. The temple also houses shrines for Perundevi Thayar (the consort goddess), Ramanuja, Vedanta Desika, and Alwars.
Spiritual and Cultural Importance
The temple has been sung in the Divya Prabandham, the collection of 4,000 Tamil verses composed by the Alwar saints, especially by Thirumangai Alwar, Periyalwar, and Nammazhwar, highlighting its profound spiritual significance. It is said that worshipping Lord Varadaraja here grants moksha (liberation), and the Lord is believed to fulfill the sincere prayers of devotees with compassion and grace.
Kanchipuram itself is one of the seven moksha-puris (cities that grant liberation), and the presence of the Varadaraja Perumal Temple enhances its sanctity manifold. The temple continues to serve as a center for Vedic learning, ritual practices, and festivals like Brahmotsavam, attracting thousands of devotees annually.