Varadharaja Perumal Temple – Kanchipuram

Varadharaja Perumal Temple, located in the sacred city of Kanchipuram, ranks among the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple forms an integral part of Vishnu Kanchi, a prominent suburb of Kanchipuram. According to tradition, the revered Alwars, the twelve poet-saints of Vaishnavism, visited and glorified this holy shrine. The temple stands to the west of Gandhi Road, beside the Vedapureswarar Temple, and both shrines come under the administration of the same trust.

Image Attribution : Nithi Anand

Varadharaja Perumal Temple – Religious Importance

Built during the reign of the Chola kings around 1053 CE, Varadharaja Perumal Temple holds immense religious importance for Vaishnavites. Along with the Ekambareswarar Temple and Kamakshi Amman Temple, this shrine forms the sacred trio known as Mumurtisivam, symbolizing the combined presence of Shiva, Vishnu, and Shakti in Kanchipuram. Furthermore, tradition holds that the great Hindu philosopher Ramanuja once resided in this temple, adding to its spiritual prominence.

Historically, the temple was known by the names Hastigiri and Attiyuran. The name Hastigiri connects to the legend of Gajendra Moksham, where Indra’s elephant Airavata bears the image of Lord Vishnu. Meanwhile, the name Attiyur originates from the belief that the original idol of Varadharaja Perumal was crafted from the attimaram, or fig tree.

The Temple – Legend

According to legend, after creating the universe, Lord Brahma wished to invite Lord Vishnu to descend to Earth. To fulfill this desire, Brahma performed the Ashwamedha Yagna along with his consorts Gayatri and Savitri, without the presence of Goddess Saraswathi. As a result, the enraged Goddess Saraswathi transformed herself into the River Vegavati and surged toward the site of the yagna. However, at the conclusion of the ritual, Lord Vishnu appeared from the sacred flames along with his consort as Lord Varadharaja, thereby granting Lord Brahma’s wish and restoring harmony.

Varadharaja Perumal Temple Architecture

Varadharaja Perumal Temple stands as a vast architectural marvel spread across a 23-acre complex. The temple features an impressive hall with 100 intricately carved pillars and unfolds within three massive concentric enclosures. Various dynasties contributed to its construction over different periods, enhancing its grandeur.

The presiding deity of the temple is worshipped in a swayambhu, or self-manifested form. The idol of Lord Varadharaja Perumal measures nearly 40 feet in length and rests in a reclining posture. Devotees worship Goddess Perundevi Taayaar as the divine consort. In addition, the temple complex houses shrines dedicated to the Alwars, Acharyas, Lord Rama, Andal, and Varaha Perumal.

Varadharaja Perumal Temple – Timings & Pooja Details

The temple is open on all days from 6:00 AM to 12:30 Noon and 3:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Poojas are performed as below:

The Varadharaja Perumal Temple – Festivals

• Brahmotsavam Festival (10 days) in the month of Vaikasi (May-June)
• Navarathri in the Tamil month of Purattasi (September-October)
• Vaikunda Ekadasi in the Tamil month of Margazhi (December-January)

How to reach Varadharaja Perumal Temple

The temple is easily accessible by bus or taxi from Kancheepuram. Kancheepuram is connected to major cities by road and is at a distance of about 75 kilometres from Chennai. Varadharaja Temple is located at a distance of 5 kilometres from Kancheepuram Railway Station. Chennai International Airport is the nearest airport to the temple at a distance of about 60 kilometres.

Epilogue

The Varadharaja Temple is an important religious center in the holy city of Kancheepuram and one of the well-visited temples in Tamil Nadu. Tourists are sure to get mesmerized by the intricate carvings and the majestic architecture of the temple in a serene atmosphere.