Varadaraja Perumal Temple History, Details, Darshan
Varadaraja Perumala Temple is one of the most sacred Vaishnavite temple, the varadaraja Perumal Temple in Kanchi is one of the 108 Divya Desams. Among vaishnavites, the term ‘Perumal’ refers to Vishnu and ‘kovil’ refers to Temple . The temple is spread over 23 acres and carved within a hillock. This was built by vishwakarma sthapathis. With three praharams, 32 shrines, 19 vimanams and many pillared halls, this is a temple that you shouldn’t miss during your visit to Kanchipuram. The temple also has a ‘thousand pillared’ hall.
Temple Deity – Varadaraja Perumal
The black stone idol of Vishnu, referred to as both Varadarajar and Devarajar, is in a standing posture. Majestic and beautifully adorned in white or colored silk and wonderful jewelry . He appears compassionate and smiling as though he will certainly grant every wish.
Temple History & Legend
Varadaraja Perumal Temple was built by Cholas during AD 1053. Brahma once performed an important yagna on the banks of River Vedavathy. Suddenly the river got flooded and began to overflow from its banks. Brahma prayed to Vishnu to save his sacrificial fire from the raging flood. Before the waters could subside the fire, Vishnu lay down flat on the path of the river and stayed its flow . Brahma’s yagna was successful and a pleased Vishnu stayed in Kanchi forever, as Varadarajar or Devarajar.
Varadaraja Perumal Temple Timings
- Morning : 6 AM – 12 PM
- Evening : 3:30 PM – 8 PM
Interesting facts about Varadaraja Perumal Temple
- A pair of golden lizards carved on the ceiling is an interesting feature here. A ladder helps devotees climb up and touch the lizards in the belief that this nullifies their sins.
- Separate shrines for Varadarajar’s consort Perundevi, Narasimha, Dhanwantri (the
celestial healer) and many other deities are located in the temple.
Temple Festivals
- The Garuda Seva celebrated in May/Jun is a procession with the Vishnu deity carried on Garuda.
- Teppotsavam is grandly celebrated in January month. During the float festival, the idol of Varadarajar is taken to procession.
