Ashtabhuja Perumal Temple
The eight-armed Lord who saved the elephant
Ashtabhuja Perumal Temple, a magnificent Divyadesam nestled in the sacred city of Kanchipuram. This timeless temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, holds a treasure trove of spiritual significance and captivating legends. In this article, we will delve into the unique features, historical anecdotes, festivals, and the divine blessings associated with this temple.
The Deity and Sanctum Sanctorum
In Ashtabhuja Perumal Temple, the presiding deity is Lord Vishnu, revered as Ashtabhujakaran Adikeshava Perumal. He stands resplendent with eight hands, symbolizing his supreme power and ability to protect devotees who surrender to him. The goddess accompanying him is Pushpavalli/Padmasini Tayar, adding grace and beauty to the divine abode.
Stalapuranam – The Legend of Brahma’s Penance
According to the sacred Stalapuranam of this temple, a fascinating tale unfolds. It recounts the disturbance of Lord Brahma’s penance by goddess Saraswati, which led to the release of the ferocious creature called Sarabha. Lord Vishnu, wielding an array of weapons in his eight hands, intervened to vanquish Sarabha and restore tranquility. This awe-inspiring scene is beautifully depicted in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.
Gajendrapushkarini – The Sacred Tank
The temple features a holy tank named Gajendrapushkarini, steeped in divine significance. It is here that the mighty elephant Gajendra found liberation from the clutches of a menacing crocodile with Lord Vishnu’s intervention. Devotees believe that by offering prayers at this tank, one can seek relief from land-related issues, overcome Vastu defects, and resolve legal complications concerning real estate.
Swami Desikan’s Insight
Swami Desikan, a revered philosopher and poet, offers profound insights into the significance of Lord Vishnu’s multiple hands in this temple. He explains that the deity’s eight hands, each holding different weapons, symbolize the Lord’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding those who wholeheartedly surrender to him.
Divine Intervention for Land-Related Matters
Ashtabhuja Perumal Temple is renowned for its unique ability to alleviate problems related to land ownership and construction. Those seeking to acquire land or facing Vastu defects in their existing properties can find solace and guidance by offering prayers at this sacred shrine. Devotees also believe that the temple’s divine blessings can help resolve legal issues pertaining to real estate matters.
Gateway to Vaikuntha – Paramapadavasal
The Ashtabhuja Perumal Temple holds a distinguished status as the sole shrine in Kanchipuram featuring a paramapadavasal. This gateway, symbolizing the entrance to Vaikuntha (the celestial abode of Lord Vishnu), holds profound spiritual significance. Passing through this sacred gateway is believed to grant devotees a glimpse of the ultimate divine realm.
Ancient Scriptures and Devotional Hymns
Peyalvar and Thirumangai Alvar, revered saints and poet-saints of the Vaishnava tradition, have immortalized Ashtabhuja Perumal Temple through their heartfelt compositions. Thirumangai Alvar narrates that even the Pallava king Vaishamegha (Nandivarman-II) worshipped at this temple, attesting to its historical and cultural importance.
The Glories of Goddess Alarmel Mangai
An intriguing aspect of this temple is the Mangalashasanam, a devotional hymn sung by Thirumangai Alvar, extolling the virtues and magnificence of Goddess Alarmel Mangai. This unique feature further enhances the divine aura and spiritual significance of Ashtabhuja Perumal Temple.
Architectural Splendor
The main temple structure, comprising the garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), ardha mandapa (half hall), and mukha mandapa (front hall), showcases architectural elements belonging to the illustrious Chola and Vijayanagara dynasties. The intricate craftsmanship and artistic details bear testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Inscriptions
Within the temple premises, you can discover two ancient inscriptions in Tamil, attributed to the Chola King Rajendra I and Kulottunga I. These inscriptions provide valuable historical insights into the temple’s past.
Festivals
The Ashtabhuja Perumal Temple hosts vibrant festivals throughout the year, including the Brahmotsava in the month of Chithirai, the Gajendramoksha festival in Adi (Hastam asterism), and the grand Vaikunta Ekadasi festival during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December – January).
Ashtabhuja Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram stands as a magnificent testament to the eternal glory of Lord Vishnu. With its rich mythology, spiritual significance, and unique features like the paramapadavasal and Mangalashasanam, this temple beckons devotees from far and wide. Whether seeking divine intervention for land-related matters, solace for the soul, or a glimpse of the celestial realm, the Ashtabhuja Perumal Temple offers a sanctified space for devotees to find solace, inspiration, and blessings.
