Ulagalanda Perumal Temple
The Giant who measured the cosmos in three steps
The Ulagalanda Perumal Temple, a revered complex housing four Divyadesams that beckon devotees from far and wide. Each shrine within this temple complex holds a unique significance, weaving together tales of divine avatars, mythological encounters, and spiritual blessings.
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Legends and Stalapuranam
The origins of Ulagalanda Perumal Temple are intertwined with the Vamana Avatara of Lord Vishnu, where he assumed the form of Trivikrama to subjugate the mighty Mahabali. The stalapuranam, or the historical significance, of the temple revolves around this divine event, highlighting Lord Vishnu’s magnanimous act of measuring the world with his three steps. Immerse yourself in the captivating legends that form the spiritual foundation of the temple.
Peragathan and Ooragathan Shrines
Within the temple complex, the Peragathan shrine unveils a majestic 35-foot stucco figure of Lord Vishnu in a standing posture. As Mahabali, who was banished to the underworld, could not witness the full form of Ulagalanda Perumal, Lord Vishnu also manifests as a diminutive figure of Adisesha in the adjacent Ooragathan shrine. The two shrines, Peragathan and Ooragathan, are always mentioned together, symbolizing the inseparable connection between the Lord and his divine couch.
Neeragathan, Kargathan, and Karvannam Shrines
The Neeragathan shrine commemorates the divine encounter between Lord Vishnu and Maharishi Markandeya. Here, Lord Vishnu, accompanied by Goddess Nilamangai, blesses devotees in a standing posture with four arms. The Kargathan shrine showcases Lord Vishnu as Karunakara Perumal, seated on a serpent coil with five hoods adorning his head. The Karvannam shrine, on the other hand, offers devotees the divine presence of Lord Vishnu with his consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi. Explore these sacred shrines and experience their unique spiritual vibrations.
Architectural Marvels and Historical Significance
The Ulagalanda Perumal Temple is not only spiritually significant but also boasts remarkable architectural features. The Garbhagriha, ardhamandapa, and pillared mandapa of the Peragathan shrine date back to the early Chola period. Inscriptions of the Pallava King Nandivarman III and the Chola King Kulottunga I add historical depth to the temple premises. Marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship and the fusion of architectural styles as you traverse through the temple complex.
Festivals and Beliefs
The Brahmotsavam at Ulagalanda Perumal Temple is one of the most awaited and spiritually vibrant festivals celebrated annually. Held in the Tamil month of Thai (January–February) during the auspicious star Punarvasu, this grand event draws devotees from far and wide. The temple bursts into life with colorful processions, sacred rituals, and devotional music. Lord Ulagalanda Perumal, in all his divine glory, is taken out on majestic vahanams (divine mounts), including Garuda and Hanumantha Vahanam, while devotees chant hymns and participate in the festivities with unwavering devotion. This celebration symbolizes the Lord’s cosmic presence and his boundless grace towards all beings.
A unique belief cherished by devotees is that childless couples who visit the temple with faith can be blessed with offspring. As part of the special ritual, these couples perform Thirumanjanam (holy bathing ceremony) for Lord Uragathan, a form of Lord Vishnu enshrined in the temple. Following the abhishekam, they prepare and offer Thirukkan Amudhu – a traditional sweet rice pudding – as Naivedyam (sacred offering). This heartfelt gesture, rooted in centuries of tradition and devotion, is believed to bring divine blessings and fulfill the sincere wishes of those longing for a child.
Standing tall in the sacred town of Kanchipuram, the Ulagalanda Perumal Temple is more than just an architectural marvel – it is a spiritual powerhouse, steeped in mythological significance. The temple is associated with the Vamana Avatar, where Lord Vishnu took the form of a dwarf Brahmin to subdue the demon king Mahabali and later revealed his colossal form as Trivikrama (Ulagalanda Perumal – “The One Who Measured the Worlds”). This divine leela is immortalized in the main sanctum, where the Lord is depicted with one foot touching the earth and the other raised toward the sky – symbolizing his cosmic stride.
