Varadaraja Perumal Temple
A Sacred Abode of Divinity and History
The Varadaraja Perumal Temple, located in the Vishnukanchi section of Kanchipuram, holds a significant place among the 108 Sri Vaishnava Divyadesams revered by the Vaishnavite Alwars. This sacred shrine, dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Sri Varadaraja, attracts thousands of pilgrims daily. With a rich historical background and captivating architecture, the temple offers a divine experience to its visitors. In this article, we delve into the mystical legends, architectural marvels, and cultural significance of the Varadaraja Perumal Temple.
Legend and Mythology
The Sthalapuranam of Varadaraja Perumal Temple narrates an intriguing legend. It begins with Lord Brahma’s desire to behold Lord Vishnu in his resplendent form with four hands (caturbhuja). After rigorous penance, Lord Vishnu appeared first as sacred water and then as a forest symbolizing the earth. Unsatisfied, Lord Brahma sought guidance from the heavens and learned that performing one hundred Ashvamedha Yagnas in Kanchi would grant him the desired vision. Following this divine advice, Brahma conducted the yagna on the Hastigiri mountain, where Lord Vishnu emerged from the fire as an Archavatharamurti (a deity in idol form) and blessed Brahma with his divine presence.
Architecture and Historical Significance
The Varadaraja Perumal Temple, believed to have originated in the 9th century CE during the Pallava period, showcases a blend of architectural styles from various dynasties. The temple was expanded and renovated by rulers from the Chola, Pandya, Vijayanagara, Nayaka, and other dynasties. Its intricate stone and metal icons reflect the Chola and Vijayanagara traditions, with the main shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Narasimha, and Perundevi. Noteworthy are the Vijayanagara sculptures adorning the mandapas, including the kalyana mandapa with over 800 pillar reliefs depicting puranic themes. The temple also boasts Vijayanagara paintings on the outer verandah walls, depicting the sthalapurana, Alvars, Acharyas, and the presiding deities of various divyadesas.
Divine Epiphany
The Varadaraja Perumal Temple holds another sacred tale of Lord Vishnu’s benevolence. It is here that Lord Vishnu rescued the divine elephant Gajendra from the clutches of a crocodile. Hence, he is revered as Karigirisa, the Lord of the elephant hill. The temple features several names for Lord Vishnu, including Devadhi Devaraja, Devaraja Swami, Pranatartihara, Kari Varada, Manikkavarada, and Gajendragirinatha (the Lord residing on the elephant hill). The mulavigraha (central deity) currently stands in a granite idol form, while the earliest form was made of wood from the Atti tree (Ficus glomerata), leading to the deity being known as Atti-Varadar.
Inscriptions
The Varadaraja Perumal Temple houses approximately 350 inscriptions, shedding light on the events and political dynamics of Kanchipuram throughout centuries. These inscriptions, belonging to the Chola, Pandya, Telugu-chodas, Kadavaraya, Chera, Kakatiya, Sambuva raya, Hoysala, and Vijayanagar kings, offer a historical account of the city.
Association with Vaishnava Personalities
The temple holds significant associations with prominent Vaishnava figures, including Thirumangai Alvar, Tirukkacchi Nambi, Ramanujacharya, and Doddachariar. These personalities have contributed to the temple’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Varadaraja Perumal Temple stands as a revered shrine of Lord Vishnu, known for its divine legends, architectural splendor, and historical significance. Pilgrims and visitors alike are captivated by the spiritual aura and the intricate stone and metal specimens reflecting Chola and Vijayanagara artistry. The temple’s rich heritage and association with Vaishnava luminaries make it an essential destination for devotees seeking solace and spiritual enlightenment. Experience the mystical allure and immerse yourself in the divinity of the Varadaraja Perumal Temple, a cherished gem among the Sri Vaishnava Divyadesams.
