Protected by the divine
Stepping into the temple premises, you will be immediately awestruck by the aura of antiquity and reverence that spreads in the air. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is home to the divine deity Veeraraghavan, affectionately known as Sri Varadharaja Perumal. Legend has it that the temple's inception dates back to the reign of King Krishna Varma, who discovered a sacred blue stone idol while bathing in the Thamirabarani River.
The temple's history is steeped in tales of courage and protection, as King Krishnavarma fervently prayed to Lord Vishnu to safeguard his kingdom from invasion. In a remarkable display of divine intervention, Lord Vishnu answered the king's prayers, appearing on the battlefield in his majestic form to drive back the invading forces. Overwhelmed with gratitude, King Krishnavarma constructed the temple dedicated to Lord Veeraraghavan as a token of his appreciation and devotion.
Within the temple complex, you will be greeted by Lord Veeraraghavan's resplendent form, exuding an aura of divine grace and majesty. The sanctum also houses shrines dedicated to the goddesses Vedhavalli Thayar and Perundevi Thayar, as well as several other sacred sanctums honouring various deities, including Lord Hanuman in his worshipping form.
The history of the Varadharaja Perumal Temple is steeped in legend and lore, with the Cholas and Vijayanagar rulers playing crucial roles in its expansion and embellishment. From the majestic Eastern Gopuram to the exquisite Kalyana Mandapam, you can notice the devotion and craftsmanship at every facet of the temple.
Within the temple complex, myriad sacred sites await exploration, including the majestic 100-pillar hall adorned with intricately carved sculptures that speak of ancient craftsmanship and artistic finesse. As you wander through the temple's hallowed halls, you'll encounter over 350 inscriptions from dynasties spanning centuries, each bearing witness to the temple's storied past and enduring legacy.
As you stand amidst the sanctity of the Varadharaja Perumal Temple, surrounded by the echoes of ancient hymns and the scent of incense, you can't help but feel a sense of reverence and awe. For here, in this sacred space, the divine presence of Lord Vishnu permeates every stone and every soul, offering solace and blessings to all who seek them.
A reflection of sanctity
You will be awestruck by a unique feature in the temple: a mirror that captures the imagination of all who behold it. One of the unique features of this temple is the "Kannadi Arai" or the "Mirror Chamber." This chamber contains a series of mirrors that reflect the image of the deity, Lord Varadharaja Perumal, located in the sanctum sanctorum.
The mirrors are strategically placed to create a mesmerising effect, where the image of the deity appears to multiply infinitely, creating a mystical and divine experience for devotees. This chamber is considered sacred and is an integral part of the temple's architecture and religious significance.
Moreover, the temple boasts effigies of all 108 Vishnu forms, a unique distinction unmatched by any other temple in South India. Including all 108 forms in the Divya sets this temple apart as an extraordinary place of worship.
Adding to its allure, the temple holds a cherished tradition of bringing newborn babies to receive their first rice ceremony, Annapraasanam, in front of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that this auspicious ritual ensures the blessings and protection of Lord Vishnu, guiding the newborn towards a life filled with health and prosperity.
In essence, the Varadharaja Perumal Temple is not just a place of worship but a living testament to Kanchipuram's enduring faith and cultural heritage. Whether you're seeking solace in prayer or admiring the architectural marvels that adorn its sacred precincts, visiting this holy abode will surely leave a unique mark on your soul.
