Thiru Kachchi Varadaraja Perumal Temple - A Sacred Vishnu Temple Among the 108 Divya Desams

Introduction

Thiru Kachchi Varadaraja Perumal Temple, also known as Kanchipuram Varadaraja Perumal Temple, is one of the 108 Divya Desams, the highly revered Vaishnavite temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Situated in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India, this temple is an important pilgrimage site for devotees of Sri Vaishnavism. The presiding deity here is Varadaraja Perumal, a divine form of Lord Vishnu.

This article explores the history, deity, temple timings, significance, architecture, festivals, and travel details of this sacred temple.

Temple Overview

• Temple Name: Thiru Kachchi Varadaraja Perumal Temple (Kanchipuram Varadaraja Perumal Temple)

• Location: Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India

• Deity: Lord Varadaraja Perumal (Vishnu)

• Significance: One of the 108 Divya Desams

• Mentioned in: Nalayira Divya Prabandham

• Temple Timings: Morning & Evening (detailed below)

• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year, especially during festivals

History of Thiru Kachchi Varadaraja Perumal Temple

Mythological Significance

The temple has deep connections to Hindu mythology and Sri Vaishnavism. According to legend, Lord Vishnu appeared as Varadaraja Perumal to grant boons to Brahma, the creator god. It is also believed that sage Brighu performed penance here to witness the divine form of Vishnu.

Another significant legend states that Sri Ramanujacharya, the great Vaishnavite philosopher, had a divine vision of Lord Varadaraja here, making it a crucial site for followers of Sri Vaishnavism.

Historical References

• The temple was built by the Pallava kings and later expanded by the Chola and Vijayanagara rulers.

• It is over 1000 years old and has been a center of Vaishnavite worship for centuries.

• The temple inscriptions document royal grants and donations from various Tamil kings.

Deity & Worship at Thiru Kachchi Varadaraja Perumal Temple

• Presiding Deity: Varadaraja Perumal (Vishnu in a standing posture)

• Goddess: Perundevi Thayar (Lakshmi Devi)

• Utsavar (Processional Deity): Devaraja Perumal

• Sacred Tank: Anantha Saras Theertham

• Major Festivals: Garuda Sevai, Vaikunta Ekadashi, Brahmotsavam, Panguni Uthiram

The idol of Varadaraja Perumal is highly revered, and the temple is known for its unique Athi Varadar festival, where the Athi Varadar idol is taken out of the temple tank once every 40 years for public worship.

Temple Architecture & Structure

Thiru Kachchi Varadaraja Perumal Temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture, featuring towering gopurams and intricately carved pillars.

• Raja Gopuram (Temple Tower): A magnificent entrance with stunning sculptures.

• 100-Pillar Mandapam: A hall with intricately carved stone pillars depicting Vishnu’s avatars.

• Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum): Houses the main deity in an exquisite shrine.

• Temple Tank: The Anantha Saras Theertham, a sacred water body with divine significance.

The temple’s intricate stone carvings and ancient inscriptions highlight its spiritual and historical grandeur.

Thiru Kachchi Varadaraja Perumal Temple Timings

The temple follows a strict schedule for daily pujas and darshan timings:

Devotees are encouraged to visit early in the morning for Abhishekam and special prayers.

Festivals Celebrated at the Temple

The temple hosts several grand festivals throughout the year:

• Brahmotsavam – A ten-day festival with divine processions and cultural events.

• Garuda Sevai – A major festival where Lord Varadaraja is taken on a Garuda Vahanam procession.

• Athi Varadar Festival – Celebrated once every 40 years, where the sacred idol of Athi Varadar is taken out for worship.

• Vaikunta Ekadashi – Celebrated with fasting, Vishnu processions, and spiritual discourses.

• Deepavali & Navaratri – Special poojas and grand cultural celebrations.

Each festival attracts thousands of devotees, making the temple a hub of spiritual and cultural vibrance.

How to Reach Thiru Kachchi Varadaraja Perumal Temple

By Air:

The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, approximately 75 km from Kanchipuram.

By Train:

The closest railway station is Kanchipuram Railway Station, around 5 km from the temple.

By Road:

Kanchipuram is well-connected by road with frequent buses and private taxis available from major cities in Tamil Nadu.

Significance of Visiting Thiru Kachchi Varadaraja Perumal Temple

• It is one of the 108 Divya Desams, making it a key pilgrimage site for Vaishnavites.

• The temple is believed to bestow divine blessings, prosperity, and spiritual enlightenment upon devotees.

• Many visit the temple to seek solutions to personal and professional challenges through the blessings of Lord Varadaraja.

Conclusion

Thiru Kachchi Varadaraja Perumal Temple, also known as Kanchipuram Varadaraja Perumal Temple, is a revered site among the 108 Divya Desams. Whether you seek spiritual guidance, divine blessings, or wish to explore an architectural wonder, this temple offers a deeply fulfilling experience.

Plan your pilgrimage to this sacred Vishnu temple in Tamil Nadu and immerse yourself in the divine traditions and rich cultural heritage of Vaishnavism.