Paruthiyur Kalyana Varadharaja Perumal Temple (Kothanda Ramar Temple)- Thiruvarur

Address

Paruthiyur Kalyana Varadharaja Perumal Temple (Kothanda Ramar Temple)- 31 Agraharam, Avanam Paruthiyur P.O, Via Sengalipuram, Kudavasal Taluk, Thiruvarur District – 612604 Mobile: +91 9786867387

Deity

Rama

Introduction

Location: The Kalyana Varadharaja Perumal Temple, also known as Paruthiyur Kothanda Ramar Temple, is located in Paruthiyur Village, Thiruvarur District, Tamil Nadu, on the banks of the Kudamurutti River, a tributary of the Cauvery River.
Historical Context: This temple is one of the five prominent Rama temples in the region, alongside Thillai Vilagam, Vaduvur, Mudikondan, and Adambar. The bronze idol of Lord Rama here dates back to the 10th century AD.

Puranic Significance:

Foundation and Renovation: Built in the early 19th century by Paruthiyur Sri Krishna Sastri (1773–1860), known as Ayyaval, who was a devout Vishnu Bhakta. The temple’s establishment was supported by the patronage of Serfoji II Maharaja. Ayyaval dedicated his life to Vishnu Puranas and Ramayana, contributing significantly to the temple’s prominence.
Historical and Mythological References: The temple’s bronze idols, including those of Lord Rama and Anjaneya, are significant and date back to the 10th century, potentially connected to donations from high-ranking officials of the Raja Raja Chola period. The temple’s history is referenced in the copper plates housed in the Leiden Museum, Holland.
Special Idol: The main deity, Adhi Varadharaja Perumal, is associated with the “Prayoga Chakra,” believed to have protected King Ambarisha from a curse by sage Durvasa. The temple’s bronze Rama idol symbolizes divine purity, with Rama depicted in a grand standing posture.

Beliefs:

Symbol of Family Unity: The temple is renowned for its association with family unity and harmony. Performing pujas and rituals at this temple is believed to resolve family disputes and eliminate astrological doshas.
Popular Prasadhams: During festive seasons, prasadhams like Panagam, Buttermilk, and Sundal are distributed to devotees.

Special Features:

Rama Shrine: Although the presiding deity is Sri Varadharaja Perumal, the temple is particularly noted for its Rama shrine. The shrine features:
- Rama: Wielding a bow with his left hand and a long arrow with his right.
- Lakshmana: Displaying a beautiful smile.
- Anjaneya and Sita Pirati: Located on the right and left of Kodandarama respectively, all depicted in the Kalyana Kolam (marriage posture).
Future Developments: Plans include constructing a Raja Gopuram, Vasantha Mandapa in front of the Thaayar Sannidhi, and reconstructing the outer walls.

Festivals:

Vaikunta Ekadesi: Celebrated grandly for Varadharaja Perumal.
Rama Navami: Marked by a significant 10-day Utsavam.
Purattasi Saturdays: Celebrated for Paruthiyur Anjaneya.
Aadi Velli, Navarathri, and Deepavali: Specially observed for Paruthiyur Mahalakshmi.