Keezhattoor Varatharajaperumal Temple, Thanjavur

Address

Keezhattoor Varatharajaperumal Temple Keezhattoor village, Thanjavur District- 612502

Deity

Varatharajaperumal Amman: Mahalakshmi, Sridevi, Bhudevi

Introduction

Temple Location: Thiruppanandal, Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu
Distance: 5 km from Thiruppanandal on the Manalmedu bus route
Historical Context: Built during the Pallava reign, specifically under Mamannan Mahendra Varman (600-630 AD). Originally named Avanimanikkam, it was later changed to Keezhattoor. The temple is dedicated to Varadaraja Perumal.

Puranic Significance:

Temple Layout:
- Mahamandapam: Spacious hall with Bhakta Anjaneyar facing west at the base.
- Ardha Mandapa: Entrance hall with Pillaiyar (Ganesha) on the left and Nagar Thirumeni (serpent deity) on the right.
- Sanctum Sanctorum: Houses Lord Varadaraja Perumal on a pedestal above the Padma Peetha, flanked by Mother Sridevi and Bhudevi.
Historical Features:
- Height of Perumal: Noted for its impressive height of 8 feet 2 inches.
- Unique Rituals: Anointing of the deity is not performed with traditional oils; instead, only sambarani (frankincense) and sandalwood are used.
- Nearby Temple: Vajrathambeswarar Temple, located close by.
- Beliefs: The application wheel weapon near Lord Perumal’s right hand is believed to help eradicate enemies and provide a peaceful life.

Beliefs:

Marriage Prayers: Devotees believe that earnest prayers to Anjaneyas (Hanuman) can lead to quick marriages.
Offering Practices: When prayers are answered, devotees often treat others with sesame seeds and distribute green robe satti (a type of sweet or sacred food).

Special Features:

Height of Perumal: 8 feet 2 inches tall, a notable feature of the temple.
Archana in Tamil: Rituals and prayers are performed in Tamil.
Anointing Practices: Only sambarani and sandalwood are used for the anointing of Anjaneyar, unlike the traditional use of oils.

Festivals:

Regular Ceremonies: Special anointing ceremonies for Perumal and his consort are held every Saturday, Vaikasi Visakam, Vaikunda Ekadasi, Tamil New Year, and English New Year.
Vaikunda Ekadasi and New Year: Celebrated with processions where Lord and Goddess are taken to the streets (Veediula).

This temple is noted for its historical significance, unique practices, and the grand stature of its deities, making it a significant site for devotees and historians alike.