Sri Cheraya Perumal Temple, Salem

Address

Sri Cheraya perumal temple Adhiyaman Kottai, A.Jettihalli, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu- 636807

Diety

Venkateshwara

Introduction

The Chenraya Perumal Temple, located in Adhiyamankottam, is a significant Hindu temple with a rich history. The Chenraya Perumal Temple is situated in Adhiyamankottam, approximately 7 km from Dharmapuri on the Salem road. Adhiyamankottam is known for being the ancient capital of the rulers of Tagadur.

Puranic Significance

This temple has historical and cultural significance, and it is believed to have been constructed by the Hoysala kings and Krishna Deva Raya, who ruled the region during the medieval period. The temple stands on a flat platform and has a spacious mandapam leading to the inner sanctum. The temple’s interiors are adorned with 13th-century paintings depicting scenes from the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna’s Viswaroopa Darshan, and episodes from the Ramayana.

Hill Temple: The Chenraya Perumal Temple is situated on a hill, and reaching it involves climbing around 500 steps. This challenging ascent is part of the temple’s unique charm and spiritual experience.

Chitra Rath Mandap: A platform in the temple called Chitra Rath Mandap is believed to be the spot where the Lord drank milk. Devotees place their hands on the two corners of this platform during worship, and it’s said that their hands automatically come closer, which is considered an acknowledgment of their prayers.

Lord Chendraya: The presiding deity of this temple is unique, as Lord Chendraya is worshipped as a child. Consequently, there are no consorts with Him. He is depicted with a twisted moustache and beard, and He doesn’t hold the traditional discus and conch. The procession deity is accompanied by Mothers Rukmini and Satyabama.

Festivals and Folklore: The temple hosts various festivals and celebrations, including a special folklore called Thevarattam. This folklore tells the story of Lord Shiva removing one of the heads of Lord Brahma, leading to the dance of Thevarattam. It is believed that during this event, the temple idols also come to life and dance.

13th-Century Paintings: The temple’s ceiling is adorned with 13th-century paintings that depict scenes from the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna’s Viswaroopa Dharshan, and episodes from the Ramayana, making them a marvel to behold.

Historical Fort: The temple is situated on a circular mud wall fort that was originally constructed by King Adhiyaman. This fort, resembling a circular structure, is an additional point of interest for visitors.

The Legend of Chennama Naicker: The temple’s history is intertwined with the story of Chennama Naicker, a Krishna devotee from the Krishnadevaraya dynasty. According to legend, he had a divine encounter with a boy who was miraculously feeding from a cow that had not delivered a calf. This encounter led to the construction of the temple in honor of the deity, and he was named Chendru Aaya Perumal.

Festivals

Special pujas are performed on Vaigunda Ekadasi day in December-January. Onam and Puratasi Saturdays in September-October are observed as festival days in the temple. Sri Krishna Jayanthi