Koozhampandal Pesum Perumal Temple-Thiruvannamalai

Address

Koozhampandal, Thiruvannamalai District,

Tamil Nadu – 631701

Phone: +91 4182 245 304 / 293 256

Moolavar

Pesum Perumal

Introduction

Pesum Perumal Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is located in Koozhampandal Village, Thiruvannamalai District, Tamil Nadu. The temple, though small with a single shrine, houses a grand and majestic deity. The temple’s idol was discovered in a field and installed at this site. Koozhampandal is about 18 km from Kanchipuram, en route to Vandavasi. This village has historical significance, dating back to the Chola period.

Puranic Significance

Koozhampandal’s history traces back to the era of the Chola dynasty. The village derives its name from “Koozhan,” referring to jackfruit trees, and “pandal,” meaning a road, suggesting a road once lined with jackfruit trees.

The Pesum Perumal temple has a fascinating origin. Telugu Chola kings patronized the temple, offering donations for its maintenance and rituals. However, a priest deviated from his duties, which enraged the Lord. The deity destroyed the village in his wrath, causing even Vaikunta to tremble. Devotees later realized their errors, sought forgiveness, and rebuilt the temple. As the Lord revealed these transgressions, He came to be revered as Pesum Perumal—the “Speaking Perumal.”

Beliefs

The temple is a beacon of hope for parents of differently-abled children. Special rituals and prayers, including circumambulation and the use of conch water (Shangu Theertham), are believed to bring divine blessings. Fasting, charity, homas, and other ceremonies conducted here are said to yield manifold benefits.

Special Features

Main Deity: Lord Varadaraja Perumal, over 6 feet tall, stands majestically with Sridevi and Boodevi. He holds a conch, discus, and a mace, with his lower hands in abhaya hasta and gada hasta postures.
Utsava Moorthy: The processional deity mirrors the main idol and is flanked by Sri Devi and Bhu Devi.
Sacred Tree & Tank: The temple’s sacred tree is the Parijadham, and its holy tank is called Ananta Pushkarini.
Mandapam Sculptures: The mandapam features intricately carved icons of Azhwars, Andal, and Acharyas, showcasing their devotional fervor.

The temple, though historically expansive, had fallen into disrepair but was restored with Samprokshanam in 2002. Since then, additional sanctums, a compound wall, and other facilities have been developed.

Festivals

The temple follows the Vaikhanasa Agama tradition for its rituals. Major festivals include:

Vaikasi Visakam (May-June): Grand Garuda Seva involving 15 villages.
Vaikunda Ekadasi (December-January): Celebrated with great fervor.
Aadi Pooram, Sri Krishna Jayanthi, Deepavali, Masi Magam, Ratha Sapthami, Panguni Uthiram, and Sri Rama Navami are other notable celebrations.
108 Go Pujas during Masi Magam is a unique ritual highlighting the temple’s spiritual significance.