Melpalandai Sri Gajendra Varadaraja Perumal Temple, Vellore

Address

Melpalandai Sri Gajendra Varadaraja Perumal Temple, Melapalandai, Vellore District, Tamil Nadu 632318

Diety

Gajendra Varadarajar Amman: Sridevi, Bhudevi

Introduction

The Gajendra Varadarajar Melpalandai temple is a significant and ancient place of worship dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Temple Description:

The Gajendra Varadarajar Melpalandai temple is a large and ancient temple facing east, although it is currently in a dilapidated condition. The temple complex includes a five-tiered Rajagopuram (tower) overgrown with plants at its east-facing entrance.
The temple features a spacious Prakaram (circumambulatory path) that houses the Sanctum Sanctorum along with various shrines. The complex also includes a stone Dwajasthambam (flag post) and a flagstaff. In front of the main deity, there is a Mandapam with a sculpture of Garuda, who is the divine vehicle of Lord Vishnu.
Inside the temple compound, you can find various carvings and idols scattered about.

Location:

Gajendra Varadarajar Melpalandai is situated at the confluence of the Cheyyar River and another minor river. The temple is located 11 kilometers to the east of Aarani and approximately 20 kilometers to the west of Cheyyar.

Historical Significance:

The Gajendra Varadarajar Melpalandai temple is believed to be about 1,000 years old, as suggested by a few stone inscriptions found on the sanctum walls. However, specific historical information about the temple is not currently available.

Puranic Significance:

This temple is closely associated with the legend of Lord Vishnu descending to Earth to protect Gajendra, who was a king in the form of an elephant. Gajendra was in dire straits as he was trapped by a Makara, a crocodile, which had a firm grip on his legs. With Lord Vishnu’s divine grace and intervention, Gajendra attained Moksha, which is salvation or liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

The Gajendra Varadarajar Melpalandai temple stands as a place of historical and religious significance, and although it is in a state of disrepair, it remains an important site for devotees and seekers of spirituality.