Padagacheri Kandu Ullam Magizhndha Perumal Temple, Thiruvarur

Address

Padagacheri Kandu Ullam Magizhndha Perumal Temple, Padagacheri Post, Valangaiman Taluk, Thiruvarur district – 612 804 Phone: + 91 43746 2815253 Mobile: +91 97517 34868 / 99528 48340

Deity

Kandu Ullam Magizhndha Perumal Amman: Sridevi and Bhoodevi

Introduction

Location: Padagacheri, Thiruvarur District, Tamil Nadu.
Deity: Presiding deity is Lord Vishnu, referred to as Kandu Ullam Magizhndha Perumal. The temple also honors the divine consorts Sridevi and Bhoodevi.
Historical Significance: The temple is believed to be around 1000 years old.
Geographical Feature: The Vettaru River flows north-south through the hamlet.

Puranic Significance

Legend of Sita’s Anklet:
- During Ravana’s abduction of Sita, she dropped her anklet (Padagam) as a clue for Lord Rama.
- Lakshmana identified the anklet, confirming it belonged to Sita, leading to Rama’s happiness upon discovering it.
- The name Kandu Ullam Magizhndha Perumal reflects this joy—“Kandu” means seen, “Ullam” means heart, and “Magizhndha” means happy.
- The place derived its name Padagacheri from the anklet’s presence.
Padagacheri Ramalinga Swamigal:
- The village is associated with the enlightened soul Ramalinga Swamigal, a mendicant dedicated to temple renovation and construction.
- Known as Padagacheri Mahan, he collected funds from villagers for temple work and was renowned for his healing abilities.
- He organized large-scale annadhanam (feeding the poor), especially on full moon days and festivals, feeding over one lakh people.
- His Jeeva Samadhi is located in Thiruvotriyur, near Saint Pattinathar’s.
- Miraculous occurrences during his feeding events, such as dogs appearing in human form, are still reported today.
- He attained salvation on Aadi Pooram in 1949.

Beliefs

Blessings: Devotees experience happiness upon darshan of Perumal and believe they will be blessed with children and repayment of debts.
Rituals: Devotees perform Tirumanjanam (ritual bathing) for Perumal and the goddesses, offering vastras (clothing).

Special Features

Deity Representation: Kandu Ullam Magizhndha Perumal is depicted in a standing posture, alongside Sridevi and Bhoodevi, facing east.
Height and Appeal: The deity stands 3.5 feet tall, described as handsome and pleasing to devotees.
Hut Housing: The idol has been kept in a thatched shed for the past 250 years but continues to fulfill devotees’ wishes.
Miraculous Events: A recent incident involved a ray of light passing through the Tilak of Perumal, thrilling the devotees present.
Adjacent Shrine: Lord Pasupatheeswarar and Mother Soundarya Nayaki grace a separate shrine within the temple complex.