Poonamallee Thirukachi Nambigal & Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Chennai

Address

Poonamallee Thirukachi Nambigal & Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Chennai
Poonamallee,
Chennai, Tamilnadu – 600056.

Phone: +91 44-26272066

Moolavar

Varadaraja Perumal

Amman

Pushpakavalli Thayar.

Introduction

The Varadaraja Perumal Temple in Poonamallee, a suburb of Chennai, India, is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Varadaraja Perumal and his consort, Pushpakavalli Thayar.

Historical Background: The temple’s exact construction date is not known, but it is believed to have been built during the period of Parantaka Chozha-I (907 to 954 CE). It has also received contributions and renovations from various dynasties, including the Vijayanagara Dynasty and Nayaks.
Name Variations: The temple has been referred to by different names over time, including Pushpaporu Kshetram, Poovirantha Kshetram, and Poonthanmallai.
Thirukatchi Nambi Alwar: Thirukatchi Nambi Alwar, born as Gajendra Dasar in 1009 AD, was a Vaishnavite saint associated with this temple. He was known for his devotion and daily pushpa kainkaryam (offering of flowers) to Lord Varadaraja Perumal in Kanchipuram. He served the deity in various temples, including Kanchipuram, Srirangam, and Tirupati. His unwavering devotion led to a unique incident where Lord Varadaraja Perumal gave him moksha (liberation).
Surya and Mars Worship: It is believed that both the Sun God and Mars (Angaraka) worshiped Lord Varadaraja Perumal at this temple.
Purpose of Devotees’ Visits: Devotees visit this temple seeking various blessings, including fame, freedom from diseases, wealth, courage, relief from the adverse effects of planetary aspects, and freedom from bondage.
Unique Architectural Features: One of the striking features of the Varadaraja Perumal Temple is its five-storied gopura (tower) at the entrance. This gopura is broad at the base and rises in diminishing tiers to a height of about 25 meters from the ground level. Additionally, there is an Unjal Mantapa (swing pavilion) added during the Vijayanagara period, built by Achyutappa Nayaka.
Legend of Thirukatchi Nambi Alwar: Thirukatchi Nambi Alwar’s devotion to Lord Varadaraja Perumal and the special darshan he received are central to the temple’s history. It is believed that Lord Varadaraja Perumal, Lord Venkatesaperumal, and Lord Ranganathar all gave darshan to him simultaneously at this sacred place.
Deities and Beliefs: The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Varadaraja Perumal) and Goddess Shakti (Pushpavalli Thayar). Devotees hold strong beliefs in the blessings and protection provided by these deities.
Festivals: The temple hosts various festivals throughout the year to celebrate the deities. Some of the notable festivals include Thirukachi Nambi Avathara Utsavam in Maasi, Ranganatha Utsavam in Chitrai, Varadaraja Utsavam in Vaikasi, and Srinivasa Utsavam in Puratasi.

The Varadaraja Perumal Temple in Poonamallee is not only a place of worship but also a historical and architectural marvel that holds significant religious and cultural importance in the region. It is a place where devotees come to seek divine blessings and participate in various festivals dedicated to the deities.