Srivanchiyam Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple, Thiruvarur

Address

Srivanchiyam Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple, Srivanchiyam Temple Rd, Thiruvarur District, Tamil Nadu 610107 Mobile: +91 94424 6763

Diety

Sri Varadaraja Perumal Amman: Sridevi, Bhudevi

Introduction

The Varadaraja Perumal Temple in Srivanchiyam Village, Thiruvarur District, Tamil Nadu, is a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Historical Significance: The temple is believed to be around 1000 years old and holds historical and religious significance. It is associated with the divine reunion of Lord Vishnu (Perumal) and Goddess Mahalakshmi.
Reunion of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Mahalakshmi: The temple’s history is intertwined with the divine episode of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Mahalakshmi. After an incident involving Bhrigu Rishi kicking Lord Vishnu on the chest, Goddess Mahalakshmi left Vaikuntam. In an attempt to reunite with her, Lord Vishnu undertook penance in Srivanchiyam, and it was Lord Shiva who helped them reconcile. The place came to be known as “Sri Vanchiyam,” signifying the reunion of the divine couple.
Legend of the Sacred Pond: As part of the reconciliation, Goddess Mahalakshmi created a sacred pond near the temple. After taking a bath in this pond and praying to Lord Vishnu, she made a resolution not to be separated from her husband. This sacred pond is known as “Lakshmi Theertham.”
Theerthams: The temple has three sacred ponds, each with its significance. Lakshmi Theertham, created by Sridevi, is believed to reunite people with their estranged families when they take a holy dip on a Friday in the Tamil month of Avani. Sesha Theertham, created by Adi Sesha, can cleanse devotees of Naga Dosha when they bathe on Thiruvonam day in the Tamil month of Vaikasi. Chakra Theertham, created by Chakkarathalwar, can absolve devotees of Brahmahatti Dosha when they bathe on Dwadasi, following an Ekadasi fast in the Tamil month of Avani.
Religious Significance: The temple is considered a Parikara Sthalam for people with Doshas related to various zodiac signs, including Mesha (Aries), Rishaba (Taurus), Kadaga (Cancer), Simha (Leo), and Kanya (Virgo).
Temple Structure: The Varadaraja Perumal Temple is a small temple with a sanctum, Artha Mandapam, and Vahana Mandapam. It features a Dwajasthambam (flagstaff) and an idol of Garudazhwar, facing the sanctum.
Deities: The presiding deity of the temple is Varadaraja Perumal, who stands in an east-facing posture with consorts Sri and Bhoo Devi. Goddess Mahalakshmi has a separate sanctum in the Vanchinathaswamy Temple.
Festivals: The temple celebrates various festivals, including Garuda Sevai on Vaikunta Ekadesi, Special Thirumanjanam on Thiruvonam day, Thirumanjanam on Puratasi Saturdays, and Navarathri Utsavam.
Beneficial for Families: Many devotees who faced marital discord have found solace in this temple. Bathing at Lakshmi Theertham and praying to Lord Kalyana Varadaraja Perumal has reportedly helped reconcile estranged families.
Garuda Sevai: Garuda Sevai, held on Vaikunta Ekadesi, involves a procession of Lord Vishnu on the Garuda Vahana around the temple’s four Mada Streets, attracting a large number of devotees.

The Varadaraja Perumal Temple in Srivanchiyam is not only a place of religious significance but also a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the region.