Kanchipuram Temples
SRI VARDARAJA PERUMAL TEMPLE
Varadarajar temple is a massive and impressive edifice. The Hundred-Pillar-hall
erected during the Vijayanagar period in this temple is noted for its exquisite
sculptures.This is an extremely large temple with abundant sculptures. This
temple is made up of several sub-shrines. This is also called the Devaraja Swamy
temple.
This temple provides a glimpse of 16th century pillared pavilion with an exuberant
workmanship.this temple situated on the top of Hastigiri or Elephant Hill. One
has to ascend 24 steps up the hill to reach the sanctum sanctorum.Lord Varadaraja
is in standing posture facing towards the west with his gracious look. The figure
is huge in size with four hands holding the insignias of Sankha, Chakra, etc.,
and richly decorated with costly jewels.
The main Deity of Sri Varadaraja Perumal in this temple is very large, and is
believed to be second in size to none other than the Deity of Sri Venkateswara
of Tirumala-Tirupathi in Andhra Pradesh. Significant among other things in this
temple are the sculptures of two lizards carved on the ceiling of the corridor
enclosing the Sanctum. The lizards, one covered with a sheet of Gold and the
other with a sheet of Silver.The sculptures of the Sun and the Moon can be
found beside those of the lizards.The sculptures and paintings in this temple
are absolutely amazing. Significant among the sculptures is the "Nooru
Kaal Mandapam" or 100 Pillar Hall. This entire masterpiece has been sculpted
out of a single rock.The ornamental rings carved out of a single stone in a
chain at the four corners are the special features of the hall.The riders on
horseback , beautiful figures of Rathi and Manmatha, exquisite temple jewellery
are other notable features.
This temple is an important stopover point for almost all tourist buses that
come into Kanchipuram. Although the temple never gets crowded (it is too big),
the queue at the Sanctum gets backed up very often. Note that as a tradition,
Vaishnavite temples always close at Noon, to be reopened in the evening. You
can expect the Santum of this temple to be closed in the afternoon, too. While
you are there, don't forget to taste the food sold at the Temple's Madappalli
(Kitchen). There are stories about how Arignar Anna, strikingly one of the strongest
atheist leaders known in Tamilnadu, loved the food from this temple's kitchen.
Anna's house is located right next to the temple premises and has been converted
into a Memorial Center.
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