The Sri Azhagu Perumal Temple, also known as Sundara Varadaraja Perumal Temple, is a historic Vaishnavite temple located in Vaniyambadi, Tamil Nadu.The temple is situated close to the Palar River, adding to its serene and spiritual ambiance. The temple is a hidden gem for devotees of Lord Vishnu and for lovers of ancient South Indian temple architecture.
The presiding deity of this temple is Sri Azhagu Perumal, also known as Sundara Varadaraja Perumal. He is seen in a majestic standing posture, flanked by his divine consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi. The temple follows Dravidian architecture and features a beautiful 3-tier Rajagopuram (entrance tower). The layout includes the sanctum (garbhagriha), artha mandapam (inner hall), and mukha mandapam (open-pillared hall), typical of ancient South Indian temples. The temple is well-maintained and preserves its age-old charm with intricate carvings and sculptures.
Inside the temple complex, there are separate shrines for several deities. These include Garuda, the vahana (mount) of Vishnu; Lakshmi Narayana Perumal; Chakrathazhwar with Yoga Narasimhar; and Bala Anjaneya
This temple has a very ancient history dating back to the Chola period. Inscriptions found in the temple show that it was originally built during the rule of Madhurantaka Chola in the 10th century CE. The place was once known as Madhurantaka Chozha Chaturvedi Mangalam, indicating that it was a Brahmin settlement patronized by the Chola kings. During the Vijayanagara Empire in the 15th and 16th centuries, the temple was further renovated and expanded. These historical layers can still be seen in the temple wall inscriptions and construction styles.
In ancient times, the land around Vaniyambadi was part of a sacred village known as Madhurantaka Chozha Chaturvedi Mangalam. This area was blessed with learned Brahmins who chanted Vedas and performed daily rituals with utmost devotion. However, a time came when a severe drought struck the region. Crops failed, rivers dried up, and the people suffered greatly.
The king of the land, Madhurantaka Chola, a pious ruler and a great devotee of Lord Vishnu, prayed with deep sincerity for the wellbeing of his people. The people of the village also came together and offered collective prayers and homams, pleading for divine grace.
Moved by their sincere devotion and suffering, Lord Vishnu appeared magnificently, radiating divine beauty and compassion. He stood in full glory with his consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi, blessing the land with fertility and peace. This divine form was so stunning that the people called Him Azhagu Perumal – “The Beautiful Lord.”
The rains returned, the river Palar flowed again, and prosperity spread across the land. To honor this divine appearance, the king and his people built a temple at the very spot where the Lord revealed himself.
This temple became a center of worship for centuries, with the Lord known not only for His graceful form but also for granting boons related to marriage, children, health, and mental peace.
The most important festival in this temple is the Vaikunta Ekadasi, when special poojas, alankarams (decorations), and processions are conducted. Other major festivals include Brahmotsavam, Sri Rama Navami, Krishna Jayanthi, and Narasimha Jayanti.