Adhi Varaha Perumal Temple, Kallidaikurichi – The
Temple
Aadi Varaha temple is a small temple located at
the heart of Kallidaikurichi village. The east facing temple does not have
tower, but has the flag staff, bali peetha and Garuda facing the main shrine.
The temple has two prakaras. The structure belongs to 15th century CE. The east
facing sanctum sanctorum has the idol of Varaha in the sitting posture holding
Lakshmi on his left lap. The Utsava idols of Lakshmipati along with
his two consorts are also found in the sanctum. It is generally Bhoomi Devi who
is found along with Varaha. It is unique in this temple.
As Lord always is with Mother, He is praised as
Nitya Kalyana Perumal – Perumal ever in his wedding style, hence the place is
also called Kalyanapuri. Wedding means Kalyanam in
Tamil. For a good match, those awaiting marriage, perform
Tirumanjanam to the procession deity for desired results. As a tradition,
Thayar and Sri Andal have their shrines separately in prakara on both sides in
Perumal temples. Here, Mothers Sridevi and Bhoodevi are in separate
shrines in the prakara.
Great celebrated musician and composer Sri
Muthuswamy Dishithar had authored many Keerthanas-Songs on Adhi Varaha
Perumal. The temple has many Garuda Sevas as many devotees organize
this event as their prayer commitment. Two sub shrines are found in the either
sides of the main shrine - for Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi. Both of them are found
with four arms and in the sitting posture. It should be noted that unlike other
Vishnu temples, Andal is not found; instead, Bhoo Devi is found.
The idols of Vishwaksenar, few Alwars, Vishnu with
Lakshmi on his left lap and Dasha Avatars (ten incarnations of Vishnu) are also
found in this temple. Above the sanctum sanctorum in the first tier of the
vimana, there is a shrine for Sayana Perumal - Vishnu in the
reclining posture with Brahma on his navel and his two consorts on his feet, All
these idols are colorful stucco images. After the morning Tirumanjanam to Lord
Adhi Varaha, one Puja is dedicated to this Perumal when alone devotees can have
this darshan.
Main Garudazhwar is on the western
wall. On Aadi month-July-August- on the Swati Star day, special
Tirumanjanam and pujas are offered to him and dressed with flowers. The Agraharam
street facing the temple's entrance is a peaceful and beautiful location.
Appalams, Vadams, Murukku and other such items are very popular in this village
and they can be bought in this street. Sacred water is brought every morning
from the Tamaraibarani for the Tirumanjanam that is performed every day for the
moolavar deity.
