Chitra Radha Vallabha Perumal Temple, Kuruvithurai – The
Temple
The
Temple is facing east with 5 tiered Rajagopuram with two prakarams. The temple
which has a strong granite structure has several inscriptions on the Northern
and Southern walls of the prakaram dating back to 1000 years. The temple in its
current form and structure is believed to have been built in the early 12th
century AD during the rule of Jadavarma Vallabha Pandya. Presiding Deity is
called as Chitra Radha Vallaba Perumal. He is almost a 10 ft high sandalwood
idol seen in a majestic standing posture along with Sridevi and Bhoo Devi.
Mother
is called as Shenbagavalli Thaayar and she is housed in a sperate shrine. Though
the primary deity of the temple is actually Lord Vishnu, the temple is famous
as Lord Guru’s shrine. Jupiter (Guru) shrine is situated in front of the
Eastern Rajagopuram where he is seen facing west - in the direction of the main
deity - Chitra Ratha Vallabha Perumal. Lord Guru is called as Yoga Guru.
In fact,
Lord Guru in meditating posture and Chakkarathzhwar are seen together in a
single shrine and they are said to have emerged Swayambu (on their own) at this
place. The idols of 12 Alwars (sage poets who eulogized Perumal) are in a
single form. Theertham associated with this Temple is Vaigai River. Vaigai
River runs besides the temple adds to the beauty of the temple.
