Poonamallee Varadarajar Temple

Poonamallee, a quaint township in close proximity to Chennai, one of India's four metropolitan cities, boasts a pair of ancient temples – one dedicated to Lord Shiva and the other to Lord Vishnu, known as the Varadarajar Temple.

Originally known as "Poovirundavalli" or "Pushpavalli," which translates to "abode of Jasmine flowers," Poonamallee holds historical significance as the birthplace of Tirukatchi Nambi, a revered devotee of Lord Vishnu. Consequently, the 10th-century Varadarajar Temple is also referred to as the Tirukatchi Nambi Temple. A local belief suggests that Goddess Lakshmi manifested from a jasmine flower to Tirukatchi Nambi at this site. Situated in close proximity to the Poonamallee bus stand, the temple enshrines Varadarajar as its principal deity and Pushpavalli as its Goddess.

A striking tower graces the temple's exterior, complemented by a flagstaff opposite the sanctum. The sanctum houses an image of Tirukatchi Nambi seated in meditation. The presiding deity Varadarajar is accompanied by his consorts Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi. An interesting facet is that Varadarajar's icon faces westward. Garuda faces the shrine of Varadarajar. Legend holds that Lord Vishnu appeared in the forms of Varadaraja, Ranganatha, and Venkatesa in this very temple, prompting the establishment of a shrine for Ranganatha adjacent to that of Varadarajar. The shrine of Srinivasa Perumal (Venkatesa) is positioned near the flagstaff.

Notably, the shrine of Ranganathar boasts a unique feature – an image of Vishnu's Kurma Avatar (tortoise) situated at the base of the Ranganathar. In addition to this, Ranganathar is depicted alongside Brahma, Sri Devi, Bhoo Devi, and Adi Sesha. Nearby, shrines for Ramanuja, various Alwars, and Vishvaksena can be found. A separate shrine houses a captivating image of Krishna, referred to as Kannan, within this temple.

Within the temple's corridor, shrines for Goddess Pushpavalli and Andal are situated. A sacred tree hosts an image of Krishna in a joyful dance atop a snake. Hanuman and Alavandan also have dedicated shrines within the corridor. A shrine for Srinivasa Perumal, accompanied by his consorts Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi, completes the scene.

An intriguing natural phenomenon occurs annually between February and March, from the 21st to the 25th, at 6 AM, when sunlight specifically graces the Lord's face in the temple.

For those fortunate enough to journey to Poonamallee, a visit to this temple is highly recommended.

Happy travelling.