Ramanuja-Swami-Temple--Sriperumbudur-(4)_800X600_original_watermark
Ramanuja-Swami-Temple--Sriperumbudur-(4)_800X600_original_watermark

Introduction & Spiritual Essence

The Adikesava Perumal Temple in Sriperumpudur is not merely a monument of stone but a living chronicle of Vishishtadvaita philosophy. Located in the Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu, this ancient Sriperumpudur Perumal Temple is revered as the Janmasthan (birthplace) of the world-renowned saint, Sri Ramanujacharya.

The primary deity, Adikesava Perumal, is a form of Lord Vishnu appearing with Yatirajanathavalli Thayar (Goddess Lakshmi). Uniquely, the Goddess here is named after a devotee, highlighting her role as a granter of boons. Devotees visit this temple primarily to cleanse ancestral karma and to seek relief from Rahu-Ketu Dosham and Kalasarpa Dosham in their horoscopes. It is widely believed that worshipping here paves the way to Moksha (liberation) by the grace of Ramanuja.

Phalaśruti: The Boons of Visiting

According to temple lore and devotee experiences:

  • Relief from Doshas: Performing Abhishekam for Ramanuja with milk is believed to nullify the adverse effects of planetary alignments.
  • Curing Illness: The Eravadai Theertham (holy water from the cloth used to wipe the deity) is said to cure chronic skin diseases and even cancer.
  • Blessings of Progeny: Childless couples pray here for the boon of children.
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Historical Origins & Scriptural Legend

The Architect: King Hareetha

While the exact construction date remains elusive in stone inscriptions, temple records and the Sthala Purana attribute the original structure to King Hareetha Maharaja (a descendant of the Solar Dynasty). Originally a Kshatriya, the King was cursed for killing a tiger to save a cow. After bathing in the Anantha Sarasu (the temple tank) and worshipping Lord Adikesava, he was absolved of his sins and blessed to become a Brahmin. He subsequently rebuilt the temple.

The Ramanujacharya Connection

The temple is the focal point of the Ramanujacharya Jayanti. Born here in 1017 CE on a Thursday in the Tamil month of Chithirai, Ramanuja spent his early years here. A distinct mandapam inside the temple complex marks the exact spot where the saint was born.

The Legend of Boodhapuri

Sriperumpudur was formerly known as Boodhapuri. Legend holds that Lord Shiva, upon cursing his Bhootha Ganas (attendants) to live on Earth, directed them to this sacred land. Lord Maha Vishnu, as Adikesava, granted them salvation, hence the name derived from “Bhoodha” (spirit) and “Puri” (town).

Architectural Marvels

The temple is a classic example of Dravidian architecture. It does not possess a Swarga Vasal (celestial gate), as tradition holds that true liberation is achieved solely through the grace of Ramanuja.

Key Structural Elements

The complex features three distinct Prakarams (enclosures). A striking feature is the gold-plated sanctum of Ramanuja, built by the Maharaja of Mysore. The Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) houses the swayambhu form of Adikesava.

Notable Sculptures

  • The Lizard Sculpture: Located behind Ramanuja’s shrine, devotees worship this carving to be relieved of sins.
  • Than Uganda Thirumeni: This refers to the Archa Vigraham (idol) of Ramanuja made of five metals (gold, silver, bronze, copper, and iron). It is believed that Ramanuja infused his divine energy into this idol shortly before his Samadhi.

Darshan & Ritual Logistics (2026 Guide)

The temple is maintained by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board. Below are the standard operating hours and major upcoming festivals for 2026.

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Daily Timings

SessionTiming
Morning Darshan06:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Afternoon Break12:00 PM – 04:00 PM
Evening Darshan04:00 PM – 08:30 PM

Note: Pooja timings are strictly observed as Ushathkalam (8 AM), Kalasanthi (10 AM), Sayarakshai (5 PM), and Ardha Jamam (7 PM).

Key Sevas & Online Booking

Devotees can perform Abhishekam and Archana. A unique ritual here is the Milk Abhishekam for Ramanuja, performed on the Thiruvadirai star day every month.

Book Your Seva Online: While specific 2026 links are pending updates, standard bookings are processed via the official Tamil Nadu HR&CE portal.

Visit Official HR&CE Booking Portal

2026 Major Festival Dates

  • Chittirai Brahmotsavam: April 15 – April 25, 2026 (Includes the Bashyakara Avathara Uthsavam).
  • Vasantha Uthsavam: May 20 – May 22, 2026.
  • Panguni Uthiram: March 25 – April 4, 2026 (Includes Thirumanjanam for Ramanuja).
  • Ramanuja Jayanti: Expected May 5, 2026.

Practical Visitor Guidance

To ensure a serene darshan experience, please adhere to the following guidelines:

Dress Code & Etiquette

Traditional attire is mandatory. Men should wear Veshti (dhoti) or formal trousers with a shirt. Women should wear sarees, half-sarees, or salwar kameez. Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops.

Crowd Management

  • Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings (Tuesday–Friday) are least crowded.
  • Seasonal Advice: Carry water and an umbrella during the summer months (April–June). The Anantha Sarasu tank provides a cool resting spot.
  • Mobile/Storage: The temple does not have a centralized locker system. It is advised to travel light and leave valuables in your vehicle.

Accessibility

The temple complex is largely accessible, though the inner sanctum involves steps. Wheelchair access is available for the outer Mandapas.

Pilgrimage Connectivity

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport (MAA), approximately 45 km away.

By Rail: The nearest railway stations are Chennai Central or Chengalpattu. From there, take a taxi or bus to Sriperumpudur.

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By Road: The temple is located on the Chennai-Bangalore Highway (NH 48), approximately 40 km southwest of Chennai.

Pilgrimage Circuit: Nearby Sacred Sites

Extend your journey by visiting these nearby Divya Desams:

  1. Sholinghur (Sri Yoga Narasimhar Temple): Located about 50 km away, famous for the twin hilltop temples.
  2. Kanchipuram (Varadaraja Perumal Temple): The capital of the Pallava dynasty, located 35 km away.
  3. Thiruvallur (Sri Veeraraghava Swamy Temple): A vital healing temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu as a physician.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there a VIP darshan entry?

Yes, the temple management provides special entry darshan for senior citizens and specially-abled devotees. VIP tickets can be purchased at the counter, subject to availability.

Can I perform the milk abhishekam for Ramanuja myself?

The milk Abhishekam is a special ritual. While devotees can request the priests to perform it on their behalf, the physical offering is usually done by the temple priests during the Thiruvadirai star.

What is the significance of the “Eravadai Theertham”?

This holy water is derived from the cloth used to wipe the deity of Ramanuja after his daily bath. It is considered highly potent for curing diseases and is given as Prasadam.

Are there accommodation facilities near the temple?

While the temple itself does not have guest houses, Sriperumpudur has several lodges and hotels. For a spiritual stay, Kanchipuram offers numerous choultries and mutts.

What is the specialty of the Chella Pillai Utsavam?

This festival commemorates the legend where Ramanuja recovered the idol of Narayanapuram from Delhi. The idol is believed to have fallen onto his lap like a child during the rescue, celebrated annually with great fervor.

Is photography allowed?

Photography is strictly prohibited inside the inner sanctum and the sanctum sanctorum of Ramanuja. It is allowed in the outer courtyards, but please respect the privacy of other devotees.

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