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Govindaraja Perumal Temple, Chidambaram

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Introduction

Govindaraja Perumal Temple is a prominent Vishnu shrine. This is unique in the sense that it is located in the famous Thillai Nataraja Temple, dedicated to the dancing form of Shiva. This temple is in the well-known Chidambaram town in the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu. Here, Vishnu is worshipped as Lord Govindaraja, and his consort is Pundarikavalli. Govindaraja Perumal has been glorified in the hymns of the Vaishnavite Azhwar saints, and this temple remains a Divyadesam, a particularly sacred abode of Vishnu, known as Thillai Thiruchitrakoodam.

Temple Legends

Govindaraja Perumal Temple

The place used to be known traditionally as Thillai or Thillaivanam, named after the grove of Tillai trees that are found here in large numbers. As per a legend, Lord Govindaraja came down to this place for the sake of sage Kanwar and the Dikshidars of the Nataraja temple.

But there is an interesting story linking the Gods Shiva and Vishnu, and also Goddess Kali, to this place. Once, there arose an argument between Shiva and his consort Parvati, as to who was better in dancing. A competition was held in Thillaivanam with Vishnu as the judge. It was a tough duel with an exemplary performance by both Shiva and Parvati, when Shiva chose to perform Urthvathandava, by picking up his earring with his foot and wearing it in the ear by raising his leg to that level. But being a woman, Parvati could not perform this feat. Thus, the judge Vishnu declared Shiva the winner, while Parvati, as Kali, withdrew to the other part of the town, where she is worshipped as Thillai Kali.

The History and Architecture of Govindaraja Perumal Temple, Chidamabaram

This is an ancient temple built through generous contributions from the rulers of many dynasties like Pallava, Chola, Pandya, Chera, and Vijayanagara. Lord Govindaraja is in the reclining posture known as Bhoga Sayanam, with conch and discus in his hands. Brahma usually found sitting in the lotus flower that emerges from Vishnu’s navel, is seen here, standing in the flower. The sanctum sanctorum, known as Chitra Sabha, is near the main shrine of Lord Nataraja. Thus, from the hall in front of the shrine, one can have the darshan of Vishnu as Govindaraja, Shiva as Nataraja, and Brahma - that is, the Trimurthis, at the same time. The roof of the sanctum is Sadvika Vimana, while the festival deity is Devadhi Devan. Lords Rama and Narashima are also housed in this temple.

It is believed that Chola king Kulothunga II, an ardent Shaivite, pulled out the idol of Govindaraja from the temple, in the 12th Century CE. Some devotees saved the festival deity by rushing it to Tirupathi, where it can be worshipped in the Govindaraja Perumal temple downhill, even today. Some believe that it was saint Ramanuja, who thus protected the processional idol from destruction. The image of the principal deity Govindaraja was reinstalled in the temple in the 16th century by King Krishnappa Nayaka, overcoming resistance.

Temple Festivals

Brahmotsavam in Chittirai, Vaikunta Ekadasi in Margazhi, and Gajendra Moksham are prominent among the many festivals celebrated in this temple.

Benefits of worshipping Chidambaram Govindaraja Perumal

Govindaraja Perumal is regarded as merciful, and people worship the Lord for growth in their career, peace, and happiness. Devotees also pray to him for being just and fair in their thoughts, actions, and dealings.

How to reach Govindaraja Perumal Temple, Chidambaram
By Air

Trichy airport is about 170 kilometers from the temple and can be reached by road.

By Rail

Chidambaram railway station is near the temple, only.

By Road

Chidambaram is a prominent pilgrim center and is well connected within the state and also outside.

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