Thirukaragam Temple, Kanchipuram

Introduction

Thirukaragam is a shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This shrine remains a part of the Ulagalantha Perumal Temple in the historical town of Kanchipuram. The presiding deity here is Sri Karunakaran, and hence, this is also called Karunakara Perumal temple. His consort is Padmamani Naachiyaar. The Azhwar saints have sung hymns about this Lord, and hence, this temple is counted as a Divyadesam, a special abode of Vishnu. There are as many as 4 Divya Desams in the Ulagalantha Perumal temple complex. Apart from Thiru Karagam, the others are Thiru Ooragam, Thiru Kaarvaanam, and Thiru Neeragam. ‘Kaar’ in Tamil can mean black clouds that provide the much-needed rains to the world. The Lord is similar too, who showers his love and blessings on the people just like the rain-bearing clouds, seeking only pure devotion in return. So, the Lord, who shows ‘Karuna,’ the compassion without any expectation, is rightly called Karunakara. Besides, he is facing South, the direction that brings a cool breeze, and it is believed that his grace, too, can be breezy and have a soothing effect on people.

Temple Legends

There was a sage by name Garga, who performed penance towards Lord Vishnu at this sacred place and attained immense knowledge. Since that time, this place has come to be known as Gargaham or Garagaham, which term later transformed to Kaaragam. As per another story, king Akraya was once suffering from serious and chronic illness and was looking desperately for relief. The king is said to have come to this temple, taken a holy dip in the tank, and prayed earnestly to the Lord. Thanks to the abundant grace of Karunakara Perumal, he was cured completely of his illness and was restored to normal health.

The Architecture of Thirukaragam Temple, Kanchipuram

Karunakara Perumal is seated on Adisesha in his shrine and is facing South. He is seen here with his consort is Padmamani Naachiyaar. He is said to be demonstrating to the world that he is like the clouds that bring rain to the world so as to make it rich and fertile. The temple has a three-tier Rajagopuram, the entrance tower, whereas the roof above the shrine is Vamana Vimanam or Ramaya Vimanam, and the temple tank is Agraya Tirtha.

Temple Festivals

Brahmotsavam in Vaikasi (May-June), Vaikunta Ekadasi in Margazhi (December-January), and Pavitrotsavam in Panguni (March-April) are among the important festivals of this temple.

Benefits of worshipping the Lord of Thirukaragam Temple

This Lord is believed to be a great healer. There is a belief that worshipping him can cure all diseases, including mental disorders, nervous disabilities, skin ailments, speech impairment, etc. He can also clear distress and worries, and help people lead a life of health and happiness.