Introduction
The Sundararaja
Perumal Temple, also known as Vadivazhagiya Nambi Perumal Temple, is
a serene Divya Desam located in Thiruanbil, a riverside village
near Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu. Nestled on the banks of the Kollidam
River, this temple is steeped in legend, devotion, and architectural grace,
making it a cherished destination for pilgrims and heritage seekers alike.
Quick Facts Table
|
Attribute |
Details |
|
Location |
Thiruanbil, near
Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu |
|
Significance |
One of the 108 Divya
Desams |
|
Built By |
Medieval Cholas (8th
century CE) |
|
Main Deity |
Sundararaja Perumal
(Vishnu) |
|
Consort |
Sundaravalli Thayar
(Lakshmi) |
|
Sacred Tank |
Manduka Theertham |
|
Temple Timings |
7:00 AM – 12:30 PM,
4:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
|
Major Festival |
Tirthavari (Maasi,
Feb–Mar) |
History
Built in the 8th
century CE by the Medieval Cholas, the temple later received
contributions from the Vijayanagara and Nayak dynasties. Despite
invasions and damage, it has been carefully restored over centuries. Its
riverside setting and layered heritage reflect both resilience and devotion.
Sthala Puranam (Legends)
- Sage Suthaba’s Redemption:
Cursed by Durvasa to become a frog, Sage Suthaba performed penance here.
Vishnu appeared as Sundararajan and redeemed him.
- Brahma’s Relief:
Lord Brahma, cursed for his pride, worshipped Vishnu here and was freed
from his curse.
Presiding Deity
- Main Deity:
Sundararaja Perumal (Vishnu in a beautiful form).
- Consort:
Sundaravalli Thayar (Lakshmi).
- Sacred Features:
The Tharaga Vimanam above the sanctum and the Manduka Theertham
tied to the frog legend.
Temple Architecture
The temple showcases Chola
architecture, with later Vijayanagara and Nayak influences. Its sanctum,
vimana, and mandapams reflect simplicity, strength, and timeless devotion.
Sub Shrines
The temple complex
includes shrines dedicated to Thayar (Lakshmi) and other deities,
enhancing its spiritual completeness.
Daily Rituals
Six daily pujas are
performed:
- 7:00 AM – Usha Kalam
- 8:00 AM – Kalashanti
- 12:00 Noon – Ucchi Kalam
- 6:00 PM – Sayarakshai
- 7:00 PM – Irandam Kalam
- 8:00 PM – Ardha Jamam
Major Festivals
- Tirthavari (Maasi, Feb–Mar):
The most prominent festival.
- Vaikunta Ekadashi:
Celebrated with special rituals and large gatherings.
Darshan Timings
- Morning:
7:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Evening:
4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
How to Reach
- By Air:
Nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ), 25
km away. Taxis and app-based cabs take 40–45 minutes.
- By Train:
Nearest station is Tiruchirappalli Junction (TPJ), 20 km away.
Local buses or taxis connect to Anbil village.
- By Road:
About 15 km from Srirangam. Buses from Chatram Bus Stand via
Lalgudi stop near Anbil. Self-driving via NH38 and Lalgudi Road
is convenient.
Nearby Temples
- Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple
- Uthamar Kovil
- Thiruvellarai Temple
Spiritual Significance
Devotees believe worship
here grants relief from curses, spiritual redemption, and inner beauty.
The temple’s tranquil riverside setting enhances its spiritual ambiance, making
it a place of peace and renewal.
Frequently Asked
Questions
Q1. What is the best time
to visit Sundararaja Perumal Temple? October to February,
especially early mornings for peaceful darshan.
Q2. What is the temple’s
main festival? The Tirthavari festival in Maasi
(Feb–Mar).
Q3. How far is the temple
from Srirangam? Approximately 15 km.
Q4. What attire is
recommended? Traditional attire—dhotis/veshtis for
men, sarees/salwar kameez for women.
Conclusion
The Sundararaja
Perumal Temple in Thiruanbil is a timeless Divya Desam blending Chola
heritage, sacred legends, and spiritual serenity. Whether seeking
redemption, blessings, or simply peace by the Kollidam River, this temple
offers a deeply fulfilling experience for devotees and travelers alike.