Sri Ashtabujakara Perumal Temple is one of the Divya Desams, the 108 Vishnu temples revered in the sacred Tamil hymns of the Azhwars. Located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, this temple stands out due to its unique depiction of Lord Vishnu with eight arms, each holding different divine weapons. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Vaishnavites and is steeped in history, mythology, and spiritual significance.
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- History/Legend of the Temple The Sri Ashtabujakara Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Ashtabujakara (eight-armed) form. According to legend, Vishnu took this powerful form to protect the world from evil forces and maintain cosmic order. Each of his eight arms holds symbolic items like the conch, discus, mace, and lotus, representing his divine functions of creation, preservation, and destruction. The temple is significant in the Vaishnavite tradition, especially because it is glorified in the hymns of the Alwars, who were devoted to Lord Vishnu. Kanchipuram, known as a sacred city, is home to many temples dedicated to Vishnu, and this one stands as a prominent Divya Desam. Devotees believe that worshiping Lord Ashtabujakara Perumal here brings divine blessings for spiritual growth and material prosperity.
- Name of the Deities Sri Aadhikesava Perumal (Lord Vishnu). Sri Alarmelmangai Thayaar (Goddess Lakshmi).
- Nearby Cities and Distance Chennai (Tambaram) (49.5 km). Vandavasi (40.5 km). Vellore (70.1 km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Car. Bus. Train. Bike.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Chennai (Tambaram) - 1 hr 15 min.
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Car - Rs.1500 to Rs.2500. Bus - Rs.50 to Rs.150. Train - Rs.40 to Rs.150.
- Temple Instructions It is recommended that you dress traditionally when visiting the temple. For men, this might mean a dhoti or pants with a shirt. For women, a sari or salwar kameez is appropriate attire. Maintain a calm and tranquil atmosphere inside the temple. Avoid loud speech and maintain silence within the temple grounds, particularly near the sanctum sanctorum. Photography may be prohibited in certain areas of the temple, especially near the shrine or during specified rites. Always check with the temple staff before taking photos.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Vaikunta Ekadasi: One of the most important festivals for Vaishnavites, it celebrates the opening of Vaikunta doors. The temple is beautifully decorated, and special pujas are performed. Brahmotsavam: This is an annual festival dedicated to Lord Ashtabujakara Perumal. It usually lasts for several days and involves processions, special rituals, and a large gathering of devotees. Rama Navami: Celebrating the birth of Lord Rama, this festival is especially important for temples dedicated to Vishnu. Special prayers and rituals are conducted. Vishnu Jayanti: This is the celebration of Lord Vishnu's birth, and temples across India hold grand processions and rituals to honor the deity.
- Rituals Available Not Available.
- Offerings Devotees can offer flowers, fruits, and other items at the temple. You can also offer coconut, camphor, and incense sticks to the deities.
- Prasadham This temple typically offers prasadham, or sacred offerings. Temples frequently offer milk, honey, and special treats as prasadam during Shivaratri or Panguni Uthiram.Devotees may be blessed with milk or sandalwood paste during the ritual bath, known as Abhishekam.
- Benefits of Visiting Worshiping Meenakshi-Sundareswarar is believed to help couples strengthen their bond and lead a harmonious married life.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? Yes
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year Thirumangai Alwar | Nalayira Divya Prabandham | 6th and 9th centuries CE.
- Other things to do / places of interest Kanchi Kudil (3.0 km). Shakuntala Jagannathan Museum (3.2 km). Kanchi Kamakoti Peedam (2.9 km).
- Nearby Temples Varadaraja Perumal Temple. Kamakshi Amman Temple. Ekambareswarar Temple. Shankara Mutt. Kachabeswarar Temple.
- Nearby Eateries Hotel Saravana Bhavan. The Grand Sweets and Snacks. Sree Annapoorna Sweets. Sri Venkateshwara Restaurant. Vasantha Bhavan.
- Hotels / Home stays: Kanchi Heritage Hotel. Sree Kanchi Guest House. Vivek's Homestay. Madhuram Residency. Annamalai Residency.
- Standard Weather Kanchipuram has a tropical, wet and dry climate.
- For the best experience / Must know The Sri Ashtabujakara Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Ashtabujakara form, where he holds eight symbolic items representing his divine powers. It is one of the 108 Divyadesams glorified by the Alwars in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham. The temple is historically and mythologically significant, as it is believed that Lord Vishnu took this form to protect the world from evil forces. The temple's architecture follows traditional Pallava style, and it attracts devotees for spiritual solace, prosperity, and protection. It is also a key part of Kanchipuram's rich pilgrimage circuit.
- Not to miss The Eight-Armed Form of Lord Vishnu reveres the divine Ashtabujakara form, in which Lord Vishnu wields symbolic things such as the conch, discus, mace, and lotus, which signify his cosmic capabilities. The temple is associated with ancient traditions in which Lord Vishnu took on this avatar to restore cosmic equilibrium and defend against evil. The temple is one of the 108 Divyadesams extolled in Alwar hymns, making it a popular pilgrimage destination for Vaishnavites. Don't miss the stunning Pallava-style building, which has finely carved pillars and a grand Raja Gopuram.
- Note for Travelers When visiting the Sri Ashtabujakara Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram, it's best to go during the winter (October to February) for pleasant weather. Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and remove footwear before entering the temple. Carry water and snacks, especially in the summer heat. Respect temple customs and rituals, and take time to admire the unique Ashtabujakara (eight-armed) form of Lord Vishnu. Explore nearby temples like Varadaraja Perumal and Kamakshi Amman. Consider local transportation options and book accommodations in advance, especially during festivals. Enjoy the traditional South Indian cuisine and peaceful atmosphere.
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FAQ's
Where is Sri Ashtabujakara Perumal Temple located?
The temple is located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the Divya Desams, the 108 Vishnu temples praised in the Divya Prabandham.
What is the significance of Sri Ashtabujakara Perumal Temple?
The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known as Ashtabujakara Perumal, meaning the deity with eight arms (Ashta Bhuja). Lord Vishnu is believed to have appeared with eight arms to defeat a demon named Kesi. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams, making it an important pilgrimage site for Vaishnavites.
What is the temple’s architectural style?
The temple follows Dravidian architecture with intricate carvings, a towering gopuram, and a sacred tank.
How can I reach the temple?
By Road: The temple is well connected by road from Chennai (75 km) and other major cities. By Train: The nearest railway station is Kanchipuram Railway Station (3 km away). By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport (around 70 km away).
Is there any special seva or puja offered at the temple?
Yes, the temple offers various sevas such as Archana, Abhishekam, Sahasranama Archana, and Thirumanjanam. Devotees can book these pujas at the temple premises.
Why does the deity have eight arms?
Lord Vishnu is seen with eight arms holding various weapons like a sword, shield, bow, arrow, conch, discus, mace, and lotus to destroy the demon Kesi. This is a unique form of Lord Vishnu, making the temple special among Vishnu temples.
What is the meaning of ‘Ashtabujakara’?
‘Ashta’ means eight, ‘Bhuja’ means arms, and ‘Kara’ also means hands/arms in Sanskrit. This signifies Lord Vishnu’s form with eight arms holding divine weapons.
Are there any other special shrines in the temple?
Yes, apart from Ashtabujakara Perumal and Alarmelmangai Thayar, the temple also has shrines for: Chakrathazhwar (Sudarsana Chakra) Narasimha Garuda (the vehicle of Vishnu) Azhwars (Vaishnavite saints)
What are the temple's spiritual benefits?
Worshiping Ashtabujakara Perumal is believed to grant protection from evil forces, success in endeavors, and spiritual upliftment. Devotees pray here for relief from Navagraha doshas (planetary afflictions) and for victory over enemies.
Is there a temple tank associated with the temple?
Yes, the temple has a sacred tank known as Gajendra Pushkarini, named after the legend of Gajendra Moksha, where Lord Vishnu saved an elephant devotee from a crocodile.
Can devotees perform special offerings at the temple?
Yes, devotees can offer: Tulasi (Basil) garlands – Considered very auspicious for Lord Vishnu. Ghee lamps – To remove obstacles and bring prosperity. Butter – Offering butter is believed to bring blessings for children.
How old is the temple?
The exact date is unknown, but it is believed to be over 1,000 years old, built during the Pallava dynasty and expanded by the Cholas and Vijayanagara kings.
Are photography and videography allowed inside the temple?
Photography is not allowed inside the sanctum, but you can take pictures outside the temple premises.
Is there any food prasadam available at the temple?
The temple provides free prasadam like Puliyodarai (tamarind rice), Pongal, and Curd Rice on special occasions. Devotees can also donate Annadanam (free food distribution).
