Thiruvidanthai

God

Lakshmi Varaha Perumal, facing east

Goddess

Komalavalli Thaayar, facing east

Other Deities

Garudan, Aandal, Azhwars

Thiruvidanthai is an ancient temple with 2 Prakarams. The entrance is through a large gateway in the east. There is a mantapa outside. The large temple has a spacious outer Prakaram, two temple tanks – one adjacent in the north and another further down in the east. The one in the north is in a sad state of neglect and misused. The temple is under the control of Archaeological Survey of India. A palanquin made of Ivory is present here. The main deity is a massive 9 feet tall idol standing with one leg on top of Aadhisesha. The upper two hands are with the Conch and Discus. The lower two hands are lifting and embracing goddess Lakshmi. The processional deity of Thiruvidanthai temple is Lord Nithya Kalyana Perumal and the temple is better known by this name. Thiruvidanthai is also called by other ancient names – Idavendhai, Vamagavipuri, Nithya Kalyanapuri, Sreepuri and Varahapuri.

Holy Water (Theertham) – Kalyana Theertham, Varaha Theertham

Sacred Tree (Sthala Vriksham) – Punnai (Calophyllum inophyllum)

Vimaanam – Kalyana Vimaanam

History

Thirumangai Azhwar (between 7 and 9th Century CE) has rendered Mangalasaasanam for the lord here at Thiruvidanthai. Manavala Mamunigal (1370–1450 CE) has also visited and sung hymns for the lord here. the temple has been served by various dynasties of Kings.

Legend

Sage Kalava. Sage Markandeya and an Asura called Bali have worshiped the Lord here at Thiruvidanthai. The lord is believed to have married the 360 daughters of Sage Kalava over 360 days and hence is called Nithya (Daily) Kalyana (Wedded) Perumal. He is seen here at Thiruvidanthai with the eldest daughter Komalavalli (an embodiment of all 360 daughters) as the Goddess and as Mahalakshmi in his embrace.

Directions

Thiruvidanthai is about 27 kilometers from Thiruvanmiyur on the ECR towards Mahabalipuram. Take a right in the ECR while coming from Chennai and drive for about half a kilometer to reach Thiruvidanthai temple. Paid parking is available in plenty. The temple is crowded on some days.

Stay and Food

None locally. Closest is Mahabalipuram.