Shri paravasudeva Perumal temple, also known as Adi Moola Venkataramanaswamy Temple, is a Hindu shrine dedicated to Vishnu, located in Mookanur, Dharmapuri district, Tamil Nadu. Constructed in Dravidian architectural style, it is believed to have been built by the Pallava dynasty and is one of the 108 Abhimana Kshetrams of the Vaishnava tradition. The temple, situated at the foothills of a mountain, follows the Vaikhanasa Agama and remains a prominent Vaishnavite temple.
The temple priests claim this temple predates the famous Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala, hence the name "Adi Srinivasa Perumal." According to legend, Lord Vishnu first set foot on this mountain when he left Vaikuntha in search of Lakshmi. The temple showcases a large footprint on the hill, believed to have been formed by the weight of Vishnu when he descended to Earth. Pilgrims often trek up the mountain to visit this sacred spot.
The temple’s architecture is a mix of Pallava and Pandya influences. It has two mandapas – one for marriage ceremonies and annadhanam, and another for devotees to sit and worship. The sanctum sanctorum, believed to have been built in the 8th century by the Pallavas, features a swayambu (self-manifested) deity. There are separate shrines for Perumal and Thayar, with a belief that reciting Lalita Sahasranama in front of Thayar removes obstacles and grants wishes.
Festivals are conducted in traditional Vaishnava style, with weekly and monthly rituals. Abishekam is performed on Saturdays, attracting more devotees on weekends. The temple is not only significant for its spiritual heritage but also for its sacred pond, Vatra Kulam, which has never dried, even in the hottest summers. The temple’s significance is further enhanced by the visits of Bhrigu Maharishi and Ramanuja, making it a revered site in Vaishnavite tradition.