Ulagalantha Perumal Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. Built in the Dravidian architectural style, the temple is a significant Divya Desam, glorified in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham. Vishnu is revered here as Ulagalantha Perumal and Lakshmi as Amuthavalli. Constructed by the Pallavas, the temple saw contributions from the Cholas, Vijayanagara kings, and Nayaks. It stands near the Kamakshi Amman Temple in Big Kanchipuram.
This temple complex uniquely houses four Divya Desams: Tirukkaravanam, Tirukarakam, Tiruneerakam, and Tiruurakam, with the latter located in the sanctum sanctorum. The temple celebrates the Vamana avatar of Vishnu, who humbled King Mahabali’s pride by measuring the three worlds with his giant strides. The annual Chariot Festival during the Tamil month of Chittirai is its most celebrated event. Daily rituals and festivals attract devotees from across India.
Legends narrate Vishnu’s descent as Vamana to restore Indra’s authority over Svarga, taken by the benevolent asura king Mahabali. Despite warnings, Mahabali granted Vamana’s request for three paces of land. Vamana expanded gigantically, measuring heaven, earth, and the netherworld, humbling Mahabali’s pride. Vamana, also called Trivikrama, placed his foot on Mahabali, banishing him to the netherworld. This story connects the temple to Vishnu’s divine acts of restoration and balance.
Historical inscriptions indicate the temple’s origins during Nandivarman III’s reign (846 CE), with further contributions by the Cholas and Sambuvarayars. Chola inscriptions mention land and village donations for temple upkeep. The Pallava era saw thriving trade, evidenced by licenses for essential commodities. The temple follows the Pancharatra Agama, differing from surrounding practices. Parimelalhagar, a renowned Tirukkural commentator, hailed from the temple’s priestly lineage, enriching its spiritual heritage.