Arulmigu Vaithya Veeraraghava Perumal Temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, is located in Tiruvallur, Chennai, and is celebrated for its Dravidian architecture. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams, glorified in the Divya Prabandham by the Alvar saints from the 6th to 9th centuries CE. Here, Vishnu is worshipped as Veeraraghava Perumal, with his consort Lakshmi revered as Kanakavalli Thayar. The temple reflects the profound spiritual and historical significance of the region.
Believed to have been initiated by the Pallavas in the late 8th century, the temple has undergone contributions from the Thanjavur Nayaks and retains three inscriptions from the Chola period. Its seven-tiered rajagopuram and granite-walled structure contain various shrines and the Hritayathabhanasini temple tank. Additionally, a Goshala is maintained by the temple administration, emphasizing the temple's commitment to traditional practices and community welfare.
According to legends, the temple is where Vishnu is said to have appeared to marry Lakshmi, the daughter of King Dilipa. Another legend describes how the sage Salihotra, devoted to Vishnu, unknowingly hosted him as a guest. Shiva's story is also intertwined with the temple, where he cleansed himself from sins at the sacred tank, illustrating the temple's rich tapestry of mythological narratives that resonate with devotees.
Historical accounts suggest that the temple was originally built by the Pallavas, with significant contributions from later rulers, particularly during the 14th century under the Vijayanagara kings. Inscriptions from various dynasties highlight grants of land and gold to the temple, showcasing its longstanding importance in the region. These contributions have ensured the temple's continuous upkeep and the celebration of its vibrant festivals, which attract numerous devotees.