Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Thirubhuvanai – History

Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Thirubhuvanai – History

The antiquity of the village goes back to the times of Parantaka Chola 1 (907-955 AD).  It was called as Veera Narayana Vinnagaram after the title of Parantaka Chola I. The old name of the was Thirubhuvanai Mahadevi Chadurvedi Mangalam, named after the Parantaka's Queen. The lake of this village was called Kokkilanadi – Pereri, named after another wife of Parantaka Chola I. The temple is originally believed to be built by the Cholas - Parantaka I.

There are inscriptions in the temple from the period of Rajadhiraja Chola indicating recital of Thiruvaimozhi, the famous works of the Azhwar saint Nammazhwar. The inscription is dated 1048, the 30^th regnal year of Rajaraja. The mention of teaching Rig Veda, Yajur Veda, Chandogasama, Talavakrasama, Apurva, Vajnasaneya, Bodhayaniya Sathashatandha Sutra and explanations of Sastras and epics like Ramayana are also found in the temple.

A kumudham with inscriptions are kept in front of the temple, might have been removed during renovation of the temple. The regions changed hands from British to French colonial Empire during the 17^th century. Most temples in the place were destroyed during the French invasion, but this temple was spared. The temple is under the control of Archeological Survey of India (ASI).