Sri Perarulala Perumal Temple (Yathothkari)

Sri Perarulala Perumal Temple, also known as the Yathothkari Temple, is one of the most historically significant Divya Desams in Thondai Nadu, for it is the birthplace of Poigai Azhwar — the very first of the twelve Azhwar saints. Poigai Azhwar was born in the temple tank (poigai means "pond") of this shrine, and he composed the first of the Divya Prabandham hymns, the Mudhal Thiruvandhadhi, beginning with the immortal verse that lit the lamp of devotion using the earth as the vessel, the ocean as the ghee, and the sun as the flame. The deity name "Yathothkari" means "one who is superior in all efforts" and "Perarulala" signifies "one who bestows great grace." Thirumazhisai Azhwar also had deep ties to this temple. The Pallava dynasty architecture is evident in the ancient stonework, and Kanchipuram's identity as the premier center of Thondai Nadu Vaishnavism radiates from this hallowed shrine.