Originally known as ‘Thiru Veera Vinnagar Azhwar Temple’ during the Chola period, the name was changed to ‘Kesava Perumal Temple’ during the reign of Chola King Rajarajan III. It is currently called ‘Adhi Kesava Perumal Temple.’
Location
Arpakkam village is located 15 kilometers south of Kanchipuram. To reach it, take the eastern route, locally known as ‘Keezh Road,’ towards Uttiramerur from Kanchipuram. By car, the village can be reached in about 15 to 20 minutes. Upon arriving at the Arpakkam junction (known as Arpakkam Mandapam), turn left to enter the village. The road conditions are good.
Inscription
The temple features an inscription from the Chola period, which notes that the Queen of Chola King Rajarajan I donated lands to the temple for daily worship. This inscription identifies the Queen as ‘Kannara Nachi Pidara Nangai alias Sembian Mukkhizhan Adigal,’ indicating that she was from a Kannada royal lineage. Another inscription inside the temple reveals that the Queen of Chola King Rajendran II also donated lands to the temple for the purpose of burning lamps daily. This donation was made for the well-being of her parents. The inscription names her father as ‘Pallava Rayar Vikrama Kesari,’ suggesting that she belonged to a branch of the former Pallava dynasty.
Religion : Vaishnavism
Deity : Adhi Kesava Perumal
Period : 10th Century
Category : Temple