This is one of the five temples sanctified by the hymns of the Devaram. Saint Appar, while singing in this temple, praised Kanchi as “a place boundless in learning.” Appar also performed the Uzhavarappani (cleaning the temple premises as a form of service) here. The temple is named Metrali because it faces the west (Metrali means “temple facing west”).
Location
Pillayar Palayam, Tirumetrali street.
Inscription
There are inscriptional evidence indicating that renovation work was carried out by the later Cholas during the 13th century AD.
Hymns
Saints Appar and Sundarar composed hymns in praise of the deity at this temple. In his verses, Appar exalted Kanchi as a boundless center of learning.
Mythology
According to legend, in this temple, Lord Vishnu attained the form of Lord Shiva (Shiva Saaroopam) after hearing the sacred hymns of Saint Sambandar. The presiding deity is actually Vishnu transformed into Shiva. Attaining the form of Shiva is one of the paths to Mukthi (liberation), which Vishnu desired. To fulfill this wish, Vishnu came here and performed penance for years, seeking to express his desire to Lord Shiva. Impressed by Vishnu’s devotion, Shiva appeared before him and instructed him to wait for the arrival of his devotee, the child prodigy Sambandar. Years later, when Sambandar visited the temple, Vishnu continued his meditation. Upon hearing Sambandar’s heartfelt hymns in praise of Shiva, Vishnu’s heart and body melted, and he attained Shiva Saaroopam, fulfilling his wish. Due to this transformation, Vishnu, who became Shiva after hearing Sambandar’s songs, is known as ‘Odha Urugeesar’ (melted while hearing the songs). This deity is the main deity in the temple, while Shiva himself has a small separate shrine.
Religion : Saivism
Deity : Odha Urugeesar
Period : 13th Century
Sanctified By : Appar
Category : Temple