Deepaprakasa Perumal Temple

Deepaprakasa Perumal Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu. Known as Vilakkoli Perumal Temple, it is one of the 108 Divya Desams revered by the Alvars. The temple features Dravidian architecture with a gopuram and shrines to Deepaprakasar and Maragathavalli Thayar. It is traditionally associated with Vedanta Desika and reflects Pallava, Chola and Vijayanagara contributions.

Visitors can expect a traditional South Indian temple complex with a gopuram, pillared mandapas, and sanctums for Deepaprakasar (Vishnu) and Maragathavalli Thayar. The temple is set within Kancheepuram town surroundings with stone architecture, sculptures, and a temple tank. Visitors can observe daily pujas, explore the courtyard and shrines, and view Dravidian architectural details in a calm devotional environment.

The temple is believed to have origins under the Pallavas and was later developed by the Cholas and Vijayanagara rulers. It is counted among the 108 Divya Desams and has been glorified in the hymns of Tirumangai Alvar. The nearby hamlet of Thoopul is traditionally regarded as the birthplace of the philosopher Vedanta Desika, who is closely associated with this temple.

Dedicated to Vishnu as Deepaprakasar (the Lord who manifested as light) and his consort Maragathavalli Thayar, the temple is an important Vaishnavite pilgrimage centre. It is one of the Divya Desams revered by the Alvars and holds significance for followers of Vedanta Desika. Festivals such as Brahmotsavam and Vaikunta Ekadasi are observed with traditional rituals.