From Curse to Blessing: The Lizard Story Behind Kanchipuram’s Sacred Temple

Produced by: Manoj Kumar

Lizard Legends

In Kanchipuram, a sacred temple hides golden and silver lizards on its ceiling. These aren’t mere carvings; they’re believed to grant spiritual boons to those who touch them. But why lizards? And how did they gain such divine status?

Heavenly Curse

Lord Indra, king of the heavens, was cursed to become an elephant by Maa Saraswati. In desperation, he found redemption at Varadaraja Perumal Temple, where two lizards witnessed his miracle—and their story is immortalized in gold and silver carvings.

Divine Rescue

A young king, cursed to live as a lizard, was freed by Lord Krishna after being trapped in a well. Grateful, the king built a temple to honor Krishna, commissioning lizard carvings to remember his salvation. But the connection runs deeper than you think.

Fortune’s Key

Touching the golden and silver lizards in this temple is more than a ritual—it’s believed to wash away sins and bring prosperity. But is this just superstition or an ancient form of spiritual cleansing? The answer could change your life.

Miracle Ceiling

The ceiling of Varadaraja Perumal Temple holds more than stunning art; it holds secrets to transformation. Two sacred lizards carved in precious metals are said to be witnesses to divine acts, but how do these carvings shape the destinies of those who visit?

Reptile Rituals

A temple known for its divine Vishnu worship is also home to something unexpected: sacred lizards. Worshippers flock to the temple, hoping that a simple touch will bring divine fortune, but what’s the real story behind this reptilian reverence?

Wealth Symbolism

In this temple, lizards are tied to wealth and prosperity—an omen of good fortune, especially during auspicious festivals like Diwali. But could these lizards, linked to Goddess Lakshmi, be more than symbols? Some believe they’re a portal to divine riches.

Ancient Secrets

At the Varadaraja Perumal Temple, touching the lizards isn’t just about blessings—it’s about tapping into ancient secrets. These reptiles, carved in precious metals, are believed to open doors to spiritual freedom and personal transformation. But who really benefits from their touch?

King’s Legacy

A legendary king saved by Lord Krishna went on to build a temple that honored the divine rescue. Lizards—symbolic of his transformation—were carved into the ceiling. But how did this humble creature become a central part of royal devotion?