Sri Sonnavannam Seidha Perumal (Yathokthakaari) Temple , Thiru Vekka (Kanchipuram) ✓

Sri Yathothakaari Temple in Thiru Vekka (Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu) is the 45th Divya Desam. It is praised in 14 pasurams by Poigai Alvar, Boothathalvar, Peyalvar, Thirumalisai Alvar, Nammazhwar, and Thirumangai Alvar. This sanctum is venerated as the holy Avathara Sthalam of Poigai Alvar, the first among the Mudal Alvars, who appeared from a golden lotus in Poigai Pushkarini.

The sthala is renowned across the world for the extraordinary miracle of Sonnavannam Seitha Perumal (the Lord who did as He was told). When the Pallava king banished Kanikannan, the beloved disciple of Thirumalisai Alvar, the Alvar chose to leave Kanchipuram as well. Before departing, Thirumalisai Alvar sang to the Lord: "Kanikannan goes, and I go with him; O Lord of Thiru Vekka, roll up Your serpent bed and accompany us!" Miraculously, the Lord rolled up Adisesha like a mattress and walked behind them! The moment the Lord left, Kanchipuram was engulfed in pitch darkness and famine. Realizing his grave folly, the king rushed, fell at the Alvar's feet, and begged forgiveness. The Alvar then sang in reverse: "Kanikannan has returned, and I have returned; O Lord, roll out Your bed and rest as before!" The Lord promptly returned, laid out Adisesha, and reclined.

Uniquely in all of India, to mark that He had moved and returned, the Lord reclines in reverse orientation with His head to the right and feet to the left.