Chitragupta Swamy Temple, Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
The Chitragupta Swamy Temple in Kanchipuram is one of the very few temples in India dedicated to Chitragupta, who in tradition keeps the account of every person's deeds. The temple is commonly dated to the 9th century, in the Chola period. Astrology sources link Chitragupta with the planet Ketu, and many devotees come here for Ketu-related prayers, though these claims come mainly from astrology sites. The big festival is Chitra Purnima in April.
What to see and do
- Have darshan of Chitragupta Swamy
- See the old stone temple and its shrine
- Offer prayers as devotees do, such as lamps, according to local practice
- Combine the visit with the other temples of Kanchipuram
Ideal for
- Devotees seeking blessings for Ketu or for a fresh start
- Visitors interested in rare temples
- Pilgrims completing a Kanchipuram circuit
Good to know
- Two sources give about 5 am to 12 pm and 5 pm to 11 pm, so check locally
- One reviewer says the temple is under renovation, so conditions may change
- Chitra Purnima in April is extremely crowded
- Dress modestly, and remove footwear at the entrance
- Allow about 30 to 45 minutes
Spiritual significance
Chitragupta is the divine record-keeper in the tradition, and this is one of the few places where he is worshipped in his own temple. It is a short but memorable stop on the Kanchipuram circuit.
Why it matters
- A rare temple: one of the few dedicated to Chitragupta
- A Ketu link: astrology sources connect the temple with the planet Ketu
- A Chitra Purnima festival: a large gathering every April