At the Sri Thirunarayur Nambi Perumal Temple (Nachiyar Koil) in Nachiyar Koil, near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, stands the magnificent stone deity of Kal Garuda—Garuda carved from a single stone and revered as a powerful manifestation of Bhagwan Vishnu’s divine vehicle.
A remarkable temple tradition:
During the annual processions in Margazhi (December–January) and Panguni (March–April), Kal Garuda is carried out of the sanctum.
Inside the sanctum – 4 bearers
As he moves outward – 8, 16, 32…
At the outer street – 64 bearers are traditionally required.
When Garuda is brought back into the temple, the process reverses—the number of bearers gradually decreases until only 4 are needed again.
Devotees also believe that drops of sweat appear on the stone idol of Kal Garuda during the procession. This is revered as a sacred sign of the deity’s divine presence and living energy.
A beautiful mystery where faith, tradition and devotion come together.