Holy
Pilgrimage – Temples in Tamilnadu
State
Thirukkannamangai - Sri
Bhaktavatsala Perumal
Temple , Thiru kannamangai Sri Bhaktavatsala
Temple
Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This temple lies in the Tanjore district of
Tamil Nadu. It is about 25 miles from Kumbakonam, 15 miles from Thirucherai and
4 miles Northwest from Thiruvaarur Railway station. But facility and facility
to stay are also available.
Sthala Puranam:
This place is also called as "Sapthamirtha
Kshetram" for the seven things
The Vimana
The Mandapam
The status of the forest found here
The river
The location of the temple
The city and
The pushkarani all contain the properties of
Amudham to provide eternal life beyond death.
Thirukkanna Mangai Aandan, the diciple of
Nadhamunigal was born here and was performing pushpa kainkaryam (ie) the duty
to render flowers for god.
Lord God of the moon (ie) Chandra was once
caught up by a drenchful cursing and after taking a holy bath in the dharsana
pushkarani found in this place got rid out of his curse.
There's a forest named "Bhadhrivanam"
and it's mostly like the one found in Naimisaranyam and Bhadhrinath. This place
as considered idle for performing penance.
River Cauvery splits up into two brooks and
runs in the North and South side of the temple forming a Garland to the god.
This place is treated in unision with
Thiruninravur,
(i) Both the Moolavars are named
Bhaktaraavi perumal.
(ii) Both the places were Mangalasaasanamed only by Thirumangai Alwar.
(iii) Godess Mahalakshmi performed penance and joined Mahavishnu as Abishegavalli as she did in Thiruninravur.
(iv) Both the Vimanas are Utpala Vimanam.
(v) Lord Varuna got special dharsan of god both these places.
(ii) Both the places were Mangalasaasanamed only by Thirumangai Alwar.
(iii) Godess Mahalakshmi performed penance and joined Mahavishnu as Abishegavalli as she did in Thiruninravur.
(iv) Both the Vimanas are Utpala Vimanam.
(v) Lord Varuna got special dharsan of god both these places.
These Sapthamirdha Kshetram brings one back
the memory of
(i) Naimisaranyam
(ii) Badrinath
(iii) Thiruvarangam
(iv) Thirunindravur
(v) Thirukadalmalai
(vi) Thirukkannapuram and
(vii) Thirukkannakudi
(ii) Badrinath
(iii) Thiruvarangam
(iv) Thirunindravur
(v) Thirukadalmalai
(vi) Thirukkannapuram and
(vii) Thirukkannakudi
Romasa Maharishi lived in the period known
Bharatha kalam explained the story of the king Nalan to Pandavas and made them
clear the aspects of the planet Saturn. Here at this place Lord Bhaktavatsala
showed himself in person and explained the truth of his presence of Bhaktaraavi
perumal here.
History behind the Names:
(i) Godess Mahalakshmi performed penance
in the "Shree Mandapan" of this temple and after having a bath in the
pushkarani she gave her hand to Bhaktavatsala perumal. Hence she is called as "Abishegavalli"
and this place is also called as "Lakshmi Vanam". There's a very old
bee hive in her sannathi. It's being said that great rishi's and Yogis unable
to bear to leave the god transformed themselves as bee's adn are in his company
forever.
(ii) Our human soul is named Jeevatma
and the soul of the great god as Paramathma. In every Jeevathma paramathma lays
on hidden position. To explain this and to kindle the intrest of every
Jeevathma to enclave itself with the Paramathma, the god Bhaktavatsala perumal
transforms his soul and gives in place for the Jeevathma and hence, as the god
mingles his soul with those of his diciples he is known as Bhaktaraavi perumal.
(iii) As all know, Lord Krishna is
always surrounded by a group of Gobikasthree, the women of Gokulam. But in this
place Lord Krishna due to Mahalakshmi's hard penance this place is named after
her Kannan's wife (ie) Thiru Kanna Mangai.
Utsavams:
Every year Vaikunda Ekadesi is being celebrated very specially here.
Every year Vaikunda Ekadesi is being celebrated very specially here.
Specials:
For ages its beleived that to attain mukti or
eternal salvation one need not be a schlor of all vedas instead stay at this
place atleast for a single night would lead to mukthi.
The age old bee hive found in the Thayaar
sannathi.
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this kshetram is
Bhaktavatsala perumal. He also known as Bhaktaraavi perumal. The Moolavar is
giving his seva in standing posture with his face facing the east. Prathyaksham
for Lord Varuna and Romasa Munivar.
Thayaar:
The Thayaar found in this sthalam is
Abishegavalli.
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangai - 14 Paasurams.
Total - 14 Paasurams.
Total - 14 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Darshana Pushkarani.
Darshana Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Utpala Vimaanam.
Utpala Vimaanam.
Tanjore Temple
Thiru Thanjaimaamani Koil - Sri Neelamega
Perumal Temple,
Tanjore
Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This temple is in Tanjore district of Tamil
Nadu. It's in the banks of the river Vennaaru and its about 2 1/2 miles away
from the Tanjore railway station. Bus facilities are provided and staying
facilities are furnished.
Sthala Puranam:
Tanjore is the capital of the Chola Kingdom.
Parasara Maharishi's and all the other rishi's wanted to get dharsan of Lord
Narayana down in this earth and hence the Lord sat on the bank of the river
vinnaaru now vennaaru which is a pious river flowing with Amudhan (the drink
bringing eternity) tin the Vishnuloga. This is the story behind the formation
of the Tanjore Maamani Koils.
It's also said that the Viraja river flowing
in the Vishnu Lokam has changed as Vennaary here.
As the Utsavar, Sriman Narayanan is
considered as to be the king of this whole universe, he has the Sengol (Baton) in
his hand.
Inside the main sannadhi of Thanjai Maamani
Koil Moolavar (Garbagraham), we can find dancing idol of Lord Krishna, Venkatesa
perumal in his marriage dress along with his two wives and Lord Varadharaja
perumal.
Outside the Moolavar Sannathi, we can dharsan
Lakshmi Narasimar containing godess Lakshmi devi in his right lap, Andal
Naachiyar and Vishvakshenar.
Thaayar Senkamalavalli Nachiyar has a
seperate sannadhi. Outside the Thaayar sannadhi, there is one pillar in which
one side Yoga Narasimar is portraited whereas on the other side Lord Aanchaneya
(Hanuman) isfound. It is said that if we come around and pray the Narasima and
Aanchaneya continuosly for 108 times, all our wishes would be granted
immediately.
Towards the right side of the Thaayar
sannadhi there is Vedhanta desigan saanthi which is said to be set up his own
son Nayinaaraachariyar.
There is a beautiful story regarding the
Thanjai Yazhinagar perumal.
Parasa Maharishi along with other rishi's was
living here. Deomns destroyed their yagnas and gave the rishi's lots of
troubles. Among them Tharagan, Thandagan and Thanjagan were particular in their
tasks. Kaalidevi (Wife of Lord shiva) killed almost all the Demons. But somehow
Thanjagan escaped from her and started to trouble the rishi's. So as an answer
to the prayer of rishi's Lord Narayana took the form of Narasimha once again
and killed the demon. It is to be noted that Thaaragan and Thandagan was killed
by Kaali during the period of Krishna avathar
but Lord Narayana took the form of Narasima which is 4th avathaar. So this
Yazhinagar Narasimar is very special.
In rememberance of Thanjakasuran this palce
is called Tanjore Nagar, and the Thaayar Thanjai Naayaki.
The Vedas say that Lord Narayana would take
any form at any time to protect his devotees. And the above case proves it. As
the meaning of Vedas is explained here, the Vimaanam of this place is
Vedasundara vimaanam.
The Vimaanam of Thanjai Maamani Koil is
beautifully carved and hence gets it name Soundaraja vimaanam. And as the
perumal stands as a hill of with a grace on glare of pearls and stones in Manikundra
perumal Koil its vimaanam has the Manikooda vimaanam.
Specials:
This Divyadesam is a collection of 3 temples
each within a distance of about one mile. All the Three Perumals are in sitting
posture and all the Three Utsavars are named as "Sriman Narayanan" only.
The above 3 Temples
are
Thanjai Maamani Koil.
Thanjai Manikundra Perumal Koil.
Thanjai Yazhinagar Koil.
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this sthalam is Sri Neelamega
Perumal. The Moolavar is giving his seva in Sitting position facing his thirumugham
towards east direction. Prathyaksham for Parasara Maharishi.
Thayaar:
The Thayaar found in this sthalam is
Senkamalavalli.
Utsavar:
The Utsavar of this sthalam is Sriman
Narayanan.
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangaialwar - 3 Paasurams
Nammalwar - 1 Paasuram
Bhoodathalwar - 1 Paasuram.
Total - 5 Paasurams.
Total - 5 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Amirtha Theertham.
Kannika Pushkarani.
Vennaru.
Vimanam:
Soundarya Vimaanam.
Soundarya Vimaanam.
Mayavaram Temples
Thiruvazhunthoor - Sri Devaadi Raja Perumal
Temple, Mayavaram
Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This sthalam is a village which is situated
in Tanjore district of Tamil Nadu.
It lies in between Mayavaram junctiont and
Kuttalam station on the main railway line between Chennai (Madras) to Tajore.
This temple can also be reached by travelling
around 7 Kms from Kuttalam and about 8 Kms from Mayavaram.
This Divyadesam is also called with other
names such as Azhundoor, Azhundhai, Therazhunthur.
Sthala Puranam:
Uparisaravasu was the king of Sethi Kingdom
and was the student of Devaguru Bhragaspathi. He got a chariot which floated in
the sky from Lord Indra.
Once he settled a dispute between the rishi's
and devas and favour it in the Deva's side.
The rishi's got angry and cursed the king
that his chariot would not fly in the sky.
So as an effect to the curse, his chariot got
stuck in this place and the king fell infront of the lord. Henceforth this
place is called as Therazhunthur (Ther means Chariot).
Lord Narayana sent Garudan and helped him to
fly back. As Lord helped the person loved by deva's who was a human he was
called Devaadirajan from then on.
Moolavar Devaadirajan is of 10 feet tall
having Lord Gauruda to his left and prahalatha along with Markanteya Maharishi
to his right. He has Gadhayudham (his weapon) in his left hand. River Cauvery
too is there kneeling at his lotus feet.
Utsavar Aamaruviappan stands with a very
beautiful calf along with his two wives.
Cow and calf belong to the Deva group, buffulo's
belong to Asura group and sheep's belong to Mankind. Lord Krishna thus saves
all the living things. As Jeevatma becomes a tamed cow before Lord Krishna and
he too behaves as a tamed cow infront of a pure heart, he is called as
Aamaruviappa (ie) Aaa means cow (person who is as soft as a cow). Thus the Lord
Aamaruviappa is said to inherit the qualities of Lord Krishna (ie) (he contains
Lord Krishnas Amsam).
There is a tale regarding Aamaruviappan's
arrival at this place. Once Lord Brahma stole all the cows of Ayarpadi which
were under Lord Krishna's custody and locked them at Theruzhunthur. Lord
Krishna came to know this thro his Yoga maya and created a whole new heard of
cows. Lord Brahma then asked Lord Krishna to forgive him. He asked Lord Krishna
to stay permenantly at this place and bless all the people who seek his help.
There's a beautiful unjal Mandapam (Unjal - Joola
- Swing) in this temple.
Inside the Rajagopuram, poet kamban and his
wives images are beautifully carved. (Poet Kamban was born here only) there are
also many beautiful images which are in a demolished state.
Manavala Maamunigal has done Mangalasasanam
to his place. Utsavar is brought for Thirumanjanam (ceremony of bathing the
lord) in river cauvery many times each year.
As an act of Unison, Lord Krishna (ie) Lord
Aamaruviappan is dressed up as Lord Rama and brought in Ceremony near the
Vedapuriswarar temple (Lord Shiva's temple).
Moolavar has golden (helment) Kreedam, Sagasranama
necklace, Dasavathara Udhara Malai, Golden anklet, godess Alarmel mangai in his
heart diamond Thiruman (sacared symbol of Vaishnavities).
Specials:
1. This Sthalam is the birth place of the
Great Tamil Poet, Kambar who has created "Kamba Ramayanam".
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this sthalam is Sri Devaadi
Rajan. He is giving his seva in Nindra (Standing) Thirukkolam facing his
thirumugham towards east direction. Prathyaksham for Dharma devadai, Uparisaravasu,
River Cauvery, Garudan and Agastiyar.
Thayaar:
The Thayaar found in this sthalam is
Sengamalavalli Thaayar.
Utsavar:
The Utsavar found in this sthalam is Aamaruviappan.
Utsavams:
Listed below are some of the Utsavams (Festivals)
done in this Sthalam.
Sri Ramar Utsavam and Vasantha Utsavam in
Chithirai month.
Brahma Utsavam in Vaikasi month.
Sri Andal Utsavam in Aadi month.
Sri Jayanthi Utsavam in Aavani month.
Sri Desikar Utsavam in Puratasi month.
Pavithra Utsavam in Iyppasi month.
Utsavam for Thirumangai Alwar and Deepa
Utsavam in Karthigai month.
Pagal Patthu and Raa Patthu Utsavam Margazhi
month.
Thai Month - Garuda seva.
Punar Poosam and Magam Utsavam Maasi month.
Sri Sengamalavalli Thaayar Utsavam in Panguni
month.
Sannadhis:
Perumal Sannadhi
In this Sannadhi only, the Perumal of the sthalam, Sri Devaadi Rajan is found giving his seva to his bhaktas.
In this Sannadhi only, the Perumal of the sthalam, Sri Devaadi Rajan is found giving his seva to his bhaktas.
Thaayar Sannadhi
In this Sannadhi, the Thaayar, Sri Sengamalavalli is found giving her seva to his bhaktas. Onevery Fridays, the thaayar is giving her seva as "Vaibava Lakshmi".
In this Sannadhi, the Thaayar, Sri Sengamalavalli is found giving her seva to his bhaktas. Onevery Fridays, the thaayar is giving her seva as "Vaibava Lakshmi".
Sri Vasudevar Sannadhi
This sannadhi is found on the left side of the Moolavar Sannadhi. In this Sannadhi, Sri Vasudevar is found.
This sannadhi is found on the left side of the Moolavar Sannadhi. In this Sannadhi, Sri Vasudevar is found.
Sri Narasimhar Sannadhi
This sannadhi is found in between Perumal Sannadhi and Sri Vasudevar Sannadhi. In this Sannadhi, Sri Narasimhar is giving his seva for his bhaktas who destroys the evil things and helps his bhaktas to get rid of them.
This sannadhi is found in between Perumal Sannadhi and Sri Vasudevar Sannadhi. In this Sannadhi, Sri Narasimhar is giving his seva for his bhaktas who destroys the evil things and helps his bhaktas to get rid of them.
Sri Ramar Sannadhi
This sannadhi is found on the south direction of the Perumal sannadhi. In this Sannadhi, Sri Ramar (both moolavar and utsavar) are found in Nindra koilam facing east direction. Beside him, Seetha Piratti, Lakshmanan and Hanumar are also found.
This sannadhi is found on the south direction of the Perumal sannadhi. In this Sannadhi, Sri Ramar (both moolavar and utsavar) are found in Nindra koilam facing east direction. Beside him, Seetha Piratti, Lakshmanan and Hanumar are also found.
Sri Vishwaksenar Sannadhi
Sri Vishwaksenar is otherwise called as "Senai Mudaliar" (the chief of the army of the Perumal). He is found in this sannadhi which is found in front of Sri Vasudevar Sannadhi.
Sri Vishwaksenar is otherwise called as "Senai Mudaliar" (the chief of the army of the Perumal). He is found in this sannadhi which is found in front of Sri Vasudevar Sannadhi.
Sri Desikar Sannadhi
Next to Sri Vishwaksenar Sannadhi, this Sannadhi is found.
Next to Sri Vishwaksenar Sannadhi, this Sannadhi is found.
Sri Alwars Sannadhi
All the Alwars are found on the Outer Pragharam in front of Thaayar Sannadhi.
All the Alwars are found on the Outer Pragharam in front of Thaayar Sannadhi.
Sri Andal Sannadhi
Sri Andal Sannadhi si found on the Outer Pragharam where both Moolavar and Utsava Vigraham (Idol) are found. Thiruvadi Pooram and Margazhi - Koodara Valli are the special occasions for Sri Andal.
Sri Andal Sannadhi si found on the Outer Pragharam where both Moolavar and Utsava Vigraham (Idol) are found. Thiruvadi Pooram and Margazhi - Koodara Valli are the special occasions for Sri Andal.
Sri Kambar Sannadhi
As soon as we enter the temple, Sri Kambar sannadhi is found on the left side where Kambar and his wife are worshipping the Perumal is standing position.
As soon as we enter the temple, Sri Kambar sannadhi is found on the left side where Kambar and his wife are worshipping the Perumal is standing position.
Sri Hanuman Sannadhi
Opposite to the Kodi maram, Hanuman is found in Nindra kolam facing his Thirumugam on the north direction.
Opposite to the Kodi maram, Hanuman is found in Nindra kolam facing his Thirumugam on the north direction.
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangaialwar - 45 Paasurams
Total - 45 Paasurams.
Total - 45 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Dharsana Pushkarani.
River Cauvery.
Vimanam:
Garuda Vimaanam.
Garuda Vimaanam.
Thiru Sirupuliyur - Sri Arulmaakadal Perumal
Temple, Mayavaram
Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This temple lies in the Tanjore district of
TamilNadu. It's about 2 miles from Kollumankudi which is on the Aranthangi - Maayavaram
railway route. There is not much of places for staying.
Sthala Puranam:
Gauthama Maharishi was the son of Madhiya
Nandhana Maharishi. He was a devotee of Lord Shiva. To offer pure and sweet
fruits and fine flowers he requested Lord Shiva to grant him eyes in his hand
finger tips and claws like tiger. And he got the name Viyakirapadha rishi. Then
he married Vashits Maharishi's sister and bore upamanyu Maharishi as his son.
Once Padanjali, the son of Aadhishesha came
to chidambaram and joined the Maharishi to enjoy the graceful dance of Lord
Shiva and attained the eternal happiness in the process.
Lord Shiva ordered Viyakirapadha rishi to do
penance at Sivapuliyur requesting Lord Maha vishnu to give him place in
vaigundam. As the saint who was in the form of a Tiger this place is known as
Serupuliyur. He has also got a seat under the feet of the perumal in the
Moolavar Sannathi.
Salam means Maya. Here the Lord god lays in
the sleeping posture indicating yoga maya (of the type Arithunar Yoga Thuil).
It's been said the perumal of this place gave
protection to the snake Aadhiseshan from his enemy Garuda.
The Lord here is very small in size. Thirumangaialwar
worried about this. So, Perumal asked him to come to Thirukannamangai to view
his very big statue.
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this sthalam is Sri
Arulmaakadal. He is also called with other names like Arulmaakadalamudhu, Salasayana
Perumal. He is giving his seva in Kidantha (Sleeping) Thirukkolam in Bhujanga
sayanam. Prathyaksham for Vyasa Maharishi and Viyakra Padarishi.
Thayaar:
The Thayaar found in this sthalam is
Thirumaamagal Naachiyar. And the Utsavar Thaayar is Dhaya Naayagi.
Utsavar:
The Utsavar found in this sthalam is Kriba
Samudira perumal.
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangaialwar - 10 Paasurams.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Manasa Pushkarani.
Manasa Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Nandha Vardhana Vimaanam.
Nandha Vardhana Vimaanam.
Thalaicchanga Naanmathiyam - Sri Naan Madhiya
Perumal Temple, Mayavaram
Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This temple lies in the Tanjore district of
Tamil Nadu. First, we have to travel to Aakur from Mayavaram, and then it's
about 2 miles away in the route towards Seerkazhi.
It's 7 Km away from Kaviripoompatinam. Has no
proper arrangements for stay.
Sthala Puranam:
Name reason:
Sangu means shells. As once the very best
shells of Kaviripoompatinam was sold here. This place is called Thalai sangam (litrally
- place of best shells). And as there were lot's of purasa Maram (Purasa tree) the
term Kadu - forest joined to give the name Thalai sang - Kadu = Thalaisangadu.
Lord Shiva wears the cresent moon as his head
ornament. As like Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu too has cresent moon in this place.
This temple is very small. Looks like the
Chandraloga land of Moon god.
Thaayar has no seperate sannadhi.
As the Moolavar of this place took away the
curse on the moon god, he is named as chandra Shaba Harar (ie) chandra - moon, Shabam
- Curse, Harar - person who demolishes.
It's said that before 40 years this place was
in a demolished stage. Seeing this Vaduga Nambi Ramanuja dasar who was very old
took up the renovation work which was completed by his student Sundara Ramanuja
Dasan. and then Kumbabhisegam was conducted.
There's many disputes regarding the birth of
the moon god. Its being said that he was born from the chest of Sriman Narayana,
that he was born while the great sea Thiruparkadal was churned and also it is
said that he is the son of Athri Maha rishi and Anusya.
It's also said that while Athri Maharishi was
in a deep prayer, the sperm came out of his eyes and Lord Indra collected it
and put it in his tower and named it soman and declare monday (Somavaram) as
the day of Soman. As a result of his hard prayer he got the position as a
planet and is still undertakes the role of beautifying Lord Shiva as a head
ornament and as his third eye too.
Lord Chandra married the 27 daughters of
Thakan, assistant of Lord cursed him to wane. But by Lord Shivas blessings he
got his life back and still as an effect wanes and completely vanishes on the
new moon day to regain his complete form on full moon day.
Yearly once his state becomes as low as a "Sandalan
a person of very cowcader due to a curse of Lord Vinayaka.
As he was the one who showed the true form of
Raaghu and Kethu to Lord Narayana while drinking the eternal drink Amudham, he
become the enemy to them, and is bound to eclipse every year henceforth.
His chariot contains 3 wheels and has 10
horses in his chariot. It is also said that he would gain his light from the 64th
ray of Lord Surya (sun god).
Specials:
1. There is a very Precious Sangu (Shell) for
the Perumal.
2. Beautiful idol of Sri Andal Naachiyar.
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this sthalam is Sri Naan
Madhiya Perumal. Also known as Venn Chudar Perumal. He is giving his seva in
Nindra (Standing) Thirukkolam facing his thirumugham towards east direction. Prathyaksham
for Chandiran (Moon god), Deva Bhridangar, Deva's Nitya suri's.
Thayaar:
The Thayaar found in this sthalam is Thalai
Sanga Naachiyaar. And the Utsavar Thaayar is Sengamalavalli Thaayar.
Utsavar:
The Utsavar found in this sthalam is Vyoma
Jyothi Piran. Also known as Venchudar piran and Loganathan.
Pushkarani:
Chandra Pushkarani.
Chandra Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Chandra Vimaanam.
Chandra Vimaanam.
Thiru Indhaloor - Sri Parimala Ranganatha
Perumal Temple, Mayavaram
Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This temple lies in the Tanjore district of
TamilNadu. (Should cross the River Cauvery which is in the North direction to
Mayuram town and the temple is in the Northeast direction to Mayuram.) or (By
crossing the river Cauvery which is in the North side to the Mayuram town we
cab reach this temple which is in the Northeastern direction to the town).
Sthala Puranam:
Indhu means moon. As perumal received Chandra
(Moon) from his curse, this place is known as Indhaloor.
Lord Narayana gave dharsan as Vennchudar
perumal in the standing posture to the Moon god in Thalaisangaadu. But here at
this place he is in Veera Sayanam posture.
There he was full of light being as
Vyomajyothi piran. But here he is full of fragrance (Parimalam) and hence he is
called as Parimala Rangan. He has 4 hands here.
River Cauvery is under his feet here. As he
promised river Cauvery to increase here status, he made her as his bed at
Srirangam, took her as his mother at Thirucherai and here at Thiru Indhaloor, he
has taken river Cauvery above his head. Thus gave her the status of river
Ganges who is on the head of Lord Shiva.
As the perumal of this place, converted the
position of river Cauvery and Lord Chandra into a pious state, Thirumangaialwar
calls him as a Brahmin.
The vedas were created to instruct rules for
human beings to lead a happy life. The Surya and Chandra revolve around the
world to give prisperity (like wheels ie Chakra). Hence the vimaana of this
place is called as Veda Chakra Vimaanam.
Sri Rangam is known as Aadhi Arangam (first) while
Thirukudanthai is Madhiya Arangam (Middle) and Thiru Indhaloor is known as
Andiya Arangam (Last).
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this sthalam is Sri Parimala
Ranganathan. Also called as Maru viniya Maindhan, Sugantha Vananathan, and
Andhiya Rangan. He is giving his seva in Kidantha (Sleeping) Thirukkolam in
Veera Sayanam facing his thirumugham towards east direction. Prathyaksham for
Chandiran (Moon god).
Thayaar:
The Thayaar found in this sthalam is Parimala
Ranganayaki. Also known as Chandra shaba vimosana valli and Pundarigavalli.
Utsavam:
This temple is in the ceremonious mood
throught the tamil month Ipasi. A handicapped devotee came to take bath and
gained puniya equivalent to that gained on the Iyppasi month. This is
celebrated every year as "Mudava Muzhuku" in a special manner.
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangaialwar - 11 Paasurams.
Total - 11 Paasurams.
Total - 11 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Indu Pushkarani.
Indu Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Veda Chakra Vimaanam.
Veda Chakra Vimaanam.
Nagapattinam Temples
Thirukkannapuram - Sri Neelamega Perumal
Temple, Nagapattinam
Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This temple lies in the Tanjore district of
TamilNadu. It is 4 miles from Nannilam Railway station. From Maayuram we have
to go to Thirupugalore and from there by crossing a river Thirukannapuram is at
1 mile distance. Bus facility is provided. But staying facility is not privided
well.
Sthala Puranam:
This place is one among the five Krishna
Kshetrams:
Thirukkannankudi
ThirukkannaMangai
Thirukkannapuram
Thirukannan Kavithalam and
Thirukovilur.
Thirukkannamangai and Thirukannapuram Lord
Krishna is in a standing posture and at Thirukovilur Lord Krishna gives "Ulakalantha
sevai" (ie) he stands up to a great height. Long back, this temple was
near the seashore. But now the sea has drifted back about 10 Kilometers.
Kanva Maharishi brought up Shakunthala, the
daughter of Vishvamithra and Menaka.
Later Shakunthala married king Dhushyanthan. But
he forgot his love due to a eveil spell. In order to unite Bhakunthala with her
husband a fish ate up her marriage ring and when the king saw the ring came
running in search of Shakunthala and their son Bharatha.
As the fisherman was the sole reason of
unison of Shakunthala and Dhushyantha they are called as "Bharathavar".
In order to remaind this, Neela mega perumal
married the princes "Padmavathi" of the fisherman crew. Utsavar
sowriraaja perumal as in a posture of seeking hands of yearly once a special
pooja is conducted to this perumal by all the fisherman of this area.
As Neelamega perumal is treated in accordance
with Varadharaja perumal of Kanchi, he has given a very special dharsan (ie) he
has showed himself in person to Thandaka Maharishi who was formely a king and
due to his hard penance at Kanchi gained the status of Maharishi.
Vibishanan wanted to take away Ranganathar
from SriRangam but as he was in sleeping posture be couldn't do that. So he
prayed god to show the beauty of his walk to him. Accepting this god ordered
Vibishana to come to Thirukannapuram on a new moon day. And at this place, Neelamega
perumal showed Vibishana his beautiful walk.
Once there was a demon named vikataksham and
as an answer to the prayer of Maharishi's, Neelamega perumal destroyed this
demon. Using his chakaram. After that he still gives us dharshan with that
powerful chakaram which is ready to kill evil things.
Reason behind the Name:
(i) There's a small story regarding the name
Sowriraajan. Once upon a time, lots of flowers were sent to the temple for
pooja from the palace. But it didn't reach the god instead it was sold. The
king came to knew this and tried to know the truth by a surprise visit.
Knowing this fact, the Archagar Ranga Bhattar
arranged for a garland quickly and put it upon the god. When the King came to visit
the temple, he found a strand of hair in the garland and started enquiring
about that. Ranga Bhattar was shocked and pleaded the God to save him. Bhattar
lied the King that it was God's hair and Lord Neela Mega perumal had a plait (Kudumi).
But the King was not satisfied. When he came again for inspection, Lord
Neelamega perumal showed him off his long plait. The king was convinced.
Henceforth from that incident he's also
called Sowrirajan (Sowri means hair).
(ii) "Om Namo Narayana" is the
Thirumandiram (ie) sacred word for Vaishnavities. Thirumangai Alwar was taught (ie)
got upadesam of this Mandiram from the Lord Neelamega perumal itself. This
mandiram consists of eight syllables and here he lives in each syllable forever
and henceforth this place is also called "Srimathasthakshara Maha Manthira
Siddhi Kshetram" (ie) the place were the Thirumandiram has gives boundless
power.
(iii) Once there was a great devotee named "Munnayatharayar".
He one night asked his wife to cook 'Pongal' (a rice dish) and took it to the
temple. But as it was very late the temple doors were closed. Hence he stood
outside of the temple and mentally submitted the pongal to the Lord Neelamega
perumal. As a honour of acceptence, bells in the Moolavar Sannadhi started
ringing and the whole campus was filled with the fragrence of fresh ghee and
pongal.
So from that day, each night during the last
pooja perumal takes pongal which is named "Munitharam" pongal after "Munnayatharayar".
Utsavam:
On every Masi Magam, the lord god of this
place goes to the seashore and blesses all his devotees there.
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this kshetram is Sri
Neelamega Perumal. The Moolavar is giving his seva in the standing posture
facing east. Instead of Abhaya Hastham he has Varadha Hastham similar to Kanchi
Varadharaja perumal. Also, he has the Prayoga Chakaram, similar to that of
Ranganatha perumal of SriRangam. Prathyaksham for Kanva Maharishi, Thandaka
Maharishi and Garudan.
Thayaar:
The Thayaar found in this sthalam is
Kannapura Naayaki along with Periya piraati, Sridevi, Aandal and Padmini
Thaayar.
Utsavar:
The Utsavar of this sthalam is Utsavar
Sowriraja perumal is in a pose of seeking hands for marriage.
Mangalasasanam:
Periyalwar - 1 Paasuram
Aandal - 1 Paasuram
Kulasekaralwar - 11 Paasurams
Nammalwar - 11 Paasurams
Thirumangaialwar - 104 Paasurams.
Total - 128
Total - 128
Pushkarani:
Nithiya Pushkarani.
Nithiya Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Utpalaavataka Vimanam.
Utpalaavataka Vimanam.
Thirukkannankudi - Sri Loganatha Perumal
Temple, Nagapattinam
Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This temple lies on the Tanjore district of
Tamil Nadu. It's about 2 miles away from Keevalur Railway station. In
Naagapatinam to Sikkal (or) Keevalur bus route alight at Aazhiyur stopping and
from there its 3/4 miles away arrangements for staying is not possible.
Sthala Puranam:
Long back Vashita Maharishi made an idol of
Krishna in Butter. But the butter did not melt due to his pure devotion. For
many years he worshipped Lord Krishna made out of butter. The Lord wanted to
test him and hence he transformed himself into a small boy (of Yadhava caste or
Idai kulam) and started eating the butter idol. When Vashita saw this he lost
him temper and started to chase the boy, who was running towards west side, when
the boy was crossing a Magizha Maram, other rishi's who were performing penance
there caught the boy and tied him up in the tree. Then finally the boy showed
him up. Lord Krishna was standing at the boys place. Thus from the same place
where he stood that day, he blesses us as the Lord Dhamodhara and Dhamodhara
Narayanan.
So as Lord Krishna was tied here by rishi's
this place is known as Thirukannankudi (Kudi means place of stay).
This place is related to Ramayana and
Mahabaratha. In Ramayana, Lord Rama was the diciple of Vashista Maharishi but
at this place Lord Krishna takes the post of the teacher and teaches "Gyana"
to his student Vashista.
In Mahabharatham, Lord Krishna was tied by
Mother Yashoda for the reason of eating butter. For more or less same reason he
was tied here by rishi's.
This incident teaches an important lesson
also. Though by eating his own image, the Lord Showed that Paramathma can
engulf another Paramathma, it can be conqured by Jeevatma easily (ie) the lord
is in reach to man if he tries sincerly.
"Kaya Magizh - Uragapuli - Thola Vazhaku
- Oorakinaru - Thirukannankudi". This is the old saying revolving about
this place. Now let us see the explanation of the above Tamil saying.
Kaya Magizh:
As said earlier Maharishi's who were on penance tied Lord Krishna in a Magizha tree. This tree lives even today behind the temple and it's being said that this tree would never die. Also Utsavar Dhamodara Narayanan lies as though tied to the tree with a rope. Kaya means never to die. So this explains Kaya Magizh.
As said earlier Maharishi's who were on penance tied Lord Krishna in a Magizha tree. This tree lives even today behind the temple and it's being said that this tree would never die. Also Utsavar Dhamodara Narayanan lies as though tied to the tree with a rope. Kaya means never to die. So this explains Kaya Magizh.
Urangapuli:
Namalwar was in Athma Samathi state without sleepign under a Tamarind tree. Thirumangai alwar after completing the compound wall of Sri Rangam asked Namalwar to perform Thiruvaimozhi Utsavam. In a way Dhamodhara perumal helped Thirumangai Alwar to complete his job and can seek Namalwar for his discourse regd. Thiruvaimozhi. Here the term Uranga puli refers to Namalwar.
Namalwar was in Athma Samathi state without sleepign under a Tamarind tree. Thirumangai alwar after completing the compound wall of Sri Rangam asked Namalwar to perform Thiruvaimozhi Utsavam. In a way Dhamodhara perumal helped Thirumangai Alwar to complete his job and can seek Namalwar for his discourse regd. Thiruvaimozhi. Here the term Uranga puli refers to Namalwar.
TholaVazhaku:
Thirumangai alwar wanted to construct a compound wall to SriRangam temple. But money shortage occured and to avod that he started to steal.
Thirumangai alwar wanted to construct a compound wall to SriRangam temple. But money shortage occured and to avod that he started to steal.
In course, when he came to Nagapatinam, he
found a Golden statue of Lord Budha there and tried to steal it. But a wheel
was totating above the Budha idol and connectin's to the wheel was in the
statue. So without stoping the wheel it was impossible to rob the idol. So, Thirumangai
Mannan went across the sea to find the person who made this arrangement. He
found him and learnt the technique to stop the wheel at retuned back in a ship
which contained beetalnut. After getting of the ship, Alwar filed a suit at the
local court and won half the sacks of beetalnuts contained in the ship.
After that by inserting a banana tree bark, he
stopped the wheel and stole the golden idol. But the monks saw him and started
to chase him. He did the idol at Thirukannankudi near a bush and later took it
to SriRangam. When the monks asked to return the idol he said that after two
days he would return the idol upto the little finger and gave them just that
finger alone monks filed a case and due to his clever wordings Thirumangai
Alwar came out this case too.
As he got victory in both the cases, the
cases were called "Thola Vazhaku" (ie) case without defeat.
Oorakinaru:
Vaanamaamalai kshetram has been Mangalasaasanamed by Nammalwar. In this particular kshetram there's a well which contains no water but oil. This oil has medical values and when taken cures many diseases. As devotion would cure Athma's diesease the oil of this well cures bodily included in the saying.
Vaanamaamalai kshetram has been Mangalasaasanamed by Nammalwar. In this particular kshetram there's a well which contains no water but oil. This oil has medical values and when taken cures many diseases. As devotion would cure Athma's diesease the oil of this well cures bodily included in the saying.
As Dhamodhara perumal guarded the golded idol
of Buddha, Thirumangai Alwar was able to finish the wall and invite Nammalwar
for discourse. So Thirukannankudi has played an indirect role in the above
aspects and thus the saying is explained.
At kannankudi, Lord Shows him off as
Purijaganatha purushotama Loga naayakan and Dhamodhara Naarayanan. Loga
Naayagan means the king of the world. So here he poses as king and as
Dhamodharan Narayana he tells that even king of the world isnt powerful before
pure and love and devotion.
Hence this place remainds Thirukannankudi, Thirupullam
boothamkudi, Ayodhya, Puri, SriRangam, Alwar thirunagari and Vaanamaamalai.
Details of Prathyaksham:
Brighu Maharishi is the son of Bhrama. In this way he is a grandson to the Lord god.
Brighu Maharishi is the son of Bhrama. In this way he is a grandson to the Lord god.
The same Brighu Maharishi was born as
Hemarishi and gave his daughter Komalavalli to god as his wife. In this way he
is father-in-law to the god.
So, for this Brighu and his father Bhrama. the
Lord Dhamodharan showed his truth self.
Uparisaravasu, was the king of Sethi Kingdom.
He was very diciplined and lived one man - one wife life. Due to his good
conduct he got pushpaka vimana from Lord Indra and was able to fly in it in the
sky. Throght his life he was staunch in his one man - one wife belief.
On the otherside Gowthama Maharishi spelled
his wife for her bad conduct.
Thus for both these good persons Dhamodhara
Perumal gave special dharsan.
To refrain us from the wrong path, the
pushkarani is named after the evil demon Raavana.
The above two things shows that good and evil
never goes unnoticed by the god.
Utsavam:
On every Masi Magam, the lord god of this place goes to the seashore and blesses all his devotees there.
On every Masi Magam, the lord god of this place goes to the seashore and blesses all his devotees there.
Sthala Viruksham - Magizha Maram (Vagulam).
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this kshetram is Sri
Loganathan. Also named as Shayamala Meni perumal. The Moolavar is giving his
seva in the standing posture facing east. Prathyaksham for Bhrigu Maharishi, Brahma
devan, Uparisaravasu, Gowtha Marishi, Thirumangai Alwar.
Thayaar:
The Thayaar found in this sthalam is Sri
Loganaayaki. The Utsavar Thayaar is Sri Aravinda valli.
Utsavar:
The Utsavar of this sthalam is Damodhara
Narayanan.
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangaialwar - 10 Paasurams.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Raavana pushkarani.
Raavana pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Utpala Vimaanam.
Utpala Vimaanam.
Thiru Naagai - Sri Neelamega Perumal Temple, Nagapattinam
Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This temple lies in the Tanjore district of
Tamil Nadu. There's a railway station at Nagapatinam and bus facilities are
plenty.
Sthala Puranam:
This temple has very big Gopuram having fifteen
vimanas. The vimana above the Moolavar sannadhi consists of five kalasams.
Here Neelamega perumal lies in standing
posture whereas Govindaraja perumal is in sitting posture and Ranganatha
perumal in Sleeping posture.
Also inside this temple there are seperate
sannadhis for Lord Pachivannar, Pavalavannar, Varadharajar, Ramar, Srinivasar, Vaikundanathar,
Sri Aandal, Aanchaneyar and Garudan.
In Lord Ranganathar sannadhi there is an
wounderful Bronze idol of Lord Narashima with eight hands. One hand of
Narashima safely secures prahalatha, one hand blesses him by touching his head
and the other hand's are killing Hiranya.
At the same time he is save prahalatha (ie) good
things and destroy Hiranya (ie) bad or evil things.
Also it is said that, after giving dharsan to
the little boy Dhuruva who performed a hard penance, Narashimar has come here.
It has to be noted that, the lord god gave
place in his cap for Dhurva who suffered a lot due to his step mother, and in
the other hand in the same lap he has killed Hiranya who was his enemy.
Utsava kola Thaayar Gajalakshmi poses as
being prayed by Elephant here.
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this sthalam is Sri Neelamega
Perumal. The Moolavar is giving his seva in standing position facing his
thirumugham towards east direction and having Gadhayudham (a weapon) in his
hand. Prathyaksham for Lord Brama, Naagarajan and Thirumangai alwar.
Thayaar:
The Thayaar found in this sthalam is
Soundaryavalli. The Utsavar Thayaar is Gajalakshmi.
Utsavar:
The Utsavar of this sthalam is Soundarya
Rajan.
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangaialwar - 10 Paasurams.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Sara Pushkarani.
Sara Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Soundarya Vimaanam.
Soundarya Vimaanam.
Chidambaram Temple
Thiru Chithrakoodam - Sri Govindaraja Perumal
Temple, Chidambaram
Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This temple is in Chidambaram in Tamil Nadu. Drop
in at Chidamabaram Railway station in the Chennai to Trichy main line. Ample
bus facilities are there. Staying arrangements are well furnished.
Sthala Puranam:
As Lord Narayana poses as Nila Thingal
Thundan perumal having inside the Ekambareswar temple premises in Kanchipuram, here
at Chidambaram one of the very big Shiva temple he poses as Govindarajan near
Lord Natarajar Sannadhi.
The Mountain "Chitra Kooda Malai" was
in North India near the Prayagai. In this very place only Lord Rama Stayed
while he was sent to the forest and left his pregnent wife Sitadevi.
While he came searching for his wife who was
taken away by Ravana, Lord Rama found this place in South India and compared it's
beauty to Chitra Kooda in North India. Thus it got its name.
As this place largely represents Sri Rama, Kulashekara
Alwar considers Govinda rajan as Sri Kalyana Rama and composed all his 11
Paasurams posing Govindarajan as Sri Rama only.
Thirumangai alwar found Govindarajan to be
still like a portrait or picture enchanting himself in the stunning dance of
Lord Nataraja here at Ponnambalam - Chidambaram. So among the 32 Paasurams he
composed, the first 10 are of the ("Shankarabaranam Ragam") "Raga:
Shankarabaranam" the favourite raga of Lord Shiva.
It's been said that the 3000 Brahmins of
Thinai, Paanini, Padanjali and Vyakrapadha Maharishi had the vision of Lord
Shiva's dance along with Lord Govindaraja and got both the lords blessings.
As Parashakti (wife of Lord Shiva) danced
with Lord Shiva transforming her as Thillai kaali, this place is known as
Thillai Nagar.
Pundarekatchan means Vishnu, so his wife is
called Pundaregavalli and the Pushkarani pundarega Pushkarani.
As the perumal Govindarajan lays still and
soft releishing the dance the Vimaanam is called "Sathivega Vimaanam"
where Sathvigam literally means soft nature.
Moolavar has Sangu and Chakaram in his hands.
He's attended by his wives Periya Piratti, Bhoomi piratti and Neela devi at his
feet. The celestial persons ie devas surround him. And he is in the sleeping
posture.
It's been said that while reparing the
Nataraja temple, Aanapaya chozan also known as Second Kulothunga ordered his
men to remove Govindaraja's idol and throw it into the sea.
Late the great social reformer Aacharya
Ramanuja took great effort in finding Govindaraja under the sea and found him
and replaced him in his original place.
During the life time of Alwars, Govindaraja's
Poojas was done by the thillai Brahmains ie Shaivities only. But during 1539 A.D,
king Krishnadevaraya's brother Aachudharayar employed Bhatacharyas (Priests
following Vaishnavam) and made them to render pooja's under the Vyganasa
Aagamam (One type of rites and rituals).
Though there are lots of difference of
Opinions between the Shaivities and Vaishnavities dating back from the period
of Alwars, atleast let us unite together to stop these meaningless fights and
accept the unity between the lords.
Specials:
1. The main speciality of this temple is that
this Perumal has his sannathi in the premises of the Lord Shiva's temple itself.
That too near the Natarajar sannathi itself.
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this Divyadesam is Sri
Govindarajan. He is giving his seva Kindantha (Sleeping) Thirukkolam in Bhoga
Sayanam facing his thirumugham towards eest direction. Prathyaksham for Thillai
Moovayiravar, Paanini, Padhanjali and Vyakpathra Maharishi.
Thayaar:
The Thayaar found in this sthalam is
Pundaregavalli. She has a separate sannadhi in this temple.
Utsavar:
Devadhidevan. Also known as Parthasarathy. He
is in the sitting posture.
Chitira Koodhathullan with two wives.
Sri Rama in his Vanavasa Kolam (ie poses as
in his forest surroundings).
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangaialwar - 32 Paasurams
Kulasekara Alwar - 11 Paasurams.
Total - 43 Paasurams.
Total - 43 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Pundarega Pushkarani.
Pundarega Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Saathvega Vimaanam.
Saathvega Vimaanam.
Om Tat Sat
(Continued...)
(My
humble salutations to the great devotees
, wikisources and Pilgrimage tourist guide for the
collection )
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