Holy Pilgrimage -Divya Desam Temples in Tamilnadu State -8

















 






















Holy Pilgrimage – Temples in  Tamilnadu State









Seergazhi Temples

Thirukkazhiseerama Vinnagaram - Thirivikarama Perumal Temple, Seergazhi

Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This temple lies in Seerkazhi of Tanjore district in Tamil Nadu. It's about half mile away from the Seerkazhi station. Facility for stay are provided.
Sthala Puranam:
Lord Srirama Vinnakara Thadalan, ie Sri Rama poses Lord Thiruvikrama as he did in Thiruvekka and Thiru uragam of Kanchipuram.
In Thirukovilur he has changu and chakaram, in Thiru uragam of kanchi he is unarmed and lift's his left and right lies up in order to scall the whole world by his foot, respectively. But here in Seerkazhi, Lord Narayana poses as Thirivikrama with all his five weapons with his left hand extending upto the left foot, which is folded upwards.
It is being said that Ashta Kona Maharishi is the son Kanva Maharishi and Anaka patha Maharishi.
Once Kanva Maharishi was upto a very hard penance and Lord Indra sent a beautiful girl Parama losay of the Gandarvaloga to disturb him. She did so and became pregnent. The rishi then cam to know Indra's plan. Fearing the Maharishi's anger his lover shook away the baby from her stomach. Lord vayu (Air) gathered the fetus and put it in the womb of Maarishay and in due course she bore Ashta Kona Maharishi.
It's also been said, Ashta Kona Maharishi is the son of Anaka Patha Maharishi.
Once Anaka patha Maharishi scoulded his student for sleeping insted of reading veda. The child in the mother Susadhu's womb adviced his father to treat his student softly. So the father became angry and cursed the child to be born in an zig zag structure. Thus he was born zig zag and could not stand straight and was named Ashta Kona Maharishi later.
After manu years, he saved his father who was defeted in a debate with Buddist monks and was in a lead to suicide. His father was happy in the unison and made his son to take bath in the Rive Samangam corrected a large percent of his Zig zagity.
Romasa Maharishi is the son of Bhusunda Maharishi. It's been said that when the period of the Lord Brahma's post is finished, and hair would full away from Romasa. Whose body was fully covered with hair. The process would take place 3 1/2 crore times and after that only Romasa Maharishi would die and Ashta Kona Maharishi would become straight.
The Sangu which yields Paramapatham and chakram which gives all wealth lays here as Shangu Pushkarani and Chakra Theertham.
As Lord Brahma lost his pride seeing his life equivalent to that of a single hair of Romasa, the Thaayar here is known as Mattavizhi kuzhali where Kuzhal means hair.
The term Rama is equivalent to number one for he had one wife, one arrow, one word, one rule and one dharma. As the perumal of this place too is the only ruler of the whole world this place is called SeeRama Vinnagaram.
Unison between the Shaivam and Vainaram has been brought into practice here many many years ago itself.
Once Thirugyana Sambandar, one of the four Shaivakuravar was staying here at his matt. Thirumangai alwar came by that side. He was surrounded by lots of his followers and was making a huge noise. His men were shouting loudly the title's their leader had won. The followers of gyana Sambandhar asked the followers of Thirumangai alwar to maintain science till they crossed the matt. But Alwar became angry and went straight into the matt.
Sambandar welcommed him cordinally and asked him to sing a song on the Lord Vishnu. So did Alwar and he sang the "Oru Kuralai Iru Nila Moovadi Mann...." regarding the posture of the Lord and hearing this Sambandar was spell bound and tears came running out of his eyes hearing the sweet music containing intricate meaning.
He atonce gave the spade (vel) which was given to him by lordess Aadhiparashakti to Alwar and requested him to continue his humble service to god. And accepted that he was apt for his titles and announcing them loudly was correct.
Both of them hugged each other and bore good bye in a sad mood and paved way to the unity of Saivam and Vaishnavam.
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this Divyadesam is Thirivikaraman. Also known as Thadalan and Ulagalanthan. He is giving his seva in Ulagalantha sevai. (ie) he is in the Nindra (Standing) Thirukkolam lifting his left leg above the head so as to measure the World. Prathyaksham for Ashta Kona Maharishi.
Thayaar:
The Thayaar found in this sthalam is Loga Nayaki. The Utsavar Thaayar is Mattavizh Kuzhali.
Utsavar:
The Utsavar found in this sthalam is Thiri Vikrama Narayanan.
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangaialwar - 10 Paasurams.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Manavala maamunigal too has graced this place ie done Mangalasasanam.
Pushkarani:
Sanga Pushkarani.
Chakara Theertham.
Vimanam:
Pushkala Vartha Vimaanam.


Thiruvaali Thirunagari - Sri Lakshmi Narashima Perumal Temple, Seergazhi

Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This temple lies in the Tanjore district of TamilNadu. It's about 6 miles from Thirunaangur. If taken the route of Keezh salai from Thirunaangur its about 3 1/2 miles. No arrangements for staying are furnished.
Specials:
1. Though Thiruvaali and Thirunagari are about 3 miles away from each other, these two are considered as a Single Divyadesam only.
2. We can worship first Thirunagari, then Thiruvaali, Thirudevanar Thogai and finally Thiruvellakkulam at one streach.
Thirunagari
About the Temple:
This temple lies in the Tanjore district of TamilNadu. It's about 6 miles from Thirunaangur. If taken the route of Keezh salai from Thirunaangur its about 3 1/2 miles. No arrangements for staying are furnished.
Moolavar:
The Moolavar found in this sthalam is Sri Devarajan. Also known as Vayalaali Manavalan. Irundha (Sitting) Thirukkolam facing his thirumugham towards west direction.
Thayaar:
The Thaayar of this sthalam is Amurdha Valli.
Utsavar:
The Utsavar found in this sthalam is Kalyana Ranganathan.
Mangalasasanam:
Both the places are considered as one kshetram and so has gained 42 Paasurams by Kulasekara alwar and Thirumangai alwar. Also Manavala Maamunigal has visited this place many times.
Pushkarani:
Ilaakshani Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Ashtakshara Vimaanam.
Thiruvaali
About the Temple:
This temple lies in the Tanjore district of TamilNadu. It's about 6 miles from Thirunaangur. If taken the route of Keezh salai from Thirunaangur its about 3 1/2 miles. No arrangements for staying are furnished.
Sthalapuranam
Thiruvaali and Thirunagari are both within 3 miles from each other are realted to the history of Thirumangai Alwar.
Thirumangai alwar was born on Thirukurayalur near Thirunagari. His orinigal name was "Neelan" and was the Army chief (Padai Thalapathi) of the Chola Kingdom. He was well versed in Tamil and Sanskrit.
As a reward for his valor, the chola king made Neelan the king of "Aali nadu" a small state whose capital was "Thirumangai".
Sumangalai was the head of the young ladies of heaven (Deva Kanni) who were involved in the job of fanning the lord using the "Samaram". Once while saint Kabila was preeching the qualities of Lord Narayana, Sumangali distracted him by making an odd remark of his ugly students. So he cursed to go to earth and take birth.
As a curse, she born on this earth on a lilly flower and was named as "Kumudhavalli".
Thirumangai Mannan wanted to marry her, but she ordered him to become a Srivaishnavan - a staunch follower of Vaishnavam.
He headed straight to Thirunarayur and asked the Lord to be his Guru and transform him into a pure Vaishnavity.
But Kumudavalli placed another condition for marriage. She ordered him to give food for 1008 Brahmins daily and fill his stomach by accepting the remaining food kept by the Brahmins and drink the water used to wash their lotus feets.
Thirumangai Mannan accepted her terms and married her happily. His extreme love for his wife, brought him into a delicate position of finding enormous money need for the second condition. He even used the many intended to pay the revenue to the chola king.
The king ordered him to pay the revenue, but Thirumangai Mannan was unable to repay it and so he was put in jail. He spent 3 days in the jail without eating food for he took a vow of eating food only after giving food to the Brahmins.
Varadharaja perumal of Kanchipuram, came into his dreams and asked him to come to the Vegavathi river bank to collect the required money.
So along with many Ministers, he came to Kanchi under a tight security and amazingly he found the required money.
But, as the day passed on, he spent all the money he had and was not sufficient to spend. He had no money for the further expenses, so he made up his mind to rob money from rich people.
Once Lord Narayana and Periya Piratti passed along the forest where Thirumangai Alwar was waiting for some rich persons to pass on and so that he could steal money and ornaments from them to serve the Brahmins. Sriman Narayanan and Periya Piratti were dressed as a newly married couples. While they were passing, all people around them sang lots of marriage related songs and on hearing this, Thirumangai Mannan was so happy that he could get lots of ornaments from them. He stopped them and asked for all of their belongings and while the conversation between them was going on, he took away all of their jewles from the marriage party but could not get the precious ring of the Groom. Finally he took the ring by bitting the Groom's finger.
After that he gathered all the things and asked his servents to lift. But the parcel was too heavy even to Thirumangai alwar. He scolded the groom in suscipion of Chanting Manthra against him. The groom asked alwar to come near him to know the Manthra he chanted and he preeched alwar the most powerful "Ashtaksara Mandiram - Om Namo Narayanaya". And gave dharsan to him in his original form and gave him the title "Nam Kaliyan", Nam - Our, Kaliyan - Thief.
After that Alwar became a true addict - devotee to Lord Narayana and totally Mangalsasasanamed 84 Divydesams with thousand two hundred and twenty three paasurams.
He did many great things during his life time. He even built the compund wall of Sri Rangam temple and brought Nammalwar from his isolation to Sri Rangam for a discourse.
Thirumangai alwar has got two specialities:
He is the only alwar, who takes all the honours along with his beloved wife Kumudhavalli.
The terms Nammalwar was rendered to Nammalwar by his devotee Madurakavi alwar, who considered Nammalwar as equivalent to god. ie The term Nam - our was given to him by his followers.
But the title "Namkaliyan" was revarded to Thirumangai alwar by the lord god itself. ie he was so near to god and the Lord proved it by accepting the self - Praising terms of Alwar in paasurams as the terms praising Lord Narayana.
Touching and performing pooja to the lord by the devotees itself is a North Indian practice. He brought this concept to South India by higging the idol of Lakshmi Narashima at Thiruvaali. The name Thiruvaali too came for that reason only for Thiruvaali = Thiru + Aali. Aali is the term equivalent to Alinganam ie hugging as Alwar hugged the Lord at that place, it was named Thiruvaali
Also the name "Vayalaali Manavalan" too has a special meaning. Vayal means fields. Thirumangai alwar made the pure soles of all the devotees as fields which cultivates Bhakti without any weeds.
Vayalaali means the owner of such Bhakti cultivating lands ie Thirumangai alwar.
As alwar hugged Lord Lakshmi Narashima, he gained the name "Vayalaai Manavalan" (Manavalan means one who is sweet to the hears).
Thirumangai Alwar worshipped five Narashimaars idols througout his life. Out of that 2 of the Narashimars and one small Utsavar idol of 'Lord Senthaiku eniyan' are presented at Thirunagai even today.
At Thirunagari, alwar poses a hunter involved in robbery. It's been said that at Devarajapuram half mile away from Thirunagar, only Alwar robbed Lord Narayana. Today as a token of rememberence a function "Vedupari Utsavam" is conducted on the Panguni uthiram day.
As the Lord posed as groom and bride, the Utsavar perumal at Thirunagari is named as Kalyana Ranganathan (Kalyanam - Marriage), and Moolavar devarajan and Vayalaali Manavalan. The vimaanam is named Ashtaksara vimaanam for this Mandiram only changed alwars life course.
Thirumangai alwar attained mukthi at Thirukurunkudi of Pandya Kingdom. While Thirumangai Alwar's idol is taken out for procession he is armed with a diamond studded knife. As an Homage to his practice of giving food to Brahmins, even today 10 Brahmins get food from his temple.
In the Utsavar idol of Thirumangai alwar, Namalwar is in his heart and the great social Ramanuja following the foot steps of Alwars.
Thiruvaali has a special credit of having Mangalasasanam by two great kings - Thirumangai Alwar and Kulasekara alwar (Chera Kingdom).
It's to be noted that two kings - Thirumangai alwar and Nikanzhama prijapathi got perumals special dharsan.
Moolavar:
The Moolavar found in this sthalam is Sri Lakshmi Narashimar. Also known as Vayalaali Manavalan. Irundha (Sitting) Thirukkolam facing his thirumugham towards west direction. Prathyaksham for Thirumangai alwar and Allathi Nikanchama Prajapathi.
Thayaar:
The Thaayar of this sthalam is Amrudhakada Valli.
Utsavar:
The Utsavar found in this sthalam is Thiruvaali Nagaraalan.
Mangalasasanam:
Both the places are considered as one kshetram and so has gained 42 Paasurams by Kulasekara alwar and Thirumangai alwar. Also Manavala Maamunigal has visited this place many times.
Pushkarani:
Ilaakshani Pushkarani.


Thiru Kavalampaadi - Sri Gopala Krishna Perumal Temple, Seergazhi

Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This temple lies in the Tanjore district of Tamil Nadu. It's about 7 miles east from Seerkazhi and 5 miles away from the Vaihteeswaran Kovil railway station. Bus facilities are provided but staying facility are not provided.
Sthala Puranam:
Here Lord Gopala Krishnan give dharsan along with his wives Rukmani and Satyabhama.
Vishwaksenar the chief of the Nithyasuri's was the son of Kundalai and Lord Varuna (Rain god). Kundalai was sent to disturb the penance of Saint Dhuruvasa by Lord Indra was gained his curse. So, she was born as a hunter's daughter and married pathiran a hunter. One day Lord Varuna loved her and as a result she bore Vishwaksenar as her child.
Later by his hard penance he was made the chief of Nithyasuri's the good spirit's who live in Pramapatha and who are always near Lord Narayana.
He wished to have dharsan of Lord Narayana as Lord Krishna and fulfilled his wish here.
Rudran was caught by Brahma Hathi dhosam, an evil spell as he killed Lord Brahma. To over come this he prayed the Lord at Kadamba kshetram, Kantiyur and here at this place got rid of his problem.
To gain the love of god, its enough if we do our duties correctly. Vishwaksenar and Rudran both were fully satisfied before having dharsan of this Lord and did not requested him anything. So Lord gave his blessing happily as he had said in Bhagavat git that if you do your duties without expecting anything from me, I would give all the necessary for you without your request.
Reason behind the name:
Kavalam means a small quantity of food. The Lord of this place gave his blessings to Senai Thalaivar and Rudran after he got rid of his Sabham. Here the Lord accepts the pure state of his devotees as food and so this place is called Kavalampadi.
So there is no Madapalli (place to cook food for the lord hre at this temple).
Specials:
1. On every day next ot Thai Amavasai (New moon day in the Tamil Month Thai), the perumal of this temple is taken in the Garuda Vahanam to join the Thirunaangur Garuda sevai.
2. It is First and one among the Thirunaangur Thirupathi's.
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this Divyadesam is Sri Gopala Krishnan. Also known as Rajagopalan. He is giving his seva Nindra (Standing) Thirukkolam facing his thirumugham towards east direction. Prathyaksham for Vishwaksenar (Senai Thalaivar) and Rudran.
Thayaar:
The Thayaar found in this sthalam is Madavaral Mangai. She is also called with the name Sengamala Naachiyaar.
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangaialwar - 10 Paasurams.
Total - 10 Paasurams.


Arimeya Vinnagaram - Sri Kuda Maadu Koothan Perumal Temple, Seergazhi

Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This temple lies in Thirunaangur of Tanjore district in Tamil Nadu. It's about 5 miles away from Seerkazhi. This place is generally known as Kudamaadu Koothar Kovil only. Bus facilities are provided.
Sthala Puranam:
"Ari" means one who makes the sin's to vanish. As the Lord of this place Vanishes our sins, this place is called as Arimeya Vinnagaram.
Lord Shiva is well known from his dances. Lord vishnu too gains the name as a good dancer by performing the "Kuda Koothu" dance and got his name as Kuda Maadu Koothan.
Koothu is of two types - Aga Koothu (internal) and Pura Koothu (external).
Aga Koothu means the type of dance which are born inside our heart and enjoyed by our soul. Eg: Prabantha paasuram's Koothu (dance) which come due to the internal experience.
Pura Koothu means the type of dance which is performed by the bodily expressions accompanied by music Archestra.
There's a subdivision "Shanti koothu" of this type where the hero of the play perform softly. Another sub type is "Vinodha Koothu" in which the hero play happily after gaining some victory.
Among the sevan sub types of this Vinodha Koothu the important one is "Kuravai Koothu" which is played as a result of victory combined with love. Lord Krishna dance is of this type.
Another type of Koothu (dance) is Kuda Koothu in which the hero stands still and bring out expression as a light kept inside a pot.
Lord Krishna performed this Koothu here to explain his Aadi Moola Naraya Thathuvam ie the reason behind the brith of everything in this world.
To indicate the unity of Shaivam and Vainavam, the Pushkarani of this place is named as "Kodi Theertham" as like in Rameswaram.
The Lord Kuda Maadu Koothan gave his graceful dharsan to Uthang Maharishi.
Uthanga Maharishi was the son of Uthunga Maharishi and Gunavathi got married to Prabhai. Once a Crocodile took her away when both were taking holy bath in river Ganges.
Uthanga Maharishi got vexed and roamed in many places and finally came to Thiru Arimeya Vinnagaram. There Kuda Maadu Koothan gave dharsan to him and said that his wife has attained Mukti (eternity) and got him out of his sorrow.
Specials:
1. On every day next ot Thai Amavasai (New moon day in the Tamil Month Thai), the perumal of this temple is taken in the Garuda Vahanam to join the Thirunaangur Garuda sevai.
2. It is Second and one among the Thirunaangur Thirupathi's.
3. The idol of Moolavar is of the type Sudai Vadivam is made from burnt clay and hence only Thailakaapu is allowed here ie no thirumanjanam is done here.
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this Divyadesam is Sri Kuda Maadu Koothan. (The idol of Moolavar is of the type Sudai Vadivam is made from burnt clay and hence only Thailakaapu is allowed here ie no thirumanjanam is done here). The Moolavar is in the Irundha (Sitting) Thirukkolam facing his thirumugham towards east direction. Prathyaksham for Uthanga Maharishi.

Thayaar:
The Thayaar found in this sthalam is Amrudha Kadavalli.
Utsavar:
The Utsavar found in this sthalam is Gopalakrishnan and he is found with 4 arms.
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangaialwar - 10 Paasurams.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Kodi theertham.
Amirtha theertham.
Vimanam:
Uchasringa Vimaanam.


Thiru Vann Purushothamam - Sri Purushothama Perumal Temple, Seergazhi

Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This temple lies in Thirunaangur of Tanjore district in Tamil Nadu. It's about 5 miles away from Seerkazhi. Bus facilities are also available.
Sthala Puranam:
As the perumal of this place gave the Thirupaarkadal and stands as Rama the greatest among the men so named as Purushothaman along with his wife Purushothama Naayaki - Periya piratti, this place is called as Thiru Vann Purushothamam.
As Lord Narayana gave generously the Thirupaarkadal to Upamanyu Maharishi, the theertham is known as Thirupaarkadal Theertham.
Sanjeevi Mooligai (An herb) saved Lord Rama itself. So inorder to indicate this, the Vimaanam of this place is named as Sanjeevi Vigraha Vimaanam.
The term Purushothamam means the person who is best among Bhaktar, Muktar, Nitheyar and Purushar (ie) among Devotees, the person who had attained eternity, the soul of the human being always lives with the god.
The Utsavar Purushotaman found in this sthalam is said to be so beautiful and can easily attract everyones attention and heart towards him.
Specials:
1. The day after every Thai Amavasai, Garuda Sevai is celebrated excellently here.
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this Divyadesam is Sri Purushotaman. The Moolavar is in the Nindra (Standing) Thirukkolam facing his thirumugham towards east direction. Prathyaksham for Upamanyu Maharishi.

Thayaar:
The Thayaar found in this sthalam is Purushotama Naayaki.
Utsavar:
The Utsavar found in this sthalam is also Purushotaman.
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangaialwar - 10 Paasurams.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Thirupaarkadal Theertham.
Vimanam:
Sanjeevi Vigraha Vimaanam.


Thiru Sempon Sei Kovil - Sri Per Arulaalan Perumal Temple, Seergazhi

Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This sthalam is also one among the Thirunaangur Divyadesam and lies in Thirunaangur in Tanjore district in Tamil Nadu. It's about 5 miles away from Seerkazhi. Bus facilities are also available.
This sthalam is called with other names like Hema Rangam, Nagapuri, Nangai Nagaram
Sthala Puranam:
In the Ramayana time, Rama killed Ravana who was a Brahmin. So he was caught by the sin of killing a Brahmin. To get rid of this sin, he came to Rameswaram to worship the Sivalingam made by Sita devi.
Then he came to this place and stayed in the Thrida Nethra Maharishi's Ashram.
According to his advice, he made a golden cow and stayed upon it for 4 days. Later he donated it to a Brahmin.
The Brahmin sold the gold and constructed this temple. As the gold got from Sri Rama was the reason behind the formation of this temple, this place is called as "Sem Ponn Sei Kovil" where Sem Ponn means pure gold.
Lord Shiva inorder to get rid of his Brahmagarthi dhosam performed the Ekadasa Rudhra Ashvametha yagam. When the Yagna was about to complete, Lord shiva had the dharsan of Lord Narayana along with his wives Periya Piratti, Bhoomi Piratti and Nela devi, Lord Brahma and all the devas.
In order to bless Lord Shiva, Lord Narayana took 11 forms in and around Thirunaangur as follow


Thirukavalampadi
Gopalakrishnan along with Rukmani and Satyabama.
Thiruvannpurushothamam
Purushothaman along with Purushotama Naayaki.
Thiru Sempon SeiKovil
Perarulaalan along with Allimaamalar Naachiyar.
Thirudevanar Thogai
Deivanaayagan along with Kadal Magal Naachiyar.
Thiru Mani Koodam
Varadharaja Perumal along with Thirumagal Naachiyar and Bhoomi Piratti.
Thiru paarthanpalli
Thamarai Kelvan along with Thamarai Naayaki, in standing posture in all the above Kshetrams.
Thirumanimaada kovil
Narayana Gyana Nandha Vilaku along with Pundarigavalli.
Thiruvaali Thirunagari
Amrudhavalli Vedharajan, Narashimar along with Amrudha Kada valli.
Thiru vaigunda vinnagaram
Vaigunda Naadhan along with Periya Piratti.
Arimeya vinnagaram
Kudamaadu Koothan along with Amrudha Kada valli, in sitting posture in above 4 Kshetrams.
Thirutheythri Ambalam
Shenkann Maal along with Shenkamalavalli, in sleeping posture of the type Bhujanga Sayanam.




Totally 11 forms of which 6 in standing posture, 4 in Sitting posture and finally 1 in sleeping posture.
As an wish of Lord Shiva, Lord Narayana is accompanied by 11 forms of Para Shakthi (Godess) inherting the power of all the 108 Shakthi peedams on those 11 forms inorder to give their devotees Shakthi and Gyana. It's been said all the above perumals together gets us out of all our dhosams and sins.
As the Lord gives away love generously to his devotees along with Lord Shiva, he is called as Perarulaalan (ie) person of generously. Perarulalan gives wealth to his devotees as Lord Ranganatha, Utsavar is named as Hemarangar and Semponn arangar.
Lord Shiva and Vishnu merging into a sing deity blesses us at all the eleven Thirunaangur Thirupathi's. The reason behind the formation of the total number of 11 is the Ashtaksha Mandiram "Om Namo Narayanaya" of 8 syllable reduces in to the "Om Narayanaya" mandiram of 6 syllable to combine with Lord Shivas Panchatsaram "Namashivaya" of 5 syllable to give a total of 11 syllables - 11 Thirunaangur thirupathi's.
To indicate the non ending generosity of Perarulaan even during night time, the Thaayar has the name of Alli (Lilly flower) blooming in night.
In order of respect to the Golden cow of Sri Rama, the Vimaanam is named Kanaka Vimaanam (Kanakam - gold) and Pushkarani Hema Theertham and Kanaka Theertham.
An historical note registered the temple says that once there lived a Brahmin Mukunda elder son of Kashyaba. He chanted the Ashtaksha Mandiram continuously for 32 thousand times here to gain abundant wealth from Perarulaalan and was succeded in his attempt.
Specials:
1. Among the 108 Kshetrams, this is the only Divyadesam were the Perumal itself gave the money to construct his own temple.
2. The Grand Garuda sevai along with the 11 Perumals of Thirunaangur Thirupathi's.
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this sthalam is Sri Perarulaalan. Other name are Hema Rangar, Damodharan and Sem Pon Arangar. The Moolavar is in the Nindra (Standing) Thirukkolam facing his thirumugham towards east direction. Prathyaksham for Rudhiran.

Thayaar:
The Thaayar of this sthalam is Allimaamalar Naachiyar.
Utsavar:
The Utsavar found in this sthalam is Sri Hema Rangar.
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangaialwar - 10 Paasurams.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Nithya Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Kanaka Valli Vimaanam.

Thiru Manimaada Kovil - Sri Narayana Perumal Temple, Seergazhi


Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This sthalam is one among the Thirunaangur Divyadesam and lies in Thirunaangur in Tanjore district in Tamil Nadu. It's about 5 miles away from Seerkazhi. Bus facilities are also available.
Sthala Puranam:
Nanda Vilakku means the lamp which gives light continuously. Here the perumal stands as this Nanda Vilakku giving the Pranava Gyana oli ie Pranavam means the word "Om" which is the key sound of the whole universe.
Ajaykapathan, Aahirputheyar, Binanai, Roodhar, Pithuroopar, Thriyambakar, Maheswarar, Virushakabi, Shambuvahanar, Easwarar all the above 10 are known as Ekadasa Rudhirar.
Ajaykapathan was once the carrier of Lord Shiva who was having 4 mouths, 1000 shoulders, Karala Vadhanam, ears with shell earrings and 100 legs.
Aahirputheyan is the son of Maharishi Boothan and Surabi.
Binaki is actually a bow which was formed by Lord Indra. Once Kanva Maharishi who brought up shakuntala was in a deep prayer and was covered by Sand dunes. Bamboo trees started to grow on the top and seeing the finest quality of these Bamboo's, Lord Indra made 3 bows out of them. He named the first one as Kandibam and kept it for himself. The other one was named Shargam and was given to Lord Narayana and the third one was named Binaki and was given to Lord shiva.
Maheswarar has the body and ornaments as Lord Shiva but is of white colour.
As Lord Narayana gave his dharsan to Lord Shiva who was received from the sin of killing Lord Brahma. Narayana gave these Ekadasa Rudhirar's too his special dharsan.
Once saint Dhurvasan gave a garland which was used in the worship of Godess Lakshmi to Lord Indira. But he took the garland carelessly and put it on his Elephant Iravadham. The garland was smashed under the feet of this Elephant. The saint got angry and cursed Lord Indra that all his wealth would disappear in the sea.
So happened and on a particular day all the Deva's churned the sea and the next day they got Godess Lakshmi's blessings. So that particular day of churning was named as Ekadasi and the day next as Dhuvadasi.
So after regaining his wealth, Lord Indra got the dharsan of Lord Narayana at this place.
As Lord Indra and the Rudhirar's got the Lords dharsan, the pushkarani known as Indra Pushkarani and Rudira Pushkarani.
As the Lord here vibrates all his powers as Pranava without stipping, like a Nanda vilakku the Vimaanam here is Pranava Vimaanam.
All the 11 Divyadesams of Thirunaangur was created to receive Lord Shiva from his Brahma hati dhosam.
It's been said that in a war between Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Lord Shiva throwed his Tirisoolam (his weapon) on Lord vishnu and he took it as his Thiruman (Symbol in his forehead) and Lord Vishnu once held Lord Shiva's neck tightly (while he drank the poison which came from the Thriuparkadal) and the poison stood there and Lord Shiva was named Neelakandan thereafter.
By worshipping Lord Shiva his black throat resembles Lord Krishna's colour and while worshipping Lord Vishnu the Thiruman stands as symbol for Lord Shiva and thus these Lords are insisting unity among us.
Nara Narayanar, is the form of Lord who became a student himself and a teacher himself, teaching Gnana to himself as being a student and teacher simultaneously. Lord Naryanan of Manimaada Kovil stands as a lamp which spreads Gnana to the world and Nara Narayana of Bhadrinath who taught Gnana to himself and thus both are equivalent in terms of Gnana.
The above comparison was made by Thirumangai alwar in his paasuram "Nandha vilake! alatharkuariyay! Nara Narayanane....".
Usually the Nanda vilaku is kept in an beautiful Maadam ie a structure used for placing camps and hence this place is known as Mani Maada Kovil containing the Lord as camp in it.
Specials:
1. On every day after Thai Amavasai, all the Perumals of the eleven Thriunaangur Thirupathis come here to Manimaaada Kovil in their in Garuda Vahanams.
On that occasion Thirumangai Alwar with his wife Kumudhavalli would come from Thirunagari along with the deity he worshipped. Then to the 11 Thirunaangur Divyadesa Perumals are praised with the Paasurams (ie) the Mangalasasanam made by him is sung and finally the Thiru Andikaapu is performed.
Then Thirumangai alwar would accept the garlands and honour from each perumal. Finally all would set in to a grand procession.
2. We can visit all the Six Divyadesams - Thirumanimaada Kovil, Thiruvaikunda Vinnagaram, Thiru Vann Purushothamam, Thiru Arimeya vinnagaram, Thiru Semponnsei Kovil and Thiru Thotriambalam all in just one day.
3. The Grand Garuda sevai along with the 11 Perumals of Thirunaangur Thirupathi's.
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this sthalam is Sri Narayanan. He is also known as Nanda Vilakku. The Moolavar is in the Irundha (Sitting) Thirukkolam facing his thirumugham towards east direction. Prathyaksham for Lord Indra and Ekadasa Rudhirar.
Thayaar:
The Thaayar of this sthalam is Pundariga Valli Thaayar.
Utsavar:
The Utsavar found in this sthalam is Narayanan. He is also Known as Alatharku Ariyan.
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangaialwar - 12 Paasurams.
Total - 12 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Indra Pushkarani.
Rudhira Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Pranava Vimaanam.


VaiKunda Vinnagaram - Sri Vaigundha Nathan Perumal Temple, Seergazhi

Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This sthalam is also one among the Thirunaangur Divyadesam and lies in Thirunaangur in Tanjore district in Tamil Nadu. Bus facilities are also available.
Sthala Puranam:
In this place Udhanga Maharishi and king Uparisaravasu got the dharsan of the Lord as he is in Vaigunda Loga.
So, the pious river Viraja which is considered to run across the border of Vaikunda loga is the theertham here.
It's true that god is one. But different relegion preech different paths to attain god. But finally it will take to the ultimate god only. So to indicate this the Vimaanam here is Anantha sathya Varthaka Vimaanam.
To attain Vaikunda is to attain life without rebirth, and the perumal of this Kshetram would bless one if we offer our trueselt.
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this sthalam is Sri Vaikunda Nathan. Other name of the Perumal is Thamarai Kannudaya Piraan. The Moolavar is in the Irundha (Sitting) Thirukkolam facing his thirumugham towards east direction. Prathyaksham for King Uparisaravasu and Udhanga Maharishi.
Thayaar:
The Thaayar of this sthalam is Vaikunda Valli. Periya Piratti and Bhoomi Piratti are found along with Moolavar and Utsavar.
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangaialwar - 10 Paasurams.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Lakshmi Pushkarani.
Udhanga Pushkarani.
Viraja Theertham.
Vimanam:
Anantha Sathya Varthaka Vimaanam


Thiru Devanaar Thogai - Sri Deiva Naayaga Perumal Temple, Seergazhi

Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This place is near to Thiruvaali Kshetram of Tanjore district in Tamil Nadu. It's about 4 miles south east ot Seerkazhi Railway station. Can drop at Thiruvaali by bus of Thiruvennkadu route. There is no place for stay.
Sthala Puranam:
It's been said that Lord Narayana married Godess Lakshmi devi who emerged out of the Thiruparkadal at this place. As the Deva's (celestial persons) came in a group (Thogai in tamil) this place is called Thiru devanar Thogai.
It is situated on the South bank of river Manni. It is beleived that, after havind dharsan of this perumal, unmarried persons get married and childloss couples got the boon of child birth.
As this place was graced by the Celestical persons, the shadow of the Vimaanam falls within the range of the Vimaanam (temple tower) itself. The term Madhavan, Emperumaan are common for both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Henceforth to represent this unison, though the temple is a Vishnu temple, there is a burrial ground the favourite place of Lord Shiva in the backyard of this temple.
The Vimaanam of this temple consists of two stories and is of a Magnificant structure.
As the Lord is in the Marriage pose, the Vimaanam and Pushkarani are named Shobana Vimaanam and Shobana Pushkarani respectively. And inorder of homage to the celertial persons, the pushkarani also named as Devashaba Pushkarani.
Among the Saptha rishis (7 great saints) Vashista is considered as the top most person. He is the son of Lord Bhrama (ie) he was born by the mental thought of Lord Brahma. The term Vashister means "Best Rishi among all others".
So Lord Deiva Nayagan gave dharsan to this great Rishi as young married couple. The idols of Thaayar and perumal are of small size only.
Specials:
1. The temple gate faces west and the shadow of the Vimaanam falls within the Vimaanam itself.
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this Divyadesam is Sri Deiva Naayagan. He is giving his seva Nindra (Standing) Thirukkolam facing his thirumugham towards west direction. Prathyaksham for Vashista Maharishi.

Thayaar:
The Thayaar found in this sthalam is Kadal Magal Naachiyar. She has a separate sannadhi. The Utsavar Thaayar is Madhava Nayaki.
Utsavar:
The Utsavar found in this sthalam is Madhava Perumal.
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangaialwar - 10 Paasurams.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Shobana Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Shobana Vimaanam.


Thiru Thetri Aambalam - Sri Seganmaal Ranganatha Perumal Temple


Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This temple lies in the Tanjore district of Tamil Nadu.
Sthala Puranam:
The Lord of this kshetram is known under the name "Palli Konda perumal". He poses as Lord Ranganatha with four hands. In a way of explaining the Unison of Lord Shiva and Vishnu, Lord Vishnu has adopted many qualities of Lord Shiva such as dancing (Kuravai Koothu at Thiru Arimeya Vinnagaram), Accepting Lord Chandra as a head ornament in Thirushankadu etc, he transforms this place as his stage for dancing as Lord Shiva took Chidambaram as his dance stage, and stys still as Ranganatha respresenting stableness Shivalogam.
When Lord Narayana took the Dasawatarams, the dance which was danced by the Lord after killing Hiranya as Narashima lots of kings as Lord Parasurama is called as "Shankara Thandavam".
Lord Krishna dance with the Rishi's who were born as Gopikas in Gokulam is "Aanandha Thandavam" Lord's special dance "Koda Koothu" in Thiru Arimeya vinnagram is a splendity. The actions of Lord Varadharaja, while testing the devotees and giving warmth to his devotees while giving boons and showing Vishnupadham using his hands are known as "Anavaradha thandavam" the dance of Lord Krishna on the top of the Banyan leaf as an infant kicking and curling, sucking his toes, in the period of Pralaya is known as "Pralaya Thandavam".
As Lord Shiva showed his dances to Sivakami Parashakthi, viyakrapadhar, Padanjali, Paanini and Nandhi deva, Lord Vishnu too has showed glimpses of his dances to piratti Naachiyar (wife of Lord vishnu), Aadhi Shesha Anathalwan and the heards of cows too got dharsan of his Yoga naya dance while he was Lord Krishna at Gokulam.
Here the perumal is in sleeping posture. Here we may take that either he lying down before dancing or taking rest after dancing.
Though the Lord is in sleeping posture his eyes would be wide all the times. The perumal at this place is known as Shenkann Maal for he has reddish eyes. The eye's would have become red after performing a very tough dance or would have become red as he never closes his eyes even while sleeping.
In order to inform people tht the ideal person explained in the Vedas is noneother than himself, the vimaanam is named as Vedha Vimaanam. Though the Lord is in sleeping posture, he is guarding his devotees using Yoga Maya and is seeing the happenings of the world through his sun like eyes. So the Pushkarani is named as Surya Pushkarani (Suryan means Sun).
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this Divyadesam is Sri Senganmaal Ranganathar. Also known as Lakshmi Rangar. He is giving his seva Kidantha (Sleeping) Thirukkolam in Bhujanga sayanam facing his thirumugham towards east direction. He is found with Four hands on the Aadhiseshan. Prathyaksham for Naachiyar and Aadhisheshan.
Thayaar:
The Thayaar found in this sthalam is Sri Sengamala Valli Naachiyaar.
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangaialwar - 10 Paasurams.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Sooriya Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Veda Vimaanam.


Thiru Manikkoodam - Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Seergazhi

Temple Location :
About the Temple:
This temple lies near Thirunaangur of Tanjore district in Tamil Nadu. It's about 8 Km away from Seerkazhi and 1/2 miles away from Thirunaangur. It's inside a Tamarind farm.
Sthala Puranam:
Lord Shiva has river Ganges and Lord Chandra, the Lord of this place too has the same Lord chandra and Lord Garuda instead of river Ganges and poses as Lord Varadharaja. He gave special dharsan to Lord Chandra and Garuda here. This an act of Illustrating the unity between the Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.
As the Lord Shiva gave plae to Lord Moon who had been cursed, Lord Vishnu too saved Lord Chandra from Curse and hence the Pushkarani is named as Chandra Pushkarani.
The Lord Varadharaja is known for his act of testowing abundand wealth to his devotees and this act brings the name of the Vimaanam as Kanaka - gold Vimaanam.
The rays of Lord Chandra is as soft as light rays emerging out of Pearls, Crystals etc. Which are known as manigal and as Lord Varadharaja gave dharsan to Lord Moon here. This place is called "Thiru Mani Koodam".
Moolavar:
The Moolavar of this Divyadesam is Sri Varadharaja Perumal. Also known as Manikooda Nayagan. He is giving his seva in Nindra (Standing) Thirukkolam in facing his thirumugham towards east direction. He is found with Four hands on the Aadhiseshan. Prathyaksham for Lord Chandran.

Thayaar:
The Thayaar found in this sthalam is Thiru Maamagal Naachiyar and Bhoomi Piratti.
Mangalasasanam:
Thirumangaialwar - 10 Paasurams.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Chandra Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Kanaka Vimaanam.






Om Tat Sat
                                                        
(Continued...)                                                                                                                              



(My humble  salutations to the great devotees ,  wikisources  and Pilgrimage tourist guide for the collection )

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