Holy Pilgrimage -Divya Desam Temples in Tamilnadu State -9 at 5:41 PM

Holy Pilgrimage – Temples in  Tamilnadu State

Thiru Vellakkulam (Annan Kovil) - Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, Seergazhi

Temple Location :

About the Temple:

This temple lies in Thirunaangur of Tanjore district in Tamil Nadu. It's about 7 miles away from Seerkazhi and is near to Thirunaangur. Transport facilities are not provided.

Sthala Puranam:

Once there was a king named Swethan, the son of Thundu maran of the Surya dyansty. Fearing early death he sought the help of "Maruthuva Maharishi", the son of Lord Surya the sun god. He instructed swethan to chant the "Mrithyunjaya Manthiram" by sitting under the Tree vilvam which was on the south bank of the pushkarani. Lord Narayanan presented himself before the king and blessed him with a long life.

This Kshetram is known as South Tirupathi. All the offering in due to the Thiruvenkadamudayan of Tirupathi can be offered here too.

At Thiruvinnagar, Lord Oppiliappan blesses along with godess Bhoodevi as an equivalent form of Lord varahaswamy and Bhoodevi as Tirumala Tirupathi. Also as an equivalent form of Lord Srinivasa and Padmavathi Thaayar, the Lord blesses us as Thiruvellakulam as Lord Srinivasa and Padmavathi.

As for the above stated reasons, both the Kshetrams are considered in equivalent with Tirumala Tirupathi.

Lord Srinivasa at Vellakulam has the qualities of Lord Rama and Lord Krishna. As lord Rama is the elder brother - Annan of Lord Krishna. So Lord Srinivasa bears the name Annan here.

As he saved the king Swethan from the death fear he shows himself as Varadharajan. So as the perumal stands as form representing all the yugams the Vimaanam too has a hint of this act as Thathuva Yodhaga Vimaanam.

The perumal thus has the names of elder and younger brother namely "Annan" and "Kannan". Hence this temple is known as Annan Kovil. Also it is to be noted that the perumal is also called as Narayanan. Thus this name acts as a bridge between the similarity of Sri Rama and Venkata Krishna - Thiruvenkadamudayan for both of them were in search of their wieves Seetha devi and Godess Padmavathi respectively.

Vellam means flood and kulam means pond. Both the terms represent water only. As like Annan Kovil, this place has got its another name "Thiru Vellakulam" from the above similarity. It can also taken that Lord Rama, Balarama and Aadhi vishnu are all of white colour. Lord Krishna is of Blue colour the colour of water in ponds and tanks. Taking Vellam as Vellai White colour it can also be said that the name Vellakulam was got by the above reason.

Specials:

1. This Divyadesam is known as "South Tirupathi". All the offering in due to the Thiru Venkadamudayan of Tirupathi can be offered here too.

2. This sthalam is the avathara sthalam of Kumudhavalli Naachiyaar (wife of Thirumangai Alwar).

3. Whenever Thirumangai Alwar comes to this sthalam, he was given two coconuts smeared with turmeric powder. There is a great custom involved in this issue. (ie) whenever son-in-law comes to his wife's place, he would be offered and greated along with the coconuts. Since, Thirumangai Alwar married Kumudhavalli Naachiyaar, he is offered along with two coconuts.

Moolavar:

The Moolavar of this Divyadesam is Sri Srinivasan. Also known as Kannan, Narayanan and Anna Perumal. He is giving his seva Nindra (Standing) Thirukkolam facing his thirumugham towards eest direction. Prathyaksham for Ekadesa Rudhirar and Swetha Rajan.

Thayaar:

The Thayaar found in this sthalam is Alarmel Mangai Naachiyar. The Utsavar Thaayar is Padmavathi. Also known as Poorar Thirumagal.

Mangalasasanam:

Thirumangaialwar - 10 Paasurams.
Total - 10 Paasurams.

Pushkarani:
Thiru Vellakulam.

Vimanam:
Thathuva Yodhaga Vimaanam.

Thiru Paarthanpalli - Sri Thamaraiyal Kelvan Perumal Temple, Seergazhi

Temple Location :

About the Temple:

This temple lies near Thiruvennkadu of Tanjore district in Tamil Nadu. It's about 7 miles away from Seerkazhi and 2 miles away from Thiruvennkadu.

Sthala Puranam:

Lord Varuna is the Lord of Rain. He once stole the wife of Bhragaspathi the Devaguru and was caught by the Brahma Hathi dhosam.

As Lord Shiva had the dharsan of Lord Narayana at the 11 Thirunangur Kshetrams after getting releived from Brahma Hati dhosam, Lord Varuna too came here and got releif from his dhosam.

As Arjuna - Parthan got dharsan of Lord Narayana here, the Perumal has got the name Parthasarathy.

Moolavar and Utsavar are found along with Periya Pirati, Bhoomi piratti and Neeladevi as like Lord Narayana, the Vimaanam got its name as Narayana Vimaanam.

As the Ekadasa Rudhiran got dharsan here, the Pushkarani is known as shankarasaras where Shankara means Lord Shiva and as an honour to Ganges which is in the Top of Lord Shiva's head, it is also known as Ganga Theertham.

In this temple itself there is a utsavar idol of Kolavalli Raman who has (shell) Shangu, (wheel) Chakram, (a weapon) Ghadai, (bow) Vill and (Arrow) Ambu inhis hands. The Moolavar of this temple is found in a Tamarind Orcherd near the temple.

It is said that meaning of the Sharma sloga, the Gota slogam ("Sharva dharman....") was got at this place only.

Moolavar:

The Moolavar of this Divyadesam is Sri Thamaraiyal Kelvan. Also known as Lakshmi Rangar. He is giving his seva Nindra (Standing) Thirukkolam facing his thirumugham towards east direction. Prathyaksham for Parthan, Varunan and Ekadasa Rudhirar.

Thayaar:

The Thayaar found in this sthalam is Thamarai Nayaki.

Utsavar:

The Utsavar found in this sthalam is Parthasarathy.

Utsavam:

Every year during the Tamil Month Thai, on the Pushya Nakshatram day, a utsavam of the pushkarani is celebrated.

Mangalasasanam:

Thirumangaialwar - 10 Paasurams.
Total - 10 Paasurams.

Pushkarani:

Shankara Saras Pushkarani.

Ganga theertham.

Vimanam:
Narayana Vimaanam.

Thiruvaheendrapuram (Tiruvayindhai) - Sri Deyva Nayaga Perumal Temple

Temple Location :

About the Temple:

This Divyadesam is one of the main sthalam in Nadu Naattu Divyadesam. The temple is situated about 5 Kms away from Cuddalore in South Arcot District, Tamil Nadu. This temple is located underneath a small mountain (Malai Adivaram). 3 miles away from Tirupathirippuliyoor railway station which is in between Chennai - Trichy railway lane. Bus facility is also available.

Sculptures:

The defeat of Rajendra Chozhan (1210 - 1256 AD) by Sundara Pandiyan.

3rd Raja Raja Chozhan, who went along the North to get the help from Kundala King Veera Narasimhan was arrested by Kopperun Chozhan singan and was kept in jail in Sendha Mangalam.

On hearing this, Veera Narasimhan took the war on Kopperun Chozhan with the help of his generals Appanna Thanda Nayagan and Samuthira Koppaiyathnda Nayan and released Raja Raja Chozhan and finally he got his empire.

Sthalapuranam :

Aadhisheshan worshipped Sriman Narayanan in this sthalam. Aadhiseshan brought both the Viraja Theertham (Garuda Nadhi) and Ganga Nadhi together and dedicated those two rivers towards the divine feet of Sriman Narayanan.

Near to the temple, Aushadhagiri, a medicinal mountain is seen. It is said that during Ramayana time, when Hanuman took Sanjeevi Malai, a small part of it was dropped on the land and that small part is said to be this Aushadhagiri mountain, which is said to be full of medicinal herbs are found.

Once Vedantha Desikar wanted to see Sriman Narayanan and started doing Tapas and the Perumal came in front of him. He did the Tapas in this Aushadhagiri Mountain only. Sriman Narayanan fully satisfied on his Tapas, showed his seva as "Lord Hayagreevar" along with Garudalwar. On the top of the mountain, a separate sannadhi for Sri Yoga Hayagreevar is found.

Sri Vedantha Desikar lived for almost 40 years in this sthalam and we can see the Thirumaaligai he lived. Separate utsavams in September - October for Sri Vedantha Desikar is done in a very grand manner.

Generally, the milk for snakes will be poured into Putru (very small place made of mud where snakes are found), but instead here in this sthalam, the milk is poured into a well inside the Koil Pragharam. The well is called as "Sesha Theertham". With this Sesha Theertham, the neivedhyam (food) or Prasadham is done for the Perumal and with the Garuda Theertham, the Thirumanjanam (divine bath given to the Perumal) is done. In Thai and Aadi month, in this sthalam, the milk is not poured into putru (ant hill) instead it is poured into the Well (Sesha theertham), which is found inside the temple.

Vaanama malai, which is one of the Divyadesam in Pandiya Naadu has all the characters of curing all and any kind of diseases. With the oil, which is found in the well, all the diseases are cured and the Perumal there is Deva Nayaga perumal.

Similarly, Deva Nayaga Perumal is giving his seva in this sthalam in Nindra Seva and curing all sorts of unrecoverable diseases.

Based on the Valarpirai and Theipirai (the moon's starting and diminishing periods), the time is calculated and according to that only, the medicines are given to cure the diseases. With the help of Garudan (Garuda Theertham) and Chandran (the moon), the diseases are cured, so Sriman Narayanan gave his Prathyaksham to Garudan and the Moon.

Lord Hayagreevar, who resides on top of the mountain is said to be very powerful God and is capable of reducing all of our problems.

Once upon the time, Sriman Narayanan teased up Sri Lakshmi on seeing her face. Getting anger on him, she gave him the sabhan as that his face will be get cut during some time. As the same way, one arakkan (demon) named Hayagreevan made tapas on Parashakthi for almost 1000 years and asked for varam that if he needs to be killed, an equivalent person of his category and strength should kill him. As his wish, he got the varam and on getting it, he started to kill and destroy the happiness of Devas, the people and munivars in the world.

His head was same as that of the horse. So, Lord Brahma took Sriman Narayanan's head and replaced it with the horse's head. Finally, Sriman Narayanan killed Hayagreeva demon and he along with Aadhi Lakshmi sat on top of this mountain and giving all the health and wealth to the people of this world.

There was a little bit of religious intolerance in the minds of the people during Chozha Emperor's time. Once, a Chozha King came to this sthalam and thought of demolishing this Hayagreeva temple. At that time, to aliminate the racism out from his heart, Sriman Narayanan changed himself to Lord Shiva with 3 eyes and Jada mudi (long hair in the head) and gave seva to Chozha Emperor and explained him all the Gods are same and there should not be any difference between the God.

The Perumal in this sthalam is Deva Nayaga Perumal with the Lotus in the inner palm of his right hand, and in the fore head, he has the Eye along with Jada mudi and Changu and Chakram on his hands. This is one of the seva which tells us all the Gods are the same because, Lotus which is found with Lord Brahma, and Nettrikkan (ey on the fore head) and Jada Mudi which is found with Lord Shiva and Sangu and Chakram which is found with Shri Vishnu. This shows there should be no fights between Vaishnavam and Saivam and both are similar one. To explain this, he gives sevas as like this in this sthalam.

Both, the Snake and the Garudan are said to opposite (enemies) to one another. But, in this sthalam, they both worshipped the Perumal along with each another as brothers.

Lord Saraswathi, the Goddess of Education was teached by Hayagreevar of this sthalam.

Specials:

Since Aheendiran (Ananda Azhvaan Aadiseshan) worshipped the Perumal here, this place is called as "Aheendirapuram"

Moolavar:

The Moolavar of this sthalam is Deyva Nayagan Perumal. Moolavar in standing position facing his thirumugham towards East direction.

Prathyaksham for Chandran and Garudan.

Thayaar

Hemambujavalli Thaayar (Hemambuja Nayaki)
Vaikunda Naayagi for Utsavar.

Utsavar

Moovaragiya Oruvan, Devanathian, Divishannathan vibuthanathan, Daasasathiyan, Adiyavarkku Meyyan.

Sannadhis:

Sri Ramar.

Vedantha Desikan.

Festivals (Utsavams):

Every year on Chitthirai month, Bramha Utsavam is done for Devanayaka perumal.

In Purattasi, Malai utsavam for Vedantha Desikar and Theertha Vaari Utsavam is done.

In Maargayi, Thirumozhi - Thiruvaai mozhi days (Pagal pathu and Raa pathu) utsavam for 21 days is done.

Maasi Magha Utsavam is also done.

Sri Vedantha Desikar has sung songs and paasurams on Deva Nayaga Perumal and is called as "Devanayaka Panjasath" and Achyutha Sathakam in Sanskrit. Also written Mummanikkovi, Pandhu, Suzhal, Ammanai, Oosal, Eysal, Navamani Maalai are the short poems written by him.

There is 300 acres of Land which is given by some helpful person who gave it for the development of the temple.

Mangalasasanam:

Thirumangai Alwar – 10 Paasurams.
Total 10 Paasurams.

Pushkarani:

Garuda Nathi

Chandira Theertham

Sesha Theeratham (Poo theertham).

Vimanam:

Chandira Vimanam

Suttha Sathva Vimanam.

A separate sannadhi for Sri Manavala Maamunigal in found in the Mada Street.

Thirukkoviloor - Sri Thiruvikrama Perumal Temple

Temple Location :

About the Temple:

This temple is situated in South Arcot district in Tamil Nadu. 2 miles away from Thirukoviloor, which is in between Vizhupuram to Kaatpaadi railway lane. Some other routes are from Pondicherry to Bangalore, Chitoor - Trichy (Via vellore) - Cuddalore, from Tiruvannamalai, Vizhupuram also have plenty of bus facilities. It is situated on the sea shore of Thenpennai river.

Specials:

According to Older tradition, "Ko" means cow in Tamil and Cow is related to Dharma. So, Cow is related Aathma if the people and the God is related to the person who is taking care of all the Cows, Goats etc. Since, Lord Narayana (Vishnu) is saying this message to the world, this place is called as "Tirukoviloor".

Both Saivam and Vaishnavam should be treated as a single one. This is the primary thing, which is taken care of by the Alwar at this place.

There should be no difference between these two castes. In this way this village is built without any racism.

This is one among the "Pancha Krishnaranya Kshetram". Other Ksthremas are Thirukkannankudi, Thirukkannapuram, Thirukkannanmangai and Kabisthalam.

The Sthalam is the starting point of the great, Naalaayira Divya Prabhandham explained to the World.

Sthlapuranam :

In this sthalam only, Naalayira Divya Prabandham was explained to the world and it can be said that it is the place of origin of it.

Poigai Alwar was born in Thiruvekka, is considered to be the Hamsam of Thiru Sangu of Sriman Narayanan, Bhoodhatalwar was born in Mahabalipuram, is considered to be the Hamsam of Thiru Ghadhai (Which is found in Lord Hanuman's hand) and Pei Alwar was born in Aadhikesava Perumal Koil in Thiru Myilai (Mylapore). All these 3 Alwars took their humanity Avathars to explain the specials and greatness of Lord Vishnu. All these 3 Alwars born in Sithirai year, in 7th Century, Iyppasi month.

Poigai Alwar belong to Ashtami and Thiruvona Natchatiram and was born on Tuesday. Bhoodhatalwar in Avittam on Wednesday Navami and Pei alwar in Sathayam on thursday (Dhasami). All these 3 Alwars born at different places but met all at once in Thirukkoviloor and in this sthalam, they got the Paramapadha life.

One day, all these 3 Alwars wanted to worship the Perumal in Thirukkoviloor, Sri Thiruvikraman. One fine day, they started from their respective places to worship the Perumal, separately. First, Poigai Alwar wanted to worship, but since it rained heavily, he went to a Brahmnar's house and asked for some place to stay for some time, since it was raining heavily. The Brahmnar gave him a small place in the house (can be said as the small hall).

Only one person can stretch his hands and legs and can feel somewhat comfortable with the place. At that time, Bhoodhatalwar, who was drowned completely due to rain, came there and asked the place to stay for sometime to the Brahmnanar. On seeing Bhoodhatalwar, Poigai Alwar who was sleeping in the room, said that one person can sleep and if it is two persons, we can sit comfortably. And then Pei Alwar came there and all of his dress and he himself was drowned in rain asked for some place there. Then, Poigai Alwar said that if it is one person, he can sleep and if it is two persons, they can sit and since it is 3 persons, they can only stand. And it is explained as a slogan by

"Oruvar Padukka - Iruvar Irukka - Moovar Nirkalam".

Like this way only, all these 3 Alwars got introduced among themselves and showed their affection and love towards each other.

All these 3 Alwars, started to sing Andhadhees (song praise of God) and finally he gave seva to 3 Alwars. Cow is considered to be the sign of Dharma. The speciality and the way it is helpful to the world is one of the story that has to be explained.

Co - means cow, since, the speciality of cow is very much explained here, this sthalam is called "Koviloor". Cow is referred to the Dharma and since it helps largely towards the humanity, the name with which this sthalam is called so is acceptable.

Some more news on this Sthalam:

1. When Arjunan came along the Theertha yaatra, he came to this sthalam and took bath in Thenpennai River and worshipped Thiruvikraman. This is explained in Villi Bharatham.

2. Malaiyamaan Thirumudikkari, who is one of the 7 vallals, rulled this sthalam. His successor Maladar Komaan, also ruled this Ksthetram. It is explained in Agappaadal.

Moolavar:

The Moolavar of this sthalam is Thiruvikraman. The Perumal is also called as "Dahaleesan". Moolavar in Nindra, Nadantha (Ulagalantha) kolam facing East direction and his right leg lifted upwards towards the sky. And the great and a special thing is that the Sangu, which will be usually on the left hand is on the right hand and the Chakkaram which will be on the right hand is on the left hand.
Prathyaksham for Mahabali Chakravarthy, Mirugandar, Lord Brahma, Sownakar, Kaasyapar, Kaalavar, Indiran, (Kushi - Kusathwajan, Poigai, Bhutham and Pei Alwars, who are considered to be the first 3 Alwars.

Thayaar

The Thaayar of this sthalam is Poongoval Naachiyar.

Utsavar

The Utsavar is Aayanaar, Govalan (Gopalan).
The Utsavars show 3 sevas (Nindra, Kidantha and Veetriruntha (sleeping) Sevas).
Utsavar Thaayar name is Pushpa valli Thaayar.

Some more information about this Divyadesam :

The Lord's one thiruvadi is on the head of Chakravarthy Mahabali and the other thiruvadi is lifted towards the sky, which is done for measuring the earth.

The Lord asked for 3 feets in the Earth. Since, Mahabali could give Him only 2 feets, one finger on the right hand is questioning him for another, the third feet of the Earth. This is how the Moolavar is here in this temple. Periya pirattiyaar, Mahabali, Sukracchariyaar, Mirugandu Munivar, his first wife and three first Alwars are standing around the Moolavar.

Along the right hand, Lord Brahma and along the left hand is son of Mahabali, Namusi are devoting and doing pooja to the God.

Lots of Nayakar Kings and devotees who devoted the Lord small statues are found all over the pragharam.

Sannadhis:

Lord Durga

Lakshmi Narayanan

Lakshmi Varaagan

Lakshmi Narasimhan

Lord Ramar

Sri Aandal

Udayavar

Thiru Kacha Nambi and

Sri Manavala Maamunigal.

Mangalasasanam:

Thirumangai Alwar – 18 Paasurams.

Poigai Alwar - 2

Boothathalwar – 1
Total 21 Paasurams.

Manavala maamuni has also done Mangalasasanam here. All the controls of this temple are under the Emperumaanar Jeeyar and his follwers. Desikar has written "Dehaleesasthuthi" here.

Vimanam:
Srikara Vimanam. There is Gopuram in front and back of the temple.

Two gopurams are found (ie) one in front and another at the back. Front Gopuram is big gopuram and chariot is found close to it.

On the North side of the temple is found a small gopuram, which is built incompletely. Poigai Alwar wanted a small gopuram to be built with in a day and he himself wanted to build it. But, he could not build it since the daylight came. So, left the temple incompletely.

Inside the temple, the Kodi Maram (Dhwajasthambham) and the Gopura Vaayil (entrance) is found. This is said to be built by Thirumangai Alwar and then a big Mandapam built by King Pandiyan followed is the Moolasthanam (Where Moolavar is found).

Tirunelveli Temples - Nava Tirupathis

Thirukkurungudi - Sri Nindra Nambi Perumal Temple

Temple Location :

About the Temple:

This sthalam is situated in Tirunelveli district in Tamil Nadu. We have travel through Tirunelveli, Naanguneri (Cheeri varamangai) and panakudi when travellin through bus. There is no lodging facility.

Sthlapuranam :

This kurungudi sthalam is also called as "Vaamana kshetram", who is one of the avatharam of Sriman Narayanan, born in Puratasi month - Sukla patsham in Sravana Thuvadasi for Kaasyabha Maharishi and Athithi. The dhavadasi in which he was born is Vijaya dhavadasi.

He was teached the Savithri mantram by Suryan and Vyazha Guru Bragaspathi taught him the Brahma Soothiram. Since , Vaamanar was born to the Maharishi, his clothes and all the activities was same as how a rishi should be. He got the Dharbai from his father - Kaashyaba Maharishi Bhoomi (or) earth gave krishna Aasanam, Chandran gave him the Thandi, (Which is used as a support for the hand), Athithi gave Koupeenam (Clothes)Brahma devan gave the Kamandalam, some vessels given by Guberan and Bharadhwaja Maharishi was his Guru and teached him all the vedas. Parasakthi gave him food with her thirukkaram (hand) when he begged for food.

Inspite of taking the thirivikraman - ulagalandha perumal Kolam, Vaamanar is giving his seva as a short muni in this sthalam. Because of this, this sthalam is called as "Kurungudi".

When Siva peruman got his brahmagathi dosham by plucking the head of Brahma devan, came to this sthalam and as advised by the Nindra Nambi, to get out of the dosham, he begged from Kurungudi Valli Thaayar for Amudham (food) to get out of the dosham as pabha Vimocchanam. And after this, he learnt the Sudharsana Japam from Vaamanar and got completly out of the Dosham.

By this sthala perumal's Kurungudi Nambis seva only, Nammalvar born to his mother, Udaya Nangai. Thirumangai alwar got his Mukthi (attained paramapadham) in this sthalam and as a memory of this, a small temple is constructed with the name "Thirumangai Alwar Thiru varasu" in the banks of the river, which is towards the east direction of the temple.

"Nambu" means believe and "Nambi" means believed by all. As the name of the perumal, Nindra Nambi, he is believed and devoted by all the bhaktaas. Like Narayanan who gives his seva in Nindra, Kidantha and Irundha thirukkolam, Siva perumaan also gives his seva as Siva linga Swaroopan in Nindra Kolam as a dancing person. Thirukkayilai and as Thiruthaandava Kolam as a dancing person. Like the same way, Siva perumaan when came to meet and get the dharshan of Nambi perumal, he met him and got the Vimochan of the pabham. As a result of this, a separate sannadhi for Lord Shivan as "Magendranadhar", who is found inbetween Kidantha Nambi and Iruntha Nambi perumal sannadhi.

Nearer to Kurungudi, there lived a valla Baanan (musician) who wanted to worship Kurungudi Nambi on sukla patch Ekadesi. Once, he came along the way to Kurungudi, a Brahma Raatshashan (a wild demon) was very hungry and happened to see this Baanan. It said him that since he is too much of hunger, he is going to be ate as his food. But Baanan replied him that he is going to Kurungudi to get the dharshan, of Kurungudi Nambi and after getting that, he can eat him. After getting the words from him, the demon asked him to go and will wait until he comes.

The Baanan after reaching Kurungudi, stood infront of the Kurungudi temple vaasal (entrance) Inspite of the Dhavasthambham (Kodi Maram) screened the perumal without seeing it, the Baanan started to sing on him, forgetting all things around him. After hearing this, the Kodimaram, which was infront of him made a way to the Baanan, so that he could see the Nambi perumal. He sang the Paasurams of Nammalwar with some musical way in it.

After getting satisfied on the Baanan's devotion and his devotional songs, Kurungudi Nambi gave his seva to him and gave him the title as "Nampaaduvaan". Nampaaduvaan can be explained as that the song was sung about the perumal and Baanan was singing it and from now he should sing always on him. And to extend this, he was gave the title as "Nampaaduvaan" by the perumal itself.

After getting the dharshan and getting the title from Kurungudi Nambi, the Baanan went straight to the Raatshashan and asked him that now he can eat him as his food. The demon asked what did he sing on the perumal? As the Baanan started to expalin it, the demon hearing it gorgot all of its hunger and let the Baanan free. Inspite of being so wild, the paasurams of perumal went along the Ears of the demon and filled not only the stomach of it but also the entrie heart and body of the Raatshashan. And the perumal asked Baanan to give the Paasuram to the Raatshashan so that he will not suffer from hunger anymore and he gave him the paasuram. This story is well explained in Varaha Puranam. This story is played as a small drama during Kausika Ekadesi.

The prasaadham (food) which is done the Naivedhyam (offered) for the perumal is offered for Lord shiva of this temple. On entering the temple, a big Mattaiyadi Mandapam is found and we can also see another Mandapam, Nadhi Mandapam. After crossing, the kodi maram is found, with lots of rare sculptures in it. Next to the mandapam, we find the sannadhi of Manavala Maamunigal. An hanging bell can be found in Kulasekara Mandapam which is offered by a king of Thiruvidhangodu to the Nambi perumal. Moolavar Nindra Nambi is also named as "Pari pooranan" and found along with two pirattiyaars, Maarkandeya Maharishi and Brighu Maharishi in Nindra kola seva.

Next to him, we can find the Vainava Nambi, the utsavar along with two pirattis, Neela Devi and Kurungudi valli thaayar.

On the south pragharam of this temple, a separate sannadhi for Lakshmi Narasimhar, Lakshmi Sametha varaha Moorthy and in west prakaram - all ten Avataars, Dasavathaar, Srinivasa perumal Andal and Kurungudi Valli Thaayar Sannadhi are found.

Also separate sannadhi for Nindra Nambi Veetrirundha Nambi, Kidantha Nambi.

Close to the Nambi's legs, the head of the Mahabali is found. The Irundha Nambi is also named as "Vaikundhanadhan". 5 Kms after this sthalam, Malaimel Nambi is found on the top of the mountain. Kurungudiyavan kudi is the other name for Vaamanar of this sthalam and he is found on a small Chattiram, 1/2 miles on south direction. 1/2 miles away a small river named "Thiruppaarkadal" is found, where Thriuppaarkadal Nambi Sannadhi is found.

Moolavar and Thaayar:

The Moolvar of this Divyadesam is Sri Nindra Nambi. Also called as Kurungudi Nambi, Irundha Nambi, Kidantha Nambi, Vaishnava Nambi, Thiruppaarkadal Nambi and Malaimel Nambi. Moolavar in Nindra Thirukkolam giving his seva and facing his thirumugam in east direction. Prathyaksham for Lord Shivan.

Thaayar: Kurungudi valli Naachiyaar. Two separate sannadhi for two pirattis.

Mangalasasanam:

Periyalwar - 1 Paasuram

Thirumazhisai Alwar - 1 Paasuram

Nammalwar - 13 Paasurams

Thirumangai Alwar- 25 Paasurams
Total - 40

Pushkarani:

Thiruppaarkadal

Panjadurai

Sindu Nadhi.

Vimanam:
Panja Kedhaka Vimaanam.

Thiruccherivaramangai - Sri Thothatrinatha Perumal Temple, Vaanamaamalai

Temple Location :

About the Temple:

This sthalam is in Tirunelveli district near Thirukkurungudi. We have to get down in Naanguneri when travelling from Tirunelveli to Thirukkurungudi. Bus and lodging facilities are available.

Sthlapuranam :

This sthalam is also named as Naanguneri, Seeravaramangai and Vaanama malai. Since there are 4 big Lakes in this sthalam, this sthalam is named as "Naangu Neri". (Naangu means four). But at present only one is found. This sthalam is one of the Ashta (eight) suyambhu (Which grows (or)develops on its own) sthalams. Other seven sthalams are Badri Narayanam, Mukthi Narayanam, Naimisaranyam, Pushkaram, Tiruvenkadam, Sri Mushnam and Thiru Varaagam.

It is said that the Moolasthanam was immersed in to the lake water. Even if the lake is flooded with water, there will be around 2 feet high of water around the Garbhagriham (Moolasthanam).

Inside this sthalam an oil well of 25 feet height and 15 feet width. The well doesnt have water but has an rich oil, which extracts oil instead of water. The oil which is found in the well is said to have the medicinal values and said that it cures many diseases. Daily, the Emperumaan of this sthalam is done the thirumanjanam using 6 padis (1 padi= around 1 1/2 Kgs) of Gingely oil and Sandal wood oil. After the thirumanjanam is over, the oils are poured into the well itself .

If any bhaktaas need some amount of oil the well, they must give the same amount of gingely oil to the devastanam and it is poured into the well and given the medicinal oil.

To get the Aathma Gnanam, Aathma Arul (blessing) and Aathma Bhakthi, the permanant soul (or) Aathma which reside on the temporary body should be clean and purified. Having this as cleared only, we get achieve all other things. Out body, speach and activity should be clean. Old age is the caution for the death and it is the final action for the free of our soul. Till the soul is in our body, it should be without any harm and diseses and should be clean. To explain this, the Emperumaan of this sthalam gives his seva and also gives the oil which cures many diseases.

So bhaktaas who worship this sthalam can get the dharshan of the Emperumaan and also the curable oil.

This sthala perumal gave his prathyaksham to Indiran, Romasa Maharishi, Brighu Muni and Maarkandeya Maharishi. He gave his sev to these four great aathmas as "Aadhi Maruthuvan" (Maruthuvan means doctor). The persons who has the diseases are given the treatment by facing him towards East - west direction. As the same way, the perumal Thothatri Naathan gives his seva facing his thirumugam towards the east direction.

It is said that a king who belonged to Sindhu empire got the sabham from Romasa Maharishi to become like a dog. After becoming the dog, the king came to this sthalam and took a bath in the sthala pushkarani to get out of the Sabham.

On the entrance of the Temple is the Pandhal Mandapam and along the side, we can find very big mandapams where Golden Chariot and Golden Chapparam (another kind of perumal's Vaaganam) are kept. These are taken out during the utsavam done in Panguni Uthiram. On the north side, we can find the Vaanamamalai Jeeyar Madam.

When entering into the main temple, we can find Sevvanthi Mandapam which is built by Sevvanthi Naayakar. In this mandapam only, the utsavar gives his seva during utsava times. On the left side of this mandapam, we can find Veerappa Naayakkar mandapam, in which all the pillars are beautifully sculptured with numerous shapes. When passing through this mandapam, sannadhis for Lakshmi Narayanan, Lakshmi Varagar, Venugopalan and Dasavatharam are found.

After crossing the Kodi maram, we can find Kulasekaran mandapam. Here vadakku Naachiyaar, Therku Naachiyaar, Manavala Maamunigal, Udayavar, pillai ulaga Asiriyar and except Nammalwar, all the Alwars are found in separate sannadhis. Nammalwar is found as "Sadagopar" in "Sadaari" (this is kept on our head in Vishnu temples) as "Sadagopar Sadaari" in utsavar sannadhi. Also, seperate sannadhis for Sri Ramar, Sri Kannan, Chakaratalwar are found.

After crossing all these, we can reach towards the main moolavar sannadhi and can find Thothatri nadhan in Veetrirundha thirukkolam and opposite to him is the Garudalwar is found.

Moolavar is found along with two pirattiyaars in veetrirundha kolam and Rambhai, Thilothamai who are called the "Deva loga women" serve the perumal, Brighu Maharishi, Maarkandeya Maharishi, Chandra - Soorya, Vishwakshenar are found. The Aadhiseshan, serve as the Umbrella for Thothatri naathan, he is giving his seva to the bhaktaas.

Utsavar Deiva Nayagan is found along with this pirattiyaars, Srivaramangai thaayar and Andal by having Maga Kandigai (which is said to be the most precious and valuble ornament of the perumal) in very big peetam is found.

This sthalam is also called as "Vaanama malai" because a pandiya king married a Cheran daughter and he got the name as "Vaanavan". Since, he built this temple, this sthalam is called as "Vaanama malai". It is one of the said story about this sthalam.

Specials:

An oil well is there, which said to cure all sorts of uncurable diseases.

Moolavar and Thaayar:

The Moolavar of this temple is Sri Kothagirinathan also named as Vaanamamalai. Prathyaksham for Brahmadevan, Indiran, Ramasa Rishi, Brighu Rishi, Maarkandeya Rishi. Moolavar in Veetrirundha Kolam facing East direction.

The Thaayar of this temple is Sirivaramangai Naachiyaar - Periya piratti, Bhoomi piratti and Neela devi are the three Naachiyaars of this sthalam. Periya piratti and Bhoomi piratti are the two naachiyaars who is found along with the Moolavar and they have their own sannadhis.

Utsavar :
The Utsavar of this temple is Sri Deiva Naayaga Perumal.

Mangalasasanam:

Nammalwar - 11 Paasurams.
Total - 11

Pushkarani:

Indira theertham, Setru thaamarai theertham. Since this pushkarani is without water and found only oil and mud and clay, the pushkarani is called "Setry thaamarai theertham". And since, Indiran took bath in this to get out of the diseases, the Pushkarani is called Indira theertham.

Vimanam: Nanda Varthana Vimaanam.

Thirukkurugoor - Sri Aadhinatha Swamy Temple, Azhwar Thirunagari

Temple Location :

About the Temple:

This sthalam is situated in Tirunelveli district in Tamil Nadu. One mile away from Azhwar Thirunagari railway station which is found in between Tirunelveli to Tiruchendur railway lane. Boarding and lodging facilities are available but not more. 3 miles away from Sri Vaikundam when travelling by bus.

Specials:

Nammalvar is found below the Tamarid tree in "Atthai Thindru - Angae Kidantha - Yoga Nilai in sitting seva.

Sthlapuranam :

In Thirunelveli district, all along both the sides of Tanporunai (Tamirabarani), there are 9 sthalams and they are collectively and popularly called as "Nava Thiruppathigal".

Thirukkurugoor is the Avathara Sthalam (birth place) of Nammalwar. This sthalam explains his speciality and his works towards Vaishnavism and because of this, the sthalam is called "Azhwar Tirunagari".

Emperumaan, Sriman Narayanan says to Brahma that before producing him, he came to Porunai river and lived there. And said him to keep this temple as "Aadhi temple" (first and main temple) he should worship him. Like this he gives teaches (Ubhadesam) to Brahma as a Guru (Teacher) since, Sriman Narayanan acts as a Guru for Brahma, this sthalam is called "Kurugoor".

Kuru means do this is the meaning. Since, Narayanam asks Brahma to do the tapas and his workship towards him, this sthalam is called "Kurugoor".

The Moolavar, Aadhinarayanan has very big thirumeni (body) and he came on his own (Suyambu) its not done the Pradhishtai (installed). The feet of the Moolavar comes up inside from the Earth.

Devendran - Indiran finally got out from Sabham (Sabhavimotsanam) after worshipping the Aadhinadha perumal. He got the sabaham from his parents because he is not treating them well and obeying them.

In this sthalam Lakshmanan (brother of Sri Ramar) did pradhistai (made) himself as "Tamarid tree" and in that tree Emperumaan lives in Bramacharya stage. Once, periyapiratti comes there and asked Narayanan to marry her. At that time, Narayanan converts her as a flower and wear on his body.

In pramadhi year, Vaikasi 12th day in Valarpirai - Pournami, friday, Nammalvar was born to vellalar and Udaya Nangai. When he born, he didnt cry or open his eyes and didnt drink the Mother's milk. This is because when the Sadavaayu (Air) went inside the body of Udaya Nangai, he made that not to enter and push him out. Because of this, Nammalwar is popularly named as "Sadagopar".

He doesnt open his eyes because he doent wanted to see anyone except Sriman Narayanan, and the same way he wants to speak only about Emperumaan, so he doesnt open his mouth to cry (or) to drink milk. His parents were worried about him thinking he might be retarded (Jadam). So, they brought him to Aadhinadha perumaltemple and named him as "Maaran". At that time, closing his eyes, he goes near to the Tamarid tree and sits there in Yoga stage till the age of 16.

At the same time, Madurakavi Alwar starts his Bhakthi Yaatra towards Ayodhya, Vada Madura, Gaya, Kasi, Kanchi, Avanti and Dwaraka. He was born in Tirukkoloor as an ordinary Andhanar (Brahmanar) and was well knowledged in Sanskrits.

When he was travelling to Ayodhya, a flashy light arised in the sky which directed him along the south direction. He followed the light and finally it disappeared in the Thirukkurugoor Aadhinadhar temple. On entering the temple Madhurakaviyaar found and surprised at Nammalvar, being 16 years old child in Yana nilai (thyama Stage).

He went close to Nammalvar and made some noises to awakes him from the thyanam. Then Madhukaviyaar questiontioned Nammalvar that how the life (Aathma) live and what it is eating to live? For this, Nammalwar said "Atthai thindru Angae Kidakkum".

This means that the body is made up of Panjabhootham (5 Universal parts). Inspite it is found in earth, it lives only by the thinking and experience on Paramathma (Sriman Narayanan) and this how our life lives and it should be only in such a way.

On hearing this, Madhukaviyaar was so happy that he had got a wounderful teacher (Aasaan) and raised his hands over his head and started to praise him in songs. At that time to open the eyes of Nammalwar, Emperumaan as "Sangu Chakradhari" along with Lakshmi samethar gave his dharshan. Along with Nammalwar, Madhurakaviyar got the dharshan of Emperumaan in Nindra Kola seva. Since, Madhurakaviyaar was able to get the seva of Emperumaan, he assumed Nammalvar as his emperumaan and started to worship him. This is no selfishness with Sriman Narayanan, because of this only his bhakthas call him as "Emperumaan" thinking he is for them. Like the same way, since Nammalwar doesnt live for him and his thinking is always on Narayanan, Sadagopar was named as "Nammalwar". Nam - means ours.

Nammalwar sat beneath the Tamarid tree and did mangalasasanam for 35 divyadesam through his "Gnana Eye". This Tamarid tree with some holes can be seen now, too. This tree is called as "Puliyalwar".

Daily Thirumanjanam is done beneath the Tamarid tree. The utsava moorthy, Nammalwar is giving his seva in Golden sannadhi (small one) in Sobhana Mandapam. Before starting the Ramayana, Kambar wrote "Sadagopar Andadhthi" by keeping down his head towards Nammalwar.

On the south mada veethi (street) Thiruvenkada mudayan - Sri srinivasar sannadhi and west mada street, is Thiru Aranganathan Sannadhi and on north mada street, Ulagaccharyar, Azhagar, Vedantha desikar, Manavala Maamunigal, Andal sannadhis are found.

The one more speciality si Udayavar Ramanujar wears white colours dress rather than wearing saffron colour. (Rishis wears only saffron coloured dress).

The Sadaari, which is kept on our head in all of the Vaishnava temples is said to be Thiruvadi (feet) of Emperumaan and it is the Nammalwars shape (or) dimension. He is explaining the world that he acts as the dust which is found below the feet of Emperumaan.

Udaya Nangai, who gave birth to Nammalwar, it was Sri Emperumaan who gave the Gnana to him and because of this, he accepts both of them as his mother. Because of this only, in all the Nava Thirupathis (total - 9), Sri Emperumaan is found along with two thaayars. (Nava Thirupathi is the sthalam is Nammlwar's where did the Mangalasasanam)

Travelling a distance of 1 mile away from this sthalam, we can find "Appan Sannadhi", where we can find the sannadhi for Kaarimaran, father of Nammalwar.

Sthala Virutcham (tree) of this shtalam is Tamarind tree.

Moolavar and Thaayar:
The Moolavar in Sri Aadhinathan. Other names of this Perumal are Aadhippiraan, Polindhu Nindra piraan. Moolavar in Nindra Kolam facing east direction.

Prathyaksham for Brahmadevar, Madhurakavi Alwar and Nammalwar.

Thaayar : 2 Thaayars - Aadhinadha Valli and Gurukoor valli and have separate sannadhis.

Mangalasasanam:

Nammalwar - 11 Pasurams
Total - 11

Manavala Maamunigal has also done Mangalasasam here.

Pushkarani:

Tamira Barani Nadhi.

Vimanam:
Govinda Vimaanam.

Thirukkoloor - Sri Vaitha Maanitha Perumal Temple

Temple Location :

About the Temple:

This sthalam is situated in Tirunelveli district near Azhwar Tirunagari. Two miles away from Azhwar Tirunagari. No lodging facilities available. This sthalam is one of Nava Thirupathi.

Sthlapuranam :

One of the Brahmaputiran, who came out of Lord Brahma's ears - named Pulathiya Rishi and Kasthamal's daughter Aavirpoo gave birth a child named Visiravasi. The child who born for this Visiravasi and Ilipillai is Guberan.

Guberan did tapas agains Lord Shiva. When Shiva and Parvathi gave his seva to Guberan, since he could not see the bright shine came out from Parasakthi, guberan lost his eyes. After this, he replaced an eye made of gold and ruled Alagapuri and became one of the friends of Lord Shiva.

Vaisyantham which is said as always move from one place to another in search of money and other things and this kind of persons one called "Vaisyaas".

Guberan is said to be one of Vaisyaas and his wife is chitiregai and his Vaaganams (vehicles) are Horse, Parrot. His weapon is Katkam and Garland is Seerakka Maalai. His park is Saithiratham and the Vimaanam is Pushpaka Vimaanam. His son is Nalakooparan.

Once he got the Sapan from Parvathi Devi and lost all of his wealth (Navanidhi) and started to worship this sthala perumal as his Emperumaan.

Emperumaan gave the Prathyaksham for Guberan in front of all of the Navanidhis (Different Kinds of Wealth) and Protecting the Navanidhis of this sthalam. Because of this, he his named as "Vaithamaanidhi". Also named as "Nishopavithan".

This sthalam is also called as "Adharma Pisunam". It means Dharman wars agians the Evil (Adharmam) and it permanently stayed in this sthalam by riding out the adharmam.

Vaithamanidhi perumal stands still here in this sthalam to ride of the Adharmam to protect the wealth which cannot be taken out.

This perumal has thirusangu in the left hand and in the right hand he has thiru Chakkaram by which he destroy the Adharma. In this sthalam only, Madhurakavi alwar was born, Who then because the seshya (student) ofNammalwar. Madhurakavi Alwar is said to be the Gnana Nidhi.

This sthala perumal gave prathyaksha for Guberan, who is the wealth, Madhurakavi Alwar, who is the Gnana nidhi.

The Pushkarani is Gubera pushkarani and since he became the friend of Haran (Lord Shiva) the Vimaanam is called "Sri Hara Vimaanam".

Moolavar and Thaayar:

The Moolavar of this Sthalam is Sri Vaitha Maanitha Perumal. Also called as "Nishopavitthan". Moolavar in Kidantha kolam in Bujanga sayanam facing East direction.

Prathyaksham for Guberan and Madhurakavi Alwar.

Thaayar : Two thaayars - Amudhavalli and Koloorvalli and they have their own separate sannadhis.

Mangalasasanam:

Nammalwar - 12 Pasurams
Total - 12

Pushkarani:

Gubera pushkarani

Vimanam:
Sri Hara Vimaanam.

 

Om Tat Sat

                                                        

(Continued...)                                                                                                                              

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