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.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Manavala maamunigal too has graced this place
ie done Mangalasasanam.
Pushkarani:
Sanga Pushkarani.
Chakara Theertham.
Vimanam:
Pushkala Vartha Vimaanam.
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.
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.
Ilaakshani Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Ashtakshara Vimaanam.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Kodi theertham.
Amirtha theertham.
Vimanam:
Uchasringa Vimaanam.
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.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Thirupaarkadal Theertham.
Thirupaarkadal Theertham.
Vimanam:
Sanjeevi Vigraha Vimaanam.
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
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Thirukavalampadi
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Gopalakrishnan along with Rukmani and Satyabama.
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Thiruvannpurushothamam
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Purushothaman along with Purushotama Naayaki.
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Thiru Sempon SeiKovil
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Perarulaalan along with Allimaamalar Naachiyar.
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Thirudevanar Thogai
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Deivanaayagan along with Kadal Magal Naachiyar.
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Thiru Mani Koodam
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Varadharaja Perumal along with Thirumagal Naachiyar and
Bhoomi Piratti.
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Thiru paarthanpalli
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Thamarai Kelvan along with Thamarai Naayaki, in
standing posture in all the above Kshetrams.
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Thirumanimaada kovil
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Narayana Gyana Nandha Vilaku along with Pundarigavalli.
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Thiruvaali Thirunagari
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Amrudhavalli Vedharajan, Narashimar along with Amrudha
Kada valli.
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Thiru vaigunda vinnagaram
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Vaigunda Naadhan along with Periya Piratti.
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Arimeya vinnagaram
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Kudamaadu Koothan along with Amrudha Kada valli, in
sitting posture in above 4 Kshetrams.
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Thirutheythri Ambalam
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Shenkann Maal along with Shenkamalavalli, in sleeping
posture of the type Bhujanga Sayanam.
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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.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Nithya Pushkarani.
Nithya Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Kanaka Valli Vimaanam.
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.
Total - 12 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Indra Pushkarani.
Rudhira Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Pranava Vimaanam.
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.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Lakshmi Pushkarani.
Udhanga Pushkarani.
Viraja Theertham.
Vimanam:
Anantha Sathya Varthaka Vimaanam
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.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Shobana Pushkarani.
Shobana Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Shobana Vimaanam.
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.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Sooriya Pushkarani.
Sooriya Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Veda Vimaanam.
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.
Total - 10 Paasurams.
Pushkarani:
Chandra Pushkarani.
Chandra Pushkarani.
Vimanam:
Kanaka Vimaanam.
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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