Significance: Palani is one of the most visited temples in Tamilnadu and is one of the revered 6 Padai Veedu shrines of MuruganPalani (Pazhani - Tiruvaavinankudi) is one of the six padai vedu shrines of Murugan, representing the sites where Murugan the valiant commander of the gods sojourned, while he proceded to battle against the demon Soorapadman. Palani is probably one of the most visited and the most endowed temples in the state of Tamilnadu. The Dhandayudapani Temple is located on the 450 feet high Palani malai in the town of Palani near Madurai. 690 stone steps line the mountain passage and an electric winch also takes pilgrims up the hill.
This temple is refered to in the Tamil work Thirumurugatruppadai of Nakeerar of the Sangam age (pre Christian era). Arunagirinaathar, the saint poet has composed 95 verses on Palani in his Thirupugazh. The Palani malai hill temple and the Thiruvavinankudi temple at the foot hills form a composite unit. The Thiruvavinankudi temple is refered to as Kuzhandhaivelayudar temple and the Saravanpoigai tank is located near it.
Deities: The presiding deity here is Dhandayudapani. The principal image is in the standing posture of a young boy Murugan with a staff(Dhandam) in his hand. The image is made of an amalgam of nine materials known as Navapaashaanam.
Legends: Legend has it that the celetial sage Naaradhar approached the abode of Shiva, Mount Kailasam with the celestial fruit of knowledge - Gnyanappazham. While both the sons of Shiva wanted the fruit, Shiva and Parvathi decreed that the one to first complete circumambulating the universe would get the celestial fruit.
While Subramanya mounted his peacock and went around the Universe, Vinayakar circumambulated his parents Shiva and Parvathi on the premise that Shiva and Parvathi stood for the Universe and thus obtained the coveted celestial fruit.
Angered by this denial, Subramanya left Kailasam and took up his own abode at Palani and refused to return to Kailasam. He then went on to take up abodes on several of the Hills in the Tamil country leading to the popular tamil phrase, "Kundru Thorum Kumaran".
There is yet another legend associated with Palani. Agasthia munivar was presented by Shiva with two mountain peaks called ‘Shivagiri’ and Shakthigiri’.
Upon Agasthiyar’s directiion, his disciple, Idumban tied the two peaks to the ends of a big pole and carried them on his shoulders. He paused to rest at palani where the hills got stuck to the ground. On one of the peaks was Murugan with whom Idumban fought to reclaim the hill.
Idumban was defeated and killed in the fight and upon being implored my Agasthiyar was restored to life. Idumban requested Murugan to allow him to be installed as the Dwarapalakan in the palani temple. The Kaavadi form of worship originates from this legend.
A disciple of Bhogasiddar is believed to have commenced worship in a small shrine here. Cheramaan perumal(one of the 63 naayanmars and a contemperory of Sundaramurthy nayanaar) is believed to have contructed the sanctum.
Daily Worship: Seven worship services are carried out each day here. The day commences with the Viswaroopa darisanam in the morning. The concluding worhsip service involves a procession of the deity in a golden palanquin in the temple and the palliyarai sevai.
Panguni Uttram is celebrated for 10 days as the annual Bhramotsavam. This festival is celebrated only at Tiruvavinankudi in the foothills to Muthukumarar the festival deity here.The Ther Thiruvizha is held on the last day of this festival. Offerings of Kaveri water brought from Kodumudi by thousands of devotees in kaavadis are made to the deity.
Agni Nakshathram is celebrated in the month of Chittirai and Vaikaasi.During this time, thousands of pilgrims circumambulate the hill. Vaikaasi Visaakam is celebrated for 10 days.
Skanda sashti is celebrated for 7 days. Soorasamharam is enacted on the last day of this festival in which both Chinna Kumarar the festival image of the hill temple and Muthukumaraswami of Thiruvavinankudu participate.
Kaartikai Deepam is celebrated for 10 days. In addition Kaartikai asterism in each month is celebrated with a procession of a golden chariot in the hill temple. Thai poosam is also celebrated for 10 days here.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Kamakshi Amman Temple at Kanchipuram
The town of Kanchi was the capital of the ancient Pallavas. The Kailasanathar temple here is one of the grand Pallava monuments. The Kamakshi Amman temple at Kanchipuram is an ancient one and is associated with Aadi Sankaracharya of the 1st millennium CE. The Tamil saying Kanchi Kamakshi, Madurai Meenakshi and Kaasi Visalakshi illustrates the importance of the Shakthi shrine that it is.
Ekambreswarar temple, the Kamakshiamman Temple and the Kumara Kottam temple and the Ulagalanda Perumaal Temple are the primary shrines in Periya Kanchipuram. The first three mentioned above are located in a manner as to suggest the Somaskanda manifestation of Shiva, Uma and Skanda in the town of Kanchi. There are no shrines to Ambal, in any of the shrines to Shiva in Kanchi. Kamakshi is considered to be wholly present in Kanchipuram, as the only Ambal shrine.
Legend has it that Kamakshi offered worship to a Shivalingam made out of sand, under a mango tree and gained Shiva's hand in marriage. (See also Ekambreswarar temple and Nilattingal Tundam).
The temple covers an area of about 5 acres, and the sanctum is crowned with a gold plated vimanam. Kamakshi is enshrined in a seated posture in the sanctum - and is referred to as the Parabhrama Swarupini, seated with Bhrama Vishnu Rudra Eswara and Sadasiva. A Sri Chakram has been installed in front of the image and worship is offered to it.
It is believed that Kamakshi was originally a Ugra Swaroopini, and that Aadi Sankaracharya, upon establishing the Sri Chakra, personified her as the Shanta Swaroopini (see also Akhilandeswari at Tiruvanaikkaval). It is believed that during the days of Adi Sankara, the presence of the Ugra Swaroopini was felt outside the temple precincts, and that Sankaracharya had requested her not to leave the temple complex. Symbolic of this, the festival image of Kamakshi, takes leave from Sankaracharya, at his shrine in the inner prakaram, each time she is taken out in procession.
The layout of the temple is rather complicated. The outer prakaram houses the temple tank, and several mandapams such as the 100 pillared hall, the dwajaarohana mandapam etc. Imposing views of the golden vimanam can be had from the outer prakaram, which is pierced with four entrances on all four sides. Images to Vishnu (Ninraan, Irundaan, Kidandaan) are seen near the temple tank.
One enters the four pillared hall then the inner prakaram, and climbs a series of steps, and reaches the sanctum. Immediately surrounding the sanctum are small shrines to Ardhanareeswarar, Soundaryalakshmi, Kallar (who has been mentioned in the hymns of Tirumangaialwar) and Varaahi. In this prakaram are shrines to Bangaru Kamakshi, Maha Saraswathi and Aadi Sankaracharya.
Kanchipuram is the seat of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham established by Adi Sankaracharya. It is believed that Sankaracharya attained samadhi at Kanchipuram, although another school of thought holds that Kedarnath in the Himalayas is the site of his samadhi.
Festivals: Four worship services are offered each day. The jewels adorning the image of the deity are of great beauty. The annual festival is celebrated in the month of Maasi. The silver chariot festival falls on the 7th day. Other festivals include Navaratri, Aadi and Aippasi Pooram, Sankara Jayanthi and Vasanta Utsavam in Vaikasi.
Ekambreswarar temple, the Kamakshiamman Temple and the Kumara Kottam temple and the Ulagalanda Perumaal Temple are the primary shrines in Periya Kanchipuram. The first three mentioned above are located in a manner as to suggest the Somaskanda manifestation of Shiva, Uma and Skanda in the town of Kanchi. There are no shrines to Ambal, in any of the shrines to Shiva in Kanchi. Kamakshi is considered to be wholly present in Kanchipuram, as the only Ambal shrine.
Legend has it that Kamakshi offered worship to a Shivalingam made out of sand, under a mango tree and gained Shiva's hand in marriage. (See also Ekambreswarar temple and Nilattingal Tundam).
The temple covers an area of about 5 acres, and the sanctum is crowned with a gold plated vimanam. Kamakshi is enshrined in a seated posture in the sanctum - and is referred to as the Parabhrama Swarupini, seated with Bhrama Vishnu Rudra Eswara and Sadasiva. A Sri Chakram has been installed in front of the image and worship is offered to it.
It is believed that Kamakshi was originally a Ugra Swaroopini, and that Aadi Sankaracharya, upon establishing the Sri Chakra, personified her as the Shanta Swaroopini (see also Akhilandeswari at Tiruvanaikkaval). It is believed that during the days of Adi Sankara, the presence of the Ugra Swaroopini was felt outside the temple precincts, and that Sankaracharya had requested her not to leave the temple complex. Symbolic of this, the festival image of Kamakshi, takes leave from Sankaracharya, at his shrine in the inner prakaram, each time she is taken out in procession.
The layout of the temple is rather complicated. The outer prakaram houses the temple tank, and several mandapams such as the 100 pillared hall, the dwajaarohana mandapam etc. Imposing views of the golden vimanam can be had from the outer prakaram, which is pierced with four entrances on all four sides. Images to Vishnu (Ninraan, Irundaan, Kidandaan) are seen near the temple tank.
One enters the four pillared hall then the inner prakaram, and climbs a series of steps, and reaches the sanctum. Immediately surrounding the sanctum are small shrines to Ardhanareeswarar, Soundaryalakshmi, Kallar (who has been mentioned in the hymns of Tirumangaialwar) and Varaahi. In this prakaram are shrines to Bangaru Kamakshi, Maha Saraswathi and Aadi Sankaracharya.
Kanchipuram is the seat of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham established by Adi Sankaracharya. It is believed that Sankaracharya attained samadhi at Kanchipuram, although another school of thought holds that Kedarnath in the Himalayas is the site of his samadhi.
Festivals: Four worship services are offered each day. The jewels adorning the image of the deity are of great beauty. The annual festival is celebrated in the month of Maasi. The silver chariot festival falls on the 7th day. Other festivals include Navaratri, Aadi and Aippasi Pooram, Sankara Jayanthi and Vasanta Utsavam in Vaikasi.
Madurai
The temple town of Madurai is one of the most ancient heritage sites of India truly reflective of the cultural ethos of India. Madurai is closely associated with the literary wealth of Classical and Modern Tamil. The crowning glory of this historic city is the sprawling Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple. Four of the 6 major streams of the indigenous system of beliefs as codified by Sankaracharya (i.e. Saivism, Shaktism, Vaishnavism and the worship of Skanda) meet in this historic city during festive occasions when the entire region is transformed into a vast space of celebration.
The ancient city of Madurai is second to none in truly representing the cultural traditions of India. Madurai is centered around the Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple. The Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple is literally a splendid art gallery with each stone, each image breathing the tradition of this ancient - and vibrant culture. Legends: Explore legends tracing the origin of the Sundareswarar shrine at the Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple.
Legends: Explore legends tracing the origin of the ancient city of Madurai.
Legends: Explore legends surrounding Meenakshi (Parvati) and the celestial marriage - Meenakshi Kalyanam with Sundareswarar.
Legends: The Tiruvilayaadal Puraanam describes in poetry several of the legends related to Sundareswarar and Meenakshi in the Madurai region. History: Although razed to the ground, the Madurai Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple was rebuilt with amazing resilience by the Nayak rulers of Madurai. Architecture: The vast temple complex is surrounded by fortified walls pierced with towering gopurams seen from a great distance.
Sculpture: The sculptural wealth of the Madurai Meenakshi temple is breathtaking. Mention must be made of the columns lining the 1000 pillared hall. Festivals: The Chittirai Tiruvizha at the Madurai temple attracts hundreds of thousands. It features spectacular processions and an enactment of Meenakshi Kalyanam. Festivals: Several festivals are celebrated throughout the year at Madurai, and many of them involve the enactment of legends surrounding the Madurai temple.
The Nataraja shrine at Madurai is referred to as Rajata Sabha, where Shiva is depicted dancing with a raised right foot. Tiruvaadavoor near Madurai represents the birthplace of Maanikkavaacakar the Saivite Saint Poet of the 1st millennium CE. Explore legends surrounding Maanikkavaacakar's life and the Tiruvilaiyaadal Puraanam associated with Madurai.
The Kallazhagar temple in the outskirts of Madurai is one of the 108 Divya Desams of the Sree Vaishnava tradition. An image of Azhagar is brought to the vicinity of Madurai during the Chittirai Tiruvizha with great fanfare.
The ancient Tirupparamkunram temple enshrining Subramanya is one of the 6 Aarupadai Veedu shrines of Skanda. Festival traditions involve interaction between this temple and the Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple.
Also located in Madurai is the lesser known Shivastalam of Tiru Aappanoor enshrining Aappudaiyaar. Located in the vicinity of Madurai and Kallazhagar Koyil is Pazhamudirsolai, one of the 6 Aarupadai Veedu shrines of Skanda. Also located in Madurai is the Koodal Azhagar temple regarded as one of the 108 Divya Desam shrines venerated by the Sree Vaishnava tradition.
The ancient city of Madurai is second to none in truly representing the cultural traditions of India. Madurai is centered around the Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple. The Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple is literally a splendid art gallery with each stone, each image breathing the tradition of this ancient - and vibrant culture. Legends: Explore legends tracing the origin of the Sundareswarar shrine at the Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple.
Legends: Explore legends tracing the origin of the ancient city of Madurai.
Legends: Explore legends surrounding Meenakshi (Parvati) and the celestial marriage - Meenakshi Kalyanam with Sundareswarar.
Legends: The Tiruvilayaadal Puraanam describes in poetry several of the legends related to Sundareswarar and Meenakshi in the Madurai region. History: Although razed to the ground, the Madurai Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple was rebuilt with amazing resilience by the Nayak rulers of Madurai. Architecture: The vast temple complex is surrounded by fortified walls pierced with towering gopurams seen from a great distance.
Sculpture: The sculptural wealth of the Madurai Meenakshi temple is breathtaking. Mention must be made of the columns lining the 1000 pillared hall. Festivals: The Chittirai Tiruvizha at the Madurai temple attracts hundreds of thousands. It features spectacular processions and an enactment of Meenakshi Kalyanam. Festivals: Several festivals are celebrated throughout the year at Madurai, and many of them involve the enactment of legends surrounding the Madurai temple.
The Nataraja shrine at Madurai is referred to as Rajata Sabha, where Shiva is depicted dancing with a raised right foot. Tiruvaadavoor near Madurai represents the birthplace of Maanikkavaacakar the Saivite Saint Poet of the 1st millennium CE. Explore legends surrounding Maanikkavaacakar's life and the Tiruvilaiyaadal Puraanam associated with Madurai.
The Kallazhagar temple in the outskirts of Madurai is one of the 108 Divya Desams of the Sree Vaishnava tradition. An image of Azhagar is brought to the vicinity of Madurai during the Chittirai Tiruvizha with great fanfare.
The ancient Tirupparamkunram temple enshrining Subramanya is one of the 6 Aarupadai Veedu shrines of Skanda. Festival traditions involve interaction between this temple and the Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple.
Also located in Madurai is the lesser known Shivastalam of Tiru Aappanoor enshrining Aappudaiyaar. Located in the vicinity of Madurai and Kallazhagar Koyil is Pazhamudirsolai, one of the 6 Aarupadai Veedu shrines of Skanda. Also located in Madurai is the Koodal Azhagar temple regarded as one of the 108 Divya Desam shrines venerated by the Sree Vaishnava tradition.
Rajagopala Temple at Mannargudi near Thanjavur
This shrine dedicated to Rajagopala, is a vast temple complex with a 1000 year old history. Referred to as Dakshina Dwaraka and as Champakaranyam, this temple is located in the town of Mannargudi, and is well connected by rail and road to Thanjavur, Kumbhakonam, Tiruvarur and other towns in the erstwhile Thanjavur district.
Deities: The sanctum of this vast temple enshrines a 7 feet high image of Vaasudeva with his consorts Sri Devi and Bhoodevi, and the festival images of Sree Vidya Rajagopala, his consorts Rukmini and Satyabhama, and an image of Santanagopalakrishna. The Sree Vidya Yantram in the sanctum is of significance here. The Goddess Senkamala Thaayar (Raktaabja Nayaki in Sanskrit) is referred to as 'Padi Thaandaa Pathini', and her image is never taken in procession outside the temple complex. Popular belief has it that cradling the image of Santanagopalakrishna in ones lap, would bless barren couple with progeny.
Architecture: This is a massive temple with as many as seven prakarams or circumambulatory paths surrounding the central sanctum. A 154 feet high Rajagopuram adorns the entrance to the outermost prakaram. There are several beutiful pillared halls in the temple - such as the Thousand pillared hall, the Vallala Maharaja Mandapam, the Yaanai Vaahana Mandapam, Garudavaahana Mandapam, Vennaithaazhi mandapam and Punnai Vaahana mandapam. The Shrine to Garuda on top of a 50 feet high monolithic pillar in front of the temple, deserves mention. The saying 'Mannaargudi Madhil Azhagu' (the walls of the temple of Mannargudi are of great beauty) in Tamil, testifies to the grandeur of this temple.
Several theerthams (temple tanks) adorn this shrine. The Haridra Nadhi tank is located located near the temple, and popular belief has it, that a river was transformed into a big tank, and that Rajagopala performed the famed Rasa Leela in the tank.
History: The innermost sanctum here about a thousand years old although the first stone structure here was built only during the reign of Kulottunga Chola I (1113 AD); this temple is also referred to as Kulottunga Chola Vinnagaram. Most of the outer structures date back to the later Vijayanagara period marked by a spate of temple construction projects in Tamilnadu.
None of the Alwars have sung of the glory of this shrine, as this temple came into existence only at a later date. However, Manavala Maamuni has sung praises of this temple; so has Muthuswamy Deekshitar (18th century)- one of the revered composers in the Karnatic Music idiom.
Oothukkaadu Venkatasubbaier, (who preceded the Karnatic Music trinity), another composer in the Karnatic Music idiom made Rajagopala (Krishna) of Mannargudi the center of the multitude of his compositions (as did Jayadeva with Jagannath of Puri, in his Geetagovindam). Labeled Krishna Gaanam, several of Oothukkadu Venkatasubbaiyer's compositions in Tamil and in Sanskrit have attained popularity during this century.
Muthuswamy Deekshitar's kriti Santhaana Gopala Krishnam in the Raga Khamaas, eulogizes this shrine at Mannargudi, as do his kritis Sree Rajagopala in the Raga Saveri, the kriti Sree Venugopala in the Raga Kurinji and the kriti Sree Vidya Rajagopalam in the Raga Jaganmohini. Deekshitar refers to the annual float festival in the Haridranadhi tank, and to the Mohini Alankaram in the annual Iraappattu Utsavam in his kritis, and also describes Krishna as an embodiment of the Sree Vidya Mantram.
Worship Services and Festivals: Seven worship services are offered during the course of a day, and this temple attracts pilgrims throughout the year. The annual festival (Bhrammotsavam) is celebrated in the month of Pankuni (Mar 15-Apr 15) for a period of 18 days, when the deities are taken out in procession on decorated mounts. The float festival occurs in the month of Aani (June 15 - July 15). Aadi Pooram celebrated between July 15 and Aug 15 is another of the important festivals here.
The Jayamkonda Naathar (Shiva) temple built by Jayamkonda Cholan is also located in the town of Mannargudi. The Tirattuppaal prasadam made at this temple used to be sent to the Rajagopala temple, on the asterism of Rohini in the month of Vaikasi amidst festivities in both temples (Tirattuppaal Aradhanai). The huge vessel used for boiling the milk required for the event is all that is left of this ceremony.
Deities: The sanctum of this vast temple enshrines a 7 feet high image of Vaasudeva with his consorts Sri Devi and Bhoodevi, and the festival images of Sree Vidya Rajagopala, his consorts Rukmini and Satyabhama, and an image of Santanagopalakrishna. The Sree Vidya Yantram in the sanctum is of significance here. The Goddess Senkamala Thaayar (Raktaabja Nayaki in Sanskrit) is referred to as 'Padi Thaandaa Pathini', and her image is never taken in procession outside the temple complex. Popular belief has it that cradling the image of Santanagopalakrishna in ones lap, would bless barren couple with progeny.
Architecture: This is a massive temple with as many as seven prakarams or circumambulatory paths surrounding the central sanctum. A 154 feet high Rajagopuram adorns the entrance to the outermost prakaram. There are several beutiful pillared halls in the temple - such as the Thousand pillared hall, the Vallala Maharaja Mandapam, the Yaanai Vaahana Mandapam, Garudavaahana Mandapam, Vennaithaazhi mandapam and Punnai Vaahana mandapam. The Shrine to Garuda on top of a 50 feet high monolithic pillar in front of the temple, deserves mention. The saying 'Mannaargudi Madhil Azhagu' (the walls of the temple of Mannargudi are of great beauty) in Tamil, testifies to the grandeur of this temple.
Several theerthams (temple tanks) adorn this shrine. The Haridra Nadhi tank is located located near the temple, and popular belief has it, that a river was transformed into a big tank, and that Rajagopala performed the famed Rasa Leela in the tank.
History: The innermost sanctum here about a thousand years old although the first stone structure here was built only during the reign of Kulottunga Chola I (1113 AD); this temple is also referred to as Kulottunga Chola Vinnagaram. Most of the outer structures date back to the later Vijayanagara period marked by a spate of temple construction projects in Tamilnadu.
None of the Alwars have sung of the glory of this shrine, as this temple came into existence only at a later date. However, Manavala Maamuni has sung praises of this temple; so has Muthuswamy Deekshitar (18th century)- one of the revered composers in the Karnatic Music idiom.
Oothukkaadu Venkatasubbaier, (who preceded the Karnatic Music trinity), another composer in the Karnatic Music idiom made Rajagopala (Krishna) of Mannargudi the center of the multitude of his compositions (as did Jayadeva with Jagannath of Puri, in his Geetagovindam). Labeled Krishna Gaanam, several of Oothukkadu Venkatasubbaiyer's compositions in Tamil and in Sanskrit have attained popularity during this century.
Muthuswamy Deekshitar's kriti Santhaana Gopala Krishnam in the Raga Khamaas, eulogizes this shrine at Mannargudi, as do his kritis Sree Rajagopala in the Raga Saveri, the kriti Sree Venugopala in the Raga Kurinji and the kriti Sree Vidya Rajagopalam in the Raga Jaganmohini. Deekshitar refers to the annual float festival in the Haridranadhi tank, and to the Mohini Alankaram in the annual Iraappattu Utsavam in his kritis, and also describes Krishna as an embodiment of the Sree Vidya Mantram.
Worship Services and Festivals: Seven worship services are offered during the course of a day, and this temple attracts pilgrims throughout the year. The annual festival (Bhrammotsavam) is celebrated in the month of Pankuni (Mar 15-Apr 15) for a period of 18 days, when the deities are taken out in procession on decorated mounts. The float festival occurs in the month of Aani (June 15 - July 15). Aadi Pooram celebrated between July 15 and Aug 15 is another of the important festivals here.
The Jayamkonda Naathar (Shiva) temple built by Jayamkonda Cholan is also located in the town of Mannargudi. The Tirattuppaal prasadam made at this temple used to be sent to the Rajagopala temple, on the asterism of Rohini in the month of Vaikasi amidst festivities in both temples (Tirattuppaal Aradhanai). The huge vessel used for boiling the milk required for the event is all that is left of this ceremony.
Sreevaikuntham
There are two verses sung by Nammalwar, glorifying this grand shrine to Vaikunthanathar at Sree Vaikuntham which constitutes the first of the nine Nava Tiruppatis in Tirunelveli district in the belt between Tirunelveli and the coastal shrine of Tiruchendur. One of these verses also refers to Tiruppulinkudi and Varagunamangai nearby.
Only Nammalwar, who resided at Alwar Tirunagari, has sung of these nine shrines Tiruvaikuntham, Varagunamangai, Pulinkudi, Tolaivillimangalam, Tirukkulandai, Tirukkolur, Tirupperai and Tirukkurugoor collectively referred to as Alwar Navatiruppati. Tolaivillimangalam referred to as Irattai Tirupati, counts as two in the scheme of Nava Tirupatis, but only as one of the 108 Divya Desams.
This temple witnessed the battle between the valiant Veerapandya Kattabomman and the British, where the British used this temple as a fortress. Battle marks are seen on the temple's door.
Also located in this village is the Kailasanathar temple considered to be one of the Navagraha Stalam temples in the Tirunelveli area, enshrining Saneeswaran, owing to which, this village is also referred to as Tirukkayilayam.
Deities: Sree Vaikunthanathan (Kallappiraan) in a standing posture facing east. The image of Vishnu, with Adi Seshan's hood spread over his head, is an imposing one. of Taayaar here is Vaikunthavalli; there is also a shrine to Bhudevi.
Legend has it that a local thief, was in the habit of surrendering half of his spoils to the deity here; upon being caught stealing at the local ruler's palace, Vishnu assumed the form of a thief, and preached the truth to the king and revealed his self. Upon the king's request, Vaikunthanathan, assumed the name Kallappiraan.
The temple: This temple has been designed such ahat on the 6th day of Chittirai (Apr 15-May14) and Aippasi (Oct 15-Nov14), the sun's rays illuminate the sanctum. Murals depicting the 108 Sri Vaishnava Divya desam shrines are seen in the temple corridor. The Tiruvenkatamudaiyan mandapam is lined with pillars carrying images of lions, yalis and elephants. . The 110 feet tall 9 tiered Rajagopuram is visible from a distance, across the river and the verdant vegetation here - amidst very lush surroundings. There are shrines to Krishna, Lakshmi Narasimha, Hanuman, Tiruvenkatamudaiyaan.
Festivals: Six worship services are carried out each day. The annual Bhramotsavam is celebrated in the month of Chittirai and the adhyana utsavam in Margazhi
Only Nammalwar, who resided at Alwar Tirunagari, has sung of these nine shrines Tiruvaikuntham, Varagunamangai, Pulinkudi, Tolaivillimangalam, Tirukkulandai, Tirukkolur, Tirupperai and Tirukkurugoor collectively referred to as Alwar Navatiruppati. Tolaivillimangalam referred to as Irattai Tirupati, counts as two in the scheme of Nava Tirupatis, but only as one of the 108 Divya Desams.
This temple witnessed the battle between the valiant Veerapandya Kattabomman and the British, where the British used this temple as a fortress. Battle marks are seen on the temple's door.
Also located in this village is the Kailasanathar temple considered to be one of the Navagraha Stalam temples in the Tirunelveli area, enshrining Saneeswaran, owing to which, this village is also referred to as Tirukkayilayam.
Deities: Sree Vaikunthanathan (Kallappiraan) in a standing posture facing east. The image of Vishnu, with Adi Seshan's hood spread over his head, is an imposing one. of Taayaar here is Vaikunthavalli; there is also a shrine to Bhudevi.
Legend has it that a local thief, was in the habit of surrendering half of his spoils to the deity here; upon being caught stealing at the local ruler's palace, Vishnu assumed the form of a thief, and preached the truth to the king and revealed his self. Upon the king's request, Vaikunthanathan, assumed the name Kallappiraan.
The temple: This temple has been designed such ahat on the 6th day of Chittirai (Apr 15-May14) and Aippasi (Oct 15-Nov14), the sun's rays illuminate the sanctum. Murals depicting the 108 Sri Vaishnava Divya desam shrines are seen in the temple corridor. The Tiruvenkatamudaiyan mandapam is lined with pillars carrying images of lions, yalis and elephants. . The 110 feet tall 9 tiered Rajagopuram is visible from a distance, across the river and the verdant vegetation here - amidst very lush surroundings. There are shrines to Krishna, Lakshmi Narasimha, Hanuman, Tiruvenkatamudaiyaan.
Festivals: Six worship services are carried out each day. The annual Bhramotsavam is celebrated in the month of Chittirai and the adhyana utsavam in Margazhi
Alwar Tirunagari (Tirukkurukoor)
This is the ninth and the most celebrated of the nine Nava Tiruppatis in Tirunelveli district in the belt between Tirunelveli and the coastal shrine of Tiruchendur.
Only Nammalwar, who resided at Alwar Tirunagari, has sung of these nine shrines Tiruvaikuntham, Varagunamangai, Pulinkudi, Tolaivillimangalam, Tirukkulandai, Tirukkolur, Tirupperai and Tirukkurugoor collectively referred to as Alwar Navatiruppati. Tolaivillimangalam referred to as Irattai Tirupati, counts as two in the scheme of Nava Tirupatis, but as one of the 108 Divya Desams.
Nammalwar honors Tirukkurukoor with a decad of 11 verses. Nammalwar's signature in each of his decads is Kurukoor Sadagopan. This shrine is very closely associated with Nammalwar, who lived his life here. Alwar Tirunagari is also known for Araiyar Sevai, where the Divya Prabanda Pasurams (verses) are recited with expression, music and rhythm as in Srirangam and Srivilliputtur.
Deities: The Moolavar here is Aadi Naathan or Aadi Piraan. Taayaars here are Aadi Natha Valli and Kurukoor Valli. There is a shrine to Nammalwar. The tamarind tree, in which he resided (Tiruppulialwar) is the stala vriksham here The name Alwar tirunagari is attributed to Nammalwar's presence.
Legend has it that Indra was absolved of his curse here. It is believed that Lakshmana incarnated as the tamarind tree here. Vishnu is believed to have been under a vow of celibacy, when Lakshmi meditated upon him to marry him and therefore Vishnu took her in the form of a garland of flowers (magizha malar maalai). There is another legend that Agasthyar had been blessed by Shiva, that there would be born a saint (Nammalwar) in this area, who would enthrone the language tamil to a status equal to that of sanskrit.
The temple: This temple covers an area of 5 acres and has three prakarams and a 5 tiered rajagopuram. The Tirumanjana Mandapam, the tirumamani mandapam and the Kannadi Mandapam are of great beauty. There are shrines to Rama, Venugopala, Narasimhar, Varaha here. This temple boasts of a nadaswaram made of stone.
This temple is regarded as the Budhastalam (mercury) and being the ninth Divyadesam in the Tirunelveli area, it is regarded as Parama padam itself.
Festivals: The asterism of each Alwar is celebrated here, as in Srirangam. Garuda Sevai in the tamil month of Vaikasi (Vishaka asterism - the birthday of Nammalwar) witnesses the grand Garuda Sevai, where festival images from all of the nine Nava Tirupatis congregate here. Nammalwar is mounted on the Hamsavahanam. The Paasurams on each of these deities are recited then, during this grand festival. The image above is that of Perumaal from Tirupperai.
Only Nammalwar, who resided at Alwar Tirunagari, has sung of these nine shrines Tiruvaikuntham, Varagunamangai, Pulinkudi, Tolaivillimangalam, Tirukkulandai, Tirukkolur, Tirupperai and Tirukkurugoor collectively referred to as Alwar Navatiruppati. Tolaivillimangalam referred to as Irattai Tirupati, counts as two in the scheme of Nava Tirupatis, but as one of the 108 Divya Desams.
Nammalwar honors Tirukkurukoor with a decad of 11 verses. Nammalwar's signature in each of his decads is Kurukoor Sadagopan. This shrine is very closely associated with Nammalwar, who lived his life here. Alwar Tirunagari is also known for Araiyar Sevai, where the Divya Prabanda Pasurams (verses) are recited with expression, music and rhythm as in Srirangam and Srivilliputtur.
Deities: The Moolavar here is Aadi Naathan or Aadi Piraan. Taayaars here are Aadi Natha Valli and Kurukoor Valli. There is a shrine to Nammalwar. The tamarind tree, in which he resided (Tiruppulialwar) is the stala vriksham here The name Alwar tirunagari is attributed to Nammalwar's presence.
Legend has it that Indra was absolved of his curse here. It is believed that Lakshmana incarnated as the tamarind tree here. Vishnu is believed to have been under a vow of celibacy, when Lakshmi meditated upon him to marry him and therefore Vishnu took her in the form of a garland of flowers (magizha malar maalai). There is another legend that Agasthyar had been blessed by Shiva, that there would be born a saint (Nammalwar) in this area, who would enthrone the language tamil to a status equal to that of sanskrit.
The temple: This temple covers an area of 5 acres and has three prakarams and a 5 tiered rajagopuram. The Tirumanjana Mandapam, the tirumamani mandapam and the Kannadi Mandapam are of great beauty. There are shrines to Rama, Venugopala, Narasimhar, Varaha here. This temple boasts of a nadaswaram made of stone.
This temple is regarded as the Budhastalam (mercury) and being the ninth Divyadesam in the Tirunelveli area, it is regarded as Parama padam itself.
Festivals: The asterism of each Alwar is celebrated here, as in Srirangam. Garuda Sevai in the tamil month of Vaikasi (Vishaka asterism - the birthday of Nammalwar) witnesses the grand Garuda Sevai, where festival images from all of the nine Nava Tirupatis congregate here. Nammalwar is mounted on the Hamsavahanam. The Paasurams on each of these deities are recited then, during this grand festival. The image above is that of Perumaal from Tirupperai.
Karpaka Vinayakar Temple at Pillayarpatti
This image of Ganesha is bound to be familiar to anyone of Tamil origin; however, little is known to many about the fact that this is an image of the rock cut Karpaka Vinayakar Shrine at Pillayarpatti near Karaikkudi at one of the oldest Cave Temples (Rock Cut) temples of Tamilnadu. Pillayarpatti is situated between Pudukkottai and Karaikkudi. The nearest airport is at Tiruchirappalli. Chennai Rameswaram Express and Kamban Express travel to these two railheads.
The town of Pillaiyarpatti is named after 'Pillayar' - the tamil name for Ganesha, and this ancient temple houses rock cut images of Shiva, Lingodbhavar and others as well as several other shrines. Steeped in the tradition of Agamic textsthe temple bears testimony to the vibrant temple culture of the Tamil people, passed down through centuries.
Deities: Karpaka Vinayakar or Desi Vinayaka Pillaiyar is the presiding deity here, and he is portrayed with two arms and a trunk curled towards his right in the valampuri mode. This 6 feet tall mammoth image of Ganesha is a bas relief in an excavated cave, off of a hill in the precincts of the temple. Tiruveesar is a Shiva Lingam carved in a similar manner. Other deities in the temple include Marudankudi Eesar and his consort Vaadaamalar Mangai.
Antiquity: Over 15 inscriptions are found within the temple, that help establish the age of the temple. The Stalapuranam published by the temple classifies the growth of this temple into three distinct stages.
The first stage goes back in time by about 1600 years. During this period, the innermost rock cut shrines housing Karpaka Vinayakar and Tiruveesar came into being. The uniqueness of the image of Ganesha is one factor testifying this date; the characters used in the temple inscriptions also help establish this date. The pillars within the shrine are of pre-Pallava origin.
The Pallavas were prolific builders of rock cut temples (Mahabalipuram, Mahendravadi, Mamandur, Mandakapattu, Seeyamangalam, Namakkal, Tiruchi, Nartamalai, Kudumiyanmalai, Tirukkokarnam, Tirumeyyam, Peraiyur, Malayadipatti, Tirukolakkudi, Kunrakkudi etc.). A number of these can be traced to Mahendravarman I (615 - 630 AD) and Narasimhavarman I (630 - 668 AD). However, the inscriptions at Pillayarpatti date further back to the 4th century AD. Also, given the location of the temple in the Pandya kingdom it would only be logical to associate Pandya patronage to this temple, especially in the light of Pandya patronage at the Kazhugumalai temple not too far from here.
There are several inscriptions within this temple that date back to the period between 1091 AD and 1238 AD, making it apparent that the Pillayarpatti Nagarattar became the custodians of the temple during the 13th century AD during the second growth phase of this temple, when Vimanams and Rajagopurams were built.
The third phase of growth is much more recent and it involved the repair, rebuilding and refurbishment of the entire temple complex, including the renovation of the temple tank. The tank and the two Raja Gopurams provide an attractive approach to the temple, in this rather remote town of Pillayarpatti.
It is with great pride that the Pillayarpatti Nagarathar community which has been traditionally involved with the temple - patronizes maintenance of this temple and the scrupulous conduct of worship services.
Worship Protocol: Each day, five worship services are offered to the presiding deity, commencing at 6 AM , and closing down at 9 PM. During the fourth phase of each lunar half month, Pillayar is taken in procession around the temple. Hundreds of pilgrims patronize the temple on these days.
Festivals: The grandest of festivals is Ganesh Chaturti in the month of Aug - September, where a ten day celebration brings much gaiety to this temple town. Each day's celebration is marked by much splendor as Pillayar is taken in procession around town on several of his mounts, as are the other Pancha Murthys. The ninth day of the festival is marked by a chariot procession. In addition, the ten day festival in the month of Vaikasi (May - June) is held in honor of Kongu Nachiyamman, a village deity whose processional image is also housed here. The Margazhi Tiruvadirai festival is celebrated in honor of Nataraja and Sivakami (Dec - Jan).
Nearby Attractions: Pudukkottai houses the Gokarneswarar Temple, and Kunnakkudi houses the hill temple of Shanmukhanathar.
The town of Pillaiyarpatti is named after 'Pillayar' - the tamil name for Ganesha, and this ancient temple houses rock cut images of Shiva, Lingodbhavar and others as well as several other shrines. Steeped in the tradition of Agamic textsthe temple bears testimony to the vibrant temple culture of the Tamil people, passed down through centuries.
Deities: Karpaka Vinayakar or Desi Vinayaka Pillaiyar is the presiding deity here, and he is portrayed with two arms and a trunk curled towards his right in the valampuri mode. This 6 feet tall mammoth image of Ganesha is a bas relief in an excavated cave, off of a hill in the precincts of the temple. Tiruveesar is a Shiva Lingam carved in a similar manner. Other deities in the temple include Marudankudi Eesar and his consort Vaadaamalar Mangai.
Antiquity: Over 15 inscriptions are found within the temple, that help establish the age of the temple. The Stalapuranam published by the temple classifies the growth of this temple into three distinct stages.
The first stage goes back in time by about 1600 years. During this period, the innermost rock cut shrines housing Karpaka Vinayakar and Tiruveesar came into being. The uniqueness of the image of Ganesha is one factor testifying this date; the characters used in the temple inscriptions also help establish this date. The pillars within the shrine are of pre-Pallava origin.
The Pallavas were prolific builders of rock cut temples (Mahabalipuram, Mahendravadi, Mamandur, Mandakapattu, Seeyamangalam, Namakkal, Tiruchi, Nartamalai, Kudumiyanmalai, Tirukkokarnam, Tirumeyyam, Peraiyur, Malayadipatti, Tirukolakkudi, Kunrakkudi etc.). A number of these can be traced to Mahendravarman I (615 - 630 AD) and Narasimhavarman I (630 - 668 AD). However, the inscriptions at Pillayarpatti date further back to the 4th century AD. Also, given the location of the temple in the Pandya kingdom it would only be logical to associate Pandya patronage to this temple, especially in the light of Pandya patronage at the Kazhugumalai temple not too far from here.
There are several inscriptions within this temple that date back to the period between 1091 AD and 1238 AD, making it apparent that the Pillayarpatti Nagarattar became the custodians of the temple during the 13th century AD during the second growth phase of this temple, when Vimanams and Rajagopurams were built.
The third phase of growth is much more recent and it involved the repair, rebuilding and refurbishment of the entire temple complex, including the renovation of the temple tank. The tank and the two Raja Gopurams provide an attractive approach to the temple, in this rather remote town of Pillayarpatti.
It is with great pride that the Pillayarpatti Nagarathar community which has been traditionally involved with the temple - patronizes maintenance of this temple and the scrupulous conduct of worship services.
Worship Protocol: Each day, five worship services are offered to the presiding deity, commencing at 6 AM , and closing down at 9 PM. During the fourth phase of each lunar half month, Pillayar is taken in procession around the temple. Hundreds of pilgrims patronize the temple on these days.
Festivals: The grandest of festivals is Ganesh Chaturti in the month of Aug - September, where a ten day celebration brings much gaiety to this temple town. Each day's celebration is marked by much splendor as Pillayar is taken in procession around town on several of his mounts, as are the other Pancha Murthys. The ninth day of the festival is marked by a chariot procession. In addition, the ten day festival in the month of Vaikasi (May - June) is held in honor of Kongu Nachiyamman, a village deity whose processional image is also housed here. The Margazhi Tiruvadirai festival is celebrated in honor of Nataraja and Sivakami (Dec - Jan).
Nearby Attractions: Pudukkottai houses the Gokarneswarar Temple, and Kunnakkudi houses the hill temple of Shanmukhanathar.
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