Angala Parameswari Temple Melmalayanur : Online Pooja Booking

Angala Parameswari Temple Melmalayanur : Online Pooja Booking

Angala Parameswari Temple is located at Melmalayanur, 32 km from Gingee in Viluppuram District. The deity of the temple is the Sembadavars. There is an ancient snake pit in the inner sanctum.

Angala Parameswari Temple is located at Melmalayanur, 32 km from Gingee in Viluppuram District. The deity of the temple is the Sembadavars. There is an ancient snake pit in the inner sanctum.

A festival celebrated here during February-March is famous for Simimasana kollai. During the festival many pilgrims cook large quantities of various kinds of grain and set it out in the burning ground. This offering to the goddess is believed to grant wishes. Lots of devotees throng to the temple during Ammavasai (New Moon day).

History of Sri Angala Amman Temple, Melmaliyanoor.

Goddess Mother Parvathi the wife of Lord Shiva took birt on her as hive. The pupose of the birth is to clear Lord Shiva from cetain sin and give blessings to all people in kaliyug. The birth took place her before the start of kaliyug. The birth place melmaliyanoor,where the temple is situated. The specialty in this temple is Mother in Angala amman faces north while blessing devotees.

The great dazzling brightest light is mother Sri Angalaparameshwari was ruling the world even before inhabition started.

Mother parvathy only created Brahma, Vishnu, Rudra, Maheswaran and Sadhasivan for creation, Maintenance, distination, hiding and blessing.

Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma are supported to be three hands of Gods. All of sorts of energies were differentiated mainly as three types, Wish, action and Wisdom. Right Side is taken as male and left as female. When both sides confine together resulted in creation of Sky, Water, Fire Wind and Earth. Siva, Vishnu and Brahma were teamed with Eswari, Lakshmi and Sarswathi.

Brahma, the God for creation had 10 assistants to help in his activities. Thakkan the important assitant crore of living including saint. He also created 60 extremly beautful girls and married them to Godmen. In this process Eswari's creator, He created Dhakshayani and married here to Lord Shiva.

When Takkan went to kailash, He was stopped bygod one of Shiva's deputies. Angered by this takkan performs difficult yagams with selfish maotives. He did not invite Lord shirine. Dhakshyani went to yaga in sprite of Lors Shiva's unwillingness. She accused thakkan for inviting Lord Shiva. But she was only insulted completely dissatisfied, Dhakshayani saw yaga was destroyed.

Dhakshayani destroyed her own body. Lord Shiva took her body and devised with uncontrollable anger (Rudhrathandavam). During this, the right hand of Dhakshayani fell in Dhandakarunyam. Malayanoor is a part of Dhandakarunyam.

Aroop(shapless) Angalaamman to join with Lord Shiva took Birth as Parvathi, the Daughter of parvatharajan. She married Lord Shiva.

With power of manthras and boons from Lord Shiva, Brahama performed a yaga to save god men from two demons known as SANDOBI and SUNDARAR. Thro this yaga thilothama as apsaras came to life.

Attracted by the beauthy of thilothama not only demons but brahma also follwed her. For her protection She went to kailash where Brahma also follwed. As Brahma also was with five heads, Parvathi mistook him for Shiva and felt at his feet. When Parvathi realized the truth, she was very angry and prayed Shiva that fifth head of Brahma should be destroyed.

As Suggested by Lord Vishnu, Shiva fought with Brahma and cut his fifth head. But Brahma was compensated with new head. Shiva cut Brahma's head nine hundreds and ninty nine times and got tired.

He made all the nine huindreds and ninty nine heads into garland and wore it. Then again he cut Brahma's head and confirmed with four heads only.

Shiva was affected by sin due to this. Devi Saraswathi, wife of Brahma cursed Shiva to have no food, no sleep, and his hunger to be quenched with as and thirst to be quenched with bone only. After this Shiva was roaming all over the world.

Saraswathi cures parvathi to become ugly, parts of crane and peacock are to become her dress, her assiatants to become demons.

On knowing this status, Lord Vishnu apprises Parvathi that her ordeal will come to an end when she becomes snake in melmalaiyanoor.

Deve parvathi roams all over the world. She meets sage Kapil in Thiruvannamalai and takes bath in Brahmatheertham. She gets relieved from Sarswathi's curse.

From Thiruvanamali, Devi Parvathi comes to Thazhanur where she stays over night.

Way to malaiyanoor. She creates big lake (ponneri). Her ring is lost in the nearby fields. She curse the lake will not have any fields thereafter. These in true till date.

On the way she felt thirsty. But people there did not oblige her with water. So she curse that are will never have palm trees.

Dasan with 3 sons (Veeran, sooran, Ukiran) went for fishing in Malaiyanoor Lake. Parvathi suggested to them that catch should be devoted to her only Veeran wanted to oblige. But he was sorry for having damaged net.

Angala Amman gave three stones to veeran. The first when thrown in to lake it will make the net all right; second stone will result in catching fishes which is to be devoted to mother. Third stone will result in large catch which can be used for sale. Veeran obeyed the commands.

Then Angalamman created a snake hive in palace garden and set there as five headed snake. Fisherman Dasan unsuccessfully tried to doze the hive. Third day Angalamman gave Darshan to all four fishermen.She commanded the fishermen, Due to Saraswathi's curse i am here. Daily you do Pooja to me. I will save you and your future generations. Accordingly fishermen perform pooja even now.

King of the place Malai Arasan came to gardens and saw the snake hive temples. He got angry with Dasan's family. he sent a great force to destroy the snake hive. Mother made everything invisible and geve dharshan to the king, Who donated twelve kanni lands for building the temple.

People took sand from snake hive as prasad and got relief from diseases. Lord Shiva crosses river sangraparani and reaches Melmalaiyanoor. In cremation ground consumes three handful of ash and gets some relief from hunger. Then he asks for food in front of the temple. On hearing Shivas voice Parvathi feels happy and thinks of her brother Vishnu who appraises the procedure for relief from curse.

That Moment she had consultation with Lord Vishnu. He advised her that Tasty food is to be prepared in three parts. the fist two parts are to be given to Kabalam, Third part is dropped in the floor as if by mistake, then when Kabalam comes down to taste the food parvathi should take giant shape and squeeze it. Then the curse will be released. To cook the food she should take the help of lakshmi and Amudha Surabi

Parvathi prepared food accordingly. She orders Lord Ganesh to take care of his father till the lunch is over. Ganesh obeyed his mother's word. Parvathi performed pooja to the feet of Lord Shiva and served lunch as suggested by Vishnu. When Kabalam come down to eat the third part of food, Parvathi took giant shape of Angala Prameshwari and crushed it with right foot and made it as her servant.

As Shiva was released from curse he felt happy and went to Chidambaram for Dancing happily. He got the name of Dhandeswarar and Parvathi as Dhandeswari.

The Angalaparameshwari was taken in procession in car to sub-side her anger. Angels, sages and saints became wheels, Wheellatch and throne of the car. Angalamman came to normal and under took procession in normal shape. So Angala amman bless her devotees by staying in melmalaiyanoor.

Sri Kaliuga Varatharaja Perumaal Temple
Sri Kaliyaperumal temple is a major attraction of Ariyalur. It is situated at 5 km away from Ariyalur. This temple is famous for its "Car festival" (March/April) which is conducted yearly. The people of Ariyalur celebrate the festival grandly.

The car festival is a 10-day celebration for the small town of Ariyalur. The festival starts with the day of "Srinavame" in the month of Chithirai or Panguni (March-April). The grand event of Eganthem Sevai for Varatharajapermual is on 10th day of festival. The festival attracts people from all over the state of Tamil Nadu.

The temple is also famous for the Puraittasi Saturdays. Every year in the month of 'Puraittasi' (September), special Pujas, 'Arathanai', 'Abishekams', etc are done on the four Saturdays. This also is a major attraction of the Kaliyaperumal temple.

Thiruvahindrapuram Divya Desam
Vedantha Desigar scripted the Sampradhayam for Vadakalai Sect of Vaishnavites
Only Divya Desam where both vehicles of Vishnu brought water for the thirsty Lord

Located about 5kms West of Cuddalore Town on the way to Panruti is the Deiva Naayagan Divya Desam in Thiru Vahindrapuram. The Utsavar Murthy at this temple is called Moovaraagiya Oruvan, said to be a manifestation of Vishnu, Brahmma and Shiva.

In centuries gone by, the location of this divya desam was identified as being 6 yojanas North of Kumbakonam, South of Kanchipuram and West of the Ocean.

Arjuna is said to have undertaken penance at this temple and hence this divya desam is said to date back to a time before the Mahabaratha. A few pieces from the Sanjeevani hill, carried by Anjaneya to Lanka, is said to have fallen on Oushada Giri ( the mountain here).

Bhattars at Ahinthai
The priests at this temple do a very sincere job, including the 76 year old Neela Megha Bhattar. One is truly moved by the courtesy extended by the Bhattar to all the devotees.

Defeated by the Asuras, the Devas looked up to Lord Narayana for help. Shiva who came to the rescue of the Asuras hurled his thunderbolt at Vishnu who intercepted it with ease. Vishnu then displayed his ‘Trimurthi’ form to Shiva and later returned Shiva’s weapon. On Shiva’s request, Vishnu stayed put at this place.

Thirsty Lord looks for water
Having undertaken the battle and helped the Devas win, Lord Narayana felt thirsty. While Garuda went around to bring water for the Lord, Adhiseshan swung his tail to blow open the earth, thus bringing water instantly and helping quench his Lord’s thirst. As a mark of this event, the sacred water here is called ‘ Sesha Theertham’.

Garuda is said to have gone all the way to Vaikuntam to bring water for the Lord from River Viraja.

Interesting Story
Another story on this has it that Garuda who went around to bring water for the Lord came across a Rishi in mid air and finding water inside the Rishi’s sacred kettle, knocked it down, thus letting the water into this place. Angered at this act of Garuda, the rishi cursed turning the water into a dirty colour. Realising his folly, Garuda explained the reason for his hasty action and apologised. To this day, one finds the water in the river dirty but once in the hand, it seems pure and clear.

Garuda who came back late (after Adhiseshan had already helped quench the Lord’s thirst) requested the Lord to accept his water too as sacred. The Lord accepted the water on the Chariot Procession day. On this day, water from this river (Kedila) is brought and offered to the Lord.

This is the only Divya Desam where both vehicles of Vishnu brought water for the Lord.

Indira’s hiding at ThiruVahindapuram
Having gained dominating powers thanks to his sincere penance, a demon attacked Indira logam and drove out Indira, who is said to have gone into hiding here. The hassled Devas went up to Vishnu who asked them to perform a Yagam at Vahindapuram. On the completion of the Yaagam, Indira is believed to have come out of his hiding. Vishnu appeared before him and presented the Vajra Yudham with the help of which Indira defeated the demon and re conquered the Indira logam.

Old Inscriptions referring to the Lord
11th century inscription at this temple shows that the ThiruVahindrapuram Lord was referred to as the Standing Vishnu. Legend has it that the Lord here is considered as the brother of Tirupathi Srinivasa.

Sri Desikar and the Ahindai connection
Nigamaantha Desigan is said to have lived here for 40 years and scripted the sampradayam for Vadakalai sect of Vaishnavites. Hence this temple is said to be the ‘Home to Vadakalai Sect’. Special significance is attached to the Desigan Sannidhi at this temple. Desigan who was devoted to this Lord, wrote great pieces of literature on DeivaNaayagan and Hayagriva.

Desigar got a sculpture(Thirumeni) of his done at this temple. A sculptor questioned the Desigar if he could give life to this art form. When the sculptor touched the Thirumeni to get a feel of it, there was a scratch seen on it and to his shock, he found blood flowing down. Realising his mistake, the sculptor is said to have apologized to Sri Desikan.

Lakshmi HayaGriva temple
There is a Hayagriva temple atop the hill opposite the Deiva Naayagan temple. The story goes that two demons had taken away the Vedic scriptures from Brahmma. Vishnu is said to have taken the Hayagriva form and brought back the Vedic scriptures from the demons. Being the place where Lord Vishnu, in Hayagriva form, brought back the educative scriptures, he is referred to as the God of Learning. He is said to fulfill one’s prayers relating to education and studies at this temple.


Snake Pit
In this Divya Desam, milk is not poured into the snake pit. Instead it is poured into the ‘Sesha Theertham’.

Contributions to this temple
Pandya, Chozha, Chera, Sinhala and Raya rulers are said to have contributed to this temple.

Prarthana Sthalam

This is said to be a prarthana sthalam for ‘Good Education’ and to cure ‘speechless children’. This place is also believed to liberate one from doshams.

Quick Facts

Deity : Deva Naayagan, East Facing Standing Posture
Goddess : Vaikunta Naayaki- Hemambhujavalli Thaayar
Utsavar : Moovaraagivya Oruvan(DevaNaathan)

Azhvaar : ThiruMangai Azhvaar- 10 Paasuram (1148-57)

Temple Timing: 630am-12noon and 4pm-930pm
Priest : Neela Megha Bhattar (76 years old) , Narasimhan Bhattar
Contact : 04142- 288999 or 287 277/ 94434 44778

How to reach the temple
Cuddalore is well connected by bus from all major towns and cities in Tamil Nadu.
One can reach ThiruVahindrapuram in about 4 hours by bus from Madras.

Currently, train connection is under suspension as the main line from Madras to Trichy via Cuddalore, Chidambaram, Mayavaram is under broad gauge conversion.

From Cuddalore, one can take a town bus ( route 16) to Ahinthai. From the bus stop(1/2 a km from the temple entrance), one may take an auto (Rs. 15) to reach the temple.

An auto from Cuddalore bus stand would cost about Rs. 30-40(one way).

Ardhanareeswarar Temple

Hill Temple Temple is on the hill which is red in color. One can take on 1206 steps to reach the top of the hill to worship the Lord Shiva-Ardhanareeswarar. Cars and taxis are available to reach the temple. The Rajagopuram is five tiered; 260’ in length and 160’ east-west breath. The period of the temple dates back to sangam period and renovated during the periods of cholas, pandyas and nayak kings. A British officer, Davis, repaired some parts of temple. We can see his image in Mukkoottu Vinayagar temple.Tirugnanasambandar wrote ‘Tiruneelakanta Pathigam’ and Arunagirinathar is believed to have written ‘Tiruppugalh’ in this temple. Ghat road and steps If we do not prefer to take up the motorway-road up to the top, we have another choice to walk up the distance. One cannot miss the long 60’ red colored snake carved along the steps. People worship Adi Seshan-the snake. The path has 11 mandapams-providing shelters to people going up the hill.

We come across Pasuvan Swami Mandapam on way to top. The people from villages offer milk, ghee or cheese to Pasuvan Swami so that their homes could become abundant with these produce.

Ardhanareeswarar Temple

One has to enter the temple from the main entrance-Rajagopuram-from the south; sanctum sanctorum faces west. In this temple Lord Shiva appears in man-woman combination in one idol; the right part of the idol is half of Parvathi Devi and the left half is Lord Shiva’s half. There is a saying that wife is the better half; True to the saying, here Lord Shiva has given his left part of body to goddess Parvathi, his wife . It means that there is no Shiva without the Sakthi; and no sakthi without Shiva. All men and women are equal. No man without woman; no woman without man. An undeniable law of nature! So the main deity is called Umai Oru Bagan, Ammaiappan, Mangaipangan and Madhorubagan.
There is a natural fountain in sanctum sanctorum.

Tichengottuvelavar

This temple is dedicated to Lord Muruga. It attracts more devotees. People name their babies after lord Murugan’s name- Sengottuvelan. A common name we can come across in and around Erode and Namakkal!

Pujas

Pujas are performed as per agamas. The midday puja-Utchi kala puja-is famous. The villagers around the town could reach the temple only during the day time with fresh flowers, milk, butter and other fruits. This happened when there was no motorway or road. Still this puja is very important in this temple.

Festivals

New Moon days and Full Moon days attract more devotees to the temple. Vaikasi is important month. Ardhanareeswarar comes down to the town down below. The town wears festive look and people throng from all over Kongu region during these days for the darshan of the Lord.However all months have festivals because of the presence of other deities like Adi Kesava Perumal, Sengottuvelan, Sakthi and Pandeeswaran. Girivalam is also becoming famous.

Legends

Once Lord Adi Kesava perumal instructed Goddess Sakthi to go on penance to attain oneness with Lord Shiva. On Kedara Gowri day the wish came true. Lord Shiva appeared as Umai Oru Bagan allowing Goddess Sakthi to be the left part of him.Another story involves Vayu and Adi Seshan. Adi seshan was In the Meru Mountain ranges. A fight started between Vayu-the lord of Air and Adi Seshan-the lord’s snake. Vayu tried to blow away the mountain. In the fierce war, Vayu successfully blew a part of

Meru

This part fell in the Kongu region with Adiseshan clinging to it hurt and bleeding. That is the reason the color of 60’ feet snake is red. The hill is also red and yellow colored.

Beliefs

There is small shrine for Pandeeswarar on the hill. People offer cradles and they believe that they can have children.On the way to temple, the sixtieth step is considered as step of Honesty and truth-that is sathiyappadi. When people had problems and litigations among them, one who was ready to tell the truth from this place was believed to be the true and honest person; his evidence played vital role in delivering justice in those days.Pasuvan Swami attracts many farmers and villagers. They offer milk, butter and curd to Lord in a deep belief that this would be returned abundantly and richly.Many people who have Nagadosham offer abishegams to Adiseshan with turmeric and kumkum. It is generally believed that they are blessed with marriage

Ardhanareeswarar Temple - Tiruchengode

Tiruchengode (also known as "Thirukodi mada chengundroor " in vedic times) has many references in puranas, like Thevaram and Silapathikaram. In Silapathikaram, Ilango adigal referred Tiruchengode as "Chengodu " and that "it has numerous holy ponds and enjoys popularity and prosperity".

This temple has been praised by the Nayanmar Thirugnanasambandhar in his devotional hyman Devaram. Great poets and saints like Arunagirinathar, Ilango adigal, Kaviraja pandithar amongst others have enlogised this holy place in their divine poems. The idols of Birungi Munivar and Arunagirinathar are found inside the temple.

This ancient hill temple according to the inscriptions on the walls must have been built about 2000 years ago. Many renovation works and additions were done by the kings and chieftains ruled over Tamilnadu in the past.

The town has a hill, which is about 650 ft. height . The hill is referred in many names like Chemmalai, Nagamalai, Nandhimalai and many more.

Lord Arthanareeswarar is giving salvation to all souls, from the hill top temple. Lord Sengottuvelavar and Lord Adhikesava Perumal in separate shrines as presiding deities.

Lord Arthanareeswarar has a unique form here, which combines half male and half female form. The lord is also known as Madhorubagan and Ammayappan. It is claimed that this rare posture of the Lord as prime deity can be found only in this temple in the whole of Asia. The hill top temple can be reached by climbing up 1206 steps, made of stone.

Tiruchengode taluk is located in Namakkal district, south of Salem district and east of Erode district.

Legends

Adi Kesava Perumal, enshrined here, instructed Gowri on the Kedara Gowri Vratam which she performed to unite with Shiva as Ardhanareeswarar. One of the 64 manifestations of Shiva - the man-woman form with Parvati constituting the left half of Shiva.

A battle of strength between Adi Seshan and Vayu, saw the former clinging tightly to Mount Meru and Vayu using his might to blow it away. The latter succeeded in blowing it away to Tiruchengode and the blood spilled by Adiseshan colored it red. Kamadhenu is said to have obtained 5 hills from Shiva, of which this was one; hence this hill with 2 stories of its origin,with rocks colored both red and yellow represents the masculine and feminine aspects of the Ardhanareeswara manifestation of Shiva.

The Temple
Ancient walls, mandapams and sculptured pillars (now in a state of disrepair) add to the awe that this temple perpetuates, on top of the hill. The motorway and the renovated Rajagopuram are of recent origin. True to the name Nagagiri, there is a 60 ft long snake carved on the hill.

Although the sanctum faces the West, entrance to it is from the South. A majestic image of Ardanareeswarar adorns the sanctum.There is a water spring at the foot of the image which is said to have been divinely manifested (Uli Padaa Uruvam). There are inscriptions here from the times of Parantaka Chola, Gangaikonda Chola, the Vijayanagar & Mysore Kings and the Nayaks.

The Tiruchengottuvelavar shrine (to Subramanyar) attracts a number of pilgrims.
Sambandar composed the Tiruneela kandapatikam here, to help rid fellow travellers of an affliction. Muthuswamy Deekshitar has sung of this shrine in Ardhanareeswaram in Kumudakriya.

Location:
Tiruchengode is located in Namakkal district (35 kms from Namakkal city-eastern side) and in the vicinity of Salem (around 40 kms-northern side) and Erode (20 kms-western side) and Karur (35 kms-southern side). 

Singarkudi / Singirikudi / Abishegapakkam Narasimhar

Singarkudi / Singirikudi / Abishegapakkam Narasimhar

SingarKudi Narasimhar

This is a Nrusimha Khsetra, situated about 3kms west of Abhishekapakkam road junction of Pondicherry--Cuddalore Road.


This holy place is at a distance of about 15 kms from POndicherry.

This temple dedicated to Sri Nrusimha belong to Chola period,identified as AYIRRUR of ALWAR of Singavezhkundram(1051 A.D.)

There were stone inscriptions in the temple which describe the donations offered by Chola Kings , Sri Krishnadevaraya etc to Sri Nrusimha.

Sri Nrusimha is giving dharsan with 16 hands( thirukkarams )in a gigantic posture.
There were Neelavathi, wife of HIranyakasibu, threeASuras, Prahladha , Sukracharya, Vasishta in the lower east of the pedastal.
Sri Devanathan , the presiding deity of THiruvaheendrapuram is giving dharsan here as Sri Nrusimha.

Sri Thirumangai Azhvar says that SRi Nrusimha is there at Thiruvaheendrapuram as Sri Devanatha.
Markandeya purana describes this holy Khsetra in Nrusimha vana purana.
There is Brindavan for 4th Peedathipathi of Sri Ahobila Mutt here

Thoroughout the cosmic world , you cannot worship such a gigantic Nrusimha except here .

This temple was constructed with reference to BHeejatshara of Sri Nrusimha Anushtup Manthra .
Vaikanasa agama koil. Ten days Brahmotsava during Sri Nrusimha Jayanthi. Uthsavar goes to Pondicherry sea-shore during Masi Makam ( Theerthavari at the ocean)

Oppiliappan Koil V.Sadagopan

This is one of the 8 temples in Tamil Nadu, where Lord Narasimha provided darshan after the killing of Hiranya. 
1) Singarakudi near Pondicherry/Cuddalore, 
2) Anthili near Thiru Kovilur, 
3) Parikkal near Kedilam, 
4) Sholingur
5) Nammakkal
6) Singaraperumal Koil near Chengalpet 
7) Sinthalavadi.
8) Poovarasan kuppam

Lord Narasimhar temple. Parikkal

The Utsavar idol of Lord Narasimha with His Consorts Sridevi and Bhoodevi. SAINT NAMMAZHWAR assumes the form of "Parankusa Nayaki" or ladylove in his Thiruvaimozhi and one of the incarnations of Lord Narayana, which appealed to him most was that of the half-lion-half-human Narasimha. In one of his poems he explains how the ladylove "dances on hearing the glory of Lord Narasimha, sings again and again about His greatness, sheds copious tears and runs around in ecstasy seeking union with Him." One may wonder how this fearful form of the Lord can be appealing to His ladylove but the numerous temples for Lord Narasimha in Tamil Nadu, especially in the northern districts of Chengalpattu, Vellore, Chidambaram and Kancheepuram, only show that He is a much worshipped deity. There are also temples where the Moolavar and Utsavar idols are those of Narasimha and one among them is Parikkal, 23 km from Villupuram. There is a rail route to Parikkal. If one travels by road on the Villupuram-Vriddachalam road, after covering a distance of 20 km, one will find a huge Anjaneya idol standing on the left side of the road facing west without a roof to protect him from rains and scorching sun, a la his counterpart in Namakkal. By travelling in the western direction a further three km one can reach Parikkal, after crossing the the Thenpennai. The Garuda Nadhi flows two km north of Parikkal. As it is situated between two rivers, it is considered as holy as Srirangam. The temple, which has no Rajagopuram, is at the centre of the village. A pilgrim can offer obeisance to Anjaneya at the entrance while the idols of Vinayaka and the Nagars are found in the main Prakaram. Afterpraying at the shrine of Garuda, he can worship the presiding deity, Lakshmi Narasimha with His Consort, seated on His left lap. Said to be a Swayambu Murthi, the idol, according to some scholars, was installed by Vyasaraja. The Anjaneya idol, found inside the sanctum sanctorum, was also installed by him and it is one of the 732 idols installed by the saint all over the south. The other, of course, is the idol in the Nallattoor Temple, near Tiruttani. The place gained the name of Parikkal as Goddess Mahalakshmi embraced Lord Narasimha to pacify Him and Her idol is found with Her right hand wrapped around the Lord. The Lord is also found with His left hand around the Goddess.

The Parikkal Narasimha Temple with Dwajasthambam and Balipeetam. According to another legend the Lord destroyed a demon known as Parakalasuran here to save His devotees and hence the place came to be known as Parikkal. The Lord here was said to have appeared before Vasantharajan, a local ruler. Unlike in most of the Narasimha temples, the Utsavar idol here is also that of Narasimha in standing posture with Sridevi and Bhoodevi on either side. There is also a small idol of Lakshminarasimha in the sanctum sanctorum besides that of Sudarsana. There is a separate shrine for the Goddess, Kanagavalli Thayar, on the right side of the temple, and Her Utsava idol is inside the main sanctum sanctorum. To the northwest is the shrine of Anjaneya, where two idols of Bhakta Anjaneya and Veera Anjaneya are worshipped. The shrine is thronged by those who are afflicted by Navagraha Dosha and they light ghee and oil lamps. They spread before the idols the nine kinds of grains (Navadanyam) and write their pleas on them seeking relief and His blessings. In the northern Prakaram there is a shrine for Lord Varadaraja of Kancheepuram. A big portrait of Lakshmi Narasimha in the main Mandapam attracts devotees. There is a well inside the temple known as "Naga Koopam" and bathing in its water cures one of many ills. Garuda and Gomukhi Theerthams are the other water sources. The holy tree is "Magizham." There is an ancient "Deepasthampam" in front of the temple, which faces east. Festivals are held almost every month with the Brahmotsavam taking place in Chithirai, when the float festival is also celebrated. The Lord visits Thenpennai and Garuda rivers for "Theerthavari" in the months of Thai, Masi and Panguni. The temple was renovated and the Samprokshanam was performed on May 30, 1994. It is under the control of the HR and CE Department. Buses from Panruti, Ulundurpet and Villupuram pass through Parikkal

This temple is referred to as the ‘Dakshina Ahobilam’

Debts and Enemies go away if one visits this temple and offers a 48 day prayer

Located about 18kms North of Panruti and 18kms East of Villupuram is the East Facing Lakshmi Narasimha temple in Poovarasan Kuppam. This is one of the four Narasimha temples around Villupuram (others being Anthili, Parikkal and Singiri – There is also the Sayana Narasimha at Thiru Vithigai).

Both Singiri Narasimha and Parikkal Narasimha which are in a straight line are facing the Poovarasan Kuppam Narasimha.

First appearance after Hiranya Samhaaram- Dakshina Ahobilam

For the first time, after the Hiranya Samharam at Ahobilam, Lord appeared here in the same form and provided darshan to the Saptha Rishis as Lakshmi Narasimha. Hence, this temple is referred to as Dakshina Ahobilam.

Thaayar’s Posture

A unique feature at this temple is the posture of Lakshmi. One eye of the Goddess is turned towards the Lord and the other eye is welcoming the devotees. Also, interestingly Lakshmi and Narasimha are seen at the same height at this temple!!!

One of Eight Narasimha Temples

This is one of the 8 temples in Tamil Nadu, where Lord Narasimha provided darshan after the killing of Hiranya. The other 7 are Singarakudi near Pondicherry/Cuddalore, Anthili near Thiru Kovilur, Parikkal near Kedilam, Sholingur, Nammakkal, Singaraperumal Koil near Chengalpet and Sinthalavadi.

3rd Century Ad Temple

There are culverts inside this temple dating back to the 3rd Century AD. Also, there are references to construction during Narasimha Pallava’s reign (7th Century AD). There are also inscriptions indicating Krishna Deva Raya’s visit to this temple (about 500 years ago).

Prarthana Sthalam-Wishes Fulfilled

All wishes of the devotees are said to be fulfilled if one visits this temple, lights a ghee lamp and recites the Mantra Raja Patha Stotram twice a day for 48 days. One should tie a 5 rupee coin to a Manjal cloth and drop it at the temple, once the 48 day period is over.

One should also prepare Panagam (prepared out of jaggery) every day for the Lord. No non Vegetarian food should be consumed during this 48 day period.

Bad Debts and enemies are said to go away and the belief is that one will live in prosperity after a visit to the three Narasimha temples seen in one line near Villupuram – Parikkal- Poovarasan Kuppam and Singiri.

Festivals

Swathi Nakshatram

It is auspicious to visit the temple every month on Swathi Nakshatram, when Sudarshana and Dhanvantri homams are performed.

Navarathri

Sri Suthra Homam is performed on all the 9 days of Navarathri Utsavam

Procession in Thai

Lord Narasimha takes a 1 km to South Pennai river for Theerthavari on the 5th day of the Tamil Calendar month of Thai

Narasimha Jayanthi Utsavam and 3rd Saturday of Puratasai are also special occasions at this temple.

Quick Facts

Moolavar : Lakshmi Narasimha East Facing Sitting Posture

Thaayar : Amritha Valli Thaayar

Temple Time : 8am-12.30pm and 4pm-8pm

Contact nos. : Parthasarathy Bhattar @ 94439 59995 or 0413 2698191

How to reach the temple:

From Villupuram

1. Take Pondy Highway, drive straight towards East from Koliyanur Cross Road, take a right at Valavanur, drive 6kms to Siruvanthadu and go further South 3kms to reach the temple- Share Auto/Auto available from Siruvanthadu

Or

2. Take a right at Koliyanur Cross Road on to the Panruti-Kumbakonam highway, cross the Villupuram-Pondy railway line and take a left at Panchamadevi to reach the temple (about 7kms from the main road)

From Panruti

Take Kumbakonam-Vikravandi highway, drive 10kms and take a left at Panchamadevi to reach the temple (about 7kms from the highway towards East)

From Madras

Take a left at Vikravandi(145kms from Madras) into the Kumbakonam Highway, go further South after the Villupuram-Pondy cross road, cross the railway line and take a left at Panchamadevi to reach the temple (about 7kms from the main road)

There are direct buses to Poovarasan Kuppam from Villupuram, but it is better to take a bus from Villupuram to Vilavanur.

Pillayarpatti Karpaka Vinayakar Temple

The 1600 year old Karpaka Vinayakar Temple in Pillayarpatti is one of the oldest and most popular Hindu shrines in south India. A rock cut cave temple featuring a massive sculpture of Vinayakar, the temple also has ancient images of other Hindu deities. The immensely powerful Karpaka Vinayakar Temple is also one of the cleanest and best managed shrines in India, drawing devotees from across south India who come to pray to Pillaiyar, the ‘remover of obstacles.’

History

The history of the Karpaka Vinayakar Temple in Pillayarpatti can be classified into three broad stages of growth stretching back to over 1600 years ago. The first period involved the creation of the innermost rock cut structures housing the primary image of Karpaka Vinayakar and also that of Tiruveesar. The distinctiveness of the image of Vinayakar at Pillayarpatti as well as the characters used in temple inscriptions helps corroborate the date of the original construction of the temple at around the 4th century AD. The pillars within the innermost shrine are also from this period.

The Pillayarpatti temple went through a second phase of growth when the Pillayarpatti Nagarathar community took over management of the shrine. Several inscriptions within the Karpaka Vinayakar Temple dating back to the period between 1091 and 1238 AD attest to this period of development which involved the building of the rajagopurams and vimanam. The third stage of growth is the more recent renovations and refurbishments of the temple complex, including enlargements of the temple tank and the two rajagopurams that provide a majestic approach to the Pillayarpatti temple.

Managed to this day by the capable hands of Karpaga Vinayagar Nagarathar Trust, the temple enjoyed the patronage of local rulers throughout its history, including that of the Pandya kingdom of Tamil Nadu. The Karpaka Vinayakar Temple is today recognized as one of the best managed Hindu temples in India, known for its cleanliness and general upkeep.

The 1600-year old Karpaka Vinayakar at Pillayarpatti

Location

The Karpaka Vinayakar Temple is located in Pillayarpatti, a quaint little town 15 km west of Karaikudi in the Sivagangai district of Tamil Nadu. The town itself draws its name from the presiding deity of the temple, Vinayakar, who is also known as Pillaiyar among the Tamil speaking people. The innermost shrines were carved out of a hill in Pillayarpatti, and the temple complex grew around these original structures. Pillayarpatti is the quintessential temple town, with the Karpaka Vinayakar Temple being the very heart of the place and bearing testimony to the vibrant temple building culture of the Tamil people through the ages.

Deities

Karpaka Vinayakar is the presiding deity of the Pillayarpatti Temple. Also known as Desi Vinayakar, the image of Lord Ganesha here is an imposing 6 foot tall bas relief carved out of an excavated cave. One of the most popular images of Lord Ganesha in south India, the majestic Karpaka Vinayakar of Pillayarpatti has two arms instead of the usual four and with his trunk curled to his right in the valampuri mode. He is seated in the ardha padmasana pose holding in his right hand a lingam. Lord Ganesha is known as ‘Karpaka Vinayakar’ here after the mythological tree named karpakam that fulfills all the wishes of devotees. It is believed that Vinayakar, whose name means ‘incomparable leader,’ will satisfy the needs and prayers of devotees, bestowing them with ample wealth and prosperity. According to local legend, Kubera himself, the Lord of Wealth, worshipped Ganesha at Pillayarpatti.

The Karpaka Vinayakar Temple at Pillayarpatti also features an image of Tiruveesar, a Shiva Lingam carved into the cave wall and dating back to the original construction of the shrine. In addition there are images of two other lingams – Marudheesar and Senchadeswarar – as well as three forms of Amman – Sivakami, Vadamalar Mangai and Sundara Nayaki.

Another prominent sculpture in the Pillayarpatti Temple is a five-headed snake wearing a lingam on its neck. The heads of the snake represent the five human senses while the lingam symbolizes God, and the sculpture is meant to illustrate the notion that in order to realize God, the influence of the senses must be controlled.

Pillayarpatti Karpaka Vinayakar Temple near Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu

Temple Complex

Since the original structures of the Karpaka Vinayakar Temple were carved into a cave formation, there is no provision for a pradakshina around the Vinayakar sannidhi, or sanctum sanctorum. The inner sanctum is well lit with oil lamps to allow proper darshan. Another distinct feature of the Pillayarpatti Temple is that the image of Karpaka Vinayakar faces north while most presiding deities in Hindu temples face east.

The Karpaka Vinayakar temple complex in Pillayarpatti also includes the Vedaagama Vidyalaya, a Hindu academy run under the auspices of the Nagarathar Trust that also manages the temple. The chanting of sacred mantras from the Vedas, Agamas, and Tevaram in the Karpaka Vinayakar Temple by students of the academy help create a divine ambience within the shrine. Also prominent within the temple complex is the large temple tank.

Festivals

The festivities of Vinayakar Chaturthi celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha are the biggest events held at the Karpaka Vinayakar Temple in Pillayarpatti. The ten day Vinayakar Chaturthi is observed in the Tamil month of Aavani (Aug-Sept) involves intricate rituals and grand processions of the primary deities of the temple. Vinayakar is taken in procession around the town of Pillayarpatti seated on a different vahanam on each day of the Vinayakar Chaturthi, with the ninth day of the festival marked by a magnificent chariot procession. The elaborate festivities bring much splendor and gaiety to the town, attracting hundreds of thousands of faithful devotees from across Tamil Nadu.

Another ten day festival, this one honoring Kongu Nachiyamman, a village deity whose processional image is also housed at the Karpaka Vinayakar Temple, is held in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May-June). The Margazhi Tiruvathirai festival in honor of Lord Nataraja and Sivakami is held in the month of Margazhi (Dec-Jan). Furthermore, every twelve years, the Karpaka Vinayakar Temple in Pillayarpatti celebrates the mahakumbabishekam, or consecration, ceremony on a grand scale, with the most recent one having been held in 2004.

Poojas

Poojas are performed on a regular basis throughout the day, accompanied by Vedic, Thevaram and Tiruvachakam hymns. Garlands made of a type of grass called arugampul that is considered auspicious for Lord Ganesha are usually offered. Devotees pray for blessings at the Karpaka Vinayakar Temple when undertaking new endeavors as Lord Ganesha is regarded as the ‘remover of obstacles.’ Hundreds of thousands of devotees visit Pillayarpatti annually for a darshan of Karpaka Vinayakar.

Uchi Pillaiyar Temple, Trichy

Uchi Pillaiyar Temple is located on the peak of the Rock Fort hill. The shrine is at a height of 273 ft and you have to climb over 400 steps to reach the pinnacle. One has to cross Sri Thayumanavar temple, which is located half way to the peak. Though the climb is a bit difficult, the soothing cool breeze gears up our energy to climb without much strain. A panoramic view of the entire Thiruchi and Srirangam Temple from the Uchi Vinayakar temple is just amazing.

Entrance Of Rock Fort Temple, Tiruchirappalli

The Rock Fort temple complex in Tiruchirappalli is a collection of three temples – the Manikka Vinayaka temple at the foot of the hill, the Uchhi Pillayar Koyil at the top of the hill and the Taayumaanava Koyil (Shivastalam) on the hill. This Shivastalam is a rock cut temple on a hill in the most prominent landmark in Tiruchirappalli (Trichy); reached by a flight of steps on the way to the famous Ucchi Pillaya temple.

How The Name Thiruchirapalli Came

Tiruchirappalli, was earlier known as Thirisirapuram, as a Rakshasa called Thirisiran worshipped Lord Shiva here. There are also stories that since there are three peaks on Rock Fort, occupied by three Gods Shiva, Parvathi & Vinayakar (Uchi Pillaiyar), the place was called Thiri-sikarapuram and later called Tirisirapuram.

This place was also known as Sirappalli, Rishabachalam & Dhakshina Kailasam during ancient days.As per the mythology, once there was a great tuffle between Aadhiseshan and the wind God Vaayu, on who is more powerful. Aadhiseshan encircled the Maha Meru hill (Himalaya) and challenged Vaayu whether he can take Himalayas off his clutches. Vaayu tried much and accepted his defeat.

Outer View Rock Fort Ganesh Temple

It is said that during the fight, 3 pieces of the mountain broke and flew off to different places. Out of the 3 peices which flew off, one is this Rock fort at Trichy. The other two are at Triconamalee (Ceylon) and Sri Kalahasthi (AP).

History

Vibhishana, was the younger brother of the Asura King Ravana who ruled Lanka.Lord Rama rescues his wife Sita, who was kidnapped and held by Ravana, with the help of Sugriva and Hanuman defeated him. In this war, the moral and truth-abiding brother of Ravana, Vibishana aids Rama in his battle against his brother. Ultimately Rama wins the war and as a token of love, He gifts Vibishana an Idol of Lord Ranganatha, a form of Vishnu.

Vibhishana, though he supported Rama, was basically an Asura, hence the Devas wanted to stop this idea of an Asura taking Lord’s supreme form to his Kingdom. They request the help of the God of Happiness, Lord Vinayaka and the Lord accepts the plan. Vibhishana, while on his back to his Kingdom, goes through Trichi, and wanted to take his bath in the river Kaveri and do his daily rituals. However, he is perplexed as the idol once kept in land, can never be removed and has to be in that place forever.

Rock Fort Temple And Tank- Tiruchirappalli

While passing by the city of Thiruchi, Vibhishana was extremely fascinated by the beauty of the flow of river Cauvery. He felt that it was the right place for him to have his bath and some rest before proceeding to Lanka. He looked around for some help to keep the Ranga Vimana till he finishes his bath. There was a small boy playing around in the banks of Cauvery. Vibhishana handed over the Ranga Vimana to him and told him strictly not to place it on the ground till he comes back. The boy agreed and told him that he will call Vibhishana thrice and if he doesn’t come back, he will keep it and go away.

Vibhishana went into the waters and was enjoying the bath in the river. This boy called him thrice and Vibhishana did not respond as he was in waters. The boy kept the idol on the ground and it started growing big enormously.

Vibhishana came back hurrily. Seeing the Vimana on the ground, he tried to lift it. His attempts failed. He got furious with the boy and went chasing him. The boy ran upto the hill top and sat on the peak as he can’t run further. Vibhishana knocked the boy on his head with anger. The boy revealed himself as Lord Vinayaka to Vibhishana. Vibhishana prayed the lord and went back to Lanka leaving behind the Ranga on the banks of Cauvery.

It was Vinayaka’s trick to retain Lord Ranga in Trichy, which is today’s Srirangam Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple.

And the Lord Vinayaka who played tricks with Vibhishana, is worshipped as Uchi Pillaiyar at the hill top. Even today one can see a wound on his head caused by the knock of Vibhishana.

Festivals

View Of RockFort Temple

Six worship services are offered each day here. This well endowed temple celebrates the annual Brahmotsavam in Chithirai. Aadi Pooram and the float festival in Panguni are also of significance here.

Rock Fort Temple Timings: 6.00am to 8.00pm.

How to Get There

Air : Trichy has an airport, 7-km away from the city and is connected by regular flights with Chennai, Madurai, and Bangalore.

Rail : Trichy is an important junction on the Southern Railway. It connects Chennai, Thanjavur, Madurai, Tuticorin, Tirupati and Rameswaram on the metre gauge, and Bangalore, Coimbatore, Cochin and Mangalore on the broad gauge.

Road : Trichy is connected by road to Chennai (320-km), Madurai (124-km) and to all major towns in South India by regular bus services.

Kanyakumari Temple

¤ The Temple of Virgin Goddess

Kanyakumari is the southernmost tip of India and the merging point of three seas; the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal. It is named after the virgin Goddess Kanyakumari whose temple is situated here on its shore.

This temple is devoted to a manifestation of Parvati, the virgin goddess who performed penance to acquire Lord Shiva's hand in marriage. The temple is a major tourist attraction with neighboring ghat, beautifully placed overlooking the shore. It is an eminent belief that the diamond nose-ring of the deity is so shiny that it is visible even from the sea.

There are two rocks emerging out of the ocean, located southeast of the Kumari Amman temple. One among these is Sri Padaparai, where the footprints of the virgin goddess are believed to be imprinted on this rock. It is said that Swami Vivekananda sat in deep meditation here and therefore the Vivekananda Rock Memorial was built in 1970. Along with this there also a dhyana mandapam, which provides a tranquil atmosphere to meditate.


¤ Legend Related To The Temple

Legends say that the wedding of Kanya Devi, an avatar of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva was to be held here. But he did not arrived at the auspicious time and the wedding never took place. The food that was to be cooked was left uncooked. Here the stones resemble rice and cereals which can also be bought. According to the people residing here these stones are the leftovers of the legendary marriage that could not be solemnized. As for the princess Kanya Devi, she became a virgin goddess, blessing everyone who visits this temple.


¤ The Features of The Temple

The temple is entered mainly through the northern gate, inspite of the fact that the deity is facing east. The eastern entrance remains closed except for special occasions when the deity is taken out for ceremonial bath.

There are all together three corridors that skirt the sanctum. The outer corridor is deprived of special shrines, but after a walk round it the devotees cross the 'Navarathiri mandapam'. A pathway leads to the second corridor surrounding the shrine. There stands the flag mast or 'Kodisthambam'. The Goddess can be clearly viewed from here. Moving further you will reach the front of the sanctum.

The Idol of the Goddess stands with rosary in one hand as if in prayer. It is said to be installed by Parasurama and is made of blue stone. In the inner corridor, the shrines of Vinayagar and Thiagasundary are present, which is visited by devotees after worshiping the Goddess.

Location:	Kanyakumari
Chief Deity:	Kanya Kumari/Devi
Best Time:	Throughout the Year
Opening Times:	The Kanyakumari temple remains open for public from 4.30 AM to 11.45 AM and 5.30 PM to 8.45 PM

Kanyakumari forms the southern most end of mainland India. It is also the place where the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean merge. Kanyakumari has been a great center for culture, civilization and pilgrimage for years. Kanyakumari is named after the virgin goddess Kanyakumari whose temple is situated here.

Legends have it that Kanya Devi, an incarnation (avatar) of Goddess Parvati, was to wed Lord Shiva but he did not turn up for the wedding and the marriage never took place. According to legends, the rice and cereals meant for the marriage remained uncooked. Even today, stones that look exactly like rice and cereals are available in the market. It is a common belief that these stones are the leftovers of the legendary marriage, which could not be solemnized. As the marriage could not take place, Kanya Devi became a virgin goddess

The Kanyakumari temple is dedicated to Kanya Devi. The main entrance to the Kanyakumari temple is through the northern gate. Though the deity in the temple is seated facing east, the eastern gate is kept closed except for some special occasions. There are three corridors that surround the sanctum. After a walk around the outer corridor, the devotees cross the 'Navarathiri mandapam' and head to the second corridor, which encircles the shrine. From here you can get a clear view of the Goddess. The main festivals at the Kanyakumari temple are held in the month of Vaikasi (May/June) and the Navarathri (September/October). Male worshippers are required to remove their shirts before entering the temple.

How to Reach the Kanyakumari Temple

Air
The nearest airport is at Thiruvananthapuram (80-km), well connected with national and International flights. Taxis and buses are available for Kanyakumari.

Rail
Kanyakumari is well connected by train services with all the places in India. Express trains connect kanyakumari with northern cities like Jammu and Delhi and other cities of India.

Road
Kanyakumari is connected by regular bus services with Chennai, Pondicherry, Trichy, Bangalore, Madurai, Nagercoil, Mandapam (Rameshwaram) etc. Local bus services, tourist taxis and auto rickshaws are available.

Parthasarathy Temple

To add some variety to your temple journey visit the Parthasarathy temple in Chennai. Though the common features of ancient temples are very much prevalent in this ancestral temple but it has some striking features, which makes the temple outstanding among others.

Journey to the Parthasarathy temple in Madras is very easy as it is situated in the heart of the Chennai city. Madras is the earlier name of the present Chennai city. Parthasarathy temple is in the Peter's Road, which is at Triplicane. You can visit this temple either by bus or auto rickshaw or by hired luxurious cabs. If you are going by auto rickshaw be careful about the fares. The standard charge for the auto rickshaws Rs. 8 for every kilometer you travel. Even if it is metered it is better to negotiate the fare first. The same concept applies for the luxurious cabs.

The Parthasarathy temple in Chennai has its origin back in 8th century. It was generally built by the Pallavas and later reformed by the Vijayanagar Kings during 11th century. The literal meaning of 'Parthasarathy' is the charioteer. According to the great Indian epic 'Mahabharata' 'Partha' meant Arjuna while sarathy is meant as charioteer. In the epic it is said during the great battle of Mahabharata Lord Krishna was the charioteer of Arjuna. In the epic Arjuna or partha was a brave warrior and Lord Krishna was a good friend, philosopher and guide to the Partha or Arjuna.

Though the Parthasarathy temple is devoted to the various incarnations of Lord Vishnu the main deity is 'Lord Krishna' one of the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Also the other exquisite feature of this Parthasarathy temple is the colored gopuram. 'Gopuram' is said to the pyramidical shaped temple top which is a stereotyped feature of the South Indian temples.

 

 

Presiding Deity  :    Perumal Rangamannar
Mother  :    Sri Andal, Kothai Nachiar
Reputation :     Divyadesam
Vimanam :     tower Samsana
Speciality :     The tower
Holy spring :     Thirumukkulam
Place :     Srivilliputhur
Scriptural name :     Villiputhur
District  :    Virudhunagar

Prayer:

Child, marriage, education, wisdom, business development, good yielding in farming family welfare are the boons devotees seek from the Lord here.

Prayer commitments:

Offering butter to the Lord, clothes, small lamps, Tulsi, flowers are offered to Lord. Nivedhanas offered to Lord is distributed among the visitors. Feeding is also undertaken.

Other holy springs in the temple are nine in total including Thirumukkulam, Kannadi theertham.

Speciality:

Vadabadrasayee Rangamannar. He is in a lying pose in the main shrine under Vimalakruthi Vimanam Vadavriksha accompanied by Sridevi Bhudevi massaging his lotus feet. Beautiful paintings on the wall on the three sides are Garuda, Senaimudaliar, Surya, Thumburu Narada, Brahmma on the naval chord of the Lord, Sanaka Rishi, Gandharvas, Moon, Madhukaidabas, Rishi Bruhu, Markandeya, Sword, club, Conch and the Wheel are beautifully sculpted on the three sides of the shrine of Vadabadrasayee. There is also an entrance facility in the Vimana to come around through which the devotee can have the dharshan of the head and feet of the Lord. This entrance would be opened a day before the Margazhi (December-January) festival.

C a r:

The car of the temple is built with high technical and artistic skill. Beautiful carvings adore the car in all sides. From the inscription of the date of making the Car as Shalivahana Sahabdam, Kollam 1025, Soumya Year, Avani month 13th day, one can imagine the antiquity of this car.

Reputation:

Andal, Rangamannar, Garuda appear together in the temple.

The tower of this temple is the symbol of the Government of Tamilnadu.

The Garland of Mother Andal is sent each year to Tirupathy the day before the commencement of Brahmmotsavam in the hills. Similarly for the Andal wedding festival, garland is coming from Tirupathi.

Also Kallazhagar, in the Chithirai festival in Madurai wears the Garland used by Andal. This Vaishnava temple one of the 108 Divya Desas built by Pandya and Chola kings in the year 1536. Srivilliputhur is the birth place of Nammalvar. Also Andal incarnated here. This is the temple that conferred the honour Soodikodutha Sudarkodi to Mother Andal.. Chakarathalwar idol is made of five metals called Panchaloka.

General Information:

Srivilliputhur is 50 Km from Virudhunagar, 8 from Sattur, 32 from Aruppukottai, 82 from Tirunelveli, 90 from Madurai. There are lodges in the place the charges ranging from Rs. 100 to Rs. 300.

Sufficient bus facilities are available from Madurai, Tirunelveli and Virudunagar to Srivillipthur. Railway station is Srivilliputhur and the airport nearby is Madurai. The temple administration can be contacted on telephone 04563 – 260254.

Festivals:

10 day Adipooram festival (July-August), Peria Perumal 10 day festival in Purattasi (September-October), Kayana (Wedding) festival 10 days in Panguni (March-April) are the important festivals in the temple. Special pujas are performed on Deepavali, Pongal, New years of both Tamil and English first days,

History:

Sri Andal had the habit of wearing the garlands prepared for Rangamannar and look at the mirror to ascertain herself whether she would be a good match to Lord Rangamannar. Her father Perialwar without knowing this, used to take the garland for the Lord each day. A hair was found one day. Perialwar was upset and begged the pardon of the Lord but the Lord told him that he was very fond of that Garland and asked to bring the garland the same way each day. Andal also was not willing to marry a human and was waiting for the Lord to have her hand in wedlock. The lord directed Perialwar to bring Andal in a Palanquin to Srirangam where he would marry her. Andal reached Srirangam and mingled with the Lord. The Lord gave darshan to Perialwar along with Andal. Srivilliputhur is one of the celebrated Divyadesas for the Vaishnava devotees.