Thiru Nandipura Vinnagaram Temple or Nathan Kovil is devoted to the Hindu god Vishnu and is located in Nathan Kovil, a village on the outskirts of Kumbakonam in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The temple, built in the Dravidian style, is mentioned in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham, an early mediaeval Tamil canon of the Alvar saints from the 6th to the 9th centuries CE.

It is one of the 108 Divya Desams devoted to Vishnu, known as Jagannathan, and his spouse Lakshmi, known as Shenbagavalli. Nandi, Shiva’s sacred bull, is said to have had his curses lifted by worshipping Vishnu here, hence the name Nandipuram. All of the temple’s shrines and bodies of water are named after Nandi.

Story/Legend of the Thiru Nandipura Vinnagaram Temple

According to Hindu folklore, Nandi, Shiva’s sacred bull, did not respect the dvarapalakas, Vishnu’s gatekeepers. They cursed Nandi and cursed his body with terrible heat. Nandi told Lord Shiva, who directed him to perform penance at Shenbakaranyam (also known as Nadhivanam), a forest near modern-day Kumbakonam. It is the location where Lakshmi, Vishnu’s consort, was performing penance in order to enter Vishnu’s chest. Vishnu was moved by Nandi’s penance and had his curse lifted.

According to another version, Lakshmi performed penance here in order to gain space in Vishnu’s chest. Vishnu was impressed by her devotion and took Lakshmi into his arms. The narrative is indicated by the picture of Lakshmi in the shape of Shenbagavalli facing west. During the Tamil month of Aipasi, devotees worship Shenbagavalli of the temple, believing that their wishes will be granted. This temple is considered one of the 108 Divya Desams.

What is Divya Desams– A Divya Desam or Vaishnava Divya Desam is one of the 108 Vishnu and Lakshmi temples recorded by the Alvars, the poet-saints of the Sri Vaishnava faith. 105 of the 108 temples are in India, one is in Nepal, and the final two are thought to be in space, in Tirupparkatal and Vaikuntham. They are distributed over the Indian states of Tamil Nadu (84), Kerala (11), Andhra Pradesh (2), Gujarat (1), Uttar Pradesh (4), and Uttarakhand (3). Muktinath, Saligramam is Nepal’s sole Divya Desam. The 12 Alvars respect the Divya Desams in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, a collection of 4,000 Tamil hymns.

History of Thiru Nandipura Vinnagaram Temple

Nathan Kovil was a historical site that was formerly the capital of the powerful Chola empire. Not only the Cholas but also the Vijayanagar and Nayak kings, have made great contributions to the temple.

The temple is thought to have been built in the 9th century AD by the Chola dynasty, one of South India’s most powerful kingdoms. During the rule of the Nayak dynasty in the 16th century, the temple was later repaired and extended.

The architecture of Thiru Nandipura Vinnagaram Temple

The rajagopuram is a three-tiered gateway structure of the temple. Since Nandi was rid of his curse here, the temple tank is called Nandi Theertham, the vimana is called Nandi Vimanam, the location is called Nandipuram, and the other water body is called Nandi Pushkarani. The main sanctum houses the presiding god, Srinivasa Perumal, the festival deity, Jagannatha, and representations of Bhoodevi and Sridevi on either side of Srinivasa.

The main shrine contains an image of Nandi, which is usually found in Shiva temples. Shenbagavalli Thayar has a separate shrine. The rectangular walls that surround the temple enclose all of the shrines as well as some of the temple’s seven water bodies. The location was previously the capital of Cholas who made charitable offerings to the temple. Vijayaranga Chokkappa Nayak donated to the temple during the Thanjavur Nayaks’ reign. The Vanamamalai Mutt looks for and administers the temple.

Facts about Thiru Nandipura Vinnagaram Temple

• Thiru Nandipura Vinnagaram Temple is located in Keezha, Pazhayarai area, commonly known as the old capital of Chola, and is around 9 km from Kumbakonam.
• The temple is revered in Nalayira Divya Prabandham, the 7th–9th century Vaishnava canon, by Thirumangai Alvar in eleven hymns.
•  The temple is classified as a Divya Desam, one of the 108 Vishnu temples that are mentioned in the book.
• As everyone knows, Nandi (ox) is Lord Shiva’s Vaghanam (carrier). He is a shining example of true love and dedication to God. He has demonstrated that neither attractive looks nor a pleasant voice are required to reach God. Only pure and straightforward devotion can bring God close to you.
• He was the one who explained Lord Shiva’s magnificence to Lord Vishnu. This Nandi formerly practised Tapas (penance) in order to obtain Lord Vishnu’s grace, and the location is known as “Nandipura Vinnagaram” as a result.
• Nandhan means “Teacher” or “Guide”. As Lord Narayana guides at this place, he is called as “Nadhanadha”.
• The temple is frequented by people seeking timely weddings, reunions of married couples, and children, court verdicts and cures for neural issues.
• The temple is also called Sundara Chola Vinnagaram on account of the contributions made by the Chola king Sundara Chola (957–970 CE).
• As this place is like the Puri Jagannath temple of North Inda, it is called as Dakshina Jaganatham ((i.e.) south Jaganatham).
• Vishnu is the greatest God of protection, and it is thought that he will always come to his devotees’ aid in times of need.
• In this temple, people pray to the Lord and Goddess for successful marriages, the reunion of estranged couples, progeny blessing, the resolution of litigations in their favour, and the curing of neurological diseases.

Famous Festivals In Thiru Nandipura Vinnagaram Temple

• Brahmmotsavam is the major festival celebrated in the temple.
• Diwali – Diwali is one of the most admired and auspicious festivals in the town.
• Chitra Poornima is also a significant occasion for celebration in the temple.
• Vaikuntha Ekadashi – Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrated during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January) is the major festival celebrated in the temple.
• Akshaya Tritiya is another major festival celebrated in the temple when the festival deity is taken in procession in a Garuda mount around the temple.

How To reach Thiru Nandipura Vinnagaram Temple

Nathan Kovil or Thiru Nandipura Vinnagaram Temple is devoted to the Hindu god Vishnu and is located in Nathan Kovil, a village on the outskirts of Kumbakonam in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

By Air: Trichy International Airport is about 90 kilometres away, from where one can take road transport to reach the temple.

By Railway: Kumbakonam town is well connected by numerous trains. The railway station is just 7 kilometres from the temple.

By Roadways: Devotees can take buses, private taxis, and autos to go to the temple from places like Kumbakonam.

Also Read – Kolavalvil Ramar Temple

The Saranathan Temple is devoted to the Hindu god Vishnu and is located on the outskirts of Kumbakonam in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Saranathan Temple is mentioned in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham, an early mediaeval Tamil canon of Alvar saints from the sixth to ninth centuries CE. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams devoted to Vishnu as Saranathan and his consort Lakshmi as Saranayaki. Saranathan is said to have arrived for Kaveri, the river goddess, who underwent penance here.

The Saranathan Temple is thought to be of substantial antiquity, with donations by Mediaeval Cholas, the Vijayanagara Empire, and Madurai Nayaks at various eras. The temple is surrounded by a granite wall, which encloses all of its shrines as well as three of the four bodies of water. The temple’s gateway tower, the rajagopuram, has five levels and rises to a height of 120 feet (37 metres). \

The Saranathan Temple is one of a kind since the presiding deity, Vishnu, has five consorts. It also features a shrine dedicated to the river Kaveri, which is unique among Vishnu temples. Saranathan is said to have appeared to the Hindu god Indra, the goddess Kaveri, and the scholar Markandeya.

Story/Legend of the Saranathan Temple

According to Hindu mythology, when the time came to destroy the earth and end the yuga, the creator deity, Brahma, was concerned. He begged Vishnu to show him how to safeguard the tools of Srishti (creation) and all the Vedas (scriptures). Vishnu told him to put them in a big mud pot.

Brahma finally built a container out of the sand gathered from Thirucherai and saved all Vedas and all necessary aids for creation after attempting mud from all areas. This area is known as “Sara Shetram” because of its position as a saviour for all living things following the Mahapralaya (dissolution).

All the rivers came before Brahma to see who was the most superior among them. He claimed that during the Vamana avatar, Vishnu took on the form of a dwarf and thereafter became Trivikrama to King Mahabali. He planted his third foot on the demon king and purified the Ganga (Ganges) river by stepping into it. According to the story, Brahma said that Ganga was the holiest of all rivers. The goddess Kaveri desired equal status with Ganga and underwent terrible penance.

Vishnu appeared in the guise of a child in front of her to test her devotion. Kaveri handled the child with care and motherly devotion despite his anonymity. Vishnu was happy with her dedication and revealed all ten of his forms to her before inviting her to Sara Kshetram and taking a holy plunge in the Sara Pushkarani. He also promised her the blessing that she would be deemed higher to Ganga during the Tula month (October – November).  This temple is considered one of the 108 Divya Desams.

What is Divya Desams– A Divya Desam or Vaishnava Divya Desam is one of the 108 Vishnu and Lakshmi temples recorded by the Alvars, the poet-saints of the Sri Vaishnava faith. 105 of the 108 temples are in India, one is in Nepal, and the final two are thought to be in space, in Tirupparkatal and Vaikuntham. They are distributed over the Indian states of Tamil Nadu (84), Kerala (11), Andhra Pradesh (2), Gujarat (1), Uttar Pradesh (4), and Uttarakhand (3). Muktinath, Saligramam is Nepal’s sole Divya Desam. The 12 Alvars respect the Divya Desams in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, a collection of 4,000 Tamil hymns.

History of Saranathan Temple

The temple contains two inscriptions from the periods of Chola Parakesari Varman (906-946 AD) and Babasaheb of Madavipallam (1728-38) that indicate significant grants to the temple. The temple is thought to be of substantial antiquity, with donations by Mediaeval Cholas, the Vijayanagara Empire, and Madurai Nayaks at various eras.

The crowns of certain Chola period artworks demonstrate the influence of Buddhist tradition in the region. The metal depiction of Sita is thought to be a typical example of Chola Art from the ninth to the tenth century.

After the fall of the Vijayanagar empire in Tanjore, Tanjore’s ruler, Alagiya Manavala Naicker, wanted to build a shrine for Rajagopala Swamy in Mannarkudi. He assigned this task to his minister, Narasa Boopalan. He was to collect Blackstones from every feasible source. This minister was a big fan of Thirucherai’s Saranatha Perumal and wanted to build a temple for him as well. As a result, he directed his troops to unload one stone from each cart that passed through Thirucherai.

A king’s spy discovered this and notified the monarch. The enraged king arrived for an inspection. But before that, Narasa Boopalan built this temple overnight and created a shrine for Rajagopal Swamy to appease the monarch. His strategy worked, and he was protected from the king’s wrath; the king then ordered that the temple be finished using his money.

The architecture of Saranathan Temple

The Saranathan Temple measures 380 feet (120 metres) long and 380 feet (120 metres) wide. The temple has a temple tank in front of it that is the same size as the temple. The five-tiered gopuram (temple tower) stands 120 feet (37 metres) high and pierces the huge compound wall that surrounds the temple.

A second three-story gopuram is positioned in the first precinct, encircling the sanctum. Samantha, the presiding god, is 12 feet (3.7 metres) tall in standing stance. The sanctum houses stone images of Kaveri and the sage Markandeya. Bhudevi, Sridevi, and Niladevi accompany the festival goddess. The sanctum also has a miniature idol of Santhanakrishna and Selvar.

Next to the sanctum lies the shrine of Saranatha’s consort Saranayaki Thayar. Both the main idol and the festival image in the Thayar are shown in a seated position. In the second precinct, there is a Kalayana hall with a Rajagoplaswamy temple. Rukmini and Satyabhama’s images are also housed at the same temple. Thiruvenkatamudayam’s shrine is located in front of the shrine.

In the Saranathan Temple, there are shrines dedicated to Rama, Narashima, Kaliyamardhana, Bala Saranatha, Senai Mudaliar, Ramanuja, Pillai Lokacharya, the Alvars, and Manavala Mamunigal. The Mudikondan River flows to the west of the temple, and the Kudamurutti River flows to the south.

From the west end of the temple tank, there is a shrine to Hanuman, and from the north-eastern side, there is a shrine to Vinayaka. The goddess Kaveri is depicted in a maternal pose, holding an infant on her lap. The temple is one of the few places where this deity has its shrine.

Facts about Saranathan Temple

• Sri Saranatha Perumal Temple is a Hindu temple located in the village of Tirucherai near Kudavasal, Tiruvarur district.
• The presiding deity is Vishnu, who is referred to as “Saranathan” in Tamil.
• The Saranathan Temple is revered in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham, the 7th–9th century Sri Vaishnava canon, by Thirumangai Alvar in eleven hymns.
• The Saranathan Temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams where Lord Vishnu is seen with five Goddesses: Sridevi, Boomidevi, Neela devi, Mahalakshmi, and Sara Naayagi, and where he bestows his loving blessings.
• The length of the Sri Saranatha Perumal Temple, Tamil Nadu is 380 feet and the width is 234 feet.
• There are shrines for Sage Agasthya, Lord Brahmma and Mother Cauvery on the western bank of Sara Pushkarini opposite the temple.
• This is one of the sacred sites where the river Goddess Cauvery is honoured. Cauvery is reported to have undertaken rigorous penance, and the Lord is said to have appeared before her in respect to her wishes.
• In this shrine, this Perumal is also supposed to have blessed Sage Markandeya and Lord Indra. Devotees from all across the state and country flock to this temple in big numbers.
• The Saranathan Temple Brahmotsavam is observed during the Tamil month of Thai (January-February) when the chariot festival is also celebrated as part of it.

Famous Festivals In Saranathan Temple

• Brahmmotsavam is the major festival celebrated in the temple.
• The chariot festival is the most prominent festival of the temple, celebrated during the Tamil month of Chittirai.
• Diwali – Diwali is one of the most admired and auspicious festivals in the town.
• Chitra Poornima is also a significant occasion for celebration in the temple.
• Vaikuntha Ekadashi – Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrated during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January) is the major festival celebrated in the temple.

How to Reach Saranathan Temple

The Saranathan Temple  Is located in Thirucherai, a village on the outskirts of Kumbakonam in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu, and is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu.

By Air: Trichy International Airport is about 90 kilometres away, from where one can take road transport to reach the temple.

By Railway: Kumbakonam town is well connected by numerous trains. The railway station is just 7 kilometres from the temple.

By Roadways: Buses, private taxis, and autos provide good road connectivity to the temple from Kumbakonam and other places.

Also Read – Thiru Nandipura Vinnagaram Temple or Nathan Kovil

Thirunarayur Nambi Temple also known as Nachiyar Kovil is a well-known Perumal temple in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India. Lord Vishnu, as Narayur Nambi or Srinivasa Perumal, and his spouse Lakshmi, as Vanchulavalli Thaayaar or Neela Devi Nachiyar, are the presiding deities here. The main temple contains both deities. This temple was built in the Dravidian architectural style.

The sanctum also holds images of Brahma, Sankarshana, Pradyumna, Aniruddha, and a group of gods shown as guests at the wedding. The shrine houses the festive idols of Srinivasa, Sridevi, Vanjulavalli, and Bhudevi. All of the temple’s shrines are surrounded by a stone wall. The Thirunarayur Nambi Temple also has a five-tiered rajagopuram.

Story/Legend of the Thirunarayur Nambi Temple

According to Hindu folklore, the sage Medhavi was performing penance at this location. He discovered an image of Chakratalvar intertwined with Yoga Narasimha while bathing in the river. A divine voice instructed him to place and worship the image in his hermitage. The goddess Niladevi, an aspect of Lakshmi and a spouse of Vishnu, chose to grow in the hermitage and appeared to the sage in the guise of a tiny girl, pleading with him to look after her. Vishnu rode Garuda, the demigod-eagle, in search of Niladevi (Vanjulavalli). Garuda discovered Niladevi’s presence in the hermitage.

Vishnu appeared to Medhavi, pleased with the latter’s devotion, and requested that his daughter marry him. The sage joyously wedded Vanjulavalli to Vishnu and asked him to live in his home, which Vishnu agreed to. Another local legend says that when King Kochengat Cholan was vanquished, he was advised to seek the blessings of Vishnu, which he did. This temple is considered one of the 108 Divya Desams.

What is Divya Desams– A Divya Desam or Vaishnava Divya Desam is one of the 108 Vishnu and Lakshmi temples recorded by the Alvars, the poet-saints of the Sri Vaishnava faith. 105 of the 108 temples are in India, one is in Nepal, and the final two are thought to be in space, in Tirupparkatal and Vaikuntham. They are distributed over the Indian states of Tamil Nadu (84), Kerala (11), Andhra Pradesh (2), Gujarat (1), Uttar Pradesh (4), and Uttarakhand (3). Muktinath, Saligramam is Nepal’s sole Divya Desam. The 12 Alvars respect the Divya Desams in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, a collection of 4,000 Tamil hymns.

History of Thirunarayur Nambi Temple

The Thirunarayur Nambi Temple, built in the Dravidian style, is mentioned in the Divya Prabandham, an early mediaeval Tamil canon of Alvar saints from the 6th to 9th centuries CE. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams devoted to Vishnu, known as Srinivasa Perumal, and his spouse Lakshmi, known as Nachiyar. The temple is where the god Vishnu is said to have given Thirumangai Alvar Pancha Samskara (religious initiation). Tenkalai worship is practised in the temple.

The Thirunarayur Nambi Temple is thought to have been built in the late third century CE by Kochengat Cholan, with additional contributions from Mediaeval Cholas and Vijayanagara kings. The temple is surrounded by a granite wall that encloses all of its shrines, and it boasts a five-tiered rajagopuram, the temple’s entryway tower. The Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu maintains and administers the temple.

The architecture of Thirunarayur Nambi Temple

King Kochengat Cholan is thought to have erected the temple. He is said to have erected 70 temples dedicated to Shiva, with Thirunaraiyur being the only Vishnu temple he built. On the eastern side of the temple, a 5-tiered rajagopuram rises to a height of 75 feet (23 metres). The entrance through the eastern gateway leads to Neenila Mutram, a hall of 16 pillars. Dvajasthamba (the flag pole) and Balipeeda (the place of sacrifice) occupy the centre of the hall, one behind the other.

A modest temple to Garuda is located on the front section of the flag pole. The flag pole, sacrificial site, and Garuda’s shrine are all located axially from the entry to the main sanctum. Thirumangai Alvar’s shrine is located on the northern side. The Goratha Mandapam, the temple’s centre hall, houses Ramanuja, Koorathalvar, and the idols of eleven Alvars, with the exception of Andal.

The garden on the temple’s southern side has the Magila tree, also known as the Sthala Vriksha (temple tree). Next to it is the Vasantha Mandapa, or spring hall, which hosts the Vasanthothsavam, or spring festival, during the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May-June). During the Tamil month of Aavani (September-October), the temple also features a 100-pillared hall where the wedding festival is celebrated.

There is a shrine in the north with images of Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita, and another in the south with an image of Hanuman. Sage Medhavi is said to have installed and worshipped a shrine for Chakrathazhwar and Yoga Narasimha. The first precinct contains temples for Manavala Mamunigal and Vedanta Desika, as well as idols of the 108 Divya Desams’ utsava deities (festive images).

The raised construction of the temple is reached via a flight of 21 steps. The temple’s presiding deities are Vishnu as Narayur Nambi and his consort Niladevi as Vanchulavalli Thaayaar (also known as Neela Devi Nachiyar), both of whom are placed in the main sanctum. Unlike other Vishnu temples where Vishnu is emphasised, Nachiyar (Thayar) is prominent in this temple.

The sanctum also holds images of Brahma, Pradyumna, Aniruddha, Sankarshana, and Purushothaman (Vishnu), as well as a group of gods represented at the wedding. The shrine houses the festive idols of Srinivasa (Vishnu), Sridevi (Lakshmi), Vanjulavalli (Niladevi), and Bhudevi.

Facts about Thirunarayur Nambi Temple

• Nachiyar Kovil or Thirunarayur Nambi Temple is a historic temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Thirunaraiyur village of Kumbakonam, 9 kilometres from Kumbakonam Railway Station.
• Kochengat Cholan is thought to have erected the temple. He is said to have erected 70 Shiva temples and one Vishnu temple at Thirunaraiyur. Mediaeval Cholas and Vijayanagar monarchs added later contributions to the shrine.
• It is one of the 108 Vishnu-dedicated Divyadesam. The temple is where the Lord Vishnu is said to have given Thirumangai Azhwar Pancha Samskara (religious initiation).
• The temple was constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture. The temple has a 5-tiered rajagopuram on the eastern side, rising up to a height of 75 feet.
• According to the legend, sage Medhavi wanted Goddess to be born as his daughter and undertook penance on the banks of the Manimuthar River.
• The Presiding deity of this temple is Lord Vishnu known as Naraiyur Nambi and Goddess Lakshmi as Nachiyar Thayar (Vanjulavalli Thayar).
• The temple’s most conspicuous feature is Kal Garuda. According to local mythology, the sculptor who created the Garuda idol became angry since the bird flew away every time a fresh image was constructed.
• According to another legend, Garuda was the one to trace Lakshmi to this place and led Vishnu here. As a mark of gratitude, Lord Vishnu blessed Garudan to receive equal status at this temple.

Famous Festivals In Thirunarayur Nambi Temple

• Brahmmotsavam is the major festival celebrated in the temple.
• The chariot festival is the most prominent festival of the temple, celebrated during the Tamil month of Chittirai.
• Diwali – Diwali is one of the most admired and auspicious festivals in the town.
• Chitra Poornima is also a significant occasion for celebration in the temple.
• Vaikuntha Ekadashi – Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrated during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January) is the major festival celebrated in the temple.

How To reach Thirunarayur Nambi Temple

Nachiyar Kovil or Thirunaraiyur Nambi Temple is a famous Perumal temple located at Thirunarayur in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India.

By Air: Tiruchirappalli International Airport in Trichy is the nearest airport, located 107 km from the temple.

By Railway: The nearest railway station is Kumbakonam railway station, which is 10 km from the temple.

By Roadways: Taxis, autos, and buses are available from the Kumbakonam bus stand, which is only 10 kilometres away.

Also Read – Saranathan Temple

Oppiliappan Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to lord Vishnu near Thirunageswaram, also known as Thiruvinnagar, a village on the outskirts of Kumbakonam in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The temple, built in the Dravidian style, is mentioned in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, an early mediaeval Tamil canon of the Alvar saints from the 6th to the 9th centuries CE. It is the sixty-first of the 108 Divya Desams devoted to Vishnu. Oppiliappan represents Vishnu, while Bhudevi represents his consort, Lakshmi.

The Oppiliappan Temple is thought to be of substantial antiquity and to have been initiated by the Mediaeval Cholas of the late 8th century CE, with additional contributions from Thanjavur Nayaks at various times. The complex houses all of the shrines and pools of water linked with it. Oppiliappan is said to have appeared for the sage (teacher) Markandeya as well as the Hindu gods Bhudevi, Brahma, and Shiva.

Story/Legend of the Oppiliappan Temple

The Brahmanda Purana, one of the eighteen famous Hindu books, chronicles the temple’s history. Tulasi, according to Hindu folklore, once performed penance in order to gain closeness to Vishnu. Vishnu said that his consort Lakshmi would arrive at Tiruvinnagaram under Tulasi’s lap. Tulasi appeared at the location of the temple. This is described in the 53rd verse of Thiruviruththam’s Nammazhwaar. Markandeya Maharishi revered Vishnu and wished for Lakshmi to become his daughter and Vishnu to become his son-in-law. Markandeya was on a religious trip once, and after arriving in Thiruvinnagaram, he believed it was the right place to fulfil his wish.

Markandeya began a thousand-year penance in order to obtain Lakshmi’s blessings. Lakshmi manifested as a child beneath the already incarnated Tulasi plant. Markandeya sensed Lakshmi’s presence in the form of the baby and recognised that part of his wish had been granted. He took custody of the child and raised her. When the young girl reached adolescence, Vishnu appeared as an old man in the panguni month of Shravana and requested for Markandeya’s daughter in marriage.

“You are very ripe and old, my daughter is too young and she does not even know how to cook with proper salt contents,” Markandeya replied, to which the old man replied, “If your daughter must cook without salt, I will still take it as my best food, but I will not leave from here without marrying her.” Markandeya sought Vishnu’s assistance before realising, through penance, that the old man was Vishnu himself. When he opened his eyes, he saw Vishnu in front of him, holding a conch and a chakram, as in Vaikundam.

Markandeya proposed marriage to his daughter. The temple’s Neyvethiyam (food offering) is always cooked without salt, according to folklore. Thus The name Oppiliappan is a result of this legend.  This temple is considered one of the 108 Divya Desams.

What is Divya Desams– A Divya Desam or Vaishnava Divya Desam is one of the 108 Vishnu and Lakshmi temples recorded by the Alvars, the poet-saints of the Sri Vaishnava faith. 105 of the 108 temples are in India, one is in Nepal, and the final two are thought to be in space, in Tirupparkatal and Vaikuntham. They are distributed over the Indian states of Tamil Nadu (84), Kerala (11), Andhra Pradesh (2), Gujarat (1), Uttar Pradesh (4), and Uttarakhand (3). Muktinath, Saligramam is Nepal’s sole Divya Desam. The 12 Alvars respect the Divya Desams in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, a collection of 4,000 Tamil hymns.

History of Oppiliappan Temple

The inscriptions and records do not indicate when the temple was established, however, there are inscriptions from the Mediaeval Cholas period suggesting rich donations to the temple. Two inscriptions have been discovered in Tirunageswaram’s Naganathar Temple. The 1911 epigraph 211 on the northern wall of the central shrine reveals that the Chola king, Parakesarivarman, alias Rajendra Chola I (1012-44 CE), gave the temple a gold jewel set with diamonds and pearls. The second inscription on the shrine’s southern wall, marked 218 of 1911, marks a gift of land to the temple in the 14th year of Chola king Rajaraja Rajakkesarivarman I.

The original image of the presiding god is constructed of wood and then replaced with stone in many old temples in Tamil Nadu, including this one. Govinda Dikshitar, the minister of consecutive Nayak monarchs Achuthappa Nayak (1560-1614) and Raghunatha Nayak (1600-34), made numerous improvements to the shrine. The Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu maintains and administers the temple.

The architecture of Oppiliappan Temple

The Oppiliappan Temple is surrounded by a granite wall and includes a five-tiered rajagopuram (the entryway tower). The complex houses all of the shrines and pools of water linked with it. For performing Thirumanjanam (ablution) to the presiding god, the Sahasradhari plate and pot (kudam) are made of gold. The temple also keeps a golden sword, diamond crown, and gold arm guard for Hanuman’s figure. The shrine over the sanctum is gold-plated.

The Oppiliappan Temple’s main shrine houses the image of Oppiliappan in standing posture, as well as images of Bhoomidevi and the guru Markendeya. Suddhananda means “pure happiness” and is the name of the vimana. The Desika shrine can be seen near the sanctum sanctorum. The shrine of Anjaneya is placed on the southern side of the first precinct, Alvars’ and Rama’s on the northern, and Ramanuja’s on the eastern.

Maniappan’s shrine is in the second precinct on the southern side, while Ennappan’s shrine and Bhoomidevi’s holy birthplace are on the northern side. Garuda’s shrine is directly across from the sanctuary and behind the temple mast. The dancing Krishna shrine is placed on the southern side of the main entryway.

During festivals, a marble hall on the western side of the inner precinct serves as a resting place for the festival deities. The Dolotsavam celebration is held in another marble hall on the temple’s northern side. A shrine adjacent to the hall has images of Rama, Lakshmana, Sita, and Hanuman. Next to it is the sacred sleeping chamber known as Tiruppalliarai, which is covered in mirrors. The temple has a Yaga sala for performing religious rites. The temple contains a hall for storing festival vehicles, a library, and a hall with intricately carved pillars on the banks of the temple tank, where the annual float festival is held.

The Kodimandapa, located to the south of the Garuda shrine, is used for a variety of religious practices on a daily basis. The annual Kalyana Utsavam festival is held in the hall, along with music and dance performances. Because the temple is regarded as the southern equivalent of Thirupathi, devotees execute marriages and vows in the same manner as in Thirupathi. Outside the main structure, the temple has two marriage halls, a rest house with five rooms, two more halls, and accommodation for the little and big chariots.

A garden surrounds the temple’s third precinct, and a much larger garden about 0.5 km (0.31 mi) to the south of the temple, where Tulasi and flowers are produced. During the annual Vasantotsavam celebration, which lasts six days in May-June, a hall in the yard is utilised to rest deities.

Facts about Oppiliappan Temple

• Also hailed as Thiruvinnagar, this ancient temple is located at Thirunageswaram village, on the outskirts of Kumbakonam town.
• Oppiliappan Temple is classified as a Divya Desam, the 108 Vishnu temples revered in the Vaishnava canon.
• Oppiliappan Temple is considered the elder brother of the presiding deity of Tirupathi Venkateshwara Temple. The temple is revered in Naalayira Divya Prabandham, the 7th–9th century Vaishnava canon, by Periyalvar, Thirumangai Alvar and Nammalvar.
• The main deity is worshipped here as Lord Uppiliappan, and his consort is Goddess Bhoomi Devi.
• Oppiliappan is believed to have appeared for sage Markandeya and the Hindu deities Bhudevi, Brahma, and Shiva.
• The main attraction of Oppiliappan Temple is the five-tiered dome that adorns the temple entrance.
• The global parents are Lord Oppiliappan and Goddess Mahalakshmi, who are said to bestow their blessings on devotees and bestow them with good health, prosperity, happiness, and tranquillity.
• It is also said that the divine couple can help inculcate tolerance in life partners and bring about marital harmony.
• Oppiliappan Temple is also considered the southern version of the famous Tirupathi temple, and many devotees consummate their vows and marry here, just as they do at the hill temple.
• The main temple is the main deity of Oppiliappan; the Oppiliappan Temple complex also houses small idols of Bhumi Devi, Markandeya Maharshi, Anjaneya, Alwar, Srirama, Manippan, Ennappan and Garuda.

Famous Festivals In Oppiliappan Temple

• Ramanavami is the festival associated with Rama, a Vishnu avatar. The event lasts ten days and includes music and dance performances, as well as kanakabhishekam (golden ablution for the festival image) and Rama Pattabhishekam on the final day.
• Brahmmotsavam is the major festival celebrated in the temple.
• The chariot festival is the most prominent festival of the temple, celebrated during the Tamil month of Chittirai.
• Diwali – Diwali is one of the most admired and auspicious festivals in the town.
• Chitra Poornima is also a significant occasion for celebration in the temple.
• Vaikuntha Ekadashi – Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrated during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January) is the major festival celebrated in the temple.

How to Reach Oppiliappan Temple

Arulmigu Oppiliappan Temple is a Hindu temple in the village of Thirunageswaram near Kozhikode; it is also known as the Thiruvinnagar of the Venkatachalapathy Temple.

By Air: Tiruchirappalli International Airport in Trichy is the nearest airport, located 110 km from the temple.

By Railway: The nearest railway station is at Thirunageswaram at 1.9 km, and the second is at Kumbakonam railway station, which is 5.0 km from the temple.

By Roadways: Taxis, autos, and buses are available from Kumbakonam, which is only 6 kilometres away. The scandal is accessible by bus or train from several parts of the city.

Also Read – Thirunarayur Nambi Temple

Sarangapani Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to lord Vishnu located in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the Divya Desams, the 108 Vishnu temples venerated by the 12 poet saints, or Alwars, in Nalayira Divya Prabandham. This temple is one of the Pancharanga Kshetrams and is located beside the Kaveri.

The temple is thought to be quite old, with donations from the Mediaeval Cholas, the Vijayanagara Empire, and the Madurai Nayaks over the centuries. The temple is surrounded by a massive granite wall, which houses all of the temple’s shrines and water basins. The rajagopuram (main doorway) stands 173 feet (53 metres) tall and has eleven storeys. The Potramarai tank, also known as the temple tank, is located directly across from the temple’s western entrance.

Story/Legend of the Sarangapani Temple

According to Hindu folklore, the Vaishnava deity Sarangapani, an incarnation of the Hindu god Vishnu, appeared for the sage Hema Rishi, who was performing penance in the Potramarai tank’s bank. Sage Bhrigu once desired to meet Vishnu in his Ocean of Milk home. When the sage did not catch Vishnu’s attention, he became enraged and kicked Vishnu in the chest. Mahalakshmi, who sits at Vishnu’s side, became enraged because Vishnu did not express his rage at the sage.

She left Vaikunta and arrived on Earth, taking the shape of Padmavathy. Vishnu pursued and wedded her. Padmavathy regained her memories and was still enraged at Vishnu. Vishnu lived as Pathala Srinivasa in the temple’s basement chamber to avoid her wrath.

Meanwhile, the sage Bhrigu sought his apologies and asked Mahalakshmi to be born to him as Komalavalli in his next life. The sage was born as Hemarishi and underwent penance in order to get Mahalakshmi as his daughter. Vishnu was pleased with the penance and wished the sage would marry Lakshmi. Lakshmi appeared from the Potramarai tank among thousands of lotuses and was hence known as Komalavalli (the lotus-emerging).

From his abode Vaikuntam, Vishnu descended to earth as Aravamudhan in a chariot pulled by horses and elephants. He stayed at the adjacent Someswaran Temple to persuade Lakshmi to marry him, and the pair married. The name Sarangapani means “one who has the bow in his hand” and is derived from the Sanskrit words Sarangam, which means “bow of Vishnu,” and Pani, which means “hand.” This temple is considered one of the 108 Divya Desams.

What is Divya Desams– A Divya Desam or Vaishnava Divya Desam is one of the 108 Vishnu and Lakshmi temples recorded by the Alvars, the poet-saints of the Sri Vaishnava faith. 105 of the 108 temples are in India, one is in Nepal, and the final two are thought to be in space, in Tirupparkatal and Vaikuntham. They are distributed over the Indian states of Tamil Nadu (84), Kerala (11), Andhra Pradesh (2), Gujarat (1), Uttar Pradesh (4), and Uttarakhand (3). Muktinath, Saligramam is Nepal’s sole Divya Desam. The 12 Alvars respect the Divya Desams in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, a collection of 4,000 Tamil hymns.

History of Sarangapani Temple

The temple’s Mahasamprokshanam, also known as Kumbabishegam, was conducted on July 13, 2015. The Mahasamprokshanam drew a vast number of devotees. The temple is thought to be of substantial antiquity, with donations from the Mediaeval Cholas, the Vijayanagar Empire, and the Madurai Nayaks at various eras. The temple is ensconced within a massive granite wall, and the complex houses all of the temple’s shrines and water basins.

The temple is believed to have been built 2000 years ago, modified in the 7th Century CE by the Pallava King Mahendra Varma, then by Cholas in the 11th Century CE and later renovated by Nayak Kings during the 15th century CE and then by King Krishnadevaraya during 16th century CE. The Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Tamil Nadu government maintains and administers the temple.

Architecture of Sarangapani Temple

Figures illustrating numerous religious stories can be found on the rajagopuram. The temple also has five smaller gopurams. Within the sanctuary are images of the sage Hemarishi, Lakshmi, and festival images. The sanctum has two stepped entrances, Utharayana Vaasal and Dhakshanayana Vaasal, each open for six months. The temple is surrounded by a massive wall, and the complex houses all of the temple’s water features save the Potramarai tank.

The temple’s central shrine is shaped like a chariot carried by horses and elephants, with openings on either side depicting Sarangapani’s fall from heaven in the chariot. In the western part of the temple, there is a sculptural image of the sage Hemarishi. The temple’s central shrine contains a picture of Sarangapani in pallikonda posture, with his head resting on his right hand. The Potramarai tank is placed outside the western entrance and faces east.

Hemarishi Mandapam is the centre hall of the Potramarai tank. Sarangapani is Kumbakonam’s largest Vishnu temple, with the town’s tallest temple tower. Utharayanya Vaasal is open from 15 January to 15 July, while Dhakshanaya Vaasal is open the rest of the year. The rajagopuram (main doorway) has eleven storeys and stands 173 feet (53 metres) tall.

Facts about Sarangapani Temple

• Sarangapani Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, located in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India.
• It is one of the Divya Desams, the 108 Vishnu temples venerated by the 12 poet saints, or Alwars, in Nalayira Divya Prabandham.
• This temple is along Kaveri and is one of the Pancharanga Kshetrams. it is the largest Vishnu temple in Kumbakonam.
• The basic motions in Bharatanatyam, a South Indian dance genre, are composed of 108 karanas. Some of these karanas are sculpted onto the temple’s walls.
• Sarangapani temple is ranked third after Srirangam and Tirupathi temples. In the 7th-9th century Vaishnava canon Divya Prabandham, the temple is venerated by Andal in one verse, Periyalvar in three, Bhoothathalvar in two, Thirumalisai Alvar in seven, Peialvar in two, Nammalvar in eleven, and Thirumangai Alvar in 25 verses.
• The temple is one of the temples built on the banks of the Kaveri River. Pancharanga Kshetrams (also known as Pancharangams, which means “five Rangams or Ranganathas”) is a series of five ancient Hindu temples on the banks of the Kaveri River devoted to Ranganatha, a form of the god Vishnu.
• The Sarangapani Temple follows Pancharatra Agama and Vadakalai traditions.
• The Gopuram is massive! One of the tallest at 173 feet height with 90 feet length and 51 feet width! And it’s highly ornate.
• The Sarangapani Temple sanctum is an architectural marvel, shaped like a chariot carried by horses and elephants. The twin temple chariots are the third largest, weighing 300 tonnes apiece.
• People believe that the Lord hears their prayers and that they will be rewarded according to their deeds and righteousness.

Famous Festivals In Sarangapani Temple

• Akshaya Tritiyai – 12 Garuda Sevai Chaitra Brahma Utsavam celebrated during the Tamil month of Chittirai (April – May)
• Brahmmotsavam is the major festival celebrated in the temple.
• The temple chariot festival is the most prominent festival of the temple, celebrated during the Tamil month of Chittirai
• Diwali – Diwali is one of the most admired and auspicious festivals in the town.
• Chitra Poornima is also a significant occasion for celebration in the temple.
• Vaikuntha Ekadashi – Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrated during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January) is the major festival celebrated in the temple.

How to Reach Sarangapani Temple

Sarangapani Temple is a Vishnu shrine located in the Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu.

By Air: Trichy International Airport is about 88 kilometres from the temple and can be reached by road from there.

By Railway: The Kumbakonam town, with sound rail connectivity, is only 3 kilometres away.

By Roadways: There is a frequent bus service available. It is 2 kilometres from the Kumbakonam Bus Terminal.

Also Read –  Oppiliappan Temple

The Andalakkum Aiyan Perumal Temple also known as Thiru Aadanoor is a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu in the Tamil Nadu district of Aadanoor. The temple, built in the Dravidian style, is mentioned in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham, an early mediaeval Tamil canon of the Alvar saints from the 6th to the 9th centuries CE. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams devoted to Lord Vishnu. Vishnu is revered as Andalakkum Aiyan, and his consort as Ranganayaki, a version of Lakshmi.

The Andalakkum Aiyan Perumal Temple has a simple shrine, a Vimanam, and a three-tiered rajagopuram. The temple was built by Aditya Chola. The temple is located in Olaipadi, a small village seven kilometres from Kumbakonam and two kilometres from Swamimalai. To the north of the temple is the temple tank. The deities are similar to those found in Srirangam’s Sri Ranganathaswamy temple, with Vishnu reclining and half-sleeping.

Story/Legend of the Andalakkum Aiyan Perumal Temple

According to the temple’s regional folklore, a wealthier devotee aspired to participate in the devotional undertaking of serving Ranganatha as well. Some of the people who worked for him took advantage of his fanaticism and swindled all of his money, leaving him bankrupt. Vishnu arrived in his dream, pleased with his dedication, and offered to help him out of the problem. He told the devotee to bring a marakkal and his defrauded workers to the Kollidam’s bank, where he promised to pay the workers their dues.

The deity, disguised as an elderly man, handed every one of them a measure of sand from the bank of Kollidam based on their work. Surprisingly, it transformed into beautiful stones for those who toiled and remained the same for those who shirked work. The workers who had not received anything were upset and began chasing the old man. At this point, the deity came in its true form, causing the employees to realise their errors. It is also claimed that the presiding deity appeared for Kamadhenu, the sacred cow, as well as Thirumangai Alvar, an 8th-century saint-poet. This temple is considered one of the 108 Divya Desams.

What is Divya Desams– A Divya Desam or Vaishnava Divya Desam is one of the 108 Vishnu and Lakshmi temples recorded by the Alvars, the poet-saints of the Sri Vaishnava faith. 105 of the 108 temples are in India, one is in Nepal, and the final two are thought to be in space, in Tirupparkatal and Vaikuntham. They are distributed over the Indian states of Tamil Nadu (84), Kerala (11), Andhra Pradesh (2), Gujarat (1), Uttar Pradesh (4), and Uttarakhand (3). Muktinath, Saligramam is Nepal’s sole Divya Desam. The 12 Alvars respect the Divya Desams in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, a collection of 4,000 Tamil hymns.

History of Andalakkum Aiyan Perumal Temple

According to history, the celestial deities Indra and Agni worshipped Vishnu here. When Indra placed the heavenly garland offered to him on his elephant Airavata, he insulted the sage Bhrigu. Bhrigu cursed him with the loss of all his powers. In order to reclaim his powers, Indra performed great penance in the location. Agni, the fire deity, was cursed with Brahmahatha Dosha for burning Brahma’s head, which Shiva had handed over to him. By worshipping at this shrine, he was relieved of his curse.

The architecture of Andalakkum Aiyan Perumal Temple

This Chola temple was established by King Aditya Chola and was patronised by Vijayanagar kings and Madurai Nayaks. In the sanctum sanctorum, Lord Andalakkum Aiyan can be worshipped in the reclining position, with the marakkal, the measuring vessel, as his cushion and a palm leaf and an ezhuththani, a traditional writing instrument in his left hand. He resembles Lord Ranganatha of Srirangam in appearance.

His consorts and Kamadenu are also present in the sanctum with him. Vishnu is also supposed to have erased Shiva’s curse for slaying Brahma here, and a Shiva idol may be found in the main shrine. Pranava Vimana is the roof above the sanctum, and it houses a Vishnu figure up to his knee.

This temple is supposed to have been visited by Hanuman and Rama, and Rama’s footprints are etched to commemorate this legend. The temple tower, known as the Rajagopuram, has three levels. There are two distinct pillars in this case. It is said that circumambulating them in even numbers and worshipping the Lord will lead believers to salvation.

Facts about Andalakkum Aiyan Perumal Temple

• Andalakkum Aiyan Perumal Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu located in Aadanoor, Tamil Nadu, India.
• Andalakkum Aiyan Perumal Temple follows Pancharatra Agama and the worship practices are carried out by hereditary priests.
• The temple is revered in Nalayira Divya Prabandham, the 7th–9th century Sri Vaishnava canon, by Kulasekhara Alvar in one hymn.
• The Andalakkum Aiyan Perumal Temple is classified as a Divya Desam, one of the 108 Vishnu temples mentioned in the book.
• Thirumangai Alvar has sung in praise of the deity in this temple with one pasuram, numbered 3815.
• It is believed that once the temple was buried under the earth. At the same time, a Kashmiri Princess was afflicted on account of a spell from a magician. Vishnu appeared in the dreams of the king and asked him to renovate the submerged temple.
• The king is believed to have followed the orders, resulting in the princess getting propitiated. The worship in the temple is thus believed to offer solace to people afflicted by witchcraft.
• The Lord is said to grant good health and a suitable life companion here. The holy couple can also cleanse people of their sins and bestow money, prosperity, and educational excellence upon them.

Famous Festivals In Andalakkum Aiyan Perumal Temple

• Brahmmotsavam is the major festival celebrated in the temple.
• Diwali – Diwali is one of the most admired and auspicious festivals in the town.
• Chitra Poornima is also a significant occasion for celebration in the temple.
• Vaikuntha Ekadashi – Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrated during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January) is the major festival celebrated in the temple.

How To reach Andalakkum Aiyan Perumal Temple

Andalakkum Aiyan Perumal Temple is a Vishnu Temple located in the Aadhanoor village, near Kumbakonam town, in the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu.

By Air: Trichy International Airport is about 90 kilometres from the temple and can be reached by road from there.

By Railway: The Kumbakonam town, with sound rail connectivity, is only 7 kilometres away.

By Roadways: The temple can be reached through buses and private vehicles, from towns like Kumbakonam, Swamimalai, and Thanjavur.

Also Read – Sarangapani Temple Kumbakonam

Valvil Rama Temple or Thirupullabhoothangudi is a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu in Pullabhoothangudi, near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India. The temple, built in the South Indian style, is mentioned in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham, an early mediaeval Tamil canon of the Alvar saints from the 6th to the 9th centuries CE. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams devoted to Lord Vishnu. Vishnu is represented as Valvil Ramar, and his consort Lakshmi is represented by Sita.

The temple contains a modest shrine with a Vimanam and a five-tiered rajagopuram. The temple was established by Mediaeval Cholas and succeeding kings added to it. The temple is near Pulla Bhoothangudi, a small village 8 kilometres from Kumbakonam and 3 km from Swamimalai. The temple tank may be found to the north of the temple. Kolavalli Ramar is said to have arrived for Sita, and the temple is said to be where Rama performed the eagle king Jatayu’s funeral rites.

Story/Legend of the Valvil Rama Temple

The temple’s sthala purana is described in the Brahmanda Purana and Padma Purana. In the Ramayana, Ravana, the rakshasa king, kidnaps Sita, Rama’s wife, during their exile in the wilderness. The eagle king, Jatayu, fought a gallant battle against Ravana, who had kidnapped Sita in the Pushpaka Vimana. During the combat, Jatayu was seriously hurt and collapsed to the ground. Jatayu was able to recount the events to Rama, who was searching for Sita. After relating the incidents, Jatayu died, and Rama administered the ceremonies. According to Hindu tradition, the individual administering the final rites must be accompanied by his wife.

Because Sita was not present, Bhumadevi came from a golden lotus to accompany Rama. The same tradition is linked to the Vijayaraghava Perumal temple in Thiruputkuzhi, where King Krita is said to have worshipped Vishnu. This temple is considered one of the 108 Divya Desams.

What is Divya Desams– A Divya Desam or Vaishnava Divya Desam is one of the 108 Vishnu and Lakshmi temples recorded by the Alvars, the poet-saints of the Sri Vaishnava faith. 105 of the 108 temples are in India, one is in Nepal, and the final two are thought to be in space, in Tirupparkatal and Vaikuntham. They are distributed over the Indian states of Tamil Nadu (84), Kerala (11), Andhra Pradesh (2), Gujarat (1), Uttar Pradesh (4), and Uttarakhand (3). Muktinath, Saligramam is Nepal’s sole Divya Desam. The 12 Alvars respect the Divya Desams in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, a collection of 4,000 Tamil hymns.

History of Valvil Rama Temple

The mediaeval Cholas are supposed to have built this temple, with later additions and modifications by other kings. The entrance tower of the modest yet old temple is a five-tier Rajagopuram. Valvil Ramar can be worshipped in the sanctuary, which has the Sopana Vimana as its roof, in a reclining East-facing posture. The temple tank, Jatayu Theertham, is located to the north of the temple.

The architecture of Valvil Rama Temple

The Valvil Rama Temple has a simple shrine, a Vimanam, and a five-tiered rajagopuram. It is located in Pullabhoothangudi, a small village eight kilometres from Kumbakonam and one kilometre from Thiru Aadanoor Temple. To the north of the temple is the temple tank. The dazzling kalasams, Dhwajasthambham, and Balipeetham of the Pullabhoothangudi temple greet the devotee. Sri Maha Desikan, a Brindavan from Ahobilam Mutt, is here for the 19th Jeeyar.

The temple’s Moolavar Deity is known as Sri Valvil Raman. Moolavar is located in Kidantha Kolam, Bujanga Sayanam, facing East. Prathyaksham was bestowed upon Chakravarthy Thirumagan Ramar and Raja Kiruthra by the Lord. Utsava Moorthy bestows Seva Valvil Raman with four hands (Chathur Bhujam), in addition to Sangu and Chakram.

Facts about Valvil Rama Temple

• Sri Valvil Raman is a Hindu shrine dedicated to Vishnu. Furthermore, it is one of the “Divya Desams,” the 108 Vishnu temples worshipped by the 12 poet saints or Alwars.
• The Valvil Rama Temple is revered in Nalayira Divya Prabandham, the 7th–9th century Vaishnava canon, by Kulasekhara Alvar in one hymn.
• The Valvil Rama Temple is classified as a Divya Desam, one of the 108 Vishnu temples mentioned in the book.
• The temple is the only place where Rama is sported with four hands, with two of the hands holding conch and chakra.
• The Valvil Rama Temple follows Pancharatra Agama, and worship is performed by hereditary priests. During festivals and on a daily basis, temple priests perform pooja (rituals).
• Because the Lord performed Jatayu’s funeral rites, considering him as his father, it is thought that worshipping him will aid in receiving the blessings of the ancestors.
• It is also stated that performing rituals in memory of the forefathers here can bring about ‘Pirtu Sabha Nivarthi,’ or relief from ancestral curses.
• It is also believed that Rama may assist his devotees in choosing the proper route in life, overcoming marriage issues, obtaining new work possibilities and advancing in their careers.
• People also believe that praying here can clear the adverse effects of planet Mercury.

Famous Festivals In Valvil Rama Temple

• Brahmmotsavam is the major festival celebrated in the temple.
• Diwali – Diwali is one of the most admired and auspicious festivals in the town.
• Chitra Poornima is also a significant occasion for celebration in the temple.
• Vaikuntha Ekadashi – Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrated during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January) is the major festival celebrated in the temple.

How to Reach Valvil Rama Temple

Valvil Rama Temple is located about 5 kilometres from Swamimalai to Tiruvaikavur village.

By Air: The nearest airport is in Trichy, about 90 km from temple, which is both a national and an international airport.

By Railway: Kumbakonam town is well-connected by trains to many other cities and towns and is just 8 km from the temple.

By Roadways: People can take buses and private vehicles to go to the temple, from Kumbakonam and other places.

Also Read – Andalakkum Aiyan Perumal Temple

The Gajendra Varadha Perumal Temple is devoted to the Hindu god Vishnu and is located in Thirukkavithalam, a village on the outskirts of Papanasam in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The temple, built in the Dravidian style, is mentioned in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham, an early mediaeval Tamil canon of the Alvar saints from the 6th to the 9th centuries CE.

It is one of the 108 Divya Desams devoted to Vishnu, known as Gajendra Varadha Perumal, and his spouse Lakshmi, known as Ramamanivalli. The temple is one of five Pancha-Kannan temples in which Krishna, an incarnation of Vishnu, takes precedence over the presiding deity.

The Gajendra Varadha Perumal Temple is thought to have been built in the late 9th century CE by the Mediaeval Cholas, with later contributions from Vijayanagara kings and Madurai Nayaks. The temple is surrounded by a granite wall, which encloses all of its shrines and bodies of water.

Story/Legend of the Gajendra Varadha Perumal temple

According to Hindu legend, King Indrajuman, who became engrossed in Vishnu devotion, failed to strengthen his army and therefore lost his realm. He also failed to see the sage Durvasa (other sources say Agastya) who passed by on his way to worship. The sage became enraged and cursed the king’s next birth as an elephant. The king apologised to the sage for his carelessness, and the sage, moved by his innocence, desired that he would continue to be a Vishnu devotee as an elephant and that Vishnu would bestow kindness on him. In the temple tank at this location, there was a Gandharva named Kuhu who bothered everyone who bathed in it.

A sage cursed him to be born as a crocodile in his next life. The elephant Gajendra continued to be a Vishnu devotee, and while sipping water from the temple tank, the crocodile seized his leg. Vishnu sent his discus to fend off the crocodile after the elephant called out for help, calling the name “Adimulam.” Vishnu’s mercy transformed both the elephant and the crocodile into human forms.

Vishnu became known as Gajendara Varadar after appearing to save the elephant, Gajendra. Hanuman, Rama’s vanara lieutenant (Vishnu’s incarnation), also worshipped Vishnu here, and the site became known as Kabisthalam (kabi in Tamil meant monkey). This temple is considered one of the 108 Divya Desams.

What is Divya Desams– A Divya Desam or Vaishnava Divya Desam is one of the 108 Vishnu and Lakshmi temples recorded by the Alvars, the poet-saints of the Sri Vaishnava faith. 105 of the 108 temples are in India, one is in Nepal, and the final two are thought to be in space, in Tirupparkatal and Vaikuntham. They are distributed over the Indian states of Tamil Nadu (84), Kerala (11), Andhra Pradesh (2), Gujarat (1), Uttar Pradesh (4), and Uttarakhand (3). Muktinath, Saligramam is Nepal’s sole Divya Desam. The 12 Alvars respect the Divya Desams in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, a collection of 4,000 Tamil hymns.

History of Gajendra Varadha Perumal temple

The location is well-known for the Gajendra Moksham legend. Gajendra, an elephant, used to pluck lotus blossoms from the pond and offer them to the Lord. When a crocodile grabbed his leg, the elephant called Lord Vishnu for assistance. The Lord then gave the elephant pratyaksham and flung his disc at the crocodile to save the elephant.

It is also said that the Lord granted Peyalwar another opportunity to see the Gajendra Moksham ceremony at this location. The shrine is considered to be Kanchi’s sole divya desam with a Swarga Vaasal. Another story associated with this temple is that Lord Vishnu appeared with eight hands wielding eight weapons to destroy the deadly snake sent by Saraswati to disrupt Brahma’s home.

Architecture of Gajendra Varadha Perumal temple

The Gajendra Varadha Perumal Temple is located in Kabisthalam, a village 3 kilometres (1.9 miles) from Papanasam and around 20 kilometres (12 miles) from Kumbakonam and Thanjavur, both in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The settlement lies between the rivers Kaveri and Kollidam. The temple is thought to have been built in the late 8th century CE by the Mediaeval Cholas, with later contributions from Vijayanagar monarchs and Madurai Nayaks. The temple is surrounded by a brick wall, which encloses all of its shrines and bodies of water.

The Gajendra Varadha Perumal Temple comprises a single precinct and a five-tiered rajagopuram. Gajendra Varadar, the primary deity, is housed in the sanctum in a reclining posture known as Bhujanga sayanam. Ganganakrutha Vimanam is the name of the vimana (roof over the sanctum). Ramanavalli has his own shrine, which is positioned to the right of the sanctum. In the first sanctuary, there are shrines for Yoga Narasimhar, Sudarsana, Garuda, and the Alvars. The main temple tank is called Gajendra Pushkarani, and there is another tank inside the temple complex called Kapila Theertham.

Facts about Gajendra Varadha Perumal temple

• Gajendra Varada is said to have appeared to Gajendra, the elephant also known as Indrajumnan, the crocodile known as Kuhu, Sage Parasara, and Anjaneya.
• The Gajendra Varadha Perumal Temple is revered in Nalayira Divya Prabandham, the 7th–9th century Vaishnava canon, by Tirumalisai Alvar in one hymn.
• The Gajendra Varadha Perumal Temple is classified as a Divya Desams, one of the 108 Vishnu temples mentioned in the book.
• Because the location is only mentioned briefly in the verse, it was previously unclear whether the verse referred to the temple.
• Religious scholars regard this location as a unique Vishnu temple since he descended to save an animal, although he appeared in all other locations to save sages, heavenly beings, or demons.
• One of the Panchakanna (Krishnaranya) Kshetrams is this temple. Kannan relates to Krishna, Vishnu’s incarnation, while pancha signifies five and Kshetrams are holy locations.
• The Gajendra Varadha Perumal Temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu.

Famous Festivals In Gajendra Varadha Perumal temple

• The Gajendra Moksha Leela is celebrated in the Tamil month of Adi (July–August).
• Chariot festival during the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May–June) on Visakam star.
• Brahmmotsavam is the major festival celebrated in the temple.
• Diwali – Diwali is one of the most admired and auspicious festivals in the town.
• Chitra Poornima is also a significant occasion for celebration in the temple.
• Vaikuntha Ekadashi – Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrated during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January) is the major festival celebrated in the temple.

How To reach Gajendra Varadha Perumal temple

The Gajendra Varadha Perumal Temple is located in Kabisthalam, a village situated 3 km (1.9 mi) away from Papanasam and around 20 km (12 mi) away from Kumbakonam and Thanjavur, towns in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

By Air: The nearest airport is in Trichy, about 80 km from here, which is both a national and an international airport.

By Railway: Thanjavur railway station is located about 25 kilometres from the temple.

By Roadways: Autos, Buses and taxis are also available for comfortable transportation.

Also Read – Valvil Rama Temple or Thirupullabhoothangudi

The Jakath Rakshaka Perumal temple or Thirukoodalur (locally known as Aduthurai Perumal Temple) is devoted to the Hindu god Vishnu and is located in Vadakurangaduthurai, a village on the outskirts of Kumbakonam in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

The Jakath Rakshaka Perumal temple, built in the Dravidian style, is mentioned in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham, an early mediaeval Tamil canon of the Alvar saints from the 6th to the 9th centuries CE. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams devoted to Vishnu, known as Jakath Rakshaka, and his spouse Lakshmi, known as Pushpavalli.

The temple is thought to have been built in the late 8th century CE by the Mediaeval Cholas, with later contributions from Vijayanagara kings and Madurai Nayaks. The temple is surrounded by a brick wall, which encloses all of its shrines and bodies of water.

Story/Legend of the Jakath Rakshaka Perumal temple

According to Hindu legend, King Ambarisha, who became engrossed in Vishnu devotion, failed to raise his army and therefore lost his kingdom. He also failed to see the sage Durvasa who passed by on his way to worship. The sage became enraged and cursed the king. The king sought help from Vishnu, who dispatched his discus to pursue the sage. The sage asked for forgiveness from Vishnu and resigned. The temple is said to have been erected by King Ambarishan, therefore the presiding deity here is also known as Ambarisha Varadhar. This temple is considered one of the 108 Divya Desams.

What is Divya Desams– A Divya Desam or Vaishnava Divya Desam is one of the 108 Vishnu and Lakshmi temples recorded by the Alvars, the poet-saints of the Sri Vaishnava faith. 105 of the 108 temples are in India, one is in Nepal, and the final two are thought to be in space, in Tirupparkatal and Vaikuntham. They are distributed over the Indian states of Tamil Nadu (84), Kerala (11), Andhra Pradesh (2), Gujarat (1), Uttar Pradesh (4), and Uttarakhand (3). Muktinath, Saligramam is Nepal’s sole Divya Desam. The 12 Alvars respect the Divya Desams in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, a collection of 4,000 Tamil hymns.

History of Jakath Rakshaka Perumal temple

This Dravidian-style temple is thought to have been built by the Cholas monarchs in the late 8th century CE, with the following contributions from the Vijayanagar and Madurai Nayak kings. Lord Jagath Rakshaka Perumal stands in the sanctum sanctorum, while his consort Pushpavalli can be worshipped in a separate shrine.

The temple is surrounded by a brick wall and the main tower, a three-tiered Rajagopuram. Suddha Satwa Vimana is the name of the tower that stands above the main shrine. Rani Mangammal repaired the temple chariot Ambarisha Ratha, which was in use until recently. This shrine also contains a statue of this queen.

The architecture of Jakath Rakshaka Perumal temple

The temple is four miles from Ayyampet and is on the Kumbakonam-Tiruvayyaru Road. The temple is thought to have been built in the late 8th century CE by the Mediaeval Cholas, with later contributions from Vijayanagara kings and Madurai Nayaks. The temple is surrounded by a brick wall, which encloses all of its shrines and bodies of water. The central shrine features a standing figure of Jakath Rakshaka Perumal. The Pushpavalli shrine faces south.

A three-tiered rajagopuram (gateway tower) stands guard over the shrine. Ramanuja, Alvars, Andal, and Garuda each have their shrine. Suddha Satwa Vimana is the name of the vimana or tower above the sanctum. Ambarisha Ratha, a chariot refurbished by Rani Mangammal, remained in use until the 1940s when it was retired. In the temple, there is a statue of the queen.

Facts about Jakath Rakshaka Perumal temple

• Jakath Rakshaka is believed to have appeared to sage Nandaka and King Ambarisha.
• Jagad Rakshaka is considered the saviour deity and he is believed to descend from all forms of life on the planet.
• In one hymn, Thirumangai Alvar praises the temple in Nalayira Divya Prabandham, the 7th-9th century Vaishnava canon.
• The temple is classified as a Divya Desam, one of the 108 Vishnu temples mentioned in the book.
•  The temple is associated with Ketu, one of the Navagrahas, the nine planet deities of Hinduism.
• While Vishnu used his discus to pursue the sage Durvasa, his second symbol, the conch, gained prominence. The conch is said to have appeared behind the sanctum in a jackfruit tree.
• Devotees worship the conch in the tree in the temple and during festive occasions, perform special rituals.
• It is believed that the Perumal would protect his devotees, and his Chakra, the discus, can help them to ward off all troubles.
•  The grace of the Lord can enable the devotees to progress in their worldly lives, and also attain spiritual advancement.

Famous Festivals In Jakath Rakshaka Perumal temple

• The Brahmotsavam festival is celebrated in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May–June).
• Srisukta Homam, a religious practice, is performed in the temple with 108 lotus leaves on full moon days.
• Diwali – Diwali is one of the most admired and auspicious festivals in the town.
• Chitra Poornima is also a significant occasion for celebration in the temple.
• Vaikuntha Ekadashi – Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrated during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January) is the major festival celebrated in the temple.

How To reach Jakath Rakshaka Perumal temple

Jakath Rakshaka Perumal Temple or Thirukoodalur (locally called Aduthurai Perumal Temple) is located in Vadakurangaduthurai, a village on the outskirts of Kumbakonam in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

By Air: Trichy International Airport is approximately 90 km from the temple. Devotees should take road transportation from there to the temple.

By Railway: Kumbakonam railway Station is 27 Km from the temple.

By Roadways: This temple is located 22 kilometres from Kumbakonam on the Tiruvaiyaru-Kumbakonam highway. However, buses depart from Kumbakonam every half hour.

Also Read – Gajendra Varadha Perumal Temple

The Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Temple is located in Thirukandiyur, a village outside of Thiruvayaru in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This temple honours the Hindu god Vishnu. The temple is built in the Dravidian style and is mentioned in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham, an early mediaeval Tamil canon of the Alvar saints from the 6th to the 9th centuries CE.

Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Temple is one of the 108 Divya Desam devoted to Vishnu, known as Hara Saabha Vimochana Perumal, and his consort Lakshmi, known as Kamalavalli Nachiyar. The temple is thought to have been built in the late 8th century CE by the Mediaeval Cholas, with later contributions from Vijayanagara kings and Madurai Nayaks. The temple is surrounded by a granite wall, which encloses all of its shrines and bodies of water. The temple’s gateway tower is a 5-tiered rajagopuram.

Story/Legend of the Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Temple

According to the Brahmanda Purana, Brahma, the Hindu god of creation, and Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction, both had five heads at one time. Parvati, Shiva’s wife, once became confused and worshipped Brahma instead of her husband. Shiva became infuriated and severed one of Brahma’s heads; the head became glued to Shiva’s palm as a result of Brahma’s curse. To atone for his transgression, Shiva worshipped the god Vishnu as Bhikshatana made Thirukarambanur, where a portion of his sin was absolved.

Shiva was cleansed of his transgression after paying a visit to Vishnu at Thirukandiyur and taking a holy plunge in the temple tank, Kamala Pushkarani. Because Vishnu atoned for Shiva’s guilt (saabha) (also known as Hara), the temple is known as the Hara Saabha Vimochana Perumal Temple. Following the tragedy, the tank was dubbed Kapala Theertham (kapala means skull). Shiva was pleased, so he constructed the Hara Sabha Vimochana temple as well as a shrine for himself nearby. This temple is considered one of the 108 Divya Desams.

What is Divya Desams– A Divya Desam or Vaishnava Divya Desam is one of the 108 Vishnu and Lakshmi temples recorded by the Alvars, the poet-saints of the Sri Vaishnava faith. 105 of the 108 temples are in India, one is in Nepal, and the final two are thought to be in space, in Tirupparkatal and Vaikuntham. They are distributed over the Indian states of Tamil Nadu (84), Kerala (11), Andhra Pradesh (2), Gujarat (1), Uttar Pradesh (4), and Uttarakhand (3). Muktinath, Saligramam is Nepal’s sole Divya Desam. The 12 Alvars respect the Divya Desams in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, a collection of 4,000 Tamil hymns.

History of Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Temple

The Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Temple is thought to have been built in the late 8th century CE by the Mediaeval Cholas, with later contributions from Vijayanagara kings and Madurai Nayaks. In modern times, the temple was renovated in 1984 under the supervision of seer Sri Thirukudanthai Vedanta Ramanuja Mahadesikan. Sri Rangaramanuja Mahadesikan, his successor, completed the refurbishment in 2003. Renovations included the gateway tower and the shrines of Hara Saabha Vimocahana Perumal and Kamalavalli Nachiyar. The temple’s oldest deities are those of Santana Gopala and Navneetha Krishna.

The architecture of Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Temple

The Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Temple is located in Thirukandiyur, a village between Thiruvayyaru and Thanjavur, between the Cauvery and Kudamaurutti rivers. The temple includes a three-tiered rajagopuram (gateway tower) and a granite wall surrounding it. The temple is 1 acre (0.0040 km2) in size and is positioned between the rivers Kudamurutti and Vennar. The temple is located in Thanjavur district, 2 kilometres (1.2 miles) from Thiruvayaru. The temple is divided into two precincts, with the main entrance facing east. The primary shrine houses a standing figure of Hara Saabha Vimochana Perumal.

The sanctum is reached by two halls: the Garuda Mandapam and the Maha Mandapam. The principal water body associated with the temple is Kapala Moksha Pushkarani, which is located on the west side of the temple, while the Mahabali Theertham is placed opposite it. The Kamalavalli Nachiyar temple is located in the first precinct. The shrines for Narasimha, Sudarshana, Andal, Alvars, and Vedanta Desika are located in the second precinct.

Facts about Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Temple

• Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Temple is said to have appeared to the Hindu gods Brahma and Shiva, as well as to King Mahabali. It is one of the few temples where the Trimurti (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva) are worshipped simultaneously.
• The temple is classified as a Divya Desam, one of the 108 Vishnu temples mentioned in the book.
• The Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Temple is one of the few historical temples in India where the images of Hindu Trimurti, Vishnu, Shiva and Brahma are housed on the same premises.
• It is one of two temples in Chola Nadu where the Trimurti may be seen, the other being Uttamar Kovil near Tiruchirapalli.
• The shrines of Brahma and his consort Saraswati were dilapidated over time.
• The temple is known by several names, including Kandiyur, Kandana Kshetram, and Pancha Kamala Kshetram, and it is claimed that visiting the temple relieves devotees of their Brahmahatti Dosha.
• The Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Temple is thought to be older than the Srirangam Ranganathaswamy temple and has existed since the Treta Yuga.

Famous Festivals In Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Temple

• Panguni Brahmmotsavam is celebrated during the Tamil month in Panguni (March–April).
• Aipasi Pavithra Utsavam in Aipasi (October–November)
• Diwali – Diwali is one of the most admired and auspicious festivals in the town.
• Chitra Poornima is also a significant occasion for celebration in the temple.
• Vaikuntha Ekadashi – Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrated during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January) is the major festival celebrated in the temple.

How To reach Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Temple

By Air: Trichy has an international airport about 60 kilometres from the temple, from which visitors can take local transportation to the temple.

By Railway: Thanjavur is the nearest railway station, about 11 kilometres away, which is well connected from various parts of the state and outside.

By Roadways: The temple is connected well by road, and there is a bus stop near the temple. Other than buses, private taxis and autos, too, provide excellent connectivity.

Also Read – Jakath Rakshaka Perumal temple

Appakkudathaan Perumal Temple, also known as Thirupper Nagar, is a Hindu temple in Koviladi, a village 16 kilometres south of Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the Divya Desams, the 108 Vishnu temples adored in Nalayira Divya Prabandham by the 12 poet saints or Alvars. This temple is one of five Pancharanga Kshetrams on the Cauvery River’s banks.

The temple is thought to be quite old, with contributions from the Mediaeval Cholas at various times. The temple is situated on an elevated structure and is reached via a flight of 21 steps. The main entrance, the rajagopuram, is three stories high, and the temple is surrounded by a precinct.

Story/Legend of the Appakkudathaan Perumal Temple

According to Hindu tradition, monarch Ubhamanyu incurred the anger of sage Durvasar and lost all physical strength. To break the curse, he was required to feed one lakh people every day. One day, the Hindu god Vishnu disguised himself as an old man and approached the monarch, asking for a meal. The monarch continued to donate, and the old man ate all of the food prepared for the people. The king was taken aback and perplexed by this unexpected gesture.

The old guy requested a kudam (pot) of Neyyaappam (a sweet meal), claiming that only it could satisfy his hunger. The monarch granted the wish and afterwards learnt that the old guy was actually Vishnu. The blessings of Vishnu delivered the monarch from the sage’s curse. Vishnu is known as “Appakkudathaan” in the temple because of the legend. This temple is considered one of the 108 Divya Desams.

What is Divya Desams– A Divya Desam or Vaishnava Divya Desam is one of the 108 Vishnu and Lakshmi temples recorded by the Alvars, the poet-saints of the Sri Vaishnava faith. 105 of the 108 temples are in India, one is in Nepal, and the final two are thought to be in space, in Tirupparkatal and Vaikuntham. They are distributed over the Indian states of Tamil Nadu (84), Kerala (11), Andhra Pradesh (2), Gujarat (1), Uttar Pradesh (4), and Uttarakhand (3). Muktinath, Saligramam is Nepal’s sole Divya Desam. The 12 Alvars respect the Divya Desams in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, a collection of 4,000 Tamil hymns.

History of Appakkudathaan Perumal Temple

It is said that this temple is where sage Markandeya was liberated from Yama’s (god of death) curse, which doomed Markandeya to die at the age of 16. Ranganatha, the presiding deity, is said to have destroyed Indira’s (a celestial deity) pride. The location is known as “Koviladi” because it lies downstream of the Srirangam Ranganathaswamy temple, which is known as a kovil in Vaishnava tradition.

The Appakkudathaan Perumal Temple is known as “Tiruppernagar” since the surrounding area was known as “Per Nagar” during Chola times. The Alvars mention to the location as “Tiruppernagar” in the Sri Vaishnava canon, Nalayira Divya Prabandam.

Inscriptions from the 18th year of Aditya Chola’s reign can be seen in the temple. The inscriptions found in this temple in 1901 are numbered 283, 300, 301, and 303. According to Nammalvar, the temple housed the Vedic academics of the time. The inscriptions in the temple represent donations made towards the construction of the main hall. During the Anglo-French war, Koviladi was one of the focal locations of combat in the regions surrounding Tiruchirapalli; there are no records of the contributions or damages caused by this war.

Architecture of Appakkudathaan Perumal Temple

The Appakkudathaan Perumal Temple features a three-tiered rajagopuram facing west and an elevated structure accessible by 21 stairs. The temple’s Moolavar (presiding deity), “Appala Rangan,” is depicted in Bhujangasayanm (a reclining posture) facing west, surrounded by Bhooma Devi and Kamalavalli Thayar. The central deity is shown in a reclining pose known as pujanga sayanam, holding the sacred pot in his right hand.

The Appakkudathaan Perumal Temple also houses Upayamanyu and Dhurvarsa’s images. Appala Ranganathar is the major god, and he is located in Srirangam, apart from the Ranganathar.

The Appakkudathaan Perumal Temple is surrounded by a prakaram (precinct). According to historian K.V. Soundararajan, the Rangantha temples in South India built during the 9th and 10th centuries have a systematic arrangement of subsidiary deities, as seen in this temple, the Sowmya Narayana Perumal temple at Thirukoshtiyur, the Veeraraghava Perumal temple at Thiruvallur, the Rajagopalaswamy temple at Mannargudi, and the Rangantha temple at Srirangapatna.

Facts about Appakkudathaan Perumal Temple

• Appakkudathaan Perumal Temple is the sixth Divyadesam, the sacred abode of Lord Vishnu that is sung about by the Azhwar saints
• This temple is located in Koviladi, a village about 16 kilometres from Trichy City, in Tamil Nadu state.
• The Appakkudathaan Perumal Temple is classified as a Divya Desam, one of the 108 Vishnu temples mentioned in the book.
• Ranganatha is believed to have appeared for king Upmananya and sage Parasara.
• The Pancharanga Kshetrams (also known as Pancharangams, which means “five Rangams or Ranganathas”) is a series of five Hindu temples dedicated to Ranganatha, a manifestation of Vishnu, on the banks of the Kaveri River.
• This is the only Divya Desam where neyyappam is offered to the deity every night as neivedhyam.
• There is a belief that childless couples upon praying and offering butter with sugar to the Santhanagopalan deity at the temple are blessed with children.
• Srirangaraja Sarithapanam, a Sanskrit text, also mentions the temple. The temple is also known as the Mukti Stalam, which is where saint Periyalvar is said to have obtained Vishnu’s feet.
• Some scriptures quote that this temple is more ancient than the Srirangam temple.

Famous Festivals In Appakkudathaan Perumal Temple

• The chariot festival is the most prominent festival of the temple and the surrounding villages. It is celebrated during the Tamil month of Panguni (April–May); devotees pull the temple chariot housing the festival deity, around the streets of Koviladi.
• Panguni Brahmotsavam – A 13-day festival which is celebrated in the month of Phalgun.
• Kaisika Dwadasi in Karthigai (November – December)
• Teertha Vari at the River Cauvery on the day of Maasi Magam (February – March)
• Nammalvar Moksham during Era Pathu in Margali (December – February).
• Diwali – Diwali is one of the most admired and auspicious festivals in the town.
• Chitra Poornima is also a significant occasion for celebration in the temple.
• Vaikuntha Ekadashi – Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrated during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January) is the major festival celebrated in the temple.

How To reach Appakkudathaan Perumal Temple

Appakkudathaan Perumal Temple is located in Koviladi, a village about 16 kilometres from Trichy City, in Tamil Nadu state.

By Air: Trichy International Airport is just about 40 kilometres from the temple. A lot of local transport is available from the airport to the temple.

By Railway: The town of Koviladi has its railway station, which is near the temple premises. The nearby Trichy City is also well connected with various parts of Tamil Nadu and other states.

By Roadways: The temple is well-connected by road, and there is also a bus stop nearby. In addition to buses, people can use private cabs and autos to get to the temple from places like Trichy.

Also Read – Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Temple