Tamil Nadu rookie Abhinav Mukund has been picked in the Indian test squad to tour West Indies next month. In 1989, two other Tamil Nadu cricketers, Robin Singh and M. Venkatramana had their first overseas tours to the Carribean as had L. Sivaramakrishnan earlier that decade in 1982.
Abhinav’s selection is fully justified coming on the back of a spectacular domestic season where he scored over 1000runs, though it must be said that he failed in the most important knock out match for Tamil Nadu in the Ranji Trophy. Interestingly, Abhinav has not been picked in the XI for most part of CSK's campaign in the IPL this season, endorsing prtraveller's view that he should concentrate on the longer version of the game, for which his strong technique is more suited to.
With this leap into the next phase of his career, Abhinav has everything going for him to kick start his Test Career. He could open with his TN team mate M. Vijay with whom he has been partnering over the last couple of years at the top of the order. West Indies will have an inexperienced bowling attack led by Sammy and newcomer Bishoo.
If he can play his typical long innings that he has come to be known since his school days, Abhinav could stabilise his place in the Test team, especially with the increasing amount of cricket leading to more frequent injuries to the top Indian cricketers.
Surprisingly, Abhinav who has been known to have a cool head, got into controversy last season in the Deodhar Trophy match for South Zone when he seemingly refused to bat down the order .Going forward, into the next level, it would be important for him to maintain the sense of balance and not get into such controversies.
In mid 2007, prtraveller had suggested that Abhinav could be the most stable, solid opener for India after Sunil Gavaskar. And like Gavaskar in 1971, this tour of the West Indies could turn out to be the ideal launch pad for a long and successful test career for Abhinav
http://prtraveller.blogspot.com/2007/09/cricket-pick-of-month-abhinav-mukund.html
Friday, May 27, 2011
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Azhagar Chitrai Thiruvizha April 2011
http://www.thehindu.com/arts/history-and-culture/article1792832.ece
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Thiru Vayinthirapuram Paasuram
வையம் எழும் உண்டு ஆல்இலை வைகிய
மாயவன் அடியவர்க்கு
மெய்யன் ஆகிய தெய்வ நாயகன் இடம்
மெய்தகு வரைச் சாரல்
மொய் கொள் மாதவி சண்பகம் முயங்கிய
முல்லை அம் கொடி ஆட
செய்ய தாமரைச் செழும் பணை திகழ்தரு
திருவயிந்தி புரமே
In some verses, Thirumangai Azhvaar just makes a passing reference to the temple that he has visited. Sometimes, he combines two-three temples in a particular verse and only makes a passing reference to the place without even a mention of the Lord's name.
In this Periya Thirumozhi Verse, Thirumangai Azhvaar sings praise of Thiru Vayinthirapuram temple referring to the location, the Lord's name as well as providing a description of the place surrounding the temple.
He refers to Lord Deivanayagan as the one who consumed the 7worlds and one who lays on the fig leaf.
Referring to the location, he says Thiru Vayinthirapuram temple where Deivanayakan provides darshan to the devotees is one surrounded by mountain with the mullai creepers swaying in the breeze and the Lotus flowers springing up all over the water tanks by the side of the temple.
Thirumangai further refers to this place as a pleasant garden area where the dense Shenbagam trees protects the devotees from the hot sun.
மாயவன் அடியவர்க்கு
மெய்யன் ஆகிய தெய்வ நாயகன் இடம்
மெய்தகு வரைச் சாரல்
மொய் கொள் மாதவி சண்பகம் முயங்கிய
முல்லை அம் கொடி ஆட
செய்ய தாமரைச் செழும் பணை திகழ்தரு
திருவயிந்தி புரமே
In some verses, Thirumangai Azhvaar just makes a passing reference to the temple that he has visited. Sometimes, he combines two-three temples in a particular verse and only makes a passing reference to the place without even a mention of the Lord's name.
In this Periya Thirumozhi Verse, Thirumangai Azhvaar sings praise of Thiru Vayinthirapuram temple referring to the location, the Lord's name as well as providing a description of the place surrounding the temple.
He refers to Lord Deivanayagan as the one who consumed the 7worlds and one who lays on the fig leaf.
Referring to the location, he says Thiru Vayinthirapuram temple where Deivanayakan provides darshan to the devotees is one surrounded by mountain with the mullai creepers swaying in the breeze and the Lotus flowers springing up all over the water tanks by the side of the temple.
Thirumangai further refers to this place as a pleasant garden area where the dense Shenbagam trees protects the devotees from the hot sun.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Kulasekara Azhvaar's Perumal Thirumozhi
மரம்திகழும் மனம் ஒழிந்து வஞ்சம் மாற்றி
வன் புலன்கள் அடக்கி இடர்பு பாரத் துன்பம்
துறந்து இரு முப்பொழுது ஏத்தி எல்லை இல்லாத்
தொல் நெறிக்கண் நிலை நின்ற தொண்டரான
அறம்திகழும் மனத்தவர்தம் கதியை பொன்னி
அணி அரங்கத்து அரவணையிர் பள்ளிகொள்ளும்
நிறம்திகழும் மாயோனை கண்டு என் கண்கள்
நீர்மல்க என்றுகொலோ நிற்கும் நாளே
Kulasekara Azhvaar describes the handsome Lord of Srirangam
as one who resides on a serpant bed between the Cauvery and Coloroon rivers.
He says that for all those who practice the true form of Dharma with unshakeable faith and never swerve from the the righteous path, cleansing the vices in them and controlling their negative senses, Lord Ranganatha is the sole refuge.
For the true devotee, visiting Arangan Lord rids them of the painful load of karma.
I ask, when will I be in Arangam to be in the midst of the true devotees offering my sincere prayers and ridding myself from this cycle of birth...
வன் புலன்கள் அடக்கி இடர்பு பாரத் துன்பம்
துறந்து இரு முப்பொழுது ஏத்தி எல்லை இல்லாத்
தொல் நெறிக்கண் நிலை நின்ற தொண்டரான
அறம்திகழும் மனத்தவர்தம் கதியை பொன்னி
அணி அரங்கத்து அரவணையிர் பள்ளிகொள்ளும்
நிறம்திகழும் மாயோனை கண்டு என் கண்கள்
நீர்மல்க என்றுகொலோ நிற்கும் நாளே
Kulasekara Azhvaar describes the handsome Lord of Srirangam
as one who resides on a serpant bed between the Cauvery and Coloroon rivers.
He says that for all those who practice the true form of Dharma with unshakeable faith and never swerve from the the righteous path, cleansing the vices in them and controlling their negative senses, Lord Ranganatha is the sole refuge.
For the true devotee, visiting Arangan Lord rids them of the painful load of karma.
I ask, when will I be in Arangam to be in the midst of the true devotees offering my sincere prayers and ridding myself from this cycle of birth...
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Poonamallee Varadaraja Perumal
Located 25kms from Madras on the Bangalore Highway is the 1100year old Varadaraja Perumal temple in Poonamallee. This place is also referred to as Pushpaporu Kshetram and Poovirantha Kshetram.
Construction
The temple is believed to have been built in the 10th Century AD during the reign of the great Chozha King Paranthaka Chozha ( 907-954AD). Inscriptions dating back to this period refer to this place as Puliyur Kottam Poonthamallee and Nedunchezhiya Vinnagaram.
Story
This is the avathara sthalam of Thirukachi Nambi, the Guru of Ramanuja. Thirukachi Nambi used to walk to Kanchipuram and present flowers in the morning to Lord Varadarajan. Given his special devotion , Lord Varadarajan would engage in conversations with Nambi.
Once when Nambi fell ill and could not walk to Kanchipuiram to present his flowers, Lord Varadarajan himself came here in the morning and provided darshan to Nambi with the Sun’s chakra behind him, a special feature at this temple.
Thirukachi Nambi also had darshan of Lord Ranganatha of Srirangam and Lord Srinivasa of Tirupathi at this place. Ranganatha is seen in a handsome sleeping posture with four hands.
This place came to known as 'Poovirintha mallee'after the Thaayar 'Poovirintha Thaayar'.
Avathara Sthalam of Thirukachi Nambi
Festivals
Thirukachi Nambi Avathara Utsavam in Maasi
Ranganatha Utsavam in Chitrai
Varadaraja Utsavam in Vaikasi
Srinivasa Utsavam in Puratasi
In Panguni (on April 10, 2011), Garuda Seva with all the three Lords
Quick Facts
Moolavar: Devaraja Perumal in a standing posture facing West
Thaayar : Pushpavalli thaayar (separate sannidhi)
Temple Time: 7am-1130am and 430pm-830pm
Contact : S. Gopalakrishna Bhattar/Sriram Bhattar @ 97911 42968 or Sowriraja Bhattar@ 98401 22515
How to reach
This is on the Madras- Porur-Poonamallee-Sriperumbudur highway. The temple is a 5minute walk from the Poonamallee bus stand.
Number of buses ply between Parrys/Broadway and Poonamallee.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Nava Narasimha Ahobilam
Bharghava Narasimha
6kms from Lower Ahobilam is Bharghava Narasimha temple. One has to go through a rugged muddy road to the foot of the temple and then climb 130steps to reach the temple.
Parasurama while on his theertha yatra reached here and wanted darshan of Narasimha. Answering his prayers, Lord Narayana presented the Dasavathara display. Narasimha is seen here in his Hiranya Samhara posture.
Yoga Narasimha
On completion of Hiranya Samhara, Narasimha came here to the west of Lower Ahobilam and rested in a yogic posture. It was here that he initiated a few yogic mantras to Prahalada.
Chatravada Narasimha
Half a km East of Yoga Narasimha is Chatravada Narasimha, the most handsome of the Nava Narasimha temples. At the end of the Hiranya Samhara, Narasimha was in an angry state. In an effort to cool him down, two Gandharva musicians, Aaha and Oohoo are said to have played music. Pleased with their music, a happy Narasimha is believed to have patted on his lap tapping in to their music.
In recognition of their role, one finds their sculptures at this temple.
Pavana Narasimha
This is the most difficult of the nava narasimha temples to reach. One will have to take special jeep to reach this temple or walk through a tough 6hour trip across a rocky terrain to reach this temple.
Returning after the completion of Hiranya Samhara, an angry narasimha’s eyes fell on the beautiful Senjulakshmi of the Ahobilam hills. Lured by her beauty and wanting to marry her, he displayed his love by searching the entire hilly region to find non vegetarian food for Senjulakshmi, a resident of this place.
In memory of this event, every Saturday, the residents of this region present a hen as food to Lakshmi Narasimha at this temple.
Lakshmi Narasimha is seen in a seated posture with serpant God atop him. Lakshmi is seen sitting on his left lap.
Malola Narasimha
After Hiranya Samhara, this is the place where narasimha got back together with Lakshmi once again. He is seen with his left leg folded, his right leg hanging down with Lakshmi on his left lap.
Malola Naraimha, the utsava deity, is the processional deity of Ahobila Jeer.
6kms from Lower Ahobilam is Bharghava Narasimha temple. One has to go through a rugged muddy road to the foot of the temple and then climb 130steps to reach the temple.
Parasurama while on his theertha yatra reached here and wanted darshan of Narasimha. Answering his prayers, Lord Narayana presented the Dasavathara display. Narasimha is seen here in his Hiranya Samhara posture.
Yoga Narasimha
On completion of Hiranya Samhara, Narasimha came here to the west of Lower Ahobilam and rested in a yogic posture. It was here that he initiated a few yogic mantras to Prahalada.
Chatravada Narasimha
Half a km East of Yoga Narasimha is Chatravada Narasimha, the most handsome of the Nava Narasimha temples. At the end of the Hiranya Samhara, Narasimha was in an angry state. In an effort to cool him down, two Gandharva musicians, Aaha and Oohoo are said to have played music. Pleased with their music, a happy Narasimha is believed to have patted on his lap tapping in to their music.
In recognition of their role, one finds their sculptures at this temple.
Pavana Narasimha
This is the most difficult of the nava narasimha temples to reach. One will have to take special jeep to reach this temple or walk through a tough 6hour trip across a rocky terrain to reach this temple.
Returning after the completion of Hiranya Samhara, an angry narasimha’s eyes fell on the beautiful Senjulakshmi of the Ahobilam hills. Lured by her beauty and wanting to marry her, he displayed his love by searching the entire hilly region to find non vegetarian food for Senjulakshmi, a resident of this place.
In memory of this event, every Saturday, the residents of this region present a hen as food to Lakshmi Narasimha at this temple.
Lakshmi Narasimha is seen in a seated posture with serpant God atop him. Lakshmi is seen sitting on his left lap.
Malola Narasimha
After Hiranya Samhara, this is the place where narasimha got back together with Lakshmi once again. He is seen with his left leg folded, his right leg hanging down with Lakshmi on his left lap.
Malola Naraimha, the utsava deity, is the processional deity of Ahobila Jeer.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Theppa Utsavam Srirangam
Fourth day of the Float Festival
Only day in the year when Namperumal takes an evening ride on the Silver Garuda Vahana
1000years ago, the float festival in Srirangam was held in the Cauvery with Namperumal alongside Nachiyars.On one such occasion, Sorcerers, using their magic powers, created a flood like scenario in the cauvery and Namperumal and Nachiyars were taken away by the floods.
Hearing this untoward event on a big occasion, Koora Narayana Jeer, a disciple of Koorathazhvaan, rushed to the place and twisting the darbha on his right finger pulled back Lord Namperumal to the banks of the Cauvery.
Given this negative turn of events, Koora Narayana Jeer, about 900years ago, created a tank to the west of the Srirangam Ranganatha temple and the float festival has since been organized here on the first day of Maasi. No more was the float festival celebrated in the Cauvery and it became a Maasi Festival.
Koora Jeer, who is credited with saving the Lord from the Sorcerers and for the continuation of this festival, is paid special respects on the last day of the festival.
Koora Jeer is also believed to have slightly turned the direction of the Cauvery away from the Srirangam temple to prevent flooding at the temple.
Krishnadeva Raya's contributionLegend has it that Vijayanagara King Krishnadeva Raya, who patronized several Vaishnavite temples and who contributed in no small measure, was the one made this into a big festival that one sees today. However, this festival has come to be referred to as the Maasi Float Festival.
Namperumal atop the Silver Garuda
On the fourth morning of the 9day festival, Lord Namperumal sitting in the comfort of a palanquin and listening the chanting of Vedas and Naalayira Divya Prabhandham takes a long 6hour processional trip to the Thathachariar Gardens on the Melur Road stopping at over 25locations on the way.
After a 5 hour rest there in the cool of the Thathachariar Gardens, during which time the devotees are treated to a sumptuous lunch by the Thathachariar family, Namperumal begins his trip back to the temple at 6pm on a Silver Garuda Vahana.
This is the only day in the year when Namperumal rides on the Silver Garuda Vahana in the evening.
He is finally back at his abode at 930pm after spending the whole day providing darshan to the devotees.
Only day in the year when Namperumal takes an evening ride on the Silver Garuda Vahana
1000years ago, the float festival in Srirangam was held in the Cauvery with Namperumal alongside Nachiyars.On one such occasion, Sorcerers, using their magic powers, created a flood like scenario in the cauvery and Namperumal and Nachiyars were taken away by the floods.
Hearing this untoward event on a big occasion, Koora Narayana Jeer, a disciple of Koorathazhvaan, rushed to the place and twisting the darbha on his right finger pulled back Lord Namperumal to the banks of the Cauvery.
Given this negative turn of events, Koora Narayana Jeer, about 900years ago, created a tank to the west of the Srirangam Ranganatha temple and the float festival has since been organized here on the first day of Maasi. No more was the float festival celebrated in the Cauvery and it became a Maasi Festival.
Koora Jeer, who is credited with saving the Lord from the Sorcerers and for the continuation of this festival, is paid special respects on the last day of the festival.
Koora Jeer is also believed to have slightly turned the direction of the Cauvery away from the Srirangam temple to prevent flooding at the temple.
Krishnadeva Raya's contributionLegend has it that Vijayanagara King Krishnadeva Raya, who patronized several Vaishnavite temples and who contributed in no small measure, was the one made this into a big festival that one sees today. However, this festival has come to be referred to as the Maasi Float Festival.
Namperumal atop the Silver Garuda
On the fourth morning of the 9day festival, Lord Namperumal sitting in the comfort of a palanquin and listening the chanting of Vedas and Naalayira Divya Prabhandham takes a long 6hour processional trip to the Thathachariar Gardens on the Melur Road stopping at over 25locations on the way.
After a 5 hour rest there in the cool of the Thathachariar Gardens, during which time the devotees are treated to a sumptuous lunch by the Thathachariar family, Namperumal begins his trip back to the temple at 6pm on a Silver Garuda Vahana.
This is the only day in the year when Namperumal rides on the Silver Garuda Vahana in the evening.
He is finally back at his abode at 930pm after spending the whole day providing darshan to the devotees.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Thondaradipodi's Thirupalli Ezhuchi
Its twilight time, wake up and provide darshan
சுடர் ஒளி பரந்தன சூழ் திசை எல்லாம்
துன்னிய தாரகை மின்னொளி சுருங்கிப்
படர் ஒழி பசுத்தனன் பனி மதி இவனோ
பாயிருள் அகன்றது, பைம் பொழிற் கமுகின்
மடலிடைக் கீறி வண் பாளைகள் நாற
வைகறை கூர்ந்தது மாருதம் இதுவோ
அடல் ஒளி திகழ் தரு திகிரி அம் தடக்கை
அரங்கத்தம்மா பள்ளி எழுந்தருளாயே
With the stars disappearing and the moon fading, there's twilight.
Darkness of the night is now set to give way to the brightness of the morning
that has a sweet fragrance with the cool wind of the early morning.
Setting the stage thus, Thondaradipodi requests the Lord to wake up and provide darshan to those waiting for him this morning.
சுடர் ஒளி பரந்தன சூழ் திசை எல்லாம்
துன்னிய தாரகை மின்னொளி சுருங்கிப்
படர் ஒழி பசுத்தனன் பனி மதி இவனோ
பாயிருள் அகன்றது, பைம் பொழிற் கமுகின்
மடலிடைக் கீறி வண் பாளைகள் நாற
வைகறை கூர்ந்தது மாருதம் இதுவோ
அடல் ஒளி திகழ் தரு திகிரி அம் தடக்கை
அரங்கத்தம்மா பள்ளி எழுந்தருளாயே
With the stars disappearing and the moon fading, there's twilight.
Darkness of the night is now set to give way to the brightness of the morning
that has a sweet fragrance with the cool wind of the early morning.
Setting the stage thus, Thondaradipodi requests the Lord to wake up and provide darshan to those waiting for him this morning.
Punnai Nallur Rama temple renovation
http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-fridayreview/article1131749.ece
(This featured in The Hindu dated 28th January 2011)
(This featured in The Hindu dated 28th January 2011)
Thondaradipodi Azhvaar's Thirumaalai Paasuram
I would deny ruling Indra's empire for the opportunity to sing praise of the Lord of Srirangam
பச்சை மா மலை போல் மேனி பவளவாய்
கமலச் செங்கண்
அச்சுதா அமரர் ஏறே, ஆயர் தம்
கொழுந்தே என்னும்
இச் சவை தவிர யான் போய்
இந்திர லோகம் ஆளும்
அச் சுவை பெறினும் வேண்டேன்
அரங்க மா நகருளானே
Thondaradipodi Azhvaar in this Thirumaalai verse says that he would not even accept the opportunity of ruling Indra's kingdom if that meant being denied the happiness of praising the Lord of Srirangam. He says further, that even if the Lord himself gave it to him, he would refuse it for there is nothing more joyful than being present in Srirangam and singing praise of the Lord of Arangam-Nagar!!!
பச்சை மா மலை போல் மேனி பவளவாய்
கமலச் செங்கண்
அச்சுதா அமரர் ஏறே, ஆயர் தம்
கொழுந்தே என்னும்
இச் சவை தவிர யான் போய்
இந்திர லோகம் ஆளும்
அச் சுவை பெறினும் வேண்டேன்
அரங்க மா நகருளானே
Thondaradipodi Azhvaar in this Thirumaalai verse says that he would not even accept the opportunity of ruling Indra's kingdom if that meant being denied the happiness of praising the Lord of Srirangam. He says further, that even if the Lord himself gave it to him, he would refuse it for there is nothing more joyful than being present in Srirangam and singing praise of the Lord of Arangam-Nagar!!!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Thirumalai Vaiyavoor Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal
Hanuman stayed here with the Sanjeevi mountain
Located about 75kms South of Madras off Padalam on the GST Highway is the Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal temple in Thirumalai Vaiyavoor. One has to climb 500steps to reach the temple. There is also a road that takes one directly to the temple.
The Story
Hanuman while carrying the Sanjeevi hill is believed to have stayed here. Without placing the hill on the ground, he transferred mountain from his right hand to left. Hence this place is referred to as ‘Vaiyaa’ ‘Oor’.
Lord Srinivasa is seen in a standing posture with Adisesha atop him. After defeating Asura Hiranya, Lord Vishnu in his Varaha Avatar asked Garuda to bring from Vaikuntam a mountain where he could play and enjoy himself. Garuda went all the way to Vaikuntam and while on his way back, a piece fell on the banks of Paali river. Garuda placed the mountain on the banks of Swarnmukhi river. It is here that Garuda had Vishwaroopa darshan of the Lord.
Construction
King Thondaiman is said to have built the temple as a thanking gesture to the Lord, who helped him win his battle. 500years ago, Vijayanagar kind Thodarmal contributed to renovations at the temple and initiated festivals at this temple.
Ramanuja’s stay
Prior to his Pancha Samskaram at Eri Kaatha Rama temple at Madurantakam, Ramanuja is believed to have stayed here in a Yogic Posture before making the trip south wards to Madurantakam.
Quick Facts
Moolavar: Prasanna Venkatesan East Facing standing posture
Thaayar: Alarmel Mangai
Temple Time: 8am-12noon and 4pm-7pm
Priest: Devaraja Bhattar@ 94432 39005
Festivals
Puratasi and Chitrai Brahmotsavam
Sravana Theerthavari
Thai Utsavam
How to reach
One can take the Chennai-Tindivanam/Villupuram express bus and get down at Padalam. Share autos /Autos from Padalam to this temple
There are direct buses from Chengalpet.
Located about 75kms South of Madras off Padalam on the GST Highway is the Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal temple in Thirumalai Vaiyavoor. One has to climb 500steps to reach the temple. There is also a road that takes one directly to the temple.
The Story
Hanuman while carrying the Sanjeevi hill is believed to have stayed here. Without placing the hill on the ground, he transferred mountain from his right hand to left. Hence this place is referred to as ‘Vaiyaa’ ‘Oor’.
Lord Srinivasa is seen in a standing posture with Adisesha atop him. After defeating Asura Hiranya, Lord Vishnu in his Varaha Avatar asked Garuda to bring from Vaikuntam a mountain where he could play and enjoy himself. Garuda went all the way to Vaikuntam and while on his way back, a piece fell on the banks of Paali river. Garuda placed the mountain on the banks of Swarnmukhi river. It is here that Garuda had Vishwaroopa darshan of the Lord.
Construction
King Thondaiman is said to have built the temple as a thanking gesture to the Lord, who helped him win his battle. 500years ago, Vijayanagar kind Thodarmal contributed to renovations at the temple and initiated festivals at this temple.
Ramanuja’s stay
Prior to his Pancha Samskaram at Eri Kaatha Rama temple at Madurantakam, Ramanuja is believed to have stayed here in a Yogic Posture before making the trip south wards to Madurantakam.
Quick Facts
Moolavar: Prasanna Venkatesan East Facing standing posture
Thaayar: Alarmel Mangai
Temple Time: 8am-12noon and 4pm-7pm
Priest: Devaraja Bhattar@ 94432 39005
Festivals
Puratasi and Chitrai Brahmotsavam
Sravana Theerthavari
Thai Utsavam
How to reach
One can take the Chennai-Tindivanam/Villupuram express bus and get down at Padalam. Share autos /Autos from Padalam to this temple
There are direct buses from Chengalpet.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thirumangai Vedu Pari December 2010
How a king turned minstrel
The story of Thirumangai Mannan is enacted at the Srirangam temple
The last of the Azhwars - Thirumangai Azhwar - made a significant contribution, visiting and singing the praise of Lord Vishnu in over 85 temples (Divya Desams). While all other Azhwars got things done by showing love and devotion to the Lord, Thirumangai Azhwar alone was different. The only Azhwar with a spear in his hand, he was aggressive, so much so that even the Lord had to humour him to make him sing His praise - a couple of cases in point being Tiru Indalur and Tiru Ninravur Divya Desams.
Initiated into Vaishnavism
Born in Tiru Kuraiyulur, 2 km from Tiruvali-Tirunagari near Sirkazhi, Thirumangai Mannan (king), who belonged to the Kallar Community, fell in love with the beautiful Kumudavalli of Annan Koil (another Divya Desam near Sirkazhi). To get Thirumangai Mannan initiated into Vaishnavism and devoted to Lord Vishnu, Kumudavalli laid down tough ‘wedding' conditions, one of which was to feed 1,008 Vaishnavites every day. Tirumangai Mannan, in this attempt, lost a lot of his wealth. But determined to fulfil her conditions, he turned a thief and resorted to ‘stealing.'
One night, Thirumangai saw a newly married couple, decked with jewellery, coming his way. It was Lord Ranganatha of Tirunagari taking along with him Amruthavalli Thayar of Tiruvali. In that darkness, in Vedarajapuram (the village between Tiruvali and Tirunagari), Tirumangai waylaid the couple threatening them with his spear.
Having relieved the two of their jewellery, Thirumangai put the booty in a bag but found it too heavy to even lift it from the ground. Lord Ranganatha revealed himself and initiated the bandit king into the ‘Ashtakshara Mantra.' The divine couple appeared in their wedding splendour, a sight that moved the reformed ruler, who became Thirumangai Azhwar.
Thirumangai Azhwar wanted Margazhi Festival to be a Tamil Divya Prabhandam festival as against just the Vedic recital that existed before his time. The 10-day ‘Era Pathu' festival called ‘Thiruvoimozhi Thirunaal' was specially created for the Lord to listen to the beautiful compositions of Nammazhwar.
At the Ranganatha temple in Srirangam, the story of ‘Vedu Pari' is enacted every year as part of the eighth day celebrations of the Era Pathu festival.
The episode took place last week. Namperumal seated atop a golden horse was brought to the sand expanse on the eastern side of the temple.
The deity held in his right hand a sword, javelin and arrows while his left hand held the reins. A speciality was the performance of Kona Vaiyali (zig-zag fast-paced movement).
The gathering was also treated to an enactment of Vedu Pari as young members of the Kallar community armed with long sticks surrounded the deity. Thirumangai, who earlier in the evening walked in as the king (Mannan) with a bow and arrow in hand, was seen in a completely different form at the end of the Vedu Pari, dressed as Azhwar, one who had just received the initiation of the Ashtakshara Mantra.
The drama was followed by a ceremony, where the list of the Lord's jewels was read out.
Rare kind
The events of this annual Vedu Pari Utsavam came to an end with Veena Ekantham, a unique and the only one of its kind veena presentation. Srirangam is the only Divya Desam where this Yaazh Isai tradition of waking up the Lord and putting him to sleep is followed.
Namperumal listened in peace for almost an hour from 1 a.m. to the sweet tunes of the four-member Sathya Kootam Veena Vidwans (Srinivasan, Ramanujam, Govindan and Gopalakrishnan) and their presentation of Thirumangai Azhwar's paasurams.
Their final song on the Vedu Pari night – ‘Eth Sariga Sathanambu Ekantha Ranga' (Vijaya Ranga Sokka Nathar's composition) put Namperumal to sleep after a long and tiring evening with the Lord entering his sanctum at around 2 a.m.
It was Ramanuja, who wanted the veena recital to be an integral part of the daily routine at the Srirangam temple and gave it the most sacred role - that of both waking up the Lord as well as putting him to sleep.
Ramanuja assigned ‘Sathya Kootam,' a clan that belonged to a village near Srirangam for the Yaazh Isai performance. Thus began a tradition at the Ranganatha temple in Srirangam.
This has come to be included in the Limca book of records and the now 76-year old former National College (Tiruchi) Vice-Principal, Veena G. Rangarajan is noted as the 45th descendent of this tradition.
Vedu Pari Highlights
* 8th day of Thiruvoimozhi Thirunal celebrated as Vedu Pari.
* 900-year old ‘Veena Ekantham' tradition.
* Only occasion of Kona Vaiyali inside the temple.
During the 10-day Era Pathu festival, the artists present Yaazh Isai for about an hour every evening. Interestingly, while the daily morning and evening recitals are solo performances with the artist seated, Veena Ekantham during the Era Pathu Thiruvoimozhi festival is presented with the artists standing, the veena tied to their shoulder. In all, they present around 250 paasurams during this Tamil Prabandham festival. In addition, they also present kritis of other composers, including Tyagaraja and Dikshitar.
The tunes are elegant and simple in its presentation and in a conversational style. It takes ten years for an artist to attain proficiency. First, they master the repertoire vocally; then learn to play the veena and finally present the hymns on the instrument.
Different ragas
Every morning at around 5.15, the veena vidwans present for about 30 minutes Thondaradipodi Azhwar's 10 beautiful verses called Thiruppalli Yezhuchi to awaken Lord Ranganatha. The 10 verses of Thondaradipodi are set in five different ragas, one for every two verses - Bhoopalam, Bilahari, Dhanyasi, Malaya Marutham and Saveri.
In the evening for about 20 minutes, from 10 p.m., the team presents Kulasekara Azhwar's Paasurams to put the Lord to sleep. The ragas are Neelambari, Ananda Bhairavi, Sahana, Revati and the recital ends with Neelambari.
They present this daily veena recital for 262 days (there are no recitals on some special festival days) in a year. They also present the recital on another 29 festival days. They were paid Rs. 2.48 a month for their divine service! It is heard that even this miniscule payment has been stopped.
This Story featured in The Hindu Friday Features today ( 31st December 2010)
The story of Thirumangai Mannan is enacted at the Srirangam temple
The last of the Azhwars - Thirumangai Azhwar - made a significant contribution, visiting and singing the praise of Lord Vishnu in over 85 temples (Divya Desams). While all other Azhwars got things done by showing love and devotion to the Lord, Thirumangai Azhwar alone was different. The only Azhwar with a spear in his hand, he was aggressive, so much so that even the Lord had to humour him to make him sing His praise - a couple of cases in point being Tiru Indalur and Tiru Ninravur Divya Desams.
Initiated into Vaishnavism
Born in Tiru Kuraiyulur, 2 km from Tiruvali-Tirunagari near Sirkazhi, Thirumangai Mannan (king), who belonged to the Kallar Community, fell in love with the beautiful Kumudavalli of Annan Koil (another Divya Desam near Sirkazhi). To get Thirumangai Mannan initiated into Vaishnavism and devoted to Lord Vishnu, Kumudavalli laid down tough ‘wedding' conditions, one of which was to feed 1,008 Vaishnavites every day. Tirumangai Mannan, in this attempt, lost a lot of his wealth. But determined to fulfil her conditions, he turned a thief and resorted to ‘stealing.'
One night, Thirumangai saw a newly married couple, decked with jewellery, coming his way. It was Lord Ranganatha of Tirunagari taking along with him Amruthavalli Thayar of Tiruvali. In that darkness, in Vedarajapuram (the village between Tiruvali and Tirunagari), Tirumangai waylaid the couple threatening them with his spear.
Having relieved the two of their jewellery, Thirumangai put the booty in a bag but found it too heavy to even lift it from the ground. Lord Ranganatha revealed himself and initiated the bandit king into the ‘Ashtakshara Mantra.' The divine couple appeared in their wedding splendour, a sight that moved the reformed ruler, who became Thirumangai Azhwar.
Thirumangai Azhwar wanted Margazhi Festival to be a Tamil Divya Prabhandam festival as against just the Vedic recital that existed before his time. The 10-day ‘Era Pathu' festival called ‘Thiruvoimozhi Thirunaal' was specially created for the Lord to listen to the beautiful compositions of Nammazhwar.
At the Ranganatha temple in Srirangam, the story of ‘Vedu Pari' is enacted every year as part of the eighth day celebrations of the Era Pathu festival.
The episode took place last week. Namperumal seated atop a golden horse was brought to the sand expanse on the eastern side of the temple.
The deity held in his right hand a sword, javelin and arrows while his left hand held the reins. A speciality was the performance of Kona Vaiyali (zig-zag fast-paced movement).
The gathering was also treated to an enactment of Vedu Pari as young members of the Kallar community armed with long sticks surrounded the deity. Thirumangai, who earlier in the evening walked in as the king (Mannan) with a bow and arrow in hand, was seen in a completely different form at the end of the Vedu Pari, dressed as Azhwar, one who had just received the initiation of the Ashtakshara Mantra.
The drama was followed by a ceremony, where the list of the Lord's jewels was read out.
Rare kind
The events of this annual Vedu Pari Utsavam came to an end with Veena Ekantham, a unique and the only one of its kind veena presentation. Srirangam is the only Divya Desam where this Yaazh Isai tradition of waking up the Lord and putting him to sleep is followed.
Namperumal listened in peace for almost an hour from 1 a.m. to the sweet tunes of the four-member Sathya Kootam Veena Vidwans (Srinivasan, Ramanujam, Govindan and Gopalakrishnan) and their presentation of Thirumangai Azhwar's paasurams.
Their final song on the Vedu Pari night – ‘Eth Sariga Sathanambu Ekantha Ranga' (Vijaya Ranga Sokka Nathar's composition) put Namperumal to sleep after a long and tiring evening with the Lord entering his sanctum at around 2 a.m.
It was Ramanuja, who wanted the veena recital to be an integral part of the daily routine at the Srirangam temple and gave it the most sacred role - that of both waking up the Lord as well as putting him to sleep.
Ramanuja assigned ‘Sathya Kootam,' a clan that belonged to a village near Srirangam for the Yaazh Isai performance. Thus began a tradition at the Ranganatha temple in Srirangam.
This has come to be included in the Limca book of records and the now 76-year old former National College (Tiruchi) Vice-Principal, Veena G. Rangarajan is noted as the 45th descendent of this tradition.
Vedu Pari Highlights
* 8th day of Thiruvoimozhi Thirunal celebrated as Vedu Pari.
* 900-year old ‘Veena Ekantham' tradition.
* Only occasion of Kona Vaiyali inside the temple.
During the 10-day Era Pathu festival, the artists present Yaazh Isai for about an hour every evening. Interestingly, while the daily morning and evening recitals are solo performances with the artist seated, Veena Ekantham during the Era Pathu Thiruvoimozhi festival is presented with the artists standing, the veena tied to their shoulder. In all, they present around 250 paasurams during this Tamil Prabandham festival. In addition, they also present kritis of other composers, including Tyagaraja and Dikshitar.
The tunes are elegant and simple in its presentation and in a conversational style. It takes ten years for an artist to attain proficiency. First, they master the repertoire vocally; then learn to play the veena and finally present the hymns on the instrument.
Different ragas
Every morning at around 5.15, the veena vidwans present for about 30 minutes Thondaradipodi Azhwar's 10 beautiful verses called Thiruppalli Yezhuchi to awaken Lord Ranganatha. The 10 verses of Thondaradipodi are set in five different ragas, one for every two verses - Bhoopalam, Bilahari, Dhanyasi, Malaya Marutham and Saveri.
In the evening for about 20 minutes, from 10 p.m., the team presents Kulasekara Azhwar's Paasurams to put the Lord to sleep. The ragas are Neelambari, Ananda Bhairavi, Sahana, Revati and the recital ends with Neelambari.
They present this daily veena recital for 262 days (there are no recitals on some special festival days) in a year. They also present the recital on another 29 festival days. They were paid Rs. 2.48 a month for their divine service! It is heard that even this miniscule payment has been stopped.
This Story featured in The Hindu Friday Features today ( 31st December 2010)
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Periya Thirumozhi Thiru Venkatam Pasuram
Forgive the sins of my Youth
தெரியேன் பாலகனாய், பல தீமைகள் செய்துமிட்டேன்
பெரியேன் ஆயினபின் பிறர்க்கே உழைத்து ஏழை ஆனேன்
கரி சேர் பூம் பொழில் சூழ் கன மா மலை வேங்கடவா
அரியே, வந்து அடைந்தேன் அடியேனை ஆட்கொண்டருளே
Similar to his first Periya Thirumozhi verse, Thirumangai here laments the
sinful and wicked things he did as a young lad.
He says, as he grew up, he worked for others and became poor.
Finally, having experienced the good and bad in life, he says,
he has come here to Thiru Venkatam, where the Lord is surrounded by elephants and groves, to offer himself in complete service of the Lord.
He wonders if the Lord will accept his service!!!
தெரியேன் பாலகனாய், பல தீமைகள் செய்துமிட்டேன்
பெரியேன் ஆயினபின் பிறர்க்கே உழைத்து ஏழை ஆனேன்
கரி சேர் பூம் பொழில் சூழ் கன மா மலை வேங்கடவா
அரியே, வந்து அடைந்தேன் அடியேனை ஆட்கொண்டருளே
Similar to his first Periya Thirumozhi verse, Thirumangai here laments the
sinful and wicked things he did as a young lad.
He says, as he grew up, he worked for others and became poor.
Finally, having experienced the good and bad in life, he says,
he has come here to Thiru Venkatam, where the Lord is surrounded by elephants and groves, to offer himself in complete service of the Lord.
He wonders if the Lord will accept his service!!!
Friday, December 10, 2010
Sirupuliyur Divya Desam
The Bird versus the Serpent
Baala Sayana posture of Lord Kripasamudran is a special feature at the divya desam
Renovation is under way at the Sirupuliyur Kripasamudra Perumal temple, a divya desam, whose legend dates back to Garuda Puranam, where one finds reference to the battle of words between Adisesha and Garuda, the Lord's vehicle, as to who played a more important role in their service to Lord Vishnu.
Seeking a solution to their argument, the two arrived at Sirupuliyur and finally looked up to the Lord himself for his opinion. Finding Garuda a little arrogant in his argument, Lord Vishnu, who appeared as Kripasamudran, went in favour of Adisesha. Fearing an angry reaction from the bird, Adisesha looked for protection and was asked by Lord Kripasamudran to coil himself and lie under him. Unhappy with the decision going against him, it is believed that Garuda decided not to fly over this place. Another story goes that the aged Rishi Vyaakrapadha undertook penance at Chidambaram invoking the blessings of Lord Nataraja for attaining moksham. The rishi was directed to go westwards to Srirangam as Lord Ranganatha was the one equipped with the power to grant Moksham.
Owing to his poor eye sight, the rishi lost his way, went southward and reached Kripa Samudiram. Unable to walk any further, he sat in penance at Sirupuliyur. The Lord appeared in his full sayana posture like the one in Srirangam. Since the sage was not able to take in the big form with his feeble eye sight, He appeared in the form of a child - Baala Sayana.
Azhwar surprised
When Thiru Mangai Azhwar visited this place, initially he felt let down by the tiny size of the Lord. Thirumangai, who had seen different displays and different forms of Lord Vishnu, was then impressed upon by Kripasamudra Perumal that this was indeed something very special and that he should savour for the moment. Then he could come to Thiru Kannamangai (Divya Desam about 25 km south-west of Sirupuliyur) for a darshan of his full form in a standing posture. A happy Thirumangai showered 10 verses of praise on Kripasamudra Perumal in his Periya Thirumozhi referring to the Lord as Sala Sayana Perumal and also making a specific reference to Adisesha.
Prarthana sthalam
As this was the place where Kripasamudra Perumal accorded a special status to Adisesha by placing him above Garuda, this temple is of special significance for relief from Naaga Dosha and Kaala Sarpa Dosha. This is the only divya desam where there is a separate temple for Adisesha.
In addition to the overall renovation including the 75-feet five-tier Raja Gopuram and reconstruction of mandapas, the temple is also looking to build a new Hamsa and Simha Vaahana as well a new chariot. Those interested in contributing to this cause can contact: 99946 48980/ 04366 233477/04144 220425
Quick facts...
Moolavar: Kripasamudra Perumal in a south-facing Bhujanga Sayana posture
Thaayar: Thirumaa Magal Nachiyar
Temple Time: 7 a.m.-12 noon and 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
Important festivals: 10-day Brahmotsavam in Vaikasi and 3-day Avataara Utsavam in Maasi.
How to reach the temple
Sirupuliyur is about 15 km south of Mayiladuturai near Kollumangudi off the Mayavaram-Tiruvarur Highway. One can get down at Kollumangudi and take an auto (Rs. 30) to reach this Divya Desam.
The above story featured in The Hindu Friday Features on 10th December 2010
http://www.hindu.com/fr/2010/12/10/stories/2010121050580300.htm
Baala Sayana posture of Lord Kripasamudran is a special feature at the divya desam
Renovation is under way at the Sirupuliyur Kripasamudra Perumal temple, a divya desam, whose legend dates back to Garuda Puranam, where one finds reference to the battle of words between Adisesha and Garuda, the Lord's vehicle, as to who played a more important role in their service to Lord Vishnu.
Seeking a solution to their argument, the two arrived at Sirupuliyur and finally looked up to the Lord himself for his opinion. Finding Garuda a little arrogant in his argument, Lord Vishnu, who appeared as Kripasamudran, went in favour of Adisesha. Fearing an angry reaction from the bird, Adisesha looked for protection and was asked by Lord Kripasamudran to coil himself and lie under him. Unhappy with the decision going against him, it is believed that Garuda decided not to fly over this place. Another story goes that the aged Rishi Vyaakrapadha undertook penance at Chidambaram invoking the blessings of Lord Nataraja for attaining moksham. The rishi was directed to go westwards to Srirangam as Lord Ranganatha was the one equipped with the power to grant Moksham.
Owing to his poor eye sight, the rishi lost his way, went southward and reached Kripa Samudiram. Unable to walk any further, he sat in penance at Sirupuliyur. The Lord appeared in his full sayana posture like the one in Srirangam. Since the sage was not able to take in the big form with his feeble eye sight, He appeared in the form of a child - Baala Sayana.
Azhwar surprised
When Thiru Mangai Azhwar visited this place, initially he felt let down by the tiny size of the Lord. Thirumangai, who had seen different displays and different forms of Lord Vishnu, was then impressed upon by Kripasamudra Perumal that this was indeed something very special and that he should savour for the moment. Then he could come to Thiru Kannamangai (Divya Desam about 25 km south-west of Sirupuliyur) for a darshan of his full form in a standing posture. A happy Thirumangai showered 10 verses of praise on Kripasamudra Perumal in his Periya Thirumozhi referring to the Lord as Sala Sayana Perumal and also making a specific reference to Adisesha.
Prarthana sthalam
As this was the place where Kripasamudra Perumal accorded a special status to Adisesha by placing him above Garuda, this temple is of special significance for relief from Naaga Dosha and Kaala Sarpa Dosha. This is the only divya desam where there is a separate temple for Adisesha.
In addition to the overall renovation including the 75-feet five-tier Raja Gopuram and reconstruction of mandapas, the temple is also looking to build a new Hamsa and Simha Vaahana as well a new chariot. Those interested in contributing to this cause can contact: 99946 48980/ 04366 233477/04144 220425
Quick facts...
Moolavar: Kripasamudra Perumal in a south-facing Bhujanga Sayana posture
Thaayar: Thirumaa Magal Nachiyar
Temple Time: 7 a.m.-12 noon and 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
Important festivals: 10-day Brahmotsavam in Vaikasi and 3-day Avataara Utsavam in Maasi.
How to reach the temple
Sirupuliyur is about 15 km south of Mayiladuturai near Kollumangudi off the Mayavaram-Tiruvarur Highway. One can get down at Kollumangudi and take an auto (Rs. 30) to reach this Divya Desam.
The above story featured in The Hindu Friday Features on 10th December 2010
http://www.hindu.com/fr/2010/12/10/stories/2010121050580300.htm
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)