Araiyar Sevai

It looks like the renowned Araiyar Sevai, a visual song and dance enactment of the ‘Paasurams’(4000 Divya Prabandham verses) that has been performed at Divya Desams for over 1000 years, is seeing a slow death. A ritual which was once performed at all the Divya Desams today exists in only three temples in Tamil Nadu- Srirangam, Srivilliputhur and Alwar Thirunagari (near Tirunelveli).

Origins of Araiyar Sevai

The famed Araiyar Sevai is said to have originated from Thirukkurungkudi, the Divya Desam about 40kms from Tirunelveli. Legend has it that the Lord used to listen to Araiyar’s Abhinayam hiding behind a wall in Bashyam Street (South Mada St). In recognition of this significant event, even today, one can see the name of this street in Tirunelveli’s Gazette.

Who are the Araiyars

Araiyars (King of Music) are descendents of Nathamunigal, who is believed to have introduced the Araiyar Sevai. It is believed that Lord Ranganatha himself gave the Araiyars the right to perform the unique musical chanting at the temples and presented them with the cone-like red cap, two cymbals, the sacred garland (which they wear around their neck when they perform).

Araiyars have been bestowed the special right to start as well as end the Paasurams in Vaishnavite temples through their special song and dance sequence.

The Araiyars first recite the Paasuram, then explain its inner meaning and finally perform the Abhinayam, a unique art/dance performance with their hands and legs explaining the Paasurams with special musical effect.

The Araiyar Sevai (Vyakyaanam) requires a deep knowledge and understanding of the Paasurams and its inner meaning. It is not an easy art, as can be seen from the fact that it takes one nearly 20 years to learn and perfect the Abhinayam.

Araiyar Sevai during Margazhi

One of the ‘Araiyar Sevai’ occasions that is of particular significance is during Vaikunta Ekadesi (the winter month of Margazhi)- The Paghal Pathu (10 days) and the Era Pathu(10 days)- when one is treated to a real spectacle with the Araiyars enacting the ‘Story of Andal’ growing into a young beautiful girl through the Abhinayam.

Will Araiyar Sevai become a thing of the past?

Of real worry,though, is the fact that only a handful of Araiyars are keeping this most difficult art going. Their plight, especially the Araiyars at Srivilliputhur, is difficult to digest. With no salaries, the Araiyars there are finding the going tough, making it difficult for them to even provide basic education to their children.

(In the last couple of years, a corporate chieftain in Chennai has been helping out the education of one of the kids of the Araiyar.The kid has secured top rank in the first two years of the college education).

Says Bala Mukunda Araiyar of Srivilliputhur, who is one of the few Araiyars still practicing this difficult art, “It has been a great honour for the Araiyars to be performing the ‘Abhinaya’. I learnt from my father for over 18 years and have tried my best to keep it going and pass on my knowledge to the next generation. I have also managed to do the Arangetram of my son. However, It will be a pity if this 1000 year old art dies because of lack of support.”

Awards have been bestowed on artists in various fields but the Araiyars have sadly been left out of this, despite delighting devotees with their unique recital of the Divya Prabhandam. One feels it is time that they were given the recognition that has been due to them for years.

Call for Help

One of the popular depiction of the Paasurams - the art of enacting the Divya Prabandham- could be lost to the world, at least in Srivilliputhur, if immediate action is not taken. While music and dance artistes have been recognized through various art associations, even the basic financial needs of these artistes (the Araiyars), who have put their heart and soul in this devotional performance, have been ignored.

Despite delighting the devotees with their beautiful performance, the Araiyars of Srivilliputhur are living in financial ruins and in a house that could collapse anytime.

It is time one looks at a face lift to the art and also a source of income to the Araiyars that would help them keep this unique art going for future generations to enjoy.

Only time will tell if the devotees, charitable institutions, private companies as well as the Government will come together in reviving the Araiyar Sevai across the Divya Desams. It is something too precious to lose and one hopes that it is not yet late to bring the Araiyars back to their glory days. Otherwise Divya Prabhandhams and Thiru Pallandu recitals in this unique art form will be a thing of the past, soon.

The Araiyars at Srivilliputhur can be reached on 94438 67345.

Postal Address:
Bala Mukunda Araiyar
35 Periya Perumal West Mada Street
Srivilliputhur 626 125(TN, India)

Ashes 1978-79- My earliest memories of an Ashes Series

Ashes 1978-79- A closely fought series but a heavy defeat for Australia
1978-79 was the first Ashes series after the Packer defection. England, captained by Mike Brearley, had in its ranks Gooch, Gower, Randall (in their early years of Test Cricket and eager to make a mark for themselves). Boycott was the one established star in their batting. On the bowling front, England had Willis, Old and Hendrick supported by the two offies, Geoff Miller and John Emburey(recently in the news for the India coach post). Ian Botham was the only all rounder in either team.

Stop Gap Captain
Australian cricket was in turmoil…They had recalled Bob Simpson the previous year for the series against India to take on the Indian Spinners. And he had made a significant contribution. But now it was almost a completely unknown set of players. Later that season, Indians were to have a taste of several of these players on home turf but for now these were completely fresh faces…except for Graham Yallop(even he was under 10 tests old), who like Alvin Kallicharan (WI), was the ‘scape goat’ (stop gap) captain.

There were several players in both teams who had the potential to scale to greater heights but only a few did… Gower, Botham and Willis played significant role in England’s success in the early-mid 1980s. Gooch, Boycott and Emburey went on the rebel tour to South Africa in 1981…and were banned for 3 years…Gooch came back strongly in the late 80s and early 90s including captaining England. English fielding had been raised greatly with the emergence of Gower(he remained a fielder to watch till a weakened shoulder prevented him from throwing in his later days) and Randall.

Phenomenal Debut series for Hogg
The Australian story was a lot more sad. Only Allan Border from this set of players rose from the ‘Ashes’.

Rodney Hogg burst on to the international scene with 41 wickets in his debut series. No bowler had had such a phenomenal debut series. But unfortunately he had to take a back seat with the return of Thommo / Lillee. While he played on till 1985, he never was the same force again.

While Graeme Wood played on till 1985 and while he did make a reasonable contribution in terms of run scoring, he, to many,is remembered for something unusual- ‘The run out’ king - it was this series which started it all.

The elegant Kim Hughes, regarded as a terrific stroke player, was a star performer in the early 80s but had one of the most tearful exits(in the mid 80s) Aussie cricket has ever known. (Like Border, Hughes too scored heavily in India when they toured here end of 1979)

Graham Yallop, who had been thrown into the captaincy, courtesy absence of the star players, was by far Australia’s best batsman in 1978-79. With the return of WSC stars and the emergence of Border and Hughes in the middle order, Yallop faded away, without really making a big mark for himself.

AB’s Debut series
Allan Border was the biggest beneficiary of the Packer defection. This series was a blessing in disguise for him. After a good debut series against England here, he had an excellent series in India in late 1979 scoring over 500 runs including a first test century in Madras and established himself as a permanent member of the middle order even after the return of the Packer players(Chappel, Hookes, Walters).

Captaincy makes a difference
Coming back to this series, in 5 out of the 6 tests, Yallop won the toss. And he had the opportunities, as a captain, in almost every test to capitalize and keep his side in the race…

In the first test at Brisbane, Yallop won the toss and on a green Gabba wicket elected to bat, slumped to 6/26 and never recovered to be bowled out for 160 on Day 1(Had he put England in, the scores may have been reversed).

He corrected himself in the 2nd test by putting England in on the WACA pitch. Hogg rocked the Englishmen with two early wickets and England was on the ropes at 3/40 but were allowed to recover to 300 plus.

Hogg’s 10 wicket haul at the MCG helped pull one back and raised Aussie hopes. A young and inexperienced non packer side had fought well with all its limitations. And this continued into the 4th and 5th tests.

In the fourth test, after bundling out England for 150 on day 1, Australia took a crucial 100 run 1st innings lead that could have been the foundation for squaring the series 2-2. Randall’s magnificent century helped England recover and then the spin twins, Miller and a young Emburey bundled out the Aussies in the 2nd innings.

Aussies still did not lose heart. But the 5th test was possibly the most tragic for them. For yet another time in the series, Yallop put England in and once again his quickies ran through the top order bowling them out for 160 on day 1. Yallop’s inexperience showed on the 3rd afternoon and 4th morning. His poor handling of trumpcard Jim Higgs, the leggie, in the 2nd innings on a turning track allowed England to recover from 6/130 to 360. Another captain and England may have been bundled out for under 200.

Throughout the series, Rodney Hogg helped Australia stay in contention with outstanding piece of fast bowling.

In almost every test, Australia had a chance and the 5-1 scoreline was not a true reflection of the closely fought test matches. Had Mike Brearley been captaining Australia, the result may have completely different.

For an Ashes battle, the 6 test matches series was played in front of almost empty stands.

Old Cricket memories- My Favourite Tamil Nadu XI of the last 3decades

1. V. Sivaramakrishnan-the most consistent opener for TN and a brilliant close in fielder, who paid special attention to fitness.

2. K. Srikkanth- beat VB through the sheer excitement and tension he gave the spectators. He was also a people’s cricketer and hence had several die hard fans through the 1980s, while VB always seemed to take the other extreme(serious, tough). While the favourite XI is pure performance based, the choice of Srikkanth also has the fans in mind
( while he may have lasted only half an hour on many occasions, the happiness he gave fans during that short period was immense) and hence he scores over VB.

3. WV Raman- A beautiful spin talent of the 1980s like LS, turned into a top order bat and made runs big time for TN for a decade and over. Cannot over look him for the sheer number of runs he scored and the way he contributed to the top order

4. S. Sharath-For the sheer durability and fighting it out time and time again, a 100 times for TN, he finds a place in the XI. For a long while, he seemed to be in the shadow of others…first Robin and WV in the early 1990s, then Sriram, S.Ramesh and Badani. But like Raman, he finds himself a place with the weight of runs scored over a long period of time. And he was always a team man.

5. Abdul Jabbar- The grittiest middle order bat TN has seen. He saved the day for his side many a time. And took some wonderful catches fielding close in. Never really came close enough for National duties but his contribution to TN cricket has been invaluable.( No talk of TN cricket of late 1970s/80s can be concluded without a discussion on V. Shiv and Jabbar losing out on bigger laurels. Hats off to these two men who fought out many a battle for TN. It still seems that TN cricketers are given a raw deal at the national level)

6. Robin Singh- An automatic choice in the XI. He brought freshness into the team and should have changed the face of TN cricket and taken it to greater heights but unfortunately didn’t. TN laid low through the 1990s winning very little on the national scene. However, he should rank as the most aggressive TN cricketer of the last 3 decades- close in and out fielding, running between the wickets, determination when he batted. For all his branding as a one day cricketer, his record in Ranji and Duleep Trophy prove that he was ideally suited for the longer version of the game. Very few took note of the fact that Robin’s best innings’ were always in the longer version of the game

7. Bharat Reddy- TN has lacked good wicket keepers in recent times and Bharat Reddy sees off easily, competition from D. Girish, Babulnath and M. Sanjay, the only other names in consideration

8. S. Vasudevan- This possibly was the most toughest of the decisions along with the 2nd opener slot. Venkatramana and LS donned national colours. Venkatramana had a beautiful action and could turn the ball square and was instrumental in many a win for TN and was a very useful lower order bat. LS was potentially the most talented TN spinner. But for all his potential, LS made very limited impact even on the local scene. Vasu had formed a potent left-right combination with Venkat in the late 70’s, early 80s. For a decade, he held the TN spin bowling together (including when Venkat was away on test duty). And hence finds the 2nd spinner’s spot. Also, he was the TN Ranji winning captain in the late 1980s.

9. S. Venkataraghavan- Captain

The first name that comes to mind when one thinks of TN cricket is Venkat. He was the first TN cricketer to break into the national scene in a big way.He was the one broke the shackles of bad treatment to TN cricketers,not through war of words but through sheer determination and performance on the ground. While VV Kumar had been treated badly in the 1960s and did not play much of Test Cricket, it was Venkat who fought out and came back stronger every time- He was the one day captain under whom Gavaskar scored 36 in 60 overs-he still refuses to be drawn into that controversy-, he was the one who was dropped after being captain in the previous test, he also belonged to the period when there were 3 other famous spinners( not counting shivalkar and goel). And yet, he came back into the national team through performances on the field.

Venkat has been the quiet man of TN cricket.He came up the hard way. He also has stories of cycling 15 kms every day in the 70s to keep up this fitness levels. He set high standards for himself. He was one of the best close in fielders TN has had, though Robin and V. Shiv would run him close on that.

His performances in the 1970s were miles ahead of other TN cricketers and it remained so till Srikkanth burst on to the scene in the early 80s. Given this scenario, it was only natural that most others in the TN cricket scene were in awe of him( the first big national cricketer from TN). Many in the TN cricket circles have quietly questioned his 'contribution' and support to TN cricket after his playing days. That discussion will be reserved for another day.

Here it is suffice to say that Venkat played his cricket hard and professionally and is my choice for the Captaincy.

10. T.A Sekhar- The quickest fast bowler TN has produced, tall and lanky, he was a big fast bowling hope for TN cricket. Alas, the Indian slip cordon (and may be politics) let him down. And he never made it big on the national fast bowling scene

11. B. Kalyanasundaram- For the sheer energy and effort he put into fast bowling at a time when TN was not known for ‘FAST’ bowling. He beats Bharat Kumar and B. Arun to the final bowling spot

Those that missed out

VB Chandrasekhar- He has possibly been the most influential cricketer in TN in the last 15 years or so. And was also arguably a better opener and captain than Srikkanth. I first tracked him in the early-mid 80s during his CIT days. His century in the Irani trophy match (against Gopal Sharma and co) that won the match for TN will remain etched in everyone’s memory for ever. However, for sheer excitement and tension value(not necessarily the number of runs), one would have to include Srikkanth, though he did not play that many matches for TN because of his international duties. While VB has been possibly the best TN captain and the most influential player in recent times, Srikkanth scores over him for ‘early excitement’ and the freshness he introduced to opening batting in early 80s. It must be clarified that VB was no less brutal in his attack of opposition quickies.

His arrogance may have let him down on many occasions. Once while playing for Chemplast in a YSCA Trophy match at the RKM ground in T. Nagar ( this was a very popular summer tourney and that evening there was crowd in excess of 1000 watching, VB made a remark to the crowd watching the match from the road on the Eastern side that stands etched in memory for the wrong reason ' Only Vettis come and watch cricket. You are jobless and have nothing else to do. That is why you are here watching this match'.

(VB had just returned from NZ after failing in the one dayers earlier that season. It was a pretty damning statement from an international player)

** While on the topic of openers, I must make a mention of VV Sankupani, a cheeka replica in local cricket. He never made it to the top grade.

CS Suresh Kumar- For a while in the 1980s( when Srikkanth was away) the left-right combo of V. Shiv and CS formed a most formidable opening pair. However, V. Shiv’s consistency over a decade and his outstanding catching abilities meant that CS had to miss out.

TE Srinivasan- Possibly the most technically correct batsmen of his time in TN, TE could have played several more international matches than he ended up playing.(Like VB later, he was chosen for a very difficult international tour (Australia-NZ) and never again played for India. He loses out to WV Raman in this squad for the sheer number of runs scored by the latter. WV, who began as a bowler, became an all rounder and ended as one of the most prolific scorers for TN at the top of the order in the 1980s-90s. For the number of runs he scored and the way he converted himself into a top order batsman, one could not afford to miss out on WV.

PC Prakash-Solid batsman in the late 1980s. Lent stability to the batting order. Loses out in a strong middle order of WV, Sharath, Jabbar and Robin.

R. Madhavan- My favourite TN players of the early 1980s were the two Madhavans- NP and R. NP played a lot less than he should have for TN but the bearded left hander was a heavy scorer in the 1980s for a couple of seasons and was possibly a little unlucky to lose out on international duty. And for a batsman, quit cricket quite early(late 20s) to pursue his career.

M. Senthilnathan- During his school time in Udumalpet, I had opined that he would play for India. Such was his power and stroke play. At the U19 level, he was seen as a big find. And he was a brilliant fielder. But he disappointed. Like UR Radhakrishnan in the mid 80s, was a good cricketer from the districts.

D. Vasu- Brilliantly committed cricketer loses out to the other Vasu on the spin front and to allrounder Robin on the all rounder spot- Possibly the unluckiest and undeserving loser (of a place) in this XI. He would be the first reserve, should someone drop out. Could have figured as the 2nd fast bowling option(as he started as a fast bowler) but Kalli as an out and out quickie and a No. XI beat him to that.

L. Sivaramakrishnan- Still remember him featuring on the cover of Sportstar ( early 1980s) with a ‘leg spinner’s grip on the red cherry( he was still a school boy then) after having shot to instant fame in 1982. Who can forget his ball to dismiss Javed Miandad in WCC 1985 Finals. But for TN, he flattered to deceive and loses out to Vasu. Leg Spinner would have been nice for the team and he was a good fielder and a solid bat but his overall bowling performance for TN in the 1980s meant he did not find a place. Have heard many interesting stories of why he did not fulfil his potential but that’s for another story.

D. Girish- Could have played a lot more than he ended up playing. Was a good wicketkeeper batsman. Guess injury ended his Ranji career early


B. Arun
K. Bharat Kumar
M. Santosh Kumar
M. Venkatramana

Biggest Disappointment:

No player(debut in the last 15 years or so) except Sharath figures in this list and that shows the downhill TN has been through in recent times.

* VV Kumar did not figure in the time period…else would have obviously figured in the team

Divya Desams around Kumbakonam

11 Divya Desams around Kumbakonam

Saint poets Azhvaars composed verses in Tamil and revitalized the religious spirit sparking off a renewal of devotional worship referred to as the Bhakti movement. The Azhvaars visited temples and sung praises in the name of Vishnu. Such temples have come to be known as Divya Desams. The compilation of the verses (known as Paasurams) is the revered Naalayira Divya Prabandam(4000 in all). There are 108 Divya Desams in all, 40 of these temples are in the Chola region (Trichy-Tanjore-Kumbakonam belt).

You will find that in all these temples, Vishnu is represented in one of three postures – reclining, standing or seated posture. Detailed version on each of these temples features separately in the blog - Link provided below.

                             Route map courtesy: Balaji Hariharan

1. Sarangapani(Thiru Kudanthai) Temple (http://prtraveller.blogspot.in/2007/10/108-divya-desam-thiru-kudanthai.html)

One can start off with the Aravamudhan Sarangapani temple in the heart of Kumbakonam town. This temple has one of the tallest temple towers for a Divya Desam (150ft) after Srirangam, Thiru Kovilur and Srivilliputhur. Also, after Srirangam(11) and Tirupathi(10), this temple has the maximum number of Azhavaars (7 of them here) singing praise of the Lord. Another highlight of the temple is that it is the home to one of the biggest temple chariots in Tamil Nadu. It is at this temple that the Vaishnavite savant Natha Muni got the inspiration to compile the works of the famed 4000 verses of the Azhvaars, after listening to the Tamil hymn 'Aravamudhe' composed by Nammalwar.

One of the mandapams at the Sarangapani temple is believed to have been built in 7th Century AD by the famous Pallava King Mahendra Varma. This temple was later renovated by the famous Vijayanagara King Krishnadevaraya.

The main sanctum has been conceived like a chariot with wheels drawn by horses and elephants and is truly a splendid sight to watch. A visit to this temple, it is believed, will help get rid of one’s past sins, just as a trip to Kasi in the North, would.

The Chitrai Chariot(April-May) procession of the Sarangapani temple is a special occasion at the temple (http://prtraveller.blogspot.in/2017/06/sarangapani-koil-thiru-kudanthai.html)

Contact: Soundararaja Bhattar @ 94863 10896 / Chakravarthy Bhattar @ 94870 31681/Naana Bhattar @ 93641 11312

2. Oppiliappan Temple

http://prtraveller.blogspot.in/2007/11/108-divya-desam-thiru-vinnagar.html

About 6 kms from Kumbakonam off the Kaaraikal road near ThiruNageswaram, it is believed that Lord Srinivasa here has similar powers to that of the Lord at Tirupathi and hence those who are unable to go to Tirupathi visit this temple. The Lord here is considered as the brother of Tirupathi Lord Srinivasa. This is the only Divya Desam where prasadams do not contain salt and hence the name ‘Oppiliappan’(Lord without Salt). Legend has it that any one bringing salt within this temple will go to hell. Some of the inscriptions at this temple date back to the period of Rajendra Chola, the great Chola king.

Local town buses ply between Kumbakonam and Oppilappan Temple.

Contact: Kannan Bhattar @ 94865 68159

3.Nachiyar Temple in Thiru Naraiyur

http://prtraveller.blogspot.in/2007/11/108-divya-desam-naachiyaar-koil-thiru.html

Located about 10kms from Kumbakonam, the Nachiyar temple at Thiru Naraiyur is our next stop. This temple can be reached easily from Oppiliappan temple. Every year in the month of Margazhi, there is a one of its kind procession where Lord Srinivasa is taken out on a stone Garuda mount. The mount is said to grow exponentially in weight as it is carried out of its sanctum. While 4 people are enough to carry him out of his Sannadhi, the mount increases in weight as it comes out of every layer and by the time the Lord is out on to the last layer of the temple, it requires as many as 64 people to carry him. This is an experience not to be missed at this temple.

This is a temple of special significance for Lord Garuda and he is said to be very powerful here. At this divya desam, Naachiyaar (Goddess) gets the place of primary importance, unlike most other divya desams, where the main deity is the Lord. Another feature is that the idols of all the 108 divya desams can be seen here.

(http://prtraveller.blogspot.in/2016/12/nachiyar-koil-divya-desam.html)

Contact: Gopinathan Bhattar @ 94435 97388 / Prasanna Bhattar @ 95007 16900

4.Thirucherai Saranatha Perumal

http://prtraveller.blogspot.in/2007/12/108-divya-desam-thirucherai.html

The Saranathan temple in Thirucherrai is 5 kms away from Nachiyar Temple and is close to Kudaivasal town.

This is the only divya desam where the Lord provides darshan along with five Goddesses(Sridevi, Bhooma Devi, Neela Devi, Maha Lakshmi and SaraNayaki).

Contact: 0435 2468 175/ Venkatesh Bhattar @ 96002 46232/Raman Bhattar @ 94441 04374/0435 2468001

http://prtraveller.blogspot.com/2017/07/thiru-cherai-saranatha-perumal.html

5. Nathan Koil Nandipura Vinnagaram

http://prtraveller.blogspot.in/2008/02/108-divya-desam-nathan-koil-nandipura.html

The Nathan temple in Nandhipura Vinnagaram is about 5kms from Kumbakonam near Korukkai/Pateeswaram. Legend has it that Nandi performed penance here to seek atonement for insulting the Dwarapalakas of Vishnu and hence the name Nandipura Vinnagaram. It is also believed that Pallava King Nandivarma built this place and also created the temple here. An interesting feature is that Vishnu, who originally faced the east, turned westward to look at the spectacle of King Sibi saving a bird. An image of Nandi can be seen on one of the walls.

Lack of Attention from Vaanamaalai Mutt

This is under the administration of Vaanamaalai Mutt but despite the terrific commitment of the Bhattar, who does the daily rituals without fail even when there are no devotees, this is quite a neglected temple- something the Vaanamaalai Mutt must pay immediate attention to. Lack of attention from the Mutt has meant that that this temple, unlike Nanguneri Divya Desam, does not attract too many devotees, even on weekends. And add to this, the poorly paid bhattar, and it makes a very sad scene.

https://prtraveller.blogspot.com/2015/05/divya-desam-named-after-nandi.html

Contact: Prabhakara Bhattachar 98430 95904 / Raman Bhattar95661 07321

6. Pulla Boothangkudi- Jataayu Moksham

http://prtraveller.blogspot.in/2010/04/pullam-bhoothangudi-valvil-rama-divya.html

From Kumbakonam, off Swami Malai, on the Kumbakonam -Thiruvaikaavur road, is Pulla Boothangkudi. This Divya Desam’s legendary tale dates back to the time of Ramayana. The Eagle King, Jatayu, an old friend of King Dasharatha (father of Raama) had fought a valiant battle trying to rescue Sita from Raavana, before the Lankan king cut off its wings. It is believed that parental curse will go away if one visits this place as Raama, who had not performed the last rites for his father, made up by performing his (Jataayu’s) obsequies, thus giving moksham to the Bird. In the Raamayana, this episode is referred to as the death of the 2nd father.

This is the only Divya Desam where Raama is in reclining posture and can be seen with all his ornaments and four hands. Interestingly, Goddess Sita is not seen with the Lord, as this temple relates to the time when Raama is separated from her.

The priest believes that many devotees have got employment after visiting Yoga Narasimhar (a separate sannadhi within the temple), so much so that the devotees have named it the Udyoga Narasimhar. This temple is administered by Ahobila Mutt.

This temple has been beautifully redone and has an air of freshness to it, especially with Gopal Bhattar’s friendly attitude towards devotees and his detailed explanation of the history of the temple.

Contact: Gopalan Bhattachar @ 94435 25365 (http://prtraveller.blogspot.in/2017/05/pullam-bhoothangudi-divya-desam.html)

7.Adhanur Ranganatha Perumal http://prtraveller.blogspot.in/2010/04/athanur-divya-desam.html

This temple is very close to Pulla Bhoothangkudi. Legend has it that Kamadhenu, the sacred cow (she grants all wishes), had undertaken penance here and hence you would find sculptures of Kamadhenu and her daughter Nandini here. It is believed that Lord Anjaneya stayed here for a few days on his way back from Sri Lanka to Ayodhya.

Contact: Seshadri Bhattachar @ 75029 31420/ 0435 2000503 / Mei Kavalar @ 96592 38848

8.Kapisthalam – Gajendra Moksham

http://prtraveller.blogspot.in/2007/05/108-divya-desam-kapisthalam.html

Located about 10kms from Kumbakonam on the Thiruvayaru road, this is the only Divya Desam where Lord Vishnu provides Darshan to two animals- Crocodile and Elephant. Legend has it that Vishnu, on his Garuda Vaahanam (a vehicle of the Lord), rescued Elephant (King) Gajendra from the clutches of the Crocodile(the Asura) on the banks of the river by hurling his Chakra at the Crocodile. This episode is known as Gajendra Moksham and is enacted every year during the month of Panguni (March-April). This is one of the ‘Pancha Krishna Kshetrams’ (5 Krishna Kshetrams).

Temple in Terrible state

This temple is under the administration of AG Lakshmana Moopanar family and is currently in a terrible state, completely neglected. It is a wonder how the Bhattar is managing the day to day affairs, with meager monthly salary. All the devotees who visit this Divya Desam have wondered as to why the Moopanar family is not doing something to renovate the temple, which has a rich history.

Contact: O.S. Seshadri Bhattachar- 04374 223434/95850 85619

9. Koodalur Jagath Rakshagan

http://prtraveller.blogspot.in/2007/05/108-divya-desam-thiru-koodalur.html

5 kms west of Kapisthalam on the road to Thiruvayaru is Thiru Koodalur. It is believed that (River) Cauvery displayed her grief to Lord Jagathrakshagan here that all the impurities were being washed at the river and that she was feeling that the river here was becoming impure and unclean. With Lord’s grace, Cauvery regained all her glory at this place.

Buses ply at frequent intervals between Kumbakonam and Thiruvaiyaru (narrow road along the banks of Cauvery)

Currently, renovation activities is taking place.

Contact: Kasturi Rangan Bhattar @ 76678 86775/ 96598 80628 / Venkatesa Bhattachar- 04374 244279

10. Kandiyur Hara Saabha Vimochana Perumal

http://prtraveller.blogspot.in/2007/04/108-divya-desam-kandiyur.html

The next divya desam on this route is Kandiyur, about 3 kms from Tiruvaiyaru on the Thanjavur road. The deity here is called ‘Hara Saabha Vimosana Perumal’ as Lord Shiva got cleansed of Brahmma’s curse (Hara is another name of Shiva). This temple is a ‘Pancha Kamala Kshetram’(Lord Kamalanathan, Goddess Kamalavalli, Kamala Pushkarani, Kamala Vimaanam and Kamala Kshetram). The place is called Kandiyur in memory of Lord Shiva, also known as Kandeeswarar, who got salvation from the Brahmma’s curse.

Thirumangai Azhvaar’s only verse on Kandiyur goes thus “பிண்டியார் மண்டை ஏந்தி....கண்டியூர் அரங்கம் மெய்யம் ” meaning - Vishnu rid the curse on Shiva, who went begging everywhere with Brahmma’s skull as a begging bowl. Other than worshipping the Lord, is there a way to salvation” sings Thirumangai Azhvaar .

Buses ply every 5-10 minutes between Thanjavur and Thiruvayaru

Contact: Kannan Bhattar @ 99439 44415/ 94872 52321 Sriram Bhattachar- 98653 02750

11. Thanjai Maa Mani Temple

http://prtraveller.blogspot.in/2009/01/thanjai-maa-mani-koil-divya-desam.html

The final stop on this Divya Desam journey is at three temples within a km of each other on the banks of Vennar River on the outskirts (North) of Thanjavur. These three temples together make this (one) divya desam. Legend has it that Lord Garuda flew over here and still guards this place. Hence it is believed that there are no snake threats here. The temples date back to the period of the Nayaks of Madurai. The three temples are administered by the Thanjavur palace

Narasimhan Bhattar@ 93441 47850

Sampath Bhattar @ 97919 48622 /Sridhar Paricharakar @ 95974 97570/ Watchman Rajendran @  93606 39853

Where to Stay

For stay in this temple town, there are a number of economical, medium and deluxe hotels around the Sarangapani temple. (Siva International, Hotel Green Park, VPR Lodge). Also, one could look at  neat and quality rooms at Andavan Ashram. If travelling by train, retiring rooms and dormitary is a good option (currently under renovation)

What should you look for

Do not miss the ‘Kumbakonam Degree coffee’ 

A special sweet at Hotel Venkatramana on Big Street

Kumbakonam is known for Beetal leaves

Auto Murugavel@ 96559 64488/auto Ravichandran @ 9443324659

Saravanan Cab around the Divya Desams @ 9994546416

Auto  Oppiliappan and around @ 8940251370

Thiru Kannapuram Sowri Raja Perumal

Eastern Gateway of the Lord
Vibheeshana was asked to come here to have darshan of the Lord's ‘walking beauty’
Along with Nachiyar Koil, Thiru Kannapuram is  one of the two Divya Desams where Thirumangai Azhvaar has praised the Lord with a century of verses

Located 20kms North West of Nagapattinam (20kms East of Tiruvarur, 30kms South of Kumbakonam and Mayavaram), this is one of the 5 Krishnaranya Kshetrams. Lord Narayana himself re-incarnated as Sowri Rajan at Kannapuram.

Walking Beauty of the Lord

This is the temple where the Lord showed Vibheeshana, brother of Ravana, his walking beauty. After seeing the sleeping beauty of Vishnu as Lord Ranganatha at Srirangam, Vibheeshna wanted to see the walking beauty of the Lord, upon which he was directed by the Lord to his “Keezh(akku) Veedu’ (Eastern Gateway of the Lord). 

Lord Vishnu displayed his ‘walking beauty’ to Vibheeshana here on the new moon day. To mark this event, on every Amavasya day at 12noon, Lord SowriRajan comes out of his sanctum and provides darshan to Vibheeshna.

Sowri Rajan- An extra growth of hair on the Lord

Once a garland of flowers sent by a king to the Lord did not reach the temple and hence the priest could not get the Lord ready in time for the King’s visit. To save himself from the King’s wrath, the temple priest quickly organized a garland of flowers from his house and placed it around the Lord. The king found that there was a hair in the garland and questioned the priest, who told him that this was the Lord’s own.

The priest told the king that he would show it(the Lord's hair) to him the next morning. Lord here is said to have saved the priest by displaying his long plait to the King. Hence, the lord here is called Sowri Rajan.

Special Pongal every night

A devotee who used to have his daily food only after presenting to the Lord was late one evening and found the temple closed. Hence, he presented the food to the Lord from outside the temple. It is believed that when the temple doors opened the next morning, the entire temple smelt of Sweet Pongal.

To mark this, every night, Pongal is served to the Lord - another feature at this temple.

கொங்கு மலி கருங் குவளை கண் ஆகத்

தென் கயங்கள்

செங்கமலமுகம் அலர்த்தும்

திரு கண்ணபுரத்  உறையும்

வங்கமலி தடங்  கடலுள் வரியரவின் அனைத்

துயின்ற செங்கமல நாபனுக்கு இழந்தேன்

என் செறி வளையே  - Periya Thirumozhi

Lord Narayana in 3 forms

On the 7th day of Vaikasi, Lord Narayana provides darshan in all his 3 forms (TriMoorthy Swaroopam)- Maha Vishnu in the day, Brahmaa in the night at around 11pm and Lord Shiva early next morning

Procession to the Sea Shore

Once a year, on the occasion of Maasi Magam, the Lord is taken on a procession to the sea shore near Karaikal, about 20 kms from here.

Quick Facts
Moolavar : Neelamegha Perumal- Standing Posture facing East
Utsavar   : Sowri Rajan
Goddess : Kannapura Naayaki

5 Azhvaars - Thirumangai Azhvaar, Nam Azhvaar, Kulasekara Azhvaar, Andaal and Periyazhvaar

Temple time: 7am –12noon and 5pm-830pm
Contact : S. Sowri Rajan Bhattar@ 04366 270718 / 95971 14670 / Raghava Bhattar @ 89034 70374
 

How to reach
Bus : Buses every 10 minutes on the Kumbakonam/ Mayavaram-Nagapattinam route
Auto : Auto will charge Rs. 50/- for a one way drop from Pugalur bus stop

Place to Stay : Best to stay in Kumbakonam

This is on the Kumbakonam / Mayavaram-Nannilam-Nagapattinam route. One has to get down at Thiru Pugalur and take auto (2kms). The temple can also be reached directly from Thiruvarur.

Mannargudi RajaGopalaswamy Temple

Mannargudi Rajagopalaswamy- Dakshina(South) Dwaraka
Unparalleled beauty and most alluring Lord RajaGopalaswamy
One wonders why such a beautiful temple did not find itself in the ‘good books’ of the Azhvaars

Housed on a huge 33acre area, the RajaGopalan temple at Mannargudi (till a few centuries ago, this was called MannarKoil), is all what a Vaishnavite temple should be. Except that the Azhvaars did not perform Mangalasaasanam here, something that one finds difficult to come to terms with. Hence this is not a Divya Desam and remains only an ‘Abhimaana’ Sthalam.

Its quite a mystery actually that the Azhvaars who visited and sang praise of the Lord(and performed Mangalasaasanam) at ThiruKannapuram (50kms North East), ThiruKannangudi(50kms East), Thirucherrai, Nachiyar Koil, Thiruvinnagar-Oppiliappan, Kumbakonam Sarangapani(around 35kms North) and Thanjai Maa Mani (35kms West) missed the towering presence of RajaGopalan.

Temple Tower – 154 ft high

The huge temple tower, at a height of 154 ft. is fourth tallest among vishnu temples and can be seen from 5-10 kms away as one drives into Mannargudi. This place is also called Dakshina Dwaraka (South Dwaraka).

As one enters the temple, a vast open garden in the outer most prakaram with greenery all around serves as a warm welcome for the devotees. With nice benches, this makes it a nice evening sit out for one to admire this remarkable temple.

And then one walks through a long path alongside huge pillars and mandapams to reach the RajaGopalan Sannidhi.

Temple History

The temple is believed to have been built by the Chola rulers, Kulathunga Chola I and II, during the period 1072 - 1150AD. And later developed and improved by the Nayak kings in the 16th and 17th century AD. This place is also known as Champakaaranya Kshetram.

It is said that the Lord here gave darshan to Brahmma in Kritha Yugam, to Brugu Rishi and Goddess Mahalakshmi in Tretha Yugam, to Agni, Gopila and Gopralaya Rishi(children of Rishi Vahnimugar) in Dwaapara Yugam and to King Rajasekhar in Kali Yugam.

Remarkable Temple

7 prakarams, 16 temple towers, 18 Vimaanams, 24 Sannidhis, temple housed in 33 acre area with an equal area(33 acres) for the temple tank, festivals throughout the year just like Srirangam, a most handsome and majestic looking Vasudevan and a beautiful and alluring RajaGopalaswamy, with dangling Kundalam in one ear and an earring(Gopiyar’s) in the other ear- a sight to behold make it a terrific Vaishnavite temple. With such a towering presence, one has to wonder as to how the Azhvaars did not fall in love with this Lord. What is it that they saw (or did not see) that made the Azhvaars stay away from this temple.

It is said that ThiruMangai Azhvaar did visit this place. He came up to the entrance of the temple, lifted the DwajasThambam(Flag Post) at the entrance of the temple that was lying on the floor and went away.

All poojas in traditional Vaishnavite way

The daily temple poojas are performed in a very systematic and traditional manner right from Vishroopam at 5am, with the temple elephant and the cow showing their devotion to the Lord. One is a witness to the temple elephant going down on its knees to pray before Lord RajaGopalan and then lifting its trunk to shower water on the Lord- a beautiful sight to watch so early in the morning. And this is possibly the only Vaishnavite temple in Tamil Nadu that opens at 5am and has the Vishroopa Darshan in a formal way like it once used to be in all the temples.

Significance of the place- Staying here for a Night

In the Mahabharata, Pulastya tells Bheeshma that anyone staying for a night at MannarKoil earns the merit of having gifted a 1000 cows, such is the significance of this place.

South Dwaraka

Gopila and Gopralaya Rishi (children of Rishi Vahnimugar) wanted Moksham and prayed to Lord Narayana, who asked them to go to Dwaraka to seek the blessings of Lord Krishna(Kannan). By the time they reached Dwaraka, Krishna Avataaram had ended. Narada asked these two rishis to go to ‘South Dwaraka’ and they came here to Mannarkoil.

Here they asked Lord Narayana to give them darshan as Krishna and to show them all the playful things that Krishna had done at Dwaraka. Answering their prayers, Lord Narayana appeared before them as Krishna and enacted, on the banks of Harithra river, all that Kannan had played on the banks of Yamuna river in Dwaraka.

The Lord and his beautiful posture

The Lord here is seen in a single vastram(garment) just like a cowboy, with his right hand yielding a golden rod with a whip that has 3 dents and his left hand slightly leaning on the cow just behind him. One can also see 2 beautiful calves (in silver) in front of him on either side. The Lord is also called RajaMannar and Gopalan.

The moolavar Para Vasudevan can be seen with a conch, maze and discus in a majestic standing posture facing the East with a complete set of silver ornaments all over his body.

The story of two different ear rings 

Once, Krishna and Gopiyars had an argument/bet as to who would bathe the quickest. In his eagerness to win, Krishna ran back and in a hurry, wore his kundalam in one ear and Gopiyar’s ear ring in the other.

To this day, we can see this rather unusual display of RajaGopalan at this temple- that of two different ear rings- one ear with his Kundalam and the other where he adorns Gopiyar’s ear ring.

32 Photographs around the Main Sannidhi

It is believed that the Lord gave darshan in 32 different forms to the 2 Rishis here. The first of that was ParaVasudevan(Moolavar here) and the last was RajaGopalan(Utsavar). These 32 forms are displayed in a colourful form around the main Sannidhi at this temple.

Temple Elephant and the 10km walk every morning

The temple elephant Shengamalam takes a 10km walk every day to keep herself fit. With 32 villages around this temple, the elephant walks to one village every day. Interestingly, Shenbagammal does not eat plantains like other temple elephants. She has a special liking for biscuits.

SanthaanaGopalan
Near the Utsava Moorthy, one also finds SanthaanaGopalan. It is believed that those who pray to the SanthaanaGopalan will be blessed with a child, a case in point is a SriLankan couple who prayed to the Lord here and were blessed with a child immediately.

Deaf and Dumb Priests
There are a couple of deaf and dumb men(from birth) at this temple. Thanks to the initiative of the temple authorities, these men have been given rights to perform pooja at a couple of sannidhis, thus boosting their confidence. These priests are enthusiastic, perform their duty with sincerity and take extra efforts in serving the devotees- quite a moving experience. Pooja Details Vishwaroopam 6am, Thiruvananthal 7am, Kaalai Santhi Poojai-9am, Uchi Kalam-12noon Thirumalai Purapadu- 6pm, SayaRakshai-7pm, Irandam Kalam Poojai-8pm, Artha Jamam-830pm Thaligai details Milk/Fruits/Pongal for Vishwaroopam Dudhyonam(Curd Rice)- 7am pooja Tamarind rice - 9am pooja Thenkuzhal - 11am pooja Curd Rice- 7pm Samba Rice-8pm pooja Chakkarai Pongal, Mothagam- 9pm pooja Archanai on Special occasions Poosam -Thirumanjanam for Shengamala Thaayar Sravanam- Thirumanjanam for Perumal Utsavar Every Friday-Thirumanjanam for Utsavar Thaayar Every month- Pancha Parvatham- Perumal Utsavar and Shengamala Thaayar Purapadu Thiruvadi Thirumanjanam for Perumal Utsavar is done on special request. For bookings, call : 94423 99820 or 04367 225738

Quick Facts:
Deity : ParaVasudevan (Moolavar)– East Facing, Standing Posture
Utsavar : Rajagopalan
Goddess : Shengamala Thaayar

Temple timing : 5am –12.30pm and 430pm-9pm
Priest : Prasanna Dikshithar @ 94433 43363 / Jagan Dikshithar @ 88700 24437 

Mahalingam, Manager on 94423 99820 /04367 222276

Festivals-Right through the year

18 day Panguni Brahmmotsavam - 10 day Float Festival in Aani - 20 day Adyaana Festival in Margazhi- The Garuda Seva at Mannargudi is specially famous

Location : 27Kms South West of Thiruvarur, 30kms SouthEast of Thanjavur and about 30kms South of Kumbakonam

Bus : Well connected from Thiruvarur, Kumbakonam, Thanjavur and Pattukottai

Place to Stay : Poorna Lodge (1/2 km from the temple)- Rs. 300 for Non AC double room and Rs. 600 for an AC room -Tel No. 04367 251695

Thiru Koodalur Jagathrakshagan

Aaduturai Perumal Koil
JagathRakshagan- One who protects the World

Located 15kms East of Thiruvayaru on the Kumbakonam Highway and 5kms West of Kapisthalam Divya Desam is the Jagathrakshagan Perumal Divya Desam in Aadturai, where the Lord Vaiyam (Ulagam)Kaatha Perumal is seen in an East facing standing posture.


The Story

The Devas came together at this place invoking the blessings of Lord Vishnu requesting him to kill Asura Hiranyaksha. Legend has it that Vishnu cut open the earth, killed the Asura and reappeared, with Goddess Lakshmi, as Varaaha Moorthy (one of the 10 Avathaarams of Maha Vishnu) at Srimushnam.

As all of them came together at this place and prayed to the Lord requesting for protection, this place has come to be called Koodalur (where people come together). The Lord who protected the village from the Asura has come to called Jagath Rakshagan - One who protects the World

Another story goes that Raja Ambarishi was so pious  that he even let go his kingdom to continue his penance.

Sage Durvasa, renowned for anger, once visited Ambarishi. With the king in deep penance, Durvasa, in his typical style, lost patience and cursed Ambarishi to lose the power of his penance.

The staunch devotee that Ambarishi was, he continued to be lost in thoughts of the Lord. Coming to the aid of his devotee, Vishnu threw his Chakra at Sage Durvasa, who immediately begged the Lord for forgiveness. Hence, one can find the Utsavar at this temple-JagathRakshagan- with the Chakra in his hand.

Pleased with Ambarishi’s penance, it is here that Vishnu gave him Darshan in his full Divine form. Delighted at  having seen the Lord in his divine form, Ambarishi built this temple. It is believed that this temple was washed away later with floods in the Cauvery. The temple that exists now in its current form was built later by Rani Mangammal of Madurai.

A third story has it that River Cauvery displayed her grief to the Lord that all the impurity/sins was being washed at the river and that she was feeling that the river here was becoming impure and unclean. Answering her prayers, it is believed that Cauvery regained all her glory at this place.

Thirumangai Azhvaar starts his 10 verses of the Koodalur Lord thus:

“தாம்  தன் பெருமை அறியார், தூது
வேந்தற்கு ஆய வந்தார்  ஊர்போல்
காந்தள் விரல் மென் கலை நல மடவார்
கூந்தல் கமழும் - கூடலூரே.”

Quick Facts

Moolavar    : Vaiyam (Ulagam)Kaatha Perumal
Goddess     : Padmaasini(Pushpavalli)
Utsavar      : Jagathrakshagan

Time          : 730am-1230pm and 430pm-830pm
Priest         : Kasturi Rangan Bhattachar @ 96598 80628

Address     : Aduthurai Perumal Koil
                   Ullikadai Post, Papanasam Taluk Thanjavur Dist 614 202

How to reach
Buses ply every 10 minutes from Kumbakonam to Thiruvayaru (narrow road along the banks of Cauvery)

Kapisthalam Gajendra Varadar

Pancha Krishna Kshetram
Only Divya Desam that provides Moksham to two animals

Located about 15 kms from Kumbakonam on the Thiruvayaru road (about 5 kms East of Koodalur Divya Desam) is the Gajendra Varadhan temple at Kapisthalam where the Lord is seen in a reclining posture facing the East.

The temple is currently in a terrible condition- Quite a bad sight for devotees. At a time when several Divya Desams are being renovated in Tamil Nadu,( For eg. TVS Group has transformed the Nava Tirupathi temples near Tirunelveli) why this temple cannot be renovated is a question every devotee visiting this divya desam is asking today.

The priest gets a Salary of Rs. 16 per month!!!!

The Legend

Raja Indirajimnan, a staunch devotee of Vishnu was so immersed in his prayers that he would forget the world around him. Once he incurred the wrath of Sage Durvasa known for his instant anger by continuing to be in his prayers and making the Sage wait outside. He was cursed thus- “The fact that you are a great devotee has made you arrogant and you have disrespected a Sage, who has come to meet you. May you turn into a mad elephant.”

Realising his folly, Indrajimnan begged for forgiveness. The Sage who is also know for showing sympathy agreed to reduce the impact of the curse stating that he would continue to be devoted to the Lord as ‘Elephant Gajendra’ and that he would one day be relieved of his curse by Vishnu himself.

Another story goes that Asura Guhu once playfully pulled the legs of Sage Agastyar while he was having bath. Angered at this act, the Sage cursed him instantly turning the Asura into a Crocodile.

Vishnu, on his Garuda Vahana rescued Elephant (King) Gajendra from the clutches of the Crocodile (the Asura) on the banks of the river by hurling his Chakra at the crocodile and killing it. Thus the king was rid of his curse and attained Moksham. This Gajendra Moksham episode is enacted here every year in Panguni (March-April). This is the only Divya Desam where the Lord provides Darshan to two animals.

It is a Praarthana Sthalam for Rahu.

Thiru Mazhisai Azhvaar’s only Paasuram:

கூற்றமும் சாரா கொடுவினையும் சாரா 
தீ மாற்றமும் சாரா 

வகை அறிந்தேன் 

ஆற்றங்கரை கிடக்கும் கண்ணன்

கடல் கிடக்கும் மாயன் 

உரை கிடக்கும் உள்ளது எனக்கு 

This is one of the ‘Pancha Krishna Kshetrams’.

(the other four are – Thiru Kannapuram, Thiru Kannamangai, Thiruvazhandur and ThiruKannangudi)

The temple is open between 630am - 12noon and 5pm - 730pm.
Contact: O.S. Seshadri Bhattar- 04374 225434/95850 85619/81487 76727

Buses every 15 minutes between Kumbakonam and Thiruvayaru. Papanasam Railway Station is 2 kms South of Kapisthalam

Thiru Pullani Darbha Sayana Rama

A Sacred Place for absolute Surrender to the Lord
Lord Raama prayed to the Sea Lord to seek solution for his cross over to Lanka

10kms South East of Ramanathapuram on the Keelakarai Road is Thirupullani located on the banks of river Sethu (Sethu Karai). This temple dates back to a time before Rama Avatar. Rama came here in his search for Sita. Rama is believed to have invoked the blessings of Adhi Jagannathan at this temple before he departed for Lanka.

Sacred Place for Surrender to the Lord

It was here that Vibheeshana, the brother of Ravana, came for refuge and surrendered to Lord Rama asking him for help. While the entire Vaanara army looked at Vibheeshana with suspicion- one who has come with a plot to attack the Lord, it was Hanuman, who with folded hands, expressed his opinion that the Lord should accept Vibheeshana. Hanuman can be seen here, at this temple, in a posture indicating Vibheeshana’s surrender to Raama and to protect him from his brother(Raavana).

It was also here that Rama preached the doctrine of ‘Surrender’ that is applicable even today.

In Valmeeki’s account of this ‘Surrender to Lord episode’, Raama says, ‘I cannot reject anyone who comes to me for protection. This is my dharma. If Raavana himself came to me I would not reject him. How then can I reject his brother who has done me no wrong.’

In the Vaishnava Sampradaya, this episode of ‘Surrender to the Lord’ is held just as important as the Bhagavad Gita (Mahabharata). It is a doctrine that Lord accepts all who, in absolute surrender, seek shelter at his feet. Their sins are burnt out by the mere act of surrender.

This is a message of hope to erring humanity. There is hope for the worst of us if only we surrender ourselves to the Lord. This divine assurance is the life and light that a world filled with sin and darkness, needs.

Out of all the Divya Desams, this is said to be the most sacred for those devotees who are seeking ‘absolute surrender to Lord’.

Darbha Sayana Raamar

Having accepted Vibheeshana, it was here that Lord Raama along with the Vaanara (monkey ) army deliberated ways to cross the sea and orchestrated the way forward plan to Lanka to defeat Ravana.

Spreading Darbha grass (sacred grass used for religious rites) on the banks of River Sethu, Raama undertook a fast addressing Varuna(Sea Lord) and looked to him for a solution to cross the sea. Varuna asked him to build a bridge across the sea with boulders and trees and also promised him to show the best route to build the bridge.

Being the one who undertook a fast, lying on the Darbha grass, Raama here is called Darbha Sayana Raama.

Thondaradipodi Azhwar in his Thiru Maalai verse makes a reference to the role of the Squirrel in the construction of the bridge across the Sethu “குரங்குகள் மலையை தூக்கக்  குளித்துத் தாம் புரண்டிட்டு ஓடித்……”. He says that the squirrels which on seeing the monkeys helping Lord Rama, too wanted to help out the Lord. Being small in nature, they could not carry the trees and boulders. Hence, they did something innovative. The squirrels rolled on the sand and then ran back to the Sethu Bridge and dropped off the sand that had stuck to their body.

So impressed was Lord Rama that he rubbed the squirrels with warmth, a mark that remains to this day on the body of every squirrel. Squirrels have 3(vertical) lines on their body believed to be Rama’s own finger prints.

PattabhiRaamar

Having defeated the Lankan king, Lord Raama is said to have come back here and performed Pattabhishekham (crowning ceremony). Hence, he is here called ‘PattabhiRaamar’.

Childless Couple

Raama’s father King Dasharatha is believed to have performed a Yagna here and is believed to have had his four children after this yagna. Hence it is the belief that childless couple who bathe at the Sethu river and pray to the Lord here will be blessed with a child.

Sethu Bridge

The Sethu bridge has submerged under the sea but if you do request the fisherman on the banks of the Sethu sea shore, they may take you across the sea to show you the place that once was the Sethu Bridge.

Quick Facts
Moolavar  : Adhi Jagannathan – East Facing, Sitting Posture
Thaayar    : Kalyanavalli, Padmasini
Time         : 8am –12.30pm and 3.30pm-8pm
Priest        :  Jayaraman Bhattar @ 94439 20136
                    Seshadri Peshkar @ 98429 48390/ 99428 89763/ 04567 254 527                                                   
How to reach:

Thiru Pullani is around 10Kms South East of Ramanathapuram, Muffosil buses every 15minutes from Ramanathapuram Bus Stand. Town Bus  1A,1B, 5,5A,5B, 10 and 17 from Ramnad

Auto : Auto will charge Rs. 150-200 for a one way drop from Ramanathapuram to Thirupullani

Places to visit nearby : Dhanushkodi, Pamban Bridge, Rameswaram

Thiru Meiyam

Sathiya Moorthy Kshetram

Located on the Pudukottai-Karaikudi/Tirupattur highway, 7th Century AD Divya Desam Thiru Meiyam, referred to as Sathiya Giri and Sathiya Kshetram, is surrounded by a huge fort like structure. The Lord here is bigger than Lord Ranganatha of Srirangam. On the wall just above the deity one finds images of Brahmma and several Devas.

Adiseshan is believed to be protecting this place. The story goes that when the Asuras tried to kidnap the Lord, Adiseshan let open poisonous air to kill the asuras. As a reference to this incident, one can see Adiseshan being depicted in the same form here at this temple- letting out poisonous air- a unique feature at this Divya Desam.

Lord Vishnu’s guard (at this fort) incurred the wrath of Sage Durvasa, who cursed him to turn into a snake and was finally relieved of his curse here at ThiruMeiyam.

On the Chitra Pournami day, Sathiya Moorthy Perumal is taken out on a 40 mile procession to Kadaya Kudi.

Pallava rulers contributed to improvements at the temple.

Quick Facts

Moolavar       : Meiyappan Standing Posture, East Facing

Thaayar         : Ujjevana Thaayaar

Temple time   : 8am –12noon and 330pm-8pm

Contact         : Krishnamurthy Bhattar @ 89034 94019 / 04333 274043

Location : 18kms South of Pudukottai, 25 kms North of Karaikudi

Bus : One can take the Pudukottai-Karikudi or Pudukottai-Tirupattur bus to reach here

Place to Stay : Best to stay in Pudukottai or Karaikudi

Daily Trains from Madras to Pudukottai.

Thiruvellarai Pundarikakshan Divya Desam

One of the three Divya Desams with first rights to Thaayar
Visit Thiruvellarai for Moksham
Birth Place of Uyyakondan and Engal Azhvaan

On first looks, one could easily mistake this Divya Desam for an old fort. The front gopuram (temple tower) reflects a Hoysala style architecture that is so untypical of a Vaishnavite temple. The structure looks half finished and this is attributed to a war which is believed to have stopped half way during the construction.This temple dates back to a time much before Srirangam (temple) as the legend relates to Sibhi, the forefather of Rama.

Located about 20 kms North of Trichy, on the way to Thuraiyur, Thiruvellari temple is housed on a 14 acre property. Inscriptions and the architecture at this temple point to the fact that Pallava, Hoysala and Vijayanagara kings have contributed significantly to this temple.

The story

Scene 1: Markandeya was destined to die at 16. When Yama came to take him, he clutched on to the Shiva Lingam at ThiruKadaiyur. Pleased with this, Lord Shiva blessed him that he will remain there forever as 16. After enjoying life to the full, Markandeya once again prayed to Lord Shiva asking for Moksham. He is guided by Shiva to go to ThiruVellarai to invoke the blessing of Vishnu.

Scene 2: King Sibhi (Rama’s forefather) came here with a big army with the intention of killing the Lankan King Ravana. While here, he encountered a white pig which gave the army a fight. Angered at this, Sibhi chased the white pig. After stopping at 5 places, the pig disappeared into a pit. Markandeya Rishi who was performing penance here asked Sibhi to pray to Lord Vishnu.

Scene 3: It was Goddess Lakshmi’s wish that she be granted the leading rights at some temple, as she felt that the Lord gets priority over her in all the temples.

Answering Sibhi’s prayers was an invisible voice (Lord Vishnu) which asked him not to pursue his quest to defeat Ravana and that he go back to his kingdom as time had not come for Ravana to be defeated yet and that he himself will be born later to defeat Ravana. A disappointed King Sibhi pleads with the Lord that he could not possibly go back empty handed, without fulfilling the purpose for which he had come.The Lord asks Sibhi to fulfill the wishes of Goddess Lakshmi by building a temple here that would give her the first rights at all festivities. It is also here that Lord Vishnu gives Darshan (and Moksham) to Markandeya.

First rights to Thaayar
Only in three Divya Desams does the Goddess get the first rights over the Lord - Nachiyar temple in Thiru Naraiyur, Andal in Srivilliputhur and here at Thiruvellarai.

The belief is that Sibhi brought 3700 Vaishnavites to this temple. Later, about 50 of them left from here for Melkote (Karnataka), several went to Kongu Nadu and many others went to other temples to perform daily poojas there. Legend has it that all the Vaishnavas who perform daily poojas in temples were originally from Thiruvellarai.

Belief is that Buddhists were in equal strength here at Thiruvellarai along with Vaishnavites. Another belief is that no Vaishnavite can get Moksham without visiting Thiruvellarai. Hence, there is this tradition at the temple to call ‘Thiruvellarai Kandeero- Thiruvellarai Kanden Aiyya’ (the devotees informing the Lord that they have seen Thiruvellarai and that they are now ready/eligible for Moksham), a voice that is said to echo to the Lord up there.

Festivals

The big festival takes place on the third day of Panguni (March-April) every year when the Lord and Goddess are taken on a procession to the Coloroon river.

Azhvaar Praise

Periyaazhvaar and Thirumangai Azhvaar have each composed 10 paasurams in praise of the Lord here.

 இந்திரனோடு பிரமன் ஈசன் இமையவர் எல்லாம்
மந்திர மா மலர் கொண்டு
மறைந்து உவராய் வந்து நின்றார்

சந்திரன் மாளிகை சேரும் சதுரர்கள் வெள்ளரை நின்றாய்
அந்தியம் போது இது ஆகும்
அழகனே காபிட வாராய் - Periyaazhvaar's Kaapidal

One can see the Srirangam temple from here, though it is 15 kms away.

This is the birth place of Uyyakondan and Engal Azhvaan

Quick Facts
Moolavar     : Pundarikaashan East Facing standing posture
Goddess       : Shenbagavalli Thaayar ( Separate Sannidhi)
Temple Time : 8am-1pm and 3.45pm- 745pm
Contact        : Achuthan Bhattar @ 95978 57231 /Vinodh Bhattar @ 98941 42111

How to reach Thiruvellari:
A number of moffusil buses ply between Trichy and Thuraiyur. This place can also be reached from Samayapuram. Auto from Srirangam and back will cost Rs. 400. Contact: 97917 56869/ 92624 05704.