Kariya Manikkam Perumal Tirunelveli

A Prarthana Sthalam to regain eyesight
This Surya and Sani temple is believed to provide liberation from all kinds of Doshams


Located near the Tirunelveli Town railway station is the Kariya Manikkam Perumal temple, where the Lord is seen in three different postures- Neela Mani Nathar in East Facing Standing Posture, Lakshmi Narayana in South Facing Kalyana Thirukolam and Anantha Padmanabha in an Uthara Sayana Kolam.

Historical reference

The Padmanabha Theertham of this temple finds a mention in the second Adhyayam of the Tamaraibarani Mahatmiyam. Hence, this temple's idol and Theertham are said to be atleast 5000 years old, while the construction of the temple complex is believed to have been completed atleast 1500years ago. Later, Pandya Kings are said to have made contributions in the renovation of the temple.

Lord’s Name

Being a temple that has the name of both Saturn and the Sun God- Kari (Sani- Saturn) and Manikkam (Aditya- Sun God) - it is believed that this temple is a Prarthana Sthalam for liberation from all curses/doshams. Belief is also that the Lord answers the prayers of devotees who have problems with eye sight/vision.

Azhvaar Pasuram

NamAzhvaar in his Pasuram refers to Kariya Manikkam Perumal

ஒண் சுடரோடு இருளுமாய் நின்று ஆறும்
உண்மையோடு இன்மையை வந்து
என் கண் கொளாவகை நீ கரந்து
என்னைச் செய்கின்றன

என் கொள் சிந்தையுள் நைகின்றேன்
என் கரிய மாணிக்கமே என் கண்கட்குத்
தின் கொள்ள ஒரு நாள் அருளாய், உன் திரு உருவே

North Facing Anjaneya

A speciality at this temple is the North Facing Anjaneya, normally not seen in any other perumal temple.

Festivals

11 day Brahmotsavam
Puratasi Saturday is special at this temple

Quick Facts

Moolavar : Sri Neela Mani Nathar, Sridevi, Bhoodevi, Lakshimi Narayana, Anantha Padmanabhan
Utsavar : Kariya Manikka Perumal
Time : 7am-11am, 530pm-830pm
Priest : A. Vijayaraghava Bhattar @ 92457 77727 or 0462 2320020

How to reach

An auto from Tirunelveli Junction will cost Rs.40
The temple is under 1/2km South West of Nellaiappar temple

Veera Raghava Perumal Madurai

The Lord of South Maasi Street receives special honours on the occasion of KalAzhagar’s procession to the Vaigai during the Chitrai Festival


Located half a kilometer East of Koodal Azhagar Divya Desam in Madurai is the Veera Raghava Perumal Koil in South Maasi Street.

Priest saves KalAzhagar at Shozhavandan

Centuries ago, Lord KalAzhagar of Thiru Maliruncholai (Azhagar Koil) used to reside at Thenoor Mandapam in Shozhavandan Village during the Chitrai Festival.

With the makeshift construction comprising of leaves, the mandapam caught fire. Despite the best efforts of the villagers, the fire could not be put off. It was then that the priest of Veera Raghava Perumal Koil of Maasi Street displayed his love and devotion for Lord KalAzhagar.

He jumped into the raging fire, caught hold of KalAzhagar, hugged him tight and brought him out of the mandapam.

Priest’s final wish

Thirumalai Nayakar, who ruled Madurai in the 17th Century AD and was responsible for making the Chitrai Festival the biggest festival of the city, sent out the villagers in search of Lord Kallazhagar. Finally, he managed to locate the priest of Veera Raghava Perumal fighting for his life on the banks of the Vaigai.

The priest revealed that KalAzhagar was safe and that he had buried him on the banks of the river. Delighted that a priest had achieved what his entire team could not, Thirumalai Nayakar decided to relinquish his first honours reserved for him during the Chitrai Festival and offered it to the priest.

However, the priest suggested that he was a simple Brahmin and did not possess the profile for such an important respect from Lord KalAzhagar. On further insistence from the King, the Bhattar enquired if his favourite pooja idol, Lord Veera Raghava Perumal of South Maasi Street, could get the first honour from KalAzhagar himself.

Thirumalai Nayakar agreed to this and to this day one sees South Maasi Street Veera Raghava Perumal entering the Vaigai before KalAzhagar.

Having arrived first on his silver horse Vahanam, Veera Raghava Perumal then welcomes KalAzhagar, on a Golden Horse Vahanam, into the Vaigai and performs a special Vaiyali going around KalAzhagar thrice in happiness of receiving him.

KalAzhagar then offers his Garland and Parivattam to Veera Raghava Perumal and first theertham (sacred water) is given to the priest of Veera Raghava Perumal temple.

Temple inside the Theppakulam

In decades gone by, this temple was surrounded by Theppakulam. In fact, Lord Veera Raghava Perumal was originally in the Theppakulam. However, with the current development, one is now witness to the residential and commercial building in this location.

Another interesting fact was that this entire area comprised of Brahmins, so much so that the street adjacent to this temple was called Paapa Kanaru Street.

Festivals

In Chitrai, Veera Raghava Perumal goes on a procession on his Silver Horse Vahanam to Vaigai to receive KalAzhagar

During the entire month of Puratasi, there is a special Pushpa Alangara Sevai.

On the full moon day in Puratasi, 2 of the Lords from Veera Raghava Perumal Koil take part in the 5 Garuda Sevai.

Panguni Thiru Kalyana Utsavam

Sukra Horai

Every Friday between 8pm and 9pm, there is a ‘Sukra Horai’ (Horai= Hour= 2 ½ Nazhigai) for Sayana Kolam Ranganatha. White Lotus flower archanai is special on this occasion.

Quick Facts

Moolavar          : 3 Postures - Veera Raghava Perumal East Facing standing posture
                            Yoga Narasimha East Facing Sitting Posture
                            Ranganatha South Facing Sleeping Posture

Goddess            : Kanakavalli Thayar

Time                  : 6am-1030am and 4pm-830pm
Contact              : 0452 338542

Address              : South Maasi Street (opposite Allahabad Bank) Madurai 2

How to reach:

Auto from Madurai Junction will cost Rs.30

Thiru Venkatanathapuram near Tirunelveli

Swayam Vyaktha Kshetram
Then Tirupathi- A Prarthana Sthalam with powers equivalent to Tirupathi Lord

Located 11kms South West of Tirunelveli Junction atop the Swetha Varaha hill is the Venkatachalapathy temple in Mela ThiruVenkatanathapuram, an Abhimana Sthalam. Varadaraja Perumal temple at Keezha Thiru Venkatanathapuram is about half a kilometer North of this temple.

Reference to this place can be found in Veda Vyasa’s Tamaraibarani Mahatmiyam under the topic ‘Saal Vaadi Puram’(the historical name of this place, where the great Rishi talks about darshan of the Lord in an invisible form.

The Story

The story goes that Pylar Rishi, the leading disciple of Veda Vyasa Rishi, visited this place as part of his religious trip. While bathing at the Srinivasa Theertham in Tamaraibarani(1 km from the current temple location), he too heard an invisible voice and could only visualize Venkatachalapathy and not have a direct darshan of him.

Not happy to only hear an invisible voice, Pylar performed pooja using different rare variety of flowers and asked the Lord to display his original form at this place. Pleased with his prayer, Lord asked Pylar Rishi to create the idol from the huge piece of rock in this hill. Hence, this place is referred to as ‘Swayam Vyaktha’ Kshetram.

The story also goes that Pylar found three special stones flowing against the tide of the river and created the idol of Lord Venkatachalapathy, Sri and Bhoo Devi with these stones.

Period of the temple

While the Moolavar idol dates back 5000 years as can be seen from the reference in Tamaraibarani Mahatmiyam, the temple itself was constructed by Venkatappa Nayakar about 700 years ago. The childless king prayed for progeny. While bathing in the river, he heard an invisible voice that asked him to promise Pal Payasam to 1000 children.

A son was born to him who he named Srinivasan after this Lord. Delighted at the Lord granting his wishes, Venkatappa Nayakar built this temple and created a new village which he called Thiru Venkatanathapuram.

Equivalent to Tirupathi

The ThiruVenkatanathapuram temple has powers equivalent of visiting Tirupathi. Hence, this is also referred to as ‘Then Tirupathi’. Ear piercing, Anga Prathakshinam, Tonsure and Tulabaram are undertaken at this temple.

Prarthana Sthalam

Belief is that Lord Venkatachalapathy will bless childless couples if they perform pal payasam pooja on the Shravanam day.

This is a prarthana sthalam for a healthy life, prosperity, liberation from curse and for unmarried people.

Festivals


Chitrai Brahmotsavam
Annual Abhishekam in Aani

Dolotsavam every Friday in Thai

Puratasi Garuda Sevai

The biggest Utsavam is the Garuda Sevai in Puratasi when about a lakh devotees visit this temple.

Quick Facts

Moolavar : Venkatachalapathy with Sridevi and Bhoodevi

Utsavar : Srinivasa Perumal with Alarmel Mangai Thaayar, Sri and Bhoo Devi

Temple Time : 7am-11am and 5pm-8pm
Saturday 6am -1pm and 5pm- 830pm
Sunday 6am- 12noon, 5pm-8pm

Contact : P. Narayana bhattar @ 99766 10768/ 0462 2341292
V. Murali Srinivasan bhattar @ 97918 66946/0462 2340075

How to reach

Bus No. 6A from Tirunelveli Junction
Nallamani Mini bus from Tirunelveli town
Krishnaveni(private)bus from town

Auto from Junction and back will cost Rs.200-220

KoorathAzhvaan 1000th Anniversary

Disciple Secures Moksham for his Acharya!!


Born in Kooram Village near Kanchipuram, KoorathAzhvaan ruled the place, while at the same time devoting a lot of his time in the service of Bhagavathas and other Vishnu devotees.

A little distance away, at Kanchipuram, Thiru Kachi Nambi was engaged in a direct one to one conversation with Varadaraja Perumal every night.

One night, while they were involved in one such long conversation, they heard a huge bell sound. Lord Varadar enquired if this was the closing bell of the temple and as to why it was so late.

Nambi narrated to him the story of KoorathAzhvaan and his dedicated service. Having served all the Bhagavathas till late in the night with Thathikarathanai (serving food to guests), it was the noise of the closing of the door at KoorathAzhvaan’s house signalling the end of the service for the day.

An inquisitive Varadar asked if KoorathAzhvaan was a wealthy person and rich enough to serve so many people.


The next day Nambi met KoorathAzhvaan and shared the details of his previous night’s conversation, leaving KoorathAzhvaan disappointed. After all his service, did the Lord only see him as a rich and wealthy person and not his dedicated service?

But quickly he realized the real intention of Lord Varadar and gave away his wealth that very minute.

Renounces Wealth

Time had come for him to be with his Acharya Ramanuja and he along with his wife took the long route from Kooram to Srirangam. On the way through the forest, he found his wife showing signs of anxiety. On enquiry, he found his wife to be carrying a golden vattil (sacred bowl). Angered at her holding back a bit of his wealth, he immediately threw it away. Such was his commitment to renunciation.

At Srirangam, he dedicated his entire life to service assigned by his Acharya. During this period, KoorathAzhvaan displayed immeasurable instances of unstinting service.

On one occasion, he found a frog under the clutches of a big snake and immediately shouted if someone could save the small frog. Such was his tenderness. On another occasion, a pregnant woman was struggling to fill water on the Cauvery river banks and KoorathAzhvaan immediately ran into help.

Once, he was assigned the task of cutting the plantain. A little later not finding him, Ramanuja searched out for him only to find his disciple in a fainted condition. On enquiry, he informed that he was shocked to see juice coming out of the plantain (when he pressed with a knife) and hence the reason for his fainting. Such was his softness!!!!

Knowledge unequalled

Ramanuja was to write the Sri Bashyam composition, the reference material for which was available only in Kashmir. Ramanuja and koorathazhvaan collected the material but before they could start their journey back to srirangam, they found the material had been stolen(while at Kashmir itself).

While Ramanuja was completely shocked, KoorathAzhvaan seemed less worried for he had gone through the material once through the night and had the special ability to absorb all that he had read.

Such was his absorption power and knowledge, that a single read was enough for him to grasp the entire content of such an extensive document.

Highest form of Service
On another occasion, angered by some action, Ramanuja asked KoorathAzhvaan to leave the house. Obedient disciple that he was, KoorathAzhvaan stayed outside the house leading to embarrassing questions from onlookers. Unmindful of the comments, KoorathAzhvaan continue his service.

KoorathAzhvaan’s simple answer was he was a Sishya of Ramanuja and his duty was to follow everything as directed by his Acharya and hence there was no embarrassment in being outside.

Stunned by this response, Ramanuja called him back. This was another instance of his outstanding commitment to service.

KoorathAzhvaan plucks out his eyes

Once a chozha king, who was a Saivite devotee, directed his people to sign a document that Lord Siva was the greatest. A Vaishnavite devotee refused to sign and asked the king to get Ramanuja to sign, if he really believed that Siva was the greatest. Accordingly, the king ordered for Ramanuja to be brought to his court.

Anxious at the anger of the king and worried as to what could happen to his Acharya, KoorathAzhvaan disguised as Ramanuja and entered the court of the Chozha King. As expected he refused to sign.

Angered at his refusal to sign and having found out his disguised form, the king ordered the plucking of his eyes. Not wanting the king’s messenger to touch him, KoorathAzhvaan did the unthinkable- he removed both his eyes with his own hands using his long sharp nails.

Sishya gets Moksham for his Acharya

Varadaraja Perumal

For a long time, he was without vision and away from his Acharya, who had left for Melkote. Later, Ramanuja came back and took KoorathAzhvaan to Lord Varadan to help him regain his vision. When asked what he wanted, KoorathAzhvaan asked for Moksham for Naaluran, the person who was the cause for his lost vision. Such was his greatness that he would not think ill even to those who did wrong to him.

When pressed again, he said he would like to see his Acharya, another indication of his supreme service to his Acharya!

Periya Perumal of Srirangam gave the final Moksham- ‘To you and to your related/connected people I give moksham’. KoorathAzhvaan had thus indirectly secured Moksham for his Acharya as well- A very unique occurance indeed- that of an Acharya getting Moksham through his sishya.

When asked the reason for asking moksham before his Acharya, KoorathAzhvaan revealed that he wanted to go and get ready the sacred water so he could serve the feet of his Acharya when he arrived there later. Even after Moksham, KoorathAzhvaan wanted to serve his Acharya Ramanuja!

KoorathAzhvaan was the ultimate symbol of Perfection – The Perfect disciple with the Perfect knowledge.

He lived for 110years, spending his final days in Srirangam before attaining Moksham.

Badri Bhattar, a descendent of the KoorathAzhvaan/Parasara Bhattar clan, resides in Srirangam and runs a Vedic School there through his Srimaan Trust. He can be reached on: 91504 03472 or badribhattar@gmail.com

Kaisika Puranam in Thirukurungudi

Kaisika Natakam and Araiyar Sevai mark Kaisika Ekadesi Celebrations at Azhagiya Nambi Divya Desam

Belief is that those who undertake fast, and listen to the Kaisika Puranam, on Kaisika Ekadesi will attain Vaikunta Moksham. It was Kaisika Ekadesi day and the most important Utsavam of the year at the Azhagiya Nambi temple in the Vamana Kshetram of Thiru Kurungudi (a Divya Desam 40kms South West of Tirunelveli).

Parasara Bhattar’s Contribution
Kaisika Puranam, which is a part of Varaha Puraanam, showcases Lord Narayana as the ultimate supreme force. Parasara Bhattar, son of KoorathAzhvaan, took the story of a complex Kaisika Puranam (in Sanskrit) and created the vyakyaanam, in Tamil, in a simple, easily understandable language that was hitherto non existent.

Kaisika Puranam Story

Kaisika Puranam revolves around Nambaduvan, a low caste person belonging to the Baanar family, his unflinching faith in Lord Nambi and how he was instrumental in liberating a Rakshasha from a curse and helping him attaining Vaikunta Moksham. The Kaisika Puranam is also a perfect case study on the values of life and how it is important to keep up one’s promise at the cost of anything, including one’s own life.

Being a low caste person, Nambaduvan was embarrassed to enter the temple during the day (similar is the story of ThirupaanAzhvaar who, born in a ‘lower’ caste, would not enter the Srirangam Ranganatha temple and would sing praise of the Lord from the banks of the Cauvery). Every night, he would walk several miles to the Thiru Kurungudi Nambi temple, and for hours together would stand in front of the temple with a Veena in his hand and sing praise of Lord Nambi. And before dawn, he would leave the temple.

One night, as he was making his way to the temple, a Brahmma Rakshasha stopped him and wanted him for dinner. Undaunted by this sudden turn of events, Nambaduvan, who had the purest of devotion for Lord Nambi, requested the Rakshasha to allow him to go to the temple for a night, so he could keep up his Kaisika Ekadesi Vratha, with the assurance to come back the next morning after singing praise of Lord Nambi, one last time.

18 promises of Nambaduvan

Unable to convince the Rakshasha, Nambaduvan talks about Sathya Sankalpam: “The world was created through ‘Promises’ and continues to exist as a result of trust in each other.”

Nambaduvan made 18 promises that night to the Rakshasha. Through these promises, narrated beautifully in the Kaisika Puranam as part of this lengthy discussion between Nambaduvan and Brahmma Rakshasha, one comes to know of the different sins we commit every day in our lives as a result of not adhering to some of the basic values in life.

17promises later and not having got the nod from the Rakshasha, Nambaduvan requests the Rakshasha to let him go to the Nambi temple with this 18th promise:

ச்வர்வ சுவாமியும் மோக்ஷ பிரதான

ஸ்ரீமன் நாராயணனையும், தேவதை களையும்

சமமாக பாவிக்கிறேன் யாவரோருவன்

அவனை போலே நித்ய சம்சாரி ஆவேன்

“If I do not return, I would have committed the biggest sin that exists – that of comparing and equating Lord Narayana with others. And I will become a sinner who will never get Moksham from this cycle of births.”

This extraordinary promise moved the Rakshasha and he let him go. After having spent the entire night (possibly for the last time) in front of Kurungkudi Nambi, he made his way back to the Rakshasha as promised.

Nambaduvan showcases the way to live

On his way back, Lord Nambi, disguised as an old Brahmin, sought the reason for his rushing back much in contrast to his usually slow and thoughtful walk, and on hearing him out condemned Nambaduvan as a fool and offered protection from the Rakshasha.

Nambaduvan rejected this offer, as fulfilling the promise was more important to him than his own life. “I will even give up my life but I will never go back on my word. I have given him a promise and I have to fulfil it. Hence, I will have to go back to the Rakshasha and if he has to take me as his prey, so be it.”

On seeing Nambaduvan, the Rakshasha wondered as to how he could come back, despite being under the threat of being consumed. Even more to his surprise, Nambaduvan came close to the Rakshasha and offered himself as his prey.

Brahmma Rakshasha attains Moksham

By now, the Rakshasha had changed his mind. He did not want Nambaduvan’s body anymore. He rather directed Nambaduvan to share the fruits of the entire songs that he had thus far sung in praise of Lord Nambi. After several exchanges, where Nambaduvan repeatedly offered himself as the prey and Rakshasha continued asking for the fruits of the songs, the Rakshasha explained the reason for his current Rakshasha status – He was a Brahmin by name Soma Sharma in his previous birth. His arrogance, as the all knowing, led him to miss a mantra in a Yagna and he was cursed to this current Rakshasha form by the Devas. And that only the purest of the Nambi devotees had the power to relieve him from his curse - and why he wanted to listen to Nambaduvan’s praise of Lord Nambi.

Nambaduvan shared with him the ‘Kaisika’ verses, which he had sung that very night in front of Lord Nambi. Just listening to these verses helped the Rakshasha attain Vaikunta Moksham.

Back to its glory days

Over the last decade, the Kaisika Natakam in Thiru Kurungudi has seen a revival back to its old glory thanks to the efforts of Anita Ratnam (TVS Group), the trustee of Arangam Trust, who orchestrated and brought together the Bavupillai Bharatanatyam troupe (led by Kalaimamani B. Herambanathan) all the way from Thanjavur to present this dance drama every year on the Kaisika Ekadesi night.

Gopi, an amateur artiste working as a Junior Assistant at Sastra University in Thanjavur, played the powerful role of the Brahmma Rakshasha with ease. While the entire portrayal of the Brahmma Rakshasha was exemplary, it was the last scene- where he pleads with Nambaduvan to relieve him from the curse of his previous birth and to help attain moksham- that brought tears to the eyes of the devotees and received non stop applause and appreciation, one that continued long after the Kaisika Natakam ended (Gopi has now specialized in the role of Brahmma Rakshasha with this being the 10th year of his performance at the Thiru Kurungudi temple. Interestingly, Gopi has also been playing the role of ‘Hiranyakashipu’ for the past 5years at the annual Bhagavatha Mela in Melattur Village near Thanjavur).

Equally commendable was the performance of Dr. Sumathi Sundar, who played the role of Nambaduvan. She matched Gopi scene for scene and was especially impressive in the portrayal of the Sathya Sankalpam- the 18promises of Nambaduvan, where she captured the imagination of the audience with a pleasing display.

M.A. Arunodhaya too impressed in the role of Lord Nambi disguised as a Brahmin.

Araiyar Sevai

Clock had ticked to 230am, but it was not time to leave yet. The devotees stayed back after the Kaisika Natakam to watch an outstanding ‘Araiyar Sevai’ performance by Araiyar Bala Mukundan of Srivilliputhur. His Abhinayam of the Periya Thiru Mozhi Paasuram:

அக்கும் புலியின் அதளும் உடையார்

அவர் ஒருவர் பக்கம் நிற்க, நின்ற பண்பர் ஊர்போலும்

தக்க மரத்தின் தாழ் சினை ஏறி, தாய் வாயில்

கொக்கின் பிள்ளை வெள் இறவு

உண்ணும் குறுங்குடியே

showcasing Thirukurungudi’s greatness drew great appreciation from the devotees who watched his sterling performance in absolute silence. Also, the Araiyar, through this Abhinayam, brought out an important historical information relating to the Thiru Kurungudi temple - that of Lord Shiva being alongside Kurungudi Nambi.

He followed it up with the Abhinayam of the Thiruvoi Mozhi Paasuram:

எங்கனயோ, அன்னைமீர்காள் என்னை முனிவது நீர்

நங்கள் கோலத் திருக்குறுங்குடி நம்பியை நான் கண்டபின்
சங்கிநோடும் நேமியோடும் தாமரைக் கண்களோடும்
செங்கனி வாய் ஒன்றினோடும் செல்கின்றது என் நெஞ்சமே

As he performed this Abhinayam, one could visualize the beautiful Thirumeni of Lord Nambi, part by part. Araiyar Sevai was followed by the recital of the Kaisika Puranam.

Conclusion

While Thiru Kurungudi temple is home to Kaisika Puranam and this traditional Kaisika Natakam has been revived to its past glory, it would be a worthwhile exercise for Anita Ratnam to consider taking the Kaisika Natakam to more Divya Desams in Tamil Nadu. For the story of Kaisika Puranam and Nambaduvan’s righteous way of life holds great relevance in this fast paced modern day money making world where trust and ‘holding on to promises’ seem to have taken a back seat.

Presenting the Kaisika Natakam in a lot more temples could go a long way in re-instilling, in us, the sense of values that Nambaduvan showcased to the world several centuries ago.

How to reach Thiru Kurungudi

Take a train to Valliyur (on the Tirunelveli - Nagercoil route) - Kanniyakumari Express, Ananthapuri Express from Chennai. One can reach the Nambi temple in 30minutes by bus from Valliyur

For auto to Thirukurungudi and back:contact Senthi@8940785950

Vittalapuram Panduranga perumal koil

Dakshina Pandaripuram
500 year old Vijayanagara period temple 

Located 15kms east of Tirunelveli in a remote village near Seydunganallur off the Tiruchendur Highway is the 500 year old Panduranga Vittaleswarar Perumal Koil in Vittalapuram. This is one of the two ancient Panduranga temples in India and is referred to as Dakshina Pandaripuram. 

With his handsome looks and ‘hands on hips’ posture, Panduranga, seen here with Rukmini and Satyabhama, steals the heart of every devotee who visits this temple. 

The story goes that Lord Panduranga of Pandaripuram (Maharashtra) appeared in the dreams of Vittalaraya, the Vijayanagara Chieftain who had camped near Tirunelveli on his way to a battle against the Travancore King and expressed His desire to provide darshan in the South of India as well.

As per the instructions, Vittalaraya came to this village and found the Pandaripuram idol buried on the banks of the Porunai (Tamaraibarani) River. He installed the Panduranga idol and built this temple, a few kms west of the river, and named the village as Vittalapuram (previously called Nattarkulam).

Victory without a battle

Having obtained the blessings of Lord Panduranga, Vittalaraya continued on his campaign with his huge army and reached Suchindrum, near Kanniyakumari. In a sudden turn of events and much to his delight, the Travancore ruler agreed for a favourable settlement without entering the battle field. Happy at this quick and positive end to his campaign, and as a thanking gesture, Vittalaraya returned to the Panduranga temple in Vittalapuram. Camping here, he put in place a process and the finances for a daily six time pooja as well as the conduct of festivals round the year.

Prarthana Sthalam

It is believed that Lord Panduranga immediately fulfils the wishes of devotees who visit this temple and offer their prayers with sincerity.

Inscriptions

Though one does not find exquisite sculptures here like the ones inside Krishnapuram Venkatachalapathy temple (another Vijayanagara period – renovated- temple) located 2kms from here, there are several inscriptions relating to contributions made as well as festivities undertaken during different periods of time.

Kumbabhishekam

A temple that for centuries witnessed grand celebrations including 10 day Utsavams and processions on different Vahanams now wears a rather deserted look. With a major contribution coming in from the Sringeri Mutt and support from local people, the Kumbabhishekam was held in July this year. 

Insufficient Funds

However, much remains to be done to get the temple back to its glory days. There is still renovation work to be completed including construction of compound walls. Currently, the temple does not have a permanent Bhattar. With financial support from 3-4 families here, 2 Kala pooja is being done and that with the help of a (temporary) Bhattar who comes from the nearby Alukudi Village. Only Vaikunta Ekadesi, Thiru Karthigai and Margazhi Utsavams are being celebrated. There are not sufficient funds to even purchase flowers for the Lord. 

Quick Facts

Moolavar : Vittaleswarar Perumal East Facing Standing Posture

Utsavar : Panduranga

Thaayar : Rukmini and Satyabhama (Separate Sannidhis)

Temple Time: 7am-12noon and 5pm-8pm

Contact : Trustees (2009) 04630 263157/ 9442163590

How to reach Vittalapuram

Buses every half hour between Tirunelveli and Vittalapuram temple ( Route Nos. 11A, 23B and 3G)

One can also take the Tiruchendur bound express bus and get down at Seydunganallur and reach the temple (3kms North) in an auto (Rs.30/-)

The other option is to take the Tuticorin bound bus and get down at Vasavapuram and reach the temple (3kms South) in an auto (Rs.30/-)

Anantha Padmanabhaswamy temple in Thiruvananthapuram

The full form of the Huge Sleeping Lord has to be seen from three different openings
'Fortunate is one who has the opportunity to have darshan of the Sleeping Lord at Thiru Anantha Puram'- NamAzhvaar in his Thiruvoimozhi Praise


பேசுமின் கூச்சம் இன்றி, பெரிய நீர் வேலை சூழ்ந்து
வாசமே கமழும் சோலை வயல் அணி அனந்தபுரம்
நேசம் செய்து உரைகின்ரானை நெறிமையால் மலர்கள் தூவி
பூசனை செய்கின்றார்கள் புன்னையும் செய்தவாறே

 

Located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) half a km from the railway station is the 5000 year old Anantha Padmanabhaswamy Divya Desam, where the gigantic Lord Anantha Padmanabhan is seen in a Bhujanga Sayana Kolam.

There is reference in Bhagavatha Puranam of the visit to Syaananthapuram (Thiruvananthapuram) of Balarama and his stay here.

The Story

Wanting a darshan of Lord Vishnu, a Tulu Sage from Mangalore undertook penance. Pleased with his prayers, the Lord appeared before him as a small handsome child. Impressed with the child, the sage requested the child to stay with him.

Agreeing to the condition that the sage would not get angry on any count, the child lived along with the Sage. One day, while the sage was performing his pooja, the child picked up the sacred saligrama stone and began to play with it.

Angered at this gesture of the child, the sage lost his cool prompting the child to leave the place. The sage finally located the child under a tree near the Arabian Sea.

To his delight, the Lord appeared before the sage not as a child but in a gigantic form that did not stop growing. Unable to see the full form of the Lord, the sage requested to provide darshan in a form that he can see.

Lord to be seen through 3 different openings

Giving the huge size of the Sleeping Anantha Padmanabhaswamy, one is able to have the full darshan of the Lord from three different openings- Head from the Southern side, the body from another opening and the leg from a third entrance.

Please with the dedication of the Tulu sage, Anantha Padmanabhaswamy wanted the Tulu Brahmins to perform the pooja at this temple.

Another story goes that a Namboodari Brahmin, who found himself without an offering to the Lord, picked up a few mangoes from the tree and offered them to the Lord on a coconut shell. In memory of this event, the Lord is today offered mangoes on a golden coconut shell.

While the pooja service is performed by the Tulu Brahmins, the administration of the temple is by the Namboodaries.

Ramanuja's Visit and Absence of Garuda

Ramanuja made trips to Divya Desams such as Thiruvattaru and ThiruvanParisaram. From Anantha Padmanabhaswamy temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Garuda carried him fast that same night back to Thirukurungkudi. And to Ramanuja’s surprise, he was on top of the Thirukurungudi rock at the blink of an eye.

As a result of this event, it is believed that one does not find Garuda in the Anantha Padmanabhaswamy temple.

Temple Construction

It is said that Cheraman Nayanar laid the foundation for this temple. After the poojas had stopped in the 17th Century AD and a subsequent fire at the temple led to the destruction of all the idols except the moolavar idol, Raja Marthanda Varma is credited with the complete renovation of the temple in the 18th Century AD. He used 12000 Sacred Saligrama Stones to reinstall a new Moolavar deity.

NamAzhvaar’s Thiruvoimozhi Praise

In his Thiruvoimozhi verses, NamAzhvaar refers to the sleeping posture atop the Serpant Lord. He also makes a mention of this place ( Thiru Anantha Puram)  in every verse. The moment one visits the Lord who resides on Adisesha at Thiru Anantha Puram, all our problems will vanish. He goes on to praise him  saying that even Lord Yama will stay away from us.

 கெடும் இடர் ஆய் எல்லாம், கேசவா, என்ன நாளும்
கொடுவினை செய்யும் கூற்றின்
தமர்களும் குறுககில்லார்விடம் உடை அரவில் பள்ளி விரும்பினான்
சுரும்பு அலற்றும், தடம் உடை வயல் 
அனந்தபுரநகர் புகுத்தும் இன்றே


Quick Facts

Moolavar : Anantha Padmanabhaswamy, East Facing Bhujanga Sayana Kolam
Thaayar   : Hari Lakshmi
Time        : 4am-1230pm and 5pm-730pm
Contact    : 0471 2450233
Azhvaar   : NamAzhvaar (Thiruvoimozhi 11 Paasurams)

How to reach
There are several express trains and buses from across the country to Thiruvananthapuram.

The temple is half a kilometre from the Trivandrum Central Railway Station.

One can reach the temple from the State bus stand  by auto(Rs.20/-)

Mannar Koil Rajagopalaswamy Temple

Kulasekara Azhvaar spent the last 30 years of his life at Mannar Koil and attained Moksham here
One sees several inscriptions in this historical temple dating back to the Chozha Period

Located 40kms West of Tirunelveli near Ambasamudram on the banks of two rivers, Tamaraibarani and Karuna River, is the huge 1000 year old three tiered Rajagopalaswamy Kulasekara Perumal Koil in Mannar Koil. This temple is named after Kulasekara Azhvaar who spent the last years of his life performing service directed at the Lord here.

Rajendra Vinnagaram
This place is also referred to as Veda Puri (after Veda Narayana Perumal) and Rajendra Vinnagaram(the great Chozha king who built/renovated this temple).

Big Efforts of Narasimha Gopalan Acharya

Thanks to the single handed effort of Shri.Narasimha Gopalan Acharya, who belongs to the Periya Nambi ancestry, a once dilapidated temple is now seeing truly significant renovation worth a lot of commendation. A notable aspect of this is that there has thus far been very minimal support from HR& CE for this initiative. Another point of sadness is the paltry Rs.245 paid to the Bhattar as the monthly salary at this temple.

For those who have commited their entire lives to the service of the Lord, this kind of meagre double and triple digit income is making it very difficult to sustain a reasonable life for the Bhattars of Perumal Koils in Tamil Nadu.

However, Shri. Narasimha Gopalan is not one to be undone by lack of support. His determination to seed and grow the Shenbagam flowers, which is said to be one of Lord Vishnu’s eight favourite flowers, has borne significant results in the last 3-4 years with the Northern side of the temple now full of Shenbagam trees. The fact that the number of Shenbagam flowers that one sees here cannot be seen in any other Divya Desam is testimony to the passionate service provided by Shri. Narasimha Gopalan.

In his praise of Lord Vishnu in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, Kulasekara Azhvaar refers only to Shenbagam flowers and hence this flower is said to be very sacred.

Garuda alongside Utsava Deity - A Speciality

Seen along side the utsava deity of Rajagopalan is Garuda, a feature found at the Srivilliputhur Divya Desam.

Kulasekara Azhvaar

Kulasekara Azhvaar who was born in Thiruvanjikalam went on to become a Chera King. During his early years, he defeated Chozha and Pandya kings and was a dominant force.

However, his devotion to Lord Vishnu led him to renounce power and to a path singing praise of the Vaishnavite Lord. After trips around several Vishnu temples, Kulasekara Azhvaar finally reached Mannar Koil, where he was taken in by the beauty of Vedanarayanan, in whom he saw the Lord Ranganatha of Srirangam. Like Srirangam, Mannar Koil too is surrounded by two rivers on either side -Tamarai Barani on the Southern side and Karuna River on the Northern side.

Staying here at Mannar Koil for over 30 years, Kulasekara Azhvaar undertook daily pooja of Lord Rama, who was his abhisheka deity, and finally attained moksham at this place. To this day, one finds the idols of this Abhisheka moorthy at this temple. In recognition of his efforts here at Mannar Koil, this temple has come to be known as Kulasekara Perumal Koil, the only historical Perumal koil to be directly named as an Azhvaar Perumal koil. One also finds the Kulasekara Azhvaar Sannidhi with the Holy Flag Post (Kodi Maram) dedicated to him, a speciality (for Azhvaars) not seen in any other perumal koil.

Incidentally, Vibheeshana, had also been drawn in to Lord Vedanarayanan of Mannar Koil.

கோலார்ந்த நெடுஞ் சார்ங்கம் கூனர்ச் சங்கம்
கொலை யாழி கொடுந்தண்டு கொற்ற ஒள்வாள்

கால் ஆர்ந்த கதிக்கருடன் என்னும் வென்றிக்
கடும்பரவை இவை அனைத்தும் புறஞ் சூழ் காப்ப

சேலார்ந்த நெடுங்கழனி சோலை சூழ்ந்த
திருவரங்கத்து அரவநியிர் பள்ளி கொள்ளும்

மாலோனைக் கண்டு இன்பக்கலவி எய்தி
வல்லினையேன் என்றுகொலோ வாழும் நாளே - Kulasekara Azhvaar

Historical Inscriptions

One finds several inscriptions relating to significant contributions made by rulers dating back to the Chozha and Chera period.Rajendra Chozha made big contributions to this temple in the 11th century AD, so much so that this place was referred to as Rajendra Vinnagaram. Later, Chera King Rajasimman donated several pieces of land to this temple. Jatavarma Chozha Pandya as well as Nayak kings also made contributions to the Mannar Koil. There are also interesting inscriptions on the floor of the temple right at the entrance.

Avathara Sthalam of Azhagiya Manavala Jeer

This is the birth of Vaadhi Kesari Azhvagiya Manavala Jeer who provided detailed vyakanam(explanation/description) of Divya Prabandham known as ‘Panniraayira Padi’

Kaisika Puranam Event at Mannar Koil

An interesting development and a very positive one for Mannar Koil is that the pre event practice session of Kaisika Puranam for the Thirukurungudi Kaisika Ekadesi event will be held here next Saturday 21st November 2009.

Theppotsavam has been revived at the temple in the last few years and this has attracted devotees from across the state. Theppotsavam will take place on the evening of March 11 ( in 2014)

Quick Facts
Moolavar    : Veda Narayana Perumal East Facing
Utsavar       : Rajagopalaswamy with Garuda
Gooddess     : Vedavalli Thaayar and Bhuvanavalli Thaayar

Azhvaar       : Kulasekara Azhvaar attained Moksham at this place

Temple Time : 7am-1030am and 5pm-7pm
Contact        : PS. Narasimha Gopalan Acharya@ 04634 252874 / 318408

Festival
Chitrai Brahmotsavam
Procession of Azhvaar in Pushpa Pallaku in Thai
Theppotsavam in Maasi

How to reach Mannar Koil

Mannar Koil is about 5kms West of Ambasamudram off the Tenkasi – Courtallam Highway. Ambasamudram is 35kms West of Tirunelveli. Buses every 15mts from Tirunelveli new bus stand to Ambasamudram/Papanasam. One can reach the temple in an hour from Tirunelveli.

Passenger train daily from Tirunelveli to Ambai ( dep Tveli 915am- Nellai connection: Arrival at ambai : 10am and eve 425pm dep from Ambai, 530pm arrival at Tveli- Nellai connection)

Car from Tirunelveli to Mannar Koil and back will cost about Rs.500-600. Auto from Ambasamudram bus stand to Mannar Koil will cost Rs.60/-. One can also reach the temple by local buses / mini bus service

Manimutharu Dam is about 15kms from here. Pechiparai Dam is about 50kms from here towards South

Courtallam falls is 50kms West from Mannar Koil.

Update: Samprokshanam took place on August 23, 2010. The temple now wears a new and clean look.
             Theppotsavam will take place on March 11, 2014

Srimushnam Bhoo Varahaswamy

This is one of the 8 Swayambu Kshetrams
Lord Narayana brought back Goddess Earth after killing Asura Hiranyaksha and appeared here in Srimushnum

Located 35kms West of Chidambaram in the Kattu Mannar Koil Taluk is the historical Bhoo Varaha Swamy temple in Sri Mushnum. Unlike typical moolavar deities in Vishnu temples, the Lord here is in the form of a small idol signifying the Varaha Avataaram. A visit even once to this temple and sincere prayers to Lord Bhoo Varahaswamy is said to help attain moksham in this lifetime, such is the power of Bhoo Varahar.

Swayambu Kshetram
Srimushnum is one of the 8 Swayambu Kshetrams in India. The others are Srirangam, Tirupathi and Vanamaamalai in South India and Saligramam, Naimisarinyam, Pushkaram and Badri in North India.

Bhoo Varaha Perumal is a Saligrama moorthy and the speciality of the temple is that there is a Thirumanjanam every day for the Lord.

The Story

Hiranyaksha, the brother of Hiranyakashipu, wanted to be a dominant force. To achieve this, he rolled over the earth and took it into the nether world, from where he ruled.

Bhoo Devi undertook penance seeking help from Lord Narayana to protect her from the Asura. Lord Vishnu took the form of Varaha (a boar), went into the sea and killed the asura. He brought back the earth on his Adisesha and appeared here as a Swayambu idol.

Legend has it that he created the Pushkarani with the sweat emanating from his body after his battle with Hiranyaksha.

Lord’s Face turned South
On his death bed, Hiranyaksha prayed to the Lord and as his final wish wanted the Lord to turn to turn in his direction. Hence Bhoo Varahan’s face is seen turned in the direction of the asura towards the South. An interesting feature of the moolavar deity at this temple is that the face, in the form of a boar, is turned towards South, while the body bearing a human shape is facing West in the direction of the devotees

Utsava Deity

Goddess was worried that people may turn away from here because of the Lord’s pig face. Hence, she undertook penance and requested him to display his handsome stature. Answering her prayers, Lord’s Utsava idol features as Yagya Varahaswamy with conch and chakra.

Prarthana Sthalam
This is a Prarthana Sthalam for childless couples. Ladies, who have bath in the Nithya Pushkarani, go around the Arasa tree 12times, offer milk and fruits to small kids and recite the Varaha Kavacham are said to be blessed with Children.

This is also a prarthana sthalam for the unmarried. Lord is also said to help devotees in the purchase of house and car.

Similar to Tirupathi
While in Tirupathi Divya Desam, one first visits Varahar before darshan of Moolavar Srinivasa perumal, here at Srimushnam, one is to visit the Srinivasa Perumal Sannidhi at the Western entrance before a darshan of Bhoo Varahaswamy.

Special Prasadam at this temple
One of the specialities at this temple is the offering of Korai Kazhangu as prasadam to the Lord

Temple Construction

While BhooVarahar is a Swayambu idol, the temple here in Srimushnum is said to have been constructed by Four Nayak kings- Achuthappa, Ananthappa, Govindappa and Kondappa Nayak.

The story goes that Ananthappa Nayak developed severe stomach pain when they camped at Rajendrapatnam, 8kms East of Sri Mushnum. He was relieved of his pains when Lord Vishnu came in his dreams and touched his stomach with his leg.

Delighted at this, he came here and constructed the temple. To this day, one can see the five fingers of the Lord below his left stomach.

Event marking Muslim-Hindu Unity
In Maasi, the Utsava deity goes on a 20 day procession to Killai and other nearby villages near Chidambaram. An interesting feature of this festival is that the Muslims in the area offer prasadams to the Lord Yagya Varaha and they take back the flower of the Lord and offer it to Allah. The Muslim devotees are said to thank Allah for having brought Varaha Swamy to their place.

Srimushnum Bhoo Varaha Swamy is the only temple that brings together such unity between Muslims and Hindus and this event continues to take place to this day.

Festivals
Brahmotsavam in Maasi
Chariot Festival in Chitrai


Quick Facts
Moolavar : Bhoo Varaha Standing Posture
Goddess : Ambujavalli Thaayar(Separate Sanndihi)
Utsavar : Yagya Varaha Swamy

Time : 730am-1230pm and 5pm-9pm

Priest : Rajagopala Bhattar/S.S.Ramanuja Bhattar
Contact : 9952421072/94423 78303

Address : 41/61 South Car Street, Sri Mushnum 608 703

How to reach

Direct buses from Chennai to Srimushnam

One can take any South bound train from Chennai and get down at Vriddachalam Junction
Several buses from Vriddachalam to Srimushnam via Rajendrapatnam (about 30-45mts)

By car, Srimushnam is about 235kms from Chennai via Tindivanam-Vikravandi-Panruti-Neyveli-Vadalur and Sethiya Thope. One can reach in 4 hours.

Thiru Vithuvakkodu Divya Desam Pattambi

Five Idols temple near Pattambi

Located about 5kms South of Pattambi off the Palghat- Shoranur- Kozhikode rail route is the Uyyavantha Perumal divya desam in Thiru Vithuvakkodu (Thirumittacode in Malayalam), right on the western banks of Baratha Puzha River.

The story
Pandavas in their exile are said to have stayed here and undertaken penance. Arjuna, Dharmaputra, Bheemasena and Nakula/Sahadeva created an idol each for their daily poojas at this temple. The main Moolavar deity was installed by Arjuna.

Yudishtra ( Dharmaraja Installed Idol)

Dharma Raja installed the idol to the right of the main deity as did Nakula and Sahadeva. Bheema installed the idol of Vishnu to the left of Uyyavantha Perumal.

Another story goes that Kasi Viswanathar who was impressed with a rishi’s penance accompanied the rishi to this temple, finding a small place for himself in the umbrella taken by the rishi. On arriving here, the rishi went for a bath at the river. After his bath, he found the umbrella broken and found a swayambu idol of Lord Shiva at this place. Later, a separate temple was built for Shiva. Hence, this place is referred to as the ‘5 idols’ temple.

BHEEMA INSTALLED TEMPLE

Festivals

Janmashtami
Shivarathri
On the Vaikasi Mrigaseesham day- Kalababhishekam

Azhvaar Praise

In his verse, the Kerala born Kulasekara Azhvaar praises the Vithuvakodu Lord thus:

வெங்கண்தின்களிறு அடர்த்தாய் 
விற்றுவகோட்டுஅம்மானே 

எங்குப் போய் உய்கேன்..
உன் இணையடியே அடைய அல்லால் 

எங்கும் போய்க் கரை காணாது 
எறிகடல்வாய் மீண்டு ஏயும் 
வங்கத்தின் கூம்பு ஏறும் மாப் பறவை போன்றேனே - Perumal Thirumozhi

Quick Facts

Moolavar: Uyavantha Perumal South Facing Standing Posture
Thaayar : Vithuvakottu Valli, Padmaasini Thaayar
Azhvaar : Kulasekara Azhvaar-10verses in Perumal Thirumozhi
Time      : 5am-1030am and 5pm-8pm
Contact : Ravichandran and Ramachandran Embranthari @ 98460 92853
Address : Thirumittacode PO, Kootanad Via, Palakkad Dist 679 533

How to reach:
On the Chennai-Palghat-Kozhikode rail route, get down at Pattambi station (about 10kms West of Shoranur Junction).  An auto from Pattambi Railway Station to this Divya Desam (about 7kms) and back will cost Rs.80-100/-.

From Coimbatore, one can reach this place by driving(about 110kms) via Palghat, Ottapalam, Shoranur and Pattambi. Very Good road

One can combine the visit here with Thiru Navai (about 25kms from here)

Cab for Thiru Vithuvakodu and Thiru Navai: Santhosh @ 9846953270 / Sasi Thekkadil@8593087980

Thiru Navai Divya Desam

An auspicious place for Pitru Tharpanam
Only Divya Desam in Kerala with a separate Sannidhi for Thaayar

Located just under 40kms West of Shoranur on the Palghat - Kozhikode rail route is the Naavaai Mukundan divya desam in Thiru Naavaai on the Northern Banks of Barathapuzha River. On the other side of the river are temples for Lord Shiva and Brahmma. Hence this is a TriMurthy Sangamam.

The story

Both Goddess Lakshmi and Gajendran wanted to adorn Lord Narayana with Lotus flowers. However, Gajendran could not locate the flowers and undertook prayers here to Narayana, who asked Goddess to stop plucking the Lotus flowers, thus providing an opportunity to Gajendran to adorn the lord with flowers. Goddess Lakshmi is said to have asked the Lord to provide her with an equal status at this temple. Hence, there is a separate sannidhi for the Goddess here, the only Divya Desam in Kerala.

Nava Yogi Kshetram

Nava Yogis undertook penance at this place invoking the blessings of Lord Vishnu, who is said to have provided darshan as Mukundan. These nine yogis are said to have installed the idol at this place. Hence, this place was referred to as Thiru ‘Naa’ ‘Vaai’. Locally, this place is called Thiru Navaya.

Pitru Tharpanam
Another story goes that Parasurama performed Tharpanam for his father at this place. This Kshetram is an auspicious place for performing ‘Pitru Tharpanam’ and is believed to have powers equivalent to that of performing Tharpanam in Kasi.

Azhvaar Praise

Thiru Mangai in one of his 2 paasurams refers to Thiru Naavai Lord alongside Thiru Koshtiyur Divya Desam.

“கம்ப மா களிறு அஞ்சிக் கலங்க, ஓர்
கொம்பு கொண்ட குறை கழல் கூத்தினை
கொம்பு உலாம் பொழில் கொட்டியுர்க் கண்டு பொய்
நம்பனைச்சென்று காண்டும் நாவாயுலே”

In another verse, Thiru Mangai refers to seeing the Thiru Navai Lord at Thiru Naraiyur

“தூ வாய புள் ஊர்ந்து வந்து, துறை வேழும்
மூவாமை, நல்கி, முதலை துணித்தானை
தேவாதிதேவனை, செங்கமலக் கண்ணானை
நாவாய் உளானை நறையூரில் கண்டேனே”

Quick Facts

Deity      : Navai Mukundan East Facing Standing Posture
Goddess : Malar Mangai Naachiyar
Separate Sannidhi for Goddess: Mahalakshmi

Azhvaar  : Thirumangai-2 and NamAzhvaar- 11
Temple Time : 5am-11am (till 1130am on Sundays) and 5pm-8pm

Priest : Narayana Namboodari @ 0494 2603747 or 93876 34946

Festivals
10 day festival in April (14-23)
Amasavai Tharpanam Sacred here

Accommodation

ThiruNavai temple offers accommodation to devotees at Rs. 100/- for 2 hours
or full day deluxe rooms between Rs.200 and 500 based on the specific needs

Breakfast is available at the temple premises.

How to reach Thiru Navai (Thiru Navaya)

Take Chennai Central-Mangalore Mail and get down at Kuttipuram Station (630am arrival). A local bus from outside the station will take you to the Divya Desam in 20minutes. Auto from Kuttipuram Station to Thiru Navai Divya Desam will cost Rs.100-125/-.

Not many trains stop at Thiru Navaya Railway station. An auto from Navaya station to the Divya Desam (about 2kms) will cost Rs.30-40/-

Thiru Navaya is about 25kms West of Thiru Vithuvakodu Divya Desam (near Pattambi)

and is about 140kms South West of Coimbatore.

Cab for Thiru Vithuvakodu and Thiru Navai: Santhosh @ 9846953270 / Sasi Thekkadil@8593087980