7 DivyaDesams in Trichy

We recently visited the Divyadesams in and around Trichy with our Family – Myself, my husband, my kid, Amma , Appa and sister started from Chennai – Egmore station on 17^th April 2014 night train. We reached Trichy city junction on 18^th Apr 2014 morning.

We had booked online, in advance, a family room for 5 members in Tamilnadu tourism Lodge. It was pretty decent for a stay and near the station. Cost was also reasonable. It costs around 2500 Rs (Including Tax) for a family room. We all refreshed and started at around 8 am for the temple visit.

We had our breakfast in Sangeetha – High class veg restaurant, a good breakfast to energise ourselves for the visit.

    1.     Thirukkozhi or Uraiyur Temple:

We first went to this temple and had a very good Darshan.

Uraiyur Azhagiya Manavalan : This is one of 108 Divya Desams sung by Tirumangaialwar, Kulasekharaalwar.

Deities: Azhagiya Manavalar (in a standing posture) facing north, with his consort Kamalavalli in the same sanctum in a seated posture are the presiding deities here. There is no separate sanctum for Thayar here.There is no festival image for Perumaal. The festival image of Ranganathar is brought in procession from Srirangam to commemorate his marriage with Senkamalavalli.

Sthala Puranam:

Once upon a time, there was a discussion among the great rishis that among Trimurthies, who is the greatest. But in that discussion also, they could not come to a conclusion that who is great amongst the Trinity. Finally, all the rishis thought it would be helpful for them to find the answer for this if they could get the sugesstion from the great muni, Brighu. They all explained about the discussion they had among them and said he is the right person to find a solution for this and clear their doubts whats there in their minds. Brighu muni also accepted their words and told them he would give an answer that would clear all of their doubts.

First, he went to Kailasam where Lord Shivan and Godess Parvathi reside. But, in the entrance itself, Brighu muni was stopped by the Dwara Balakaas as the residing deities are all alone and doesnt want them to get disturbed. As he got this kind of answer in Kailash, he thought he could not be the right person who might help his devotees as he was not easy to talk with. As he was disappointed by this activity, he then left to Sathya Lokam where Lord Brahma and Godess Saraswathi reside.

There also he could not meet Brahma devan and he began to think what he thought when he went to Kailasam. Finally, he went to Sri Vaikuntam where Sriman Narayanan and Godess Sri Laksmi reside. As Brighu muni enetered Vaikuntam, he was greeted in a good manner and this first action made him to think that Sriman Narayanan is the right person to whom all persons and rishis can seek help and can have a direct approach towards him. Sriman Narayanan offered him with the seat and did the Paadha Pooja for him. But this action of Sri Vishnu made Sri Lakshmi to think bad and asked Him not to catch hold of his feet. But, this action of Sri Lakshmi made Brighu muni to get angry and cursed Her that she would born in the world as an ordinary human. But Sri Lakshmi felt very sad for the Curse she got from Brighu muni but Sriman Narayanan said that all the actions are happening according to their fates only and added that he will follow Her soon towards the earth.

At the same time in the earth, a king by named Dharma Varman lived in Kumbakonam, Chozha Naadu. Once he went out for hunting and found that the rishis were being distressed by some demons and seeked the help from the king. Dharma Varman said that he will help them from the demons by killing them and he stayed in the forest for sometime. The King was happy for all the reason but only one thing made him worry and disappoint and that is he had no children. He seeked the help of the rishis to hep him out to get a child. So, to help the king, all the rishis did a Yagam to get a child for the king. At that time, an Asareeri stated that if he want to get a child he should pray towards Sri Lakshmi and as a result, Sri Lakshmi itself will be born as a child to him. Hearing this, he started to pray towards Sri Lakshmi and finally, a female child was born to him and was kept a name as “Kamalavalli” and “Vara Lakshmi”.

As the days went on, Dharma Varman started to seek a perfect groom for his daughter and announced a Swayamvaram for that. Lots of kings came for this and at the same time, Sriman Narayanan also came there as one among the grooms. In that hall, when Sri Lakshmi came, she had a look at all the members in the hall and at the same time, she also noticed Sriman Narayanan and went straight towards Him without any delay and Garlanded him. All the persons saw this wedding of Sri Vishnu and Sri Lakshmi and the king raised a temple for Sri Ranganathar in Kalyana Thirukkolam.

In this sthalam, Periya Pirattiyar is giving her seva in two different ways. One is Irundha seva and the other one is Kidantha seva. Combining these both sevas, she is giving the seva “Urayum” (from sitting seva to sleeping seva) seva, this temple is called “Thiru Urayoor”.

The Utsavam done here starts on Aayilya Nakshathiram in Panguni month that lasts for 10 days. On the first day of Panguni Uthiram, Sri Ranganathar comes from Sri Rangam and stay in Urayoor. And on Panguni Uthiram, he marries Kamalavalli Naachiyar and give his Kalyana Kola Seva to his Bhakthas. Only Moolavar is found in this sthalam. There is no Utsavar here. Since, Arangan married Kamalavalli Naachiyaar, Utsavar of Srirangam is said to be the Utsavar for this Thirukkozhi sthalam too. There is no Brahmotsavam conducted in this divya desam.

Every year,during Panguni, Lord Ranganatha, in all his splendour, leaves the Srirangam temple at 4am to take the 6 km journey across the Cauvery in a golden palanquin to meet his beloved Kamalavalli Naachiyar for the ‘Kalyana Utsavam’(marriage festivities). On this auspicious day in the month of Panguni, the entire marriage formalities between Lord Ranganatha and Kamalavalli Nachiyar is enacted at the Uraiyur Temple. Lord Ranganatha takes the trip back to Srirangam across the Cauvery that same night.At the Uraiyur temple, one can see Kamalavalli Nachiyar in a grand sitting posture, all set to get married. Being the handsome man in wedding attire, Lord Ranganatha here is called ‘Azhagiya Mana Vaalan’.A speciality of this temple is that this is the only Divya Desam (out of the 108) where the Goddess is facing the Northern direction, in this case in the direction of the Srirangam Ranganatha temple.In centuries gone by, devotees used to first visit the Uraiyur Divya Desam, walk across the Cauvery to the Srirangam Ranganatha temple and then across the Coloroon to Uttamar Koil and Tiruvellarai, thus covering four divya desams in one go.Uraiyur is also the birth place of Thiruppaanazhvaar, one of the 12 Azhvaar Saints. There is a separate sannadhi for Tiruppaanazhvaar at the Uraiyur temple. The Tiruppanaazhvaar festival is held in the month of Karthigai(Nov-Dec).

There’s a belief that an Elephant of a Chozha king, which entered this place, was beaten back by a valiant Hen and had to retreat. Hence, this place is also called Kozhiyoor (Kozhi means Hen in Tamil).

Thirumangai Azhvaar has composed one paasuram (song/verse in praise of the Lord).

Koziyum Kadalum Koil Konde, Kovalare Yoppar Kundramanna

Paazhiyum Tozhumore Naankudayaar, Pandivar Thammayaum Kandariyom

Vaazhiyro vivar vanna Mennil, Makadal Ponrular Kaiyil Veiya

Azhiyon Renthiyor Sangu Patri, Acho Oruvar Azhagiyavaa

Moolavar: The Moolavar of this Sthalam is Sri Azhagiya Manavaalan. Srirangam Uthsavar, Namperumal, gets the name Sri Azhagiya Manavalan when he comes to Uraiyur. He is found in Standing position (Nindra thirukkolam), facing his thirumugham towards North direction along with “Prayoga Chakkaram”. Prakthyaksham for Ravidharman and all Devars(330 crores).

Thayaar:
The Thayaar of this Sthalam is Sri Kamalavalli Naachiyaar (Vaasakshmi). Also named as “Uraiyur Valli”. She is found in Sitting position(Veetrirundha Kolam) facing North direction. The Position of the Thaayar is similar to position of a Bride who sits along with the Groom during marriage. The above positions are called as “Thirukalyana Avasaram”.

Uthsavar Thaayaar: Sri Kamalavalli Naachiyaar (Sri Vaasa Lakshmi) and Thaayar

Thirunakshatram - Aayilyam (Panguni)Sannadhis: Special sannadhi for Thiruppaan Alwar.

Mangalasasanam:

Kulasekara Alwar - 1 PaasuramThirumangai Alwar - 2 Paasuram

Pushkarani:

Sri Kamala PushkaraniKalyana PushkaraniSurya pushkaraniKudamurutinadhi Pushkarani

Vimanam:

The Vimaanam is Kalyana Vimaanam.

How to reach the temple

A number of town buses ply between Trichy (Trichirappalli) Junction/ Srirangam and Uraiyur. The temple is about 4 kms from Trichy Junction.

Temple Timings:The temple is open between 6.30am and 12noon & 4pm and 8pm.

Our next trip was starightly to Sri Rangam. We reached Srirangam around 10.30 am and it was heavily crowded. SO we had Darshan of all other Sannadhis until 11 am and then took a VIP Darshan where the queue was a bit OK. We had a great Darshan of Ranganathar perumal and Thaayar.

         2.       SRIRANGAM – THE BOOLOKA VAIKUNTAM
(THE PARADISE ON EARTH)

Srirangam is the foremost of the eight self-manifested shrines (Swayam Vyakta Kshetras) of Lord Vishnu. It is also considered the first, foremost and the most important of the 108 main Vishnu temples (Divyadesams). This temple is also known as Thiruvaranga Tirupati, Periyakoil, Bhoologa Vaikundam, and Bhogamandabam

7 Prakarams denoting the 7 Lokam (worlds)

There are 7 prakarams (the only Divya Desam to have so) at this temple that relate to the 7 lokams (7 worlds) each of which is said to be a step in leading us to Vaikuntam.

Seventh enclosure (Bhoo Lokam)

The gopuras of the seventh enclosure are unfinished. They are called Rayagopuram. The impressive dimensions of their bases prove that when finished, they would have risen to a height of at least 50.m. This is also called the Chitra Street now has a row of shops and offices.

Sixth enclosure (Bhoovar lokam)

The sixth enclosure has four gopuras; the eastern gopura is the most impressive of all on account of its size the inscriptions in Thirteenth Century characters. The processional chariots are kept in this enclosure. This also has a market called Uthara Street.

Fifth enclosure (Swar Lokam)

This Prakaram has ChakkarathAzhvaar and Andal Sannidhi on the West and Thaayar Sannidhi on the Southern side. The Sesha Raya Mandapam, on the Eastern side has several battle field sculptures that reminds one of the great times of Vijayanagara rulers. Opposite this is the 1000 pillar mandapam where the Vaikunta Ekadesi festivities and the recital of Naalaayira Divya Prabandham (4000 songs composed by Azhvaars) as well as the Araiyar Sevai take place. This prakaram has some beautiful sculptures, possibly built by the Hoysala somewhere around 1200AD. Some of the sculptures depict girls playing the veena and ladies holding beautiful parrots. This prakaram has the famous White Gopuram at the Eastern Entrance to the temple.

Kamban Ramaayana and Srirangam Temple

The Great Tamil poet Kamban had in his composition of the Raamaayana written about the Lord destroying Hiranya, the mention of which did not find universal acceptance. Kamban retorted stating that if the Lord accepted his version, then the world could not dispute it. He stood outside the Thaayar Sannidhi of this temple and recited his version. Lord Azhagiya Singar, who heard this composition, accepted this version. In memory of this, there is an Azhagiya Singar Sannidhi in the 5th Prakaram of the temple. Recognising the importance of this event, there is a separate Kamban Mandapam opposite the Thaayar Sannidhi.

Fourth enclosure (Mahar Lokam)

The walls of the 4th prakaram were built by ThiruMangai Azhvaar. This prakaram houses one of the biggest mandapams for Garuda among the 108 Divya Desams. This has over 200 pillars and is also possibly the most beautiful mandapam in the temple. On the southern side of this prakaram, one finds the Paramapada vaasal, also called Swarga Vaasal (the Gateway to Heaven), that opens only once a year during Vaikunta Ekadesi. Among the 108 Divya Desams, this is the only temple to have a Sannidhi for Dhanvantri, the medicinal God, which is located in this Prakaram, opposite the tank.

Ramanuja and Srirangam

Srirangam cannot be discussed without mentioning the great Vaishnavite scholar of Ramanujacharya who attained divinity here. His "Swayam Thirumeni" (the symbolic body) is preserved and offered prayers even today after 8 centuries. His Shrine is found in the fourth "prakara" of the temple and his "Thirumeni" is preserved in the temple in a seated position, by applying saffron and camphor every six months in a ritualistic style. All the devotees are said to wash their feet when going into the Sannadhi of Sri Ranganathar, because the artistic works on Sri Ramanujar are found in the floors here.

Third enclosure (Jano Lokam)

One can enter the 3rd prakaram only through the Arya Bhattal Tower. This houses several mandapams. While this is a dark area, one finds a special peace when inside this prakaram.

Second enclosure (Thapo Lokam)

The 2nd prakaram, which one enters through the NaazhiKetaan Entrance is called the Raja Mahendran street in memory of the Chozha king who built it. This prakaram also has the Kili (Parrot) Mandapam and the big Glass mirror, through which one can see the Lord when he comes out on procession.

First enclosure (Sathiya Lokam)

The first Prakaram was built by Chozha King Dharma Varma. There are 24 pillars inside this prakaram where(sanctum sanctorum) one finds Lord Ranganatha in his sleeping posture facing South(Lanka). These 24 pillars, it is said, denote the 24 letters of the Gayantri Mantra.

Moolavar: SRI LORD RANGANATHA PERUMAL in reclining posture (Bhujanga Sayanam), on AadhiSeshan faces South and gives Dharshan to the devotees.

Uthsavar: NamPerumaal, Azhagiya Manavaalan

Thaayaar: Sri Ranga Nachiarii, in separate Sannidhi

Prathyasham (Physically gave Dharshan to): Dharma varma, Ravi dharman, Chandhran and Vibeeshanan.

Vimanam: Pranavaakruthi. It took almost 7 and half years to build this huge vimanam (Gopuram). It is also called as "Raja Gopuram". This Raja Gopuram is 236 feet high with 13 Nilais (Partition) and 12 Kalasams at its top.

Sthala Puranam:

Once on the base of Himalaya, River Ganga, Cauvery, Yamuna and Saraswathi are playing in the sky one ghandharvan (person who belong to Deva lokam) saw these rivers playing and worshipped them. Seeing this, all the 4 river women started saying themselves that he worshipped them only. They started arguing on whom actually he worshipped. The argument continued but didn’t stop. Yamuna and Saraswathi stopped their quarrel. But to Ganga and Cauvery it continued. Finally, they both went to Sriman Narayanan.

River Ganga told to Narayanan since she was originated from the feet of Narayanan, she is bigger and mightier than Cauvery. Sriman Narayanan accepted it. But, Cauvery doesn’t accept it and she did tapas on Sriman Narayanan. Finally, Narayanan gave seva to her and told him that he will sleep on the bank of Cauvery and at that time, river Cauvery will be the garland (Maalai) in his chest, which will the better position than Ganga, who is found in his feet. This is the sthalapuranam said here.

It is a traditional belief that Adi Sankara installed at Srirangam, a Yantra called Janakarshana Yantra (to attract pilgrims) to this sacred temple, just as at Tirupati he installed the Dhanakarshana Yantra (to attract wealth). Sankara infused immense power to this Yantra, which has proved by its action perfectly true to its name. Tirupati is the richest temple in the South, may be in whole of India, and Srirangam is the most visited temple in the South.

Though it is primarily a Vaishnavite temples, believers in different tenets of faith do pay their homage at the temple of Ranganatha, the Adi Purusha in blissful slumber, floating on the Banyan leaf during cosmic deluge. The Adi Purusha in his eternal happiness remained afloat on the Milky Ocean, for how long nobody can say. He wanted to create the Universe. Lord Vishnu appeared before Brahma in the form of a swan. Brahma questioned its identity, to which the swan replied with two monosyllables 'OM' and 'THAP' and disappeared.

Brahma construed this bewildering reply as a direction to start penance uttering the word 'OM'. After long years of penance, the four Vedas appeared. After years of further penance, Bhoomi (land, the earth) appeared then the fire, the sky and Devaloka, the heaven where angels stay, and human beings, animals, etc., gradually appeared. At that time, a demon, by name Madhu Kaitabha, appeared from the ear of Brahma and snatched the Vedas from him and disappeared into the ocean. This incident annoyed Brahma, who also plunged into the ocean to search for the miscreant.

Vishnu took the form of a horse (Hayagriva) and annihilated the ace of Madhu Kaitabha and recovered the Vedas and taught the same to Brahma. After the initiation by Lord Vishnu himself, Brahma started creating the Universe, which is made of the five elements, Prithvi (earth), Jal (water), Vayu (air), Tejas (fire), Vyoma (ether) and sixteen spheres of the Universe and gave a start to the natural law of the Universe.Creation only being his main port folio, when he set the natural law in motion, his work was completed and the Universe would go on in the cycle of Karma, i.e., and action done by the created beings. As one's karma becomes the decisive factor for the continuance of the universe under the influence of natural law, Brahma realized in his observation that a time might come when his own action will be put to judgement.

He felt the necessity of getting advice from Narayana. To invoke him, he started penance in the Milky Ocean. After long years of penance, Lord Narayana appeared before him on Garuda and asked him what he wanted. Brahma requested Narayana to show him his real form.

Lord Narayana replied that nobody has seen his real Jyothi (effulgent) Swarupam. He said further: "It is I who appeared before you as a swan. It is I who brought you the Vedas. It is I who took the form of Hayagriva and annihilated the demon. And now I have come on my Garuda. I have taken up the responsibility of protecting the Universe and if you want to visualize my real form, you will have to utter the Ashtakshara Mantra in deep veneration.

At this, Brahma started the penance. Like this a thousand years elapsed, and at the end, Lord Vishnu appeared in a Ranga Vimanam from the Milky Ocean. Ranga Vimanam is the name given to a special chariot-like conveyance carried by Veda Murtis on their head, having Lord Vishnu inside the Vimanam (vehicle). Nagaraja was holding the white umbrella in attendance. Senapati Vishwaksena was holding a cane and chamaram (fan). Narada with Tumburu, uttering the hymns in praise, along with Devas, Angels, Kinnarasi (heavenly beings) were in prayerful attention. Sages Sanat kumara and others, the usual mythological attendants of Vishnu, were following the chariot.

In deep veneration Brahma went round the chariot four times chanting the four Vedas with his four mouths and stood before Lord Vishnu in prayerful pose representatives of all the worlds of the Universe, including Durga, Saraswati, Sapta Rishis, Navagrahas, constellations of stars and the Ashta Palakas (eight doorkeepers) and others were also in attendance.

Being pleased with the penance of Brahma, for the first time the real Swarupam of Vishnu in Ranga Vimanam with his attendants was shown to him as desired. Since that day the Ranga Vimanam became most famous, as the real seat of the Universal God. Brahma wanted to worship Lord Vishnu in the Vimanam forever. Lord Vishnu agreed to his request and Brahma took him to his abode in Satyaloka.

Brahma was happy to worship the Vimanam. News spread in course of time to Manu, the son of Sun God Surya, who was attracted and desired to have the darshan, for which he performed a penance and fulfilled his desire by a visit to Satyaloka and, paying homage’s to the Ranga Vimanam, then in the custody of Brahma, he attained liberation. Manu's son Ikshwaku cherished the desire of possessing the Ranga Vimanam for the benefit of the people on earth. He consulted his family preceptor, Vasishtha (priest of the Surya vamsha), who advised him to start penance uttering the sacred Ashtakshara Mantra. Accordingly, Ikshwaku started a severe penance which puzzled even the devas, foreboding evil days for them. They attempted to spoil the penance by deputing Maninatha and the celestial nymphs to distract his attention. Indra took the lead in this affair and did not even hesitate to send the Vajraayudha (lightning weapon) to foil the penance. But all failed in their attempts. In disappointment, they prayed to Brahma, to save them from the baffling catastrophe. Brahma on his part approached Ranganatha for advice.

Ranganatha consoled Brahma by expressing his desire to go to Ayodhya where he would be worshipped by the descendant of the Solar dynasty for four Yugas, and at the end of the fourth Yuga he would go to the kingdom of the Cholas in the South, on the banks of the Kaveri, where he would stay for 700 years. At the end, of this period he would return to Brahmaloka. Brahma was directed to part with the Ranga Vimanam to Ikshwaku. From Ikshwaku to Lord Rama time, this Vimaan was worshipped and belonged to Ayodhya Kings.

Sri Ramar who took the avathaar as an ordinary human being, worshipped Sri Ranganathan, the god is also named as "Periya Perumal". After his pattabishekham (crowned as king), he gave the Thiru Aranga Vimaanam to King Vibeeshan, which belongs to Ayodhya Kings and their followers.
Coming along with the Thiruvaranga temple vimaanam, the Chola king and the Rishis present requested Vibhishana to perform the Adi Brahmotsava there itself instead of in Lankha. Vibhishana agreed to this request. So he kept the vimaanam in the midst of Cauvery river to worship it. During the worship, Chozhan Dharmavarman and lots of Rishis also joined. In commemoration of this incident, the Brahmotsava is performed on the day of the full moon in the month of Panguni, Uttaram day. After finishing all the poojas, tried to take the vimaanam along with him to Lanka, he was unable to take it and he could not even move.

This must have caused almost heartbreak to Vibhishana who went on praying to Lord Ranganatha to save him from the situation. At that time, Sri Aranganathan told since he had given varam (promise) to River Cauvery and since he has to purify her, he has to be all along the Cauvery River. And told that he will not be in a position to move from there. But on hearing this, King Vibeeshan became sad, for which Sri Aranganathan says that inspite of not coming to Lanka, but he will be facing the south direction of Lanka. This is the history explaination of Sri Rangam.

There's another similar story that says that Vibeeshan was to carry the Deity back to Lankha but had to stop for taking bathe, and that Lord Rama had addressed stating that He in the form of Sri Ranganathan would allow Himself to be carried back to Lankha by Vibeeshan and then placed down He would not move. Vibeeshan understanding that, needed someone to hold the Deity while he relieved himself and bathed and returned. He found nearby one Brahmin boy and entrusted the task of holding the Deity of Raganath to him to which he agreed. And NOT to put the Deity down..... Anyway when Vibeeshan returned, he found the boy gone and the Deity firmly fixed to the spot facing the south. Vibeeshan's rakshasa nature came out and he became so angry at the boy taking out his sword he cased him. Vibhishana ran after him. Lord Ganesha climbed up to the top of a large nearby cliff. But, there, Vibhishana caught him and struck him on the forehead. At that moment, Ganesha revealed his true form to Vibhishana, who immediately apologized2, asked for his blessings and continued on his way to Lanka. The enormous rock Lord Ganesha climbed upon now forms the Uchi Pillayar Temple, only a few kilometers from Sri Rangam.

********

The desire of Dharma Varma, the Chola prince, was fulfilled in this miraculous way. He started constructing a gigantic structure for installing the Ranga Vimanam. Dharma Varma worshipped the Ranga Vimanam for a long time and attained salvation. Years passed and once an unprecedented flood came in River Kaveri, which brought an enormous quantity of silt and sand and flooded the entire country. It is said that the flood was so devastating that even the peak of the gopuram of the temple was submerged under sand and looked like a sand dune.

The entire city surrounding it was utterly devastated. The Chola king shifted the capital from Tri (Uraiyur) to Tanjore. The Ranga Vimanam temple was left uncared for, submerged under sand, which gradually gave rise to other growth of vegetation, which at last became a wasteland. Then it so happened that once Chola prince went out for a pleasure hunt. He rested for some time under a tree in this forest.

A parrot living on the tree suggested to king that down below be lying submerged the sacred Ranga Vimanam. (The prince thereafter came to be known as Kilikanda Chola, who saw the parrot). The Chola king had heard about the Ranga Vimanam and found its location in the forest from the parrot.

The information was also corroborated by a dream seen by the prince. Upon validation, the king started excavation work and unearthed the temple walls and prakarams. He also developed it further and made additions and alterations to the temple particularly the addition of a mandapam in the name of the parrot, still known as Kili Mandapam. He re-established the religious rite rituals in the temple as before. He became an ardent devotee of Ranganatha and attained liberation later.

The other major vicissitude in the history occurred during the reign of Raja Mahendra Chola, when a sudden spring sprouted up emitting a huge quantity of water during the flood in which it blocked the passage of the entrance to the temple and threatened to engulf the temple base. The King had the passage blocked and gopuram constructed over it, making a second prakaram like the wall of defence. For this beneficial work done by him he too attained liberation.

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During the period of invasion by Malik Kafur and his forces in 1310–1311, Namperumal was stolen and taken to Delhi. In a daring exploit, devotees of Srirangam ventured to Delhi and enthralled the king with their histrionics. Moved by their talent, the King was pleased to gift them the presiding deity of Srirangam, which was requested by the performers. Things took a drastic turn immediately. Surathani, his daughter fell in love with the deity and followed him to Srirangam. She prostrated to the God in front of the Sanctum Sanctorum and is believed to have attained the Heavenly Abode immediately. Even today, a painting of "Surathani" (known as "Thulukha Nachiyar" in Tamil) can be seen in the Arjuna Mandap adjacent to the Sanctum Sanctorum.

*****

Position of Lord Ranganathar:

The position which Sri Ranganathar is found in this Sthalam is one of the great thing that has to be explained.

In this sthalam, Aranganathan is found inside the Aranga Vimaanam, Keeping 5 headed Aadhi seshan as the bed, his legs stretched along the direction of the sun's upcoming side (East) direction from where the moon in the evening rises and Lord Yaman, who is the demon king and cool breeze and wind which are said to be found from the South direction are seen by Aranganathan and he sees Lanka. Behind him, is Kuberan (North Direction) and Selva Magal (Sri Lakshmi) are found. His right hand is kept under his head as a "Pillow" and the left hand is on his lap and it is pointed to his feet. This position explains to the world that all the Jeevathmas are finally getting terminated only in his feet.

IT IS BELIEVED - The darshan of Lord Sri Ranganatha is graced (achieved) only to those who had taken birth in Srirangam in their earlier lives. Only such sacred souls that CRAVE for the Lord get the darshan of Lord Ranga. There was a king of TRAVANCORE (Kerala) who was craving for Darshan of Ranga and composed - Ranga yatra diney diney - meaning every day he wanted to go Srirangam but was retained by his ministers. These kings believed that entire kingdom is of Lord and they only do duty fulfilling the Lord's will. This king is none other than KULA SEKHARA ALWAR. 

There is another composition –

SAPTA PRAKARA MADHYEY SARASIJA MUKULOD BHASA MANEY VIMANEY, KAVERI THATA PARISARA MADHYA SALILE RANGA NATHAM BHAJAMI

Sannadhis:

• Veli Aandal
• Periyazhvar
• Kanna Peruman
• Manavala Mamunigal
• Alwargal
• Naathamunigal
• Aalavanthaar
• Thiruvaranga Perumalarayar
• Amirtha kalasa Garudan
• Thondaradipodi Alwar
• ThiruPaan Alwar
• Chakkarathalwar
• Sriranga Naachiyaar
• Ul Aandal
• Metty Azhagiyasinger
• Vedantha Desikar
• Periya Garudan
• Nammazhwar
• Danvanthari

Pushkarini:

• Chandira Pushkarani
• Cauvery
• Kollidam
• Vedacchurangam

How to Reach Sri Rangam/ Ranganathaswamy Temple

By Air

Trichy/Tiruchirapalli is well connected to cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Madurai, and Colombo. The Trichy airport is about 7 km from the city.

By Rail

Trichy/Tiruchirappalli is an important Railway junction of the Southern Railways. It connects many important cities and towns of South India such as Chennai, Thanjavur, Madurai and Chidambaram.

By Road

Trichy/Tiruchirappalli is well connected by road to Madurai, Chennai, Pondicherry and Thanjavur/Tanjore.

It was around 12.30 pm when we reached Uttamar Kovil and the Sannadhi was closed. We managed to have our afternoon meals in one of the nearby hotels and continued our journey. So we travelled to ‘Anbil’ kovil and reached there at around 4pm. The temple was not open but we waited for the Bhattar to come by. A small boy went to Bhattar’s house and brought him saying that we are waiting for Darshan.

      3.        Thiru Anbil –Sri Vadivazhagiya Nambi Perumal Temple

ThiruMazhisai Azhvaar refers to this Lord alongside Srirangam Ranganatha and Kudanthai Aaraavamuthan.

Located about 15kms South East of Srirangam, one can reach Anbil via Toll Gate and Lalgudi from Trichy Chatiram bus stand (Bus Number 93 goes direct to Anbil). In centuries gone by, devotees used to walk across the Coloroon from Koviladi Divya Desam, a distance of 2 kms.

Chozha king built the Anbil temple

Sundara Raja Chozhan, the father of Raja Raja Chozhan had stayed here for a night before going for a battle. He laid his weapons before the Lord and sought his blessings. Emerging victorious, he is said to have come back here and built the temple in its current form.

Sthala Puranam:

Shiva’s curse

To find salvation from Brahmma’s curse, Shiva went on a pilgrimage begging for food, with Brahmma’s skull as the begging vessel. Every time someone filled the vessel with food, Shiva found to his horror that it vanished immediately. At Uthamar Koil, Goddess Lakshmi filled the vessel with food, thus ending Shiva’s hunger. However, to Shiva’s dismay, Brahmma’s skull still lay fixed on his hand. Shiva is said to have visited this place from Uthamar Koil before going to Kandiyur where he finally got salvation.

This Anbil Sthalam is closely related to great creators. This whole world was created by Lord Brahma and Valmiki Maharishi is great Saint (Muni) and has lots of good thoughts built-in. Both these two persons are very good examples of creating good things and dedicating it to this mighty world.

Based on the Kalyana gunam (Character) and Thiru Vadivam (shape) of Sriman Narayanan, they created good things and presented to the world. Behind this good creation, is the love (or) Anbu in Tamil on God. So, this sthalam is calle as "Anbil".

To all the creative people, all the things they see looks good and beautiful. Like the same way, the God here is Vadivazhagiya Nambi and Thaayar is Azhagiyavalli Naachiyar showing Shundhara - Sorobha Dharshanam.

Sundaram means "beautiful" and "good looking" and Soroobham means the body. Since, the Perumal and Thaayar are said to look good and beautiful, it is said the beauty of them attracts all of His Bhakthaas.

"Anbae Kadavul, Anbae Azhaghu, Anbae Ulagam, Anbae Gnyanam and Anbae Padaippu"This is quote told here and the explanation is "God is love, Beauty is Love, Love is the world, Love is the Gnayanam and Love is the creator. And all these beautiful issues indicates how beauty the Perumal is.

Moolavar: The Moolavar of this Sthalam is Vadivazhagiya Nambi..Moolavar in Kidantha Kolam and in Bhujanga sayanam and facing East direction.

Prathayaksham: Lord Brahma and Vaalmiki.

Thayaar: Andal is seen in a sitting posture here. This is considered as a prarthana sthalam for unmarried women. It is believed that prayers to Andal at this temple will result in them finding the bridegroom

Deities: Sundararajan & The Thayaar of this Sthalam is Azhagiya valli Naachiyaar

Mangalasasanam: 1 Paasuram

Thirumazhisaialwar has sung in praise of this sthalam - 2417.

Once when Thirumezhisai Alwar came here, he was teased to a great extent by the people. He taught of teaching them a lesson and sung a song on Lord Vishnu to appear on him and make the people know that he is Lord Vishnu's ardent devotee, and Lord Vishnu came out of Thirumezhisai Alwar and appeared here as "Vadhivazhagiya Nambi" to make Thirumezhisai Alwar to teach them a lesson.

Pushkarani: Mandooga Pushkarani - Kollidam.

Once when Manduga Maharishi was in penance under water. Saint Dhuruvaasar waited for him on the water shore long time. Since Saint Mandugar has not turned up, Saint Dhuruvaasar cursed him to become frog. So Saint Mandugar came to this place and did penance on Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu appeared before him and whipped off the curse given Saint Dhurvaasar and Saint Mandugar regained his form. So this place was previously called as "Mandugaa (frog) puri". The pond here is also called as "Manduga Theertham".

Vimanam: Dhaaraga Vimanam. Lots of sculptures found here.

The temple is in Village. So when you plan to go to this divya desam, kindly buy pushpam, Maalai, Turmeric, Kumkum kind of pooja items as kaingaryam. They are finding difficulties to go and buy those items for this temple. Let us all take these things and do our possible kaingaryam for the remote divya desams.

Once we finished the Darshan in Thiru Anbil temple, we spoke with the Bhattar for nearby Divya desams to cover. He guided us further with routes as well.

From there we travlled by car via naducauvery and reached a divya desam near Thiruvayar-Tanjore – 
    4.       Thirukkandiyur - Sri Hara Saabha Vimocchana Perumal Temple

This is situated in Tanjore (Thanjavur) Tamil Nadu. 6 miles away from Tanjore, 2 miles from Tiruvayyaaru. One bus facility available and no lodging facility.

The temple of this sthalam is 222 feet in length and 115 feet broad in the breadth, on the main road.

Sthala Puranam:

Lord Vishnu created Brahmaa when he was in yoga nishtai with five heads. It was a specific creation that later on one of the head would be removed by Shiva in a feud between Shiva and Brahmaa. After the creation of Brahmaa, “Rudraa” and other devas were created out throught His Face. Lord Vishnu wanted to teach a lesson to both Brahmaa and Shiva who were already covered by His Maya (no one is free from this including Shiva, and that’s the reason that puts Lord Vishnu as the Supreme) started to fight for supremacy among themselves due to ignorance created by Vishnu Maya. Shiva could remove one of Brahmaas head, but then the kapaalam of Brahmaa got struck in his palm and would not go. 

Lord Shiva “wandered” around the world looking for remedy. He was told by Paarvathi, that if he takes “bikshai” from SRI he will be qualified to continue his tapas and then as the next step, he must meditate on Lord Vishnu to seek relief for this Dhosham. He did so at “Thiruk karambanoor”, (also known as Uththamar koil due to the reference given by Thirumangai Aazhwaar on HIM in one of the Paasuram as “Uththaman”), one of the 108 DivyaDesham, and obtained ”bikshai” from SRI there and hence this temple is known as “Bikshaandavan temple”. He later went on to meditate on Lord Vishnu and sought His blessings at “Thirukkandiyoor”.

If anyone gets god's curse from some person, they have to tell the Vimochanam (ie) how to get out of it. But, since Brahma deva was not there, Lord shiva himself felt for what he has done and since that is the Karma, what has been written for him, he left all the things and led his life as pikshandavar.

The sin was done by Lord Shiva and the person on who it was done is on Lord Brahma and the person who came to and gave dharshan at the end of the time of the sin is Lord Vishnu. So, at the end of the Sabha vimochanam, are the three Murthygal, or otherwise called as "Mummoorthigal" was given the seva. Since all the three Murthis gave the Seva at the same time, this Shetram is called "Thirumurthy shetram". The victim who was included in the curse is Lord Shiva. At the end of the Shabha Vimokshanam, the Victim on whom it is done and that is Lord Brahma, who wants them to get out of it is Lord Vishnu, who is the Victim of truth.

Inspite of being a God, even though Shiva did the sin, he did not get out of it, but he really felt for it and begged for food and for all of his needs.

Based on this story only, there were separate Sannadhis for Sriman Narayanan and Brahma devan in Kadhambanoor, Uthamar Koil. Next to this temple is a temple for Lord Shiva. The temple is called as "Brahma Sirakandeeswarar Koil". Siram means head. Since, Brahma devan sabham was warned (Kandanam in Tamil) in this sthalam this sthalam is called "Kandiyoor".

Even though, it might be the God who has done the crime, they have to get the punishment for that. That is the main moral that is told to the world. This is the main moral which has to be rooted inside every human when going through this sthalapuranam.
Near Kandiyoor, there is a small place called "Kalyanapuram" where some special Utsavams are done for Kalyana Venkateswarar. The theertham which is found in front of this temple is called "Bhali Theertham" and theertham which is found in west is called "Kabhala Theertham".

Both Sri Lakshmi Narasimmar and Chakkratalwar are given the seva in the same place (as in front and back). Since, Narasimmar is behind the wall, it is not possible to worship him. Only Chakkratalwar can be worshipped.

The vimaanam of this temple will be like the lotus flower. Sandhaana Gopalan and Navaneedha krishnan are also the Ursavars found in this temple. Kamalam means Lotus. The Shetram is also called as Kamala shetram, the pushkarani is Kamala Pushkarani, the utsavar is Kamalanathan, and the Thaayar is Kamalavalli, this temple is said to built along with Panja Kamala way. Panja means five.

The Brahma devans sculpture is taken out and along with Saraswathi devi, it is kept inside Shivas temple and Lord shiva is kept where the Brahma's sculpture used to placed.
Since, Lord Shiva got the Brahmagarthi dosham, Lord Brahma's sculpture was kept inside shiva's temple. Along the south side of this temple is a sannadhi for Sri Vedantha Desikar, but utsavar is not available.

Moolavar: The Moolavar of this temple is Sri Hara Saabha Vimocchanapperumal. Emperumaan, who is giving seva in Kidantha thirukkolam (lying posture) facing east direction in Utthamar Koil, he is giving seva in this sthalam in Nindra thirukkolam (standing posture) facing east direction.

Thayaar: Kamalavalli Thaayar.

Utsavar : Sri Kamalanathan.

Prathyaksham : Agasthya Maharishi

Sannadhis:

1. Chakratalwar
2. Lakshmi Narasimar
3. Vedantha Desikar

Mangalasasanam: Thirumangai Alwar - 10 Paasurams.

Pushkarani:

1.       Kabaala Moksha Pushkarani.
2. Padma Theertham.
3. Kabaala Theertham.
4. Kudamurutti Nadhi.

Vimanam: Kamalakkruthi Vimaanam.

 5. Thanjai Mamani Kovil- Neelamega Perumal

Period of origin

Before 2000 year

Name of deity

Moolavar: Neelamegar, Veera Narasimhar, Manikundra Perumal

Thayar: Sengamalavalli, Ambujavalli, Thanjai Nayagi

Pushkarani: Viraja Nadhi,Vinnaru,Vennar, Amirtha Theertham

Sthala Virksham: Magizham

Vimanam: Soundarya Vimaanam

Mangalaashaasanam: Thirumangai Alwar, Boothathalwar, Nammalwar

Sthalapuranam:

Group of three temples are considered to be one Divya Desam here. They are,

Thanjai Maamani Kovil

Neelamega Perumal sitting posture facing east. Sengamalavalli Thayar both prathyaksham to Parasaramuni.

Manikkundram

Manikundra Perumal in sitting posture facing east. Ambujavalli Thayar, prathyaksham to Markandeyar.

Thanjayali Nagar

Lord Nrisimha in sitting posture facing East with Thayar Thanjai Nayagi. Both were prathyaksham to Markandeyar.

The Story stares in this way, Once in Kritha Yuga there were three demons Thanjakan, Thandakan and Gajamukhan underwent severe penance praying to Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva was pleased at the devotion of the three demons and appeared before them. The demons requested for a boon of immortality to Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva advised them that Lord Vishnu as a Preserver could provide such a boon. However Lord Shiva provided them with a boon that he will do no harm to them.

The three demons were turned out haughty with the extra-ordinary boon provided by Lord Shiva and they started harassing entire deities and Rishis. In the meantime, the entire universe had undergone severe drought and famine. Surprisingly, there was only one sacred land remained undisturbed where Sage Parasara was following severe austerities and propitiating Lord Perumal. The three demons arrived on this land; they started assaulting Sage Parasara and tried all their arrogant means to vanquish him from this lush green land. Sage Parasara called out for Lord for help. Instantaneously, Lord Sriman Narayana sent Garuda to kill the army of demons. At last, Lord himself appeared before the demons and beheaded all of them. Thanjakan regretted about his deeds and begged to pardon him. Thus, the sacred land has got its name Thanjakanur and later years came to known as ‘Thanjavur’. Seeing the defeat of Thanjaka, Thandakan hid himself under the earth.  Lord became a Varaha, entered the hiding and killed the demon.  Tharaka was killed by Kali.  After the destruction of the three demons, Lord appeared before Sage Parasara as Neelamega Perumal.  Lord is gracing this place in three names in three separate temples.

Lord Vishnu who destroyed the demons graces in three separate temples as Neelamegar, Manikundra Perumal and Veera Narasimha in three forms.  Saints Boodhathazhwar and Tirumangai Azhwar had sung the glory of the three Perumals together in their hymns. 

 The three temples form a single Divya Desa. Saint Tirumangai Azhwar had sung the Mangalasasanam twice for the temple. Lord Veera Narasimhar blesses the devotees from the sanctum sanctorum along with Mothers Sridevi and Bhoodevi.  Instead of abishek only Thailakappu is done for the three presiding deities.

Outside the Moolavar Sannathi, we can dharsan Lakshmi Narasimar containing godess Lakshmi devi in his right lap, Andal Naachiyar and Vishvakshenar.

Thaayar Senkamalavalli Nachiyar has a seperate sannadhi. Outside the Thaayar sannadhi, there is one pillar in which one side Yoga Narasimar is portraited whereas on the other side Lord Aanchaneya (Hanuman) is found. It is said that if we come around and pray the Narasima and Aanchaneya continuosly for 108 times, all our wishes would be granted immediately.

The Vedas say that Lord Narayana would take any form at any time to protect his devotees. And the above case proves it. As the meaning of Vedas is explained here, the Vimaanam of this place is Vedasundara vimaanam.

The Vimaanam of Thanjai Maamani Koil is beautifully carved and hence gets it name Soundaraja vimaanam. And as the perumal stands as a hill of with a grace on glare of pearls and stones in Manikundra perumal Koil its vimaanam has the Manikooda vimaanam.

Route:

Singaperumal koil is 3 km from Thanjavur old bus stand on the Kumbakonam route. The three temples are nearby to one another.

Temple Timings:

7.00 a.m. to 12.00 a.m and from 5.00 p.m. to 8.30 p.m.

Temple Telephone Number:

+91- 4362 – 223 384.

Temple Address:

Sri Neelamega Perumal Temple
PalliAgraharam
Thanjavur (Dist)
Tamil Nadu
India.

The Bhattar was not there and the temple was locked. But we had a good Darshan through the gate which was visible enough to worship Perumal and Thaayar.

From here we went to Koviladi. It was around 7.30 pm by the time we reached this temple. The village name is known as Koviladi because the village is under this temple – Kovil. To be more clear this kovil is a bit raised at a height higher than the ground level of the village.

An excellent sevai and feast to ears we got in this termple. When we went we could not have a darshan of Moolavar as thiruppani was going on. We worshipped Uthsavar and Moolavar Thiruvadi Paadhugai.

Whoever visits this divya desam, kindly talk to this Bhattar for atleast 30 mins. A very good Vishayaandthi. He gives a lot of Sasthra sampradhaaya notes and vaibhavam of perumal in divya desam. Some of his words for your reference as below:

      1.    Donot pour perumal theertham on your head after drinking it. It implies you are taking bath if you do so by pouring on ur head. Never ever do this mistake.

      2.    If you wear specs, remove your specs and keep theertham on your eyes after you drink.

     3.    You could visit this sthalam only because your anscesters have done crores of punyas.

     4.    Breathe the air of Divya desam you vist

     5.    Think of all Alwars who wlaked every corner of dhivya desam and sung mangalasasanams.

      6.    Stay atleast 1 day in divya desam yathra

      7.    Spend time in sthalam instead of rushing up to just visit a divya desam.

      
And lot more. He opened the eyes of our soul.

We had dinner in a veg hotel on the way back to our room.

Next day morning we started at 7 am and travelled to Uthamar kovil.

6.    Uthamar Kovil : Thirukkarambanur – Sri Purushotaman Perumal Temple

Temple Location about the Temple:

It is situated in Trichy, Tamil Nadu district. 8 Kms away from Trichy, 3 1/2 Kms from Sri Rangam, situated in the middle of Trichy - Sri Rangam small Railway station along the Railway from Trichy to Vizhupuram Guard line. Bus facility also available.

Sthala Puranam:

The Sthalapuranam of this temple is also similar to that of the sthalapuranam of "Thirukkandiyoor".

It is said that both Sivaperumaan and Brahma devan had 5 heads. But, Lord Shiva was angry on Brahma Devan that he too had five heads. Because of this anger, he plucked one of his head from his body and was caught by "Brahmagardhi Dhosham". Because of this, he lost of his wealth and started beg for food using the Kabaalam. Because of this, Lord Shiva is called as "Picchai Aandavar".

He was given the Sabham that he can get rid of this sin only if the Kabaalam is completely filled-up with food. From then, Lord Shivan visited all the Divyadesams to get out of his sin. At that time, he was offered food by Sri Mahalakshmi and the Kabaalam was filled completely with food and from then, he got out of his "Brahmagardhi Dhosham". This is the Sthalapuranam said here.

In this sthalam, Sriman Narayanan, Lord Shiva and Brahma Devan who are collectively called as "Mummoorthigal" are found in separate sannadhis and giving their seva to the world.

Since, Emperumaan, Prushothaman gave Prathyaksham for Kadhamba Munivar, this Kshetram is also called as "Kadhamba Kshetram".

Kadhambam means mixture of things. Both Shiva and Vishnu are found in the same temple and explains that there should be no difference between Vaishnavas and Saivas and but at the same time they should be devoted in a single minded way. So, this Kshetram is also called "Kadhamba Kshetram".

In this sthalam only, Sanaga, Sananthana and Sanath brothers are given the first teachings on Saivams and at the same time Prathyaksham for Maarkandeya Maharishi. This also shows how the unity is explained.

Emperumaan, Sriman Narayanam is named as "Uthamar" and Lord shiva is named as "Pikshandanar".

In Aavani and Chithirai month, grand utsavams are done. Marriages of bhakthas are also done in this temple.

This sthalaperumal is Purushothaman (Purushan + Uthaman). Purushan means husband and Uthaman means a person who behaves and likes his wife and doesn't even think of other women. Sri Ramar is the best example for Uthaman and he is said to be "Eaga Pathini Vridhan". So this sthalam is named as "Uthamar Koil" and Emperumaan is called as "Uthaman".

This Kadhamba sthalam is the place where Gnana Thathuvam (explanation of Gnana) and the explaination of Aanma Gnanam was explained.

Doing pooja in Naga linga flower is one of the speciality in this temple and it is said to eradicate all the problems in our life.

The main moral which is explained in this sthalam is Lord Shiva who is the King of Kailayam, after getting jealous on Brahma devan lost all his wealth and begged for food. So, we should not have jealous on others, but should be happy with what we have.

Specials:

• Lord Shiva - Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma who are collectively called as "Mum Murthy" are said to found here in this temple.
• Nagalinga Poo (flower), which is one of the famous and rare flower is found here and this is the special flower here to do poojas in this temple.

Moolavar:

The Moolavar of this Sthalam is Purushothaman. He is found in Moolavar in Bujanga seva facing East direction. Prathyaksham for Kadhamba Munivar, Thirumangai Alwar, Ubarusaravasoo, the four persons Sanaga, Sanaathana and Sanathkumarar.

Thayaar:

The Thayaar of this Sthalam is Poorvadevi. Also called as "Pooranavalli".

Sannadhis:

01. Lord Shiva
02. Brahma who is otherwise called as "Naan Mugan"
03. Venugopalan
04. Ramar
05. Varadharajar
06. Hanuman
07. Sani Bhagavan
08. Dhasaradha Lingam
09. Pitshadanaar
10. Soundira Paarvathi
11. Natarajar
12. Kalaimagal (Saraswathi)
13. Thirumangai Alwar
14. Nammalwar
15. Kulasekarar
16. Ramanujar and
17. Manavaala Maamunigal.

Mangalasasanam:

Thirumangai Alwar - 1 Paasuram.

Total - 1 Paasuram.

Pushkarani:

Kadhamba Theertham.

Vimanam:

Utthiyoga Vimaanam.

Lord Bramha here is very powerful to wash away all your previous births’ Dhoshams and sins. Gynana saraswathy gives wisdom and knowledge for all bhakthas who visits here. One can get rid of all the curses when visited here and devotes perumal and thaayar with bhakthi.

We travelled to Thivellarai temple from here.

7.     Thiru Vellarai - Sri Pundarikaashan Perumal Temple
(Visit Thiruvellarai for Moksham)

About the Temple:

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. Also has bus facility from Sri Rangam. No boarding and lodging facility.

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.

Stalapuranam:

Vellarai means white rock. Since, this sthalam is situated 100 feet high in the top of the small mountain, which is white in colour, this sthalam is called "Thiru Vellarai".

The story goes thus

• 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.
• Once when Sibi Chakravarthi has been tented here with his warriors here, a white boar crossed him. He chased it and the Boar finally went inside a hole. Saint Markandeya was under penance here and King Sibi narrated the incident that occured here and the saint asked the king to perform a Milk Abhiseka to the hole. While doing so Lord Vishnu appeared before them. So Saint Markandeya asked Sibi Chakravarthy to bring 3700 Vaishnavites from North and build a temple here for Lord Vishnu. As requested Sibi Chakravarthy brought the 3700 Vaishnavites from the North and built the temple. While do so one of the Vaishnavite died and King Sibi was very much worried about it. Lord Vishnu again appeared Himself as a Vaishnavite and told King Sibi to count Him and make the numbering as 3700. Saint Naradhar's disciple Uyyakkondaar wrote "Sri Bhaashyam", which was left unfinished by him and was finally completed by Vishnu Sithaar. So this rock is called as "Uyyakkondaan Malai".

There are two entrances to the temple viz. Uttarayana Vasal (Entrance) and Dakshinayana Vasal used during respective periods - Thai to Aani (Jan - July) and Aavani to Margazhi (July to jan). There is one more entrance namely the Naazhi Kettan Vasal signifying the entrance used by the Lord when he came late and was questioned by Thayar. One could have darshan of Sridevi, Bhoodevi, Surya , Chandra, Aadisesha in Prakruta sharira serving the Lord.Avathara Sthala of the Acharyas - Uyyakondar and Engallazhwan.This place helped Sri Ramanuja in propagation of Srivaishnavism .

Special Information: This temple has a big wall (Mathil sevar) Birth place of Bhakthar Uyyakondaar. Situated on top of a Mountain which is fall of white rocks and 100 feet high. (Vellarai means white rock. Since, this sthalam is situated at the top of a small white mountain, this sthalam is called "Thiru Vellarai").

Birth Place: This is the birth place of Uyakondan and Engal Alwan.

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.

Sriman Narayanan is giving dharshan to all living and non living things as Sooriya Narayanan. By extending his rays, he is giving security to the entire world. Sri vishnu who is also named as "Maayavan" at the end of Dhakshinayana kaalam (Margazhi 15th) is named as "Thai Maatha Naayagan", at the start of Thai Month (Jan 15th).

There is a small explanation that has to be said for the two Vaasals (entrance). In the human life, there are two separate entrances, (i.e.) entering to the life and getting out of it is the other. In both these Vaasals when entering in to the life and when getting out of it, he could be able to feel the presence of Paramaathma. To make this understand, he resembles himself as "Suriya Narayanan" at the state of Utharayanam and as "Govindan" at the end of Dhakshinayanan at the end of Maargazhi.

The Dhakshinayana Vaasal is the Vaasal or entrance which leads us to the death and it is the place of the stay of Lord yeman, the king of Naragam.

The Uthirayana Vaasal, which is the Vaasal which way that all the Jeevathmas enter in to world as an human being (or) a non living being, is the place of "Lord Guberan", who is the God of wealth.

Even if a person who is well enough in money and his good activity will only lead him towards the Emperumaan. And if a person is very poor and if he is a good hearted and do proper karmas, will lead him to attain the Swargam, the Heaven.

To explain this only, there are two vaasals in this Pundarikaksha Sthalam.

Sri Pundarikakshan, Bhoomi Piratti, Periya piratti, Suriya and Chandiran and Aadisheshan resembles as humans in this sthalam and it can be seen in the Moolavari Place.

Engalaazhvan has written the great "Nadaa thooram Aalukku oppatra pungai Maalai". Nadaathoramaal means Bhakthan who is having full and entire soul of Bhakthi on the God.

The name which has been given Engalaazhvan as "Nadaathoramaal" has a very special story to be said. Every day he gives milk to Emperumaan. Thinking the milk may be hot, he makes it cold by blowing air through his mouth and gives to Emperumaan. On the action of Engalaazhvan as his mother and calls him as "Nadaathoorammaal".

Udaiyavar, Sri Ramanujar, stayed in this sthalam and explained about Vaishnavam and made it grow. Vedantha Desikar in his Hamsa Sandesam has done Mangalaasasanam.

In front of big pillar in his temple, when we make any sound, it replicates and echo around the temple. Because of this, some of paasurams in Divyapprabhandhams are said for 2 or 3 times.
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.One can see the Srirangam temple from here, though it is 15 kms away.

Periyalwar and Thirumangai Alwar have each composed 10 paasurams in praise of the Lord here.

Moolavar: The Moolavar of this Sthalam is Pundarikashan.Moolavar in standing position facing east direction.Prathyaksham : Garudan, called as "Periya Thiruvadi", Sibi chakravarthy, Bhoomi Piratti, Maarkandeya Maharishi, Lord Brahma, Lord Shiva.

Thayaar: 
Shenbagavalli. Also called as "Peri Piraattiyaar Lakshmi Devi". Seperate sannadhi for Thaayar. Utsavar thaayar is named as "Pangajavalli".

Mangalasasanam:

Periyalwar - 1 Paasurams
Thirumangai Alwar - 13

Total - 14

Pushkarani:

• Divya Theertham.
• Kanda Kshree Theertham.
• Chakkara Theertham.
• Pushkala Theertham.
• Padma Theertham.
• Varaaha Manikarnika Theertham.

Vimanam: Vimalaakkruthi Vimaanam.