| Navagraha Temples | Districts : Kumbakonam, Thanjavur, Nagapattinam in Tamilnadu and Karaikal in Pondicherry | |||
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(A) Moon (Chandra) சந்திரன் : Temple is in Thingalur. 5 kms from Thiruvaiyaru, 16.1 kms from Thanjavur, 37.2 kms from Kumbakonam. Temple is in Thanjavur District, Tamilnadu.Presiding deity is Kailasanathar (Lord Siva). Tirtha : Chandira Pushkarini, Believed to be 1,000 to 2,000 years old. Timings : 7.00 a.m. to 1 p.m., 4.00 p.m., to 9.00 p.m. Contact number : 04362- 262499. (B) Jupiter (Guru) குரு : Temple is in Alangudi, Tiruvarur District, Valangaiman Taluk (Tehsil). The temple is on Kumbakonam to Rajamannarkudi Road at 17th km. south of Kumbakonam. 7 kms from Needamangalam Railway Station. The presiding deity is Abathsahyeswarar (Lord Shiva). Consort is Elavarkuzhali. Urchavar is Dakshinamurthy. Tirtha : Amritha Pushkarini. Worshiping time : 6.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m., 4.00 p.m. to 8.30 p.m., Temple believed to be from 1000 to 2000 years old. Temple Phone : 04374 - 269407, Email : algguru@gmail.com (C) Rahu (North/Ascending Node) ராகு (வடக்கு ஏறு முகம்) : Temple is is in Thirunageswaram, Thanjavur District. 5 kms off Kumbakonam. Presiding deity is Nageswarar / Naganathar. His consort Giri Gujambal, Tirtha is Surya Theertha. Temple said to be existed from over 1000 to 2000 years ago. Temple opens from 6.00 a.m. to 9.00 a.m., 4.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m., Phone No. : 0435-2463354, Email : raghuthirunakeswaram@tnhrce.org, sriraaghutemple@gmail.com (D) Sun (Surya) சூரியன் Sooriyanaar Temple : Temple is 2 kms from Aduthurai, 15 kms from Kumbakonam, 20 kms from Mayiladuthurai. Temple is in Thanjavur District, Kumbakonam Taluk (Tehsil), Tamilnadu. Presiding deity is Siva Surian. His consort Usha Devi, Chayadevi. Tirtha is Suriya Theertha. Believed to be 1000 to 2000 years old. Temple Phone : 0435-2472349. Temple Timings : 6.00 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., 4.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m. (E) Venus (Shukra) சுக்கிரன் : Temple is in Kanjanoor, Thanjavur District is 18 kms off Kumbakonam and at 4 kms of Aduthurai.Presiding deity is Agneeswarar. This temple is said to be 1000 to 2000 years old. Temple timings : 6.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m., 4.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m., Contact Phone : 0435-2416176. (F) Mars (Mangala) செவ்வாய் : Vaitheeswaran Temple, 1km from Mayiladuthurai. Temple is in Nagapattinam District, Tamilnadu.Presiding deity is called as Vaidyanathar (Lord Shiva), His consort is Thaiyal Nayaki. Urchava Murti is called as Somaskandar. Siddhamirtham is the Tirtha. 1000 to 2000 years old. Timings : 6.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m., 4.00 p.m., to 9.00 p.m., Contact Number : 04364-279423 (G) Kethu (South/Descending Node) கேது (தெற்கு இறங்கு முகம்): is in Keezhaperumpallam, situated on Seerkazhi to Poompuhar Road at 2 kms off Dharmankulam. From Seerkazhi 21 kms, 4 kms from Poompuhar Bus Stand, 23.7 kms from Mayiladuthurai. Presiding deity is callsed as Naganathar. Consort is Soundarya Nayaki. Urchava Murti is Somaskandar. Tirtha is Naga Tirtha. Said to be 1000 to 2000 years old. Contact No. : 04364-260088. (H) Mercury (Budha) புதன் : Temple is in Thiruvenkadu in Seerkazhi to Poompuhar Road. Presiding deity is known as Suvedharanyeswarar. Said to be 1000 to 2000 years old. Timings : 6.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m., 4.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m., Contact No.: 04364256424. Saturn (Shani) சனி : Temple is at Thirunallar which is 5.8 kms off Karaikal, Pondicherry. Presiding deity is known as Dharbaranyeswarar / Thirunallatreswarar. Said to be 1000 to 2000 years old. Tirtha is Nala Thirtha. Temple timings :6.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m., 4.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m., Phone : 04368-236530. Those who wish to perform pooja in absentia, can send M.O., D.D. of I.O.B Tirunallar or other banks in Karaikal in favour of Executive Officer (Temples), Thirunallar - 609 607. While remiting the amount Name, Address and Birth Star to be clearly mentioned in capital letters. Temple address is The Executive Officer (Temples) Sri Dharbaranyeswaraswamy Devasthanam, Sri Saneeswara Baghawan Temple, Thirunallar - P.O. 609 607, Karaikal. (Pondicherry UT) | ||||
Importance of Mahamaham :
On Mahamaham day (celebrated once in 12 years in the Tamil month of Maasi during February to March. Millions dip in the holy Mahamaham Tank. Last Mahamaham was held on 22.2.2016) Lord Adi Kumbeswarar with Pancha Murtis emerges at Mahamaham Tank and offer pilgrims the holy Tirtha. In Kumbakonam 12 Saivite temples is related to Mahamaham festival they are Kasi Viswanathar Temple, Kumbeswarar Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, Nageswara Temple, Kambatta Viswanathar Temple, Someswsarar Temple, Abimukeswarar Temple, Koteeswarar Temple, Banapuriswarar Temple, Kahahasteeswarar Temple, Amirthakalasanathar Temple, Gowthameswarar Temple. The five Vishnu temples are also is connected with Mahamaham Festival namely Sarangapani Temple, Chakrapani Temple, Ramaswamy Temple, Rajagopalasamy Temple, Varaha Perumal Temple.
It is believed that on Mahamaham Day all the holy Tirthas of India converge on the tank and taking dip is said to be equal to taking dip in all the Tirthas. This occasion is called as 'Tirthavaari'.
Lord Brahma's assertion :
Taking dip in the holy Tirthas washes off sin of human being. But the holy Tirthas once approached Lord Brahma and they said that people washing off their sins on us but where us to wash our sins? Lord Brahma consoled them and said to take dip in Mahamaham then it would wash off their sins. Hence taking dip on the Mahamaham Day on Mahamaham Tank is considered to be holy at one place because of every thirthas also makes sangamam as per the Hindu tradition.
| Adi Kumbeswarar Temple | Kumbakonam | |||
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About Temple : Adi Kumbeswarar Temple is located in Kumbakonam, on Kumbakonam to Thanjavur Main Road, Tamilnadu. Two kms from Kumbakonam Railway Station and Bus Stand. Temple is open from 6.00 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. again 4.00 p.m., to 9.30 p.m. The alighting bus stop is called as 'Mottai Gopuram Bus Stop'. The temple phone number is 044-2420276. Believed to be 1000 to 2000 years old. Temple is in about 4 acres of land. 9 tiered Rajagopuram with 3 Prakaras, Adi Kumbeswarar Temple is one among the temples which has been praised by hymns composed and sung by Thirugnana Sambandar and Thirunavukkarasar the famous saints were the followers of Saivism. The Presiding deity is Kumbeswarar (Amudeswarar) (Lord Shiva) and consort Goddesses Mangalambigai. Tirthas called as Mahamaham, Cauvery. Ancient Purana name is Thirukudamooku. Mutraveli Vinayaga, 63 Nayanmars, Annapoorni, Mahalakshmi, Saraswathi, Shanmuga, Sahasralinga and Jurahareshwar shrine is also situated . | ||||
| Nageswara Swamy Temple | Kumbakonam | |||
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About Temple : The Nageswara Swamy temple is on the eastern side of Kumbakonam. The presiding deity is called as Nageswarar, Naganathar. His consort named Periya Nayaki, Sacred tree is Vilwa, Theertham is Mahamaham Tank, said to be in existence for 1000 to 2000 years old. One can see the rays of the sun falls right on the Sanctum Sanctorum in the month between April and May (11th day of Tamil month Chitthirai). It is the testimony to prove that the Chola empire's supremacy in architecture with astronomy. On the Shivrathiri day during procession of Adhishesha to four temples namely Thirunageswaram, Thiruppamparam, Thirunaagur. The fourth one is this temple. During the victorious Rajendra Chola's regime expanded it's empire up to the river Ganges. On that occasion they brought a majestic Lord Ganesha statue and kept in the Nageswarar temple and named it as Gangai Vinayagar. Outer Prahara consists of shrines for Ruthra, Sapthamatha, Saptha Lingas, Lord Subramanya, Bhagavath Rish and also exceptionally Vishnu Durga shrine. Naga Sannidhi with Rahu and Ketu is situated. Timings : 6.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., 4.30 p.m., to 9.00 p.m. Phone No.: 0435-2430386. | ||||
| Someswarar Temple | Kumbakonam | |||
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About Temple :
The is believed to be 1000 to 2000 years old. The presiding deity named Someswarar, Goddesses named as Somasundari, Thenar Mozhial. Tirtha is Mahamaha Tirtha. Ancient name is Kudanthaikaronam. Chandra and Guru Bhagwan worshipped this Lord hence it is called Someswarar. Chandra Tirtha is right opposite Temple. Five Tiered tower. 'Ohm Namashivaya' written down 1 crore times and kept in a box since 1964 it is a holy one and worshipped.
Timings : 7.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m., and 4.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m.
Contact : +91- 435-243 0349
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| Brihadeeswarar Temple | Thanjavur | |||
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About the Temple : King Raja Raja Chola started to build the Brihadeeswarar Temple in the year 985 A.D. and it took final shape in 1015 A.D. King Raja Raja employed thousands to maintain temple and its daily rituals. Temple situated in the 7 acre complex surrounded by compounds. Nandi : Weight : 40 ton, Height : 12 ft., Length : 18 ft. It is ironically carved out on a single stone. On a Pradoshom Day (Pradosham occurs monthly twice. This occurs 13th day of New Moon and also 13th day of Full Moon. On this day it is believed energy levels increase) hundreds worship Nandhi. Gopuram (Temple Tower) : Height : 216 ft., Kumbam on the top of the tower is 80 tons. Out of 108 dance postures over the top of Vimana only 80 now exists. The height of the Linga is 13 ft. sits on a 6 ft. height, 54 ft. circumference Avudaiyar. Karuvur Devar who was a spiritual guru of the King was present during Linga's installation. The presiding deity is Birahadeeswarar, Consort : Periyanayagi, Sacred Tree : Vanni Tree, Tirtha : Simha Kinaru. Goddesses Periyanayagi is in standing posture. Seperate shrines for Varahi, Ganesha, Karuvur Devar, Subramanya, Chandikeswara, Amman situated inside the temple. On entering temple first entrance is named as Maratha Entrance, Second entrance under Gopuram is next and named as Keralantakan Tiruvasal, Third entrance under Gopuram is named as Rajarajan Tiruvasal, inside Nandi Mandapam, Interpretation Centre and Nataraja Mandapam are situated Every year Sadayam festival is celebrated by the Government of Tamilnadu. Temple is maintained by Archaelogical Department. Pooja and worshipping methods is maintained by Thanjavur Palace Devasthanam. Thanjavur Brihadeeswarar Temple (Big Temple) is the top on the foreigner's tourist itinerary because of temple's wonderful architecture and world heritage site declared by UNESCO. Timings : 6.00 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., 4.00 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. Contact Nos. : Big Temple : Phone : +91-04362 274476, +91-97513 41108, Devasthanam : +91-4362 223384, +91-4362 222157. | ||||
| Sarangapani Temple | Kumbakonam | |||
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Azhwars : Azhwars are the saints who were well versed in Tamil language and they who visited 108 temples, composed and sung hymns praising Lord Vishnu with different names in each temple. Azhwars called Nitya Suris or Divya Suris as they believed to be permanently lives in Heavenly Abode. Azhwars consists of 12 in number. They are (1) Poigai Azhwar, (2) Boothath Azhwar, (3) Pey Azhwar, (4) Thirumazhisai azhwar, (5) Thirumangai Azhwar, (6) Thondaradipodi Azhwar, (7) Thiruppan Azhwar, (8) Kulasekara Azhwar, (9) Periyazhwar, (10) Sri Andal, (11) Nammazhwar, (12) Madurakavi Azhwar. Pey Azhwar, Boothath Azhwar, Thirumazhisai Azhwar, Nammazhwar, Periyazhwar, Andal and Thirumangai Azhwar sung hymns in praise of Lord Sarangapani. The compilation of each pasuras sung by each Azhwar at different period is called as Naalayira Divya Prabandham which was complied by Nathamuni in the present shape. Azhwars sung about Vishnu and they practiced Vaishanavism About Temple : Divya Desams is called sacred temples where among 12 Azhwars each one or all sung hymns about Lord Vishnu. Sarangapani Temple is one among the 108 Divya Desams. Believed to be 1000 to 2000 years old. Temple built by Chola dynasty later renovated by Nayaka Kingdom and also Vijayanagar Empires. The Rajagopuram is gigantically stands at 173 feet (53 meter) height. The shrine looks like chariot being pulled by elephants and horses. The presiding deity is known as Sarangapani, Aravamudhan. Goddessess called Komalavalli. Tirtha is Hemavalli Pushkarini (Porttaramarai Kulam. It is also called as Thirukkudanthai. 11 Azhwars recited hymns about Sarangapani Temple. 100 pillared Mandapam and Vasantha Mandapam is wonderful. Numerous stone carvings found out at this temple speaks about this temple. Lord appeared before Sage Hemarishi who took penance at the Porttamarai Kulam to appease Lord Vishnu. The God gave His darshan to Sage Hemarish and the sage asked the Lord that Lakshmi to be born as her daughter. The Lord accepted the same and the Goddesses Lakshmi emerged and came out of Porttamarai Kulam and brought up by sage and Lord Vishnu who stayed at Someswaram Temple got married to Lakshmi. Inner Prahara consists of shrines for Rama, Srinivasa Perumal, Andal, Goapalakrishna, Garuda and 11 Azhwars. On the North side, shrine for Hema Maharishi is situated. Timings : 7.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m., 5.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m. Phone : +91-435 243 0349, 94435 24529. | ||||
| Chakkarapani Temple | Kumbakonam | |||
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About Temple : Chakrapani Temple is Vishnu temple situated on the Southern bank of Cauvery in Kumbakonam. Barley 2 kms off Kumbakonam Railway Station. Maha Vishnu is in the form of Chakra to scale down the pride of Surya Bhagwan (the Sun God). At last the Sun God surrendered to this God. Lord Chakrapani gave back magical powers of Surya. The holy place named after Baskara Kshethera as per the request of Surya. This temple is highly regarded as Dosha Nivaran. Lord Vishnu attained the name of Chakrapani then on. God Brahma said to be installed the image of Sudharshana. Those who worship here definitely will vanish their sin. Astrological irregularities affecting one's life may be relieved on worshipping this God. Lord Shiva has a eye on His forehead. Similarly here Chakrapani has eye on His forehead. Sun God worshiped Chakrathazwar during the month of Masi Magam, which is the full moon day of the Tamil month Masi (February to March). It is considered holy in the whole of South India. Magha means 27 stars in the system. During Masi Magam, Magha (27 stars) aligns with moon. This happens once in a year. To celebrate this occasion (Surya God worshipping Chakrathazhwar) the temple car is taken into the streets on that particular date. The presiding deity is Chakrapani with eight arms, and His consort Vijayalakshmi (Sudharshanavalli) . Other idols inside were Agampara Vinayagar, Panchamuga Hanuman. Thirtha is Maha Maha Tank. Timings : 7.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m., 4.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m. Phone : +91 435 2403284 | ||||
| Ramasamy Temple | Kumbakonam | |||
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About the Temple : Situated in between Sarangapani Temple and Adi Kumbeswarar Temple. Ramasamy temple built in the regime of King Raghunatha Nayak, the Nayakkar during 16th century called as Southern Ayodhya. King Raghunayak once dug tank. When the work was in progress they found statues of Rama, Sita, Lakshmanan, Bharathan, Chatrugunan and Hanuman. The delighted King Raghunaya built a temple there and named it as Ramasamy Temple. The temple having 3 tiered tower all around walls. Maha Mandapam and Sanctum Sanctorum. The deity Sri Rama in a siting position with Sita. His brothers Lakshmanan, Bharathan, Chatrugunan stands beside Him is mode with Hanuman in a worshipping mode. Sannathies of Azhwar, Sreenivas Sannithi and Gopalan Sannadhi are all situated inside the campus of Ramasamy temple. The 64 pillars in the hall near Gopuram is intricately wonderful images neatly sculpted carved out of a single stone which narrating the different episodes of Ramayana is marvelous and lead us to a ethic world of Ramayana. Outer Prahara has 219 paintings on wall that also telling the story of Ramayana in different ways say from childhood to his coronation. . Timings : 6.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m., 4.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m. Phone : 0435 - 2401788 | ||||
| Arulmighu Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal Temple | Thirumalai Vaiyavoor | |||
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Thirumalaivaiyavoor which is 70 kilometres from Chennai and 18 kilometres from Chengalpat enroute to Vedanthangal, the famous bird sanctuary (which is 86 kilometres off Chennai). (See the Google Driving map enlcosed). Temple is through Chennai to Tiruchi GST road and after crossing Chengalpat Byepass and crossing over Andal Azhagar College. The point named Padalam Koot Road from where we must take a right turn to enter the road which is leading us to Thirumalai Vaiyavoor. On entering the Thirumalaivayavoor road the sign board which shows that the distance from this point to Thirumalaivaiyavoor is 1 kilometre. It is not so. It is 4 kilometres from here. The road leading to the temple is surrounded by thick greenery everywhere. This is the road for Vedanthangal bird sanctuary too. Vedanthangal spread over 30 hectares. Vedanthangal is from Chennai Airport 60 kilometres away. Chengalpat 30 kilometres away. Thirumalai Vaiyavoor is in small hillock King Thondaiman who built the temple at Tirumala as per the wishes of Lord on his dream. King also built Thirumalaivaiyavoor as per God's wish who gave darshan to the him riding chariot and holding scepter. King Thondaiman also built Sri Kalahasthi temple and scores of many other temples. Foot path leading to the temple is having 490 steps. Motorable road leading to the hilltop which is 500 metres from the footstep. The road was poor with potholes but now the road is in good condition ensuring devotees hassle free ride. Direct bus to Thirumalaivaiyavoor is Bus Number 129V (Tambaram to Vedanthangal). Other buses which stops at Padalam Koot Road one have to catch share autos to the temple. The State Government bus Numbers 121 (Tambaram to Tindivanam), Bus number 83 (Tambaram to Madurantakam), Bus Number T1 (Chengalpat to Madurantakam) and some other private buses also ply via Padalam Koot Road. Sthala Purunas : (1) The Sthala Puruna which says that on the war between Lord Shri Rama and Ravana, Lakshmana got injured and Hanuman who was on a mission to bring Sanjivi Herb brought Sanjivi Hill. On the enroute Hanuman on seeing this temple without placing the Sanjivi hill which He carried worshipped the God here. So the name of this temple becomes Thirumalai Vaiyavoor. (Vaiya meaning in Tamil is not placing). (2) When Hiranyakshan stole the earth and hid it under sea, Lord Mahavishnu took Varaha Avatar and killed Hiranyakshan and installed earth on its axis. Lord ordered Garuda to bring a hill from Vaikuntam from where He can stand and bless the earth. Garuda brought to earth a hill and put up near the river bank of Swarnamukhi. That hill is the Tirumala. During this mission a small piece of the hill fell apart near the Palar river bank and it becomes Dakshina Garudagiri (Thirumalai Vaiyavoor). (3) Lord Brahma once visited Tirumala and worshipped Lord and lit two lamps there and He requested to the Lord that the two lamps should burn till the last of Kaliyuga. Lord Mahavishnu ensured Him and told Him that He will give darshan to His devotees at Thirumalai Vaiyavoor on Thiruvonam days as the shape of torch. So this shrine is called as Dakshina Garudagiri. (4) After defeating Ravana, Shri Rama came here and took bath at Varaha Theertha and worshipped the Lord. Temple Sthala Puruna is written down on the wall prior to the main entrance. King Thodarmal of Vijayanagar Clan, the devotees known his name as his statue is in standing posture worshipping Lord at Tirumala Venkateswara Swamy Temple at Tirumala. The same king donated more wealth to this temple and ensured non stop pooja as per Inscriptions found. Pooja Timings : Viswa Roopa Darshan at 8.00 a.m., Thiruvaradhana at 9.00 a.m., Uchikala Pooja at 11.00 a.m., Sayaratcha at 4.00 p.m., Artha Jama Pooja at 7.00 p.m. Temple is open between 8.00 a.m. and 12.00 noon and 4.00 p.m. and 7.00 p.m. Contact Numbers : 91-44-67471398, 94432 39005. Imagine that great saint Shri. Ramanuja visited this temple and stayed there for some time. He politely named the shrine as Vaiguntagiri. He sat on yoga. Because of that the temple is also called Ramanuja Yogagiri and other names are Dakshina Garudagiri, Dakshina Venkatagiri, Dakshina Seshagiri and Varaha Shetram. Presiding deity is called Arulmighu Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal holding scepter on His hand. Goddess named Sri Alarmel Mangai Thayar. Urchava Murti named as Srinivasa, Kallarpiran. Shetra is said to be 500 years old. Seperate shrine for Alarmel Mangai Thayar, Andal and Sri Ramanujar in the inner Prahara of sanctum sanctorum. Seperate shrine for Sri Vijayavalli Nayaka Sametha Sri Sudharsana Perumal is situated. There is marking on the hill that showing Chariot wheel marking and horse hoof marking over the stones of the hill. God gave darshan riding chariot and holding Scepter (meaning decorated stick that was carried by the King or Queen). This is because the person who built the temple is the King named Thondaiman. Hanuman temple is called Veera Anjaneyar Temple which is right opposite to the entrance of foot path to Thirumalai Vaiyavoor Temple. For detailed videos click the Link : https://youtu.be/mIOe_l5ovao | ||||
| Arulmighu Ranganatha Perumal Temple | Thiruneermalai | |||
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Arulmighu Ranganatha Perumal Temple, Thiruneermalai – History :
   Thiruneermalai is one among 108 Vaishanavite Divya Desam Temples. Maharishi Valmiki, who wrote Ramayana, once sat on hard penance here. He requested the Lord Sri Rama to appear in a wedding style. Accordingly Lord gave a darshan to Maharishi along with Goddesses Sita and His brothers Sri Lakshmana, Sri Bharatha and Sri Shathrugna. Lord stayed back here for the welfare of the people as per Valmiki's request. (See the Google Driving map enlcosed).Thirumangai Azhwar was born in 776AD (i.e. 1241 years before as on 2017) but somebody differs. Poet saint Thirumangai Azhwar one among the 12 Azhwars, who was born at Thirukkurayalur, Nagapattinam District (near Sirkazhi), who was named by Neelan is well trained in figting. King on seeing his talent and rewared him a small kingdom and named him as a king. Neelan who wished to marry Kumudavalli. But she put up a condition for marriage that Neelan should provide free meals every day for vaishavanites. Neelan agreed and married her. Spent money belonged to the kingdom to serve free meals for Vaishnavites as per his wife. The kingdom went on serious debt. He robbed the rich to continue free meals and for religious activities.. When on one such occasion, Lord himself disguised as marriage party when Neelan robbed Him. Neelan tried to remove the ornament which was on Lord's feet but he couldn't. He tried in vain. Finally Lord shown His original figure to Neelan on seeing God he requested the Lord to pardon him. From then on Neelan was called as Thirumangai Azhwar who wrote poetic stanzas about Lord Vishnu and visited many shrines. Poetic Stanzas (Naalayira Divya Prabandam) praising Lord : When Thirumangai Azhwar came to Thiruneermalai, the temple was surrounded by water, he was said to have waited for 6 months for water to recede to have a darshan. He named the God as Neervannan. (There is another saying that Valmiki named the God) He sung 19 Pasurams about Lord. Another Azhwar Boothathazhwar who sung 1 pasuram totalling 20 pasurams has been sung about the Lord at Thiruneermalai. Out of 4,000 Naalayira Divya Prabandas Thirumangai Azhwar composed and sung totally 1253 Pasurams on Vishnu in various temples. From 948 to 2031 = 1084, 2032 to 2051 = 20, 2052 to 2081 = 30, 2672 = 1, 2673 to 2712 = 40, 2713 to 2790 = 78 totally 1253 Boothathazhwar born at Mahabalipuram on 7th Century A.D totally sung 100 Pasurams (2182 to 2281) Thirumangai Azhwar composed and sung 19 Pasurams (Poem - Stanzas) about Lord at Thiruneermalai Temple Boothathazhwar composed and sung 1 Pasuram (Poem - Stanza) about Lord at Thiruneermalai Temple Thiruneermalai Lord gave four ways of darshans to Thirumangai Azhwar namely Nindran (Standing posture), Nadanthan (Walking Posture), Irundan (Sitting Posture), Kidanthan (Reclining Posture). Once Birgu Maharishi and Sage Markandeya after worshipping Lord Sri Ranganatha at Sri Rangam, on their way back they sat on penance at Thiruneermalai. God appeared before them and as per their request Lord permanently stayed here to bless the devotees. Foot Hill : The holy tank called Ksheera Pushkarini. It comprises four theerthas namely Siddha, Swarna, Karunya and Ksheera. Vaiganasa Agama Sastras practiced. Temple consists of two parts one in the foot hill and another one on the top hill. The main Tower is magnificent. The complex in the foot hill comprises seperate shrine for Neervannan (in standing posture). The shrine for Neervannan is wonderful and having beautiful structure. Thirumangai Azhwar on looking Neervannan and his beauty emotionally sung Pasurams. There is Urchava murti, Valmiki, Kannan, Chakrathazhwar statues are there inside the Karpagraha. 12 Azhwars are seated in front of the Lord Neervannan. Azhakiya Manavala the processional deity of Lord Ranganatha (top hill) is kept here. Outer prahara of the inner complex direct opposite to the entrance of the Neervannan Shrine is a small mandapa in which Lord Hanuman statue facing Neervanan is there. Opposite to the main Tower (Gopuram) there is a mandapa. On the top of Mandapa we can see Dasavatar depicting the Lord. Inside the Mandapa on the right hand side seperate shrine consisting of Sri Kalyana Rama, Sri Sita, Lakshmana, Bharathan, Shatrugan and on the left side seperate shrine for Goddesses Animamalar Mangai Thayar. She was referred by Thirmangai Azhwar in his first stanza about Thiruneermalai. Every year hundreds of marriages were performed here in this Mandapa because Sri Rama stands in a wedding a style blessing couples to begin a fruitful life. Here we can find inscriptions behind Sri Rama shrine over the walls. Goddesses Animamamalar Mangai Thayar. Vimana of the Goddess front side, back side. On going around the shrine we can see 'Sorgha Vasal' meaning Celestial Gateway to Heaven. On the backside of it a seperate shrine for Sri Andal is situated. Andal shrine Vimana. Coming out from this shrine we can see a beautiful vimana of Lord Neervannan. We can clinch the wonderful view of Lord Ranganatha on the top hill from here. Thiruneermalai one among 108 Divya Desams is also called Thoyathri. Thoya meant water, Athri meant hill. God himself is under Thoyaathri Vimana. The temple as per inscriptions found on the walls says that temple has been built during 8th century by Pallavas and renovations taken by Chozhas during 9th Century and Vijayanagar Empires during 14th and 15th Centuries. Large assets were still in the possession of Temple. Everywhere Flagpost are situated opposite to the temple entrance or opposite to the tower. But here it is situated few metres away from main tower and by the side of Moolava Murti Lord Neervannan. This said to be given importance to Sri Rama on whose sannidhi is opposite to the tower and flag post. Thirumangai Azhwar's Pasurams written down on the wall. Top Hill : Steps numbering exactly 200. On climbing up small shrine for Hanuman is there. It is in utter dark. Could not be visible. The first among Thirumangai Azhwar's poetic stanzas about Thiruneermalai is "Andraayarkulak kodiyodu Animaamalarmankaiyodu anbalavi Avunarkku Yenthaanum yirakkamilaathavanukku uraiyumidamaavathu yirumpozhilsoozh Nandraaya punalnaraiyur tiruvaali kudanthai thadam thigazh koval nagar Nindraan Irunthaan Kidanthaan Nadantharkkidam maamalaiyavathu Neermalaiye" In Tamil அன்றாயர்குலக்கொடியோடு .....அணிமாமலர்மங்கையோடு அன்பளவி ....அவுணர்க்கு.... என்தானும் இறக்கமிலாதவனுக்கு .....உறையுமிடமாவது ......இரும்பொழில்சூழ் .... நன்றாய புனல் நறையூர் திருவாலி குடந்தை.....தடம்திகழ் கோவல்நகர்.... நின்றான் இருந்தான் கிடந்தான் நடந்தார்க்கு இடம் .....மாமலையாவது நீர்மலையே In the Thirumangai Azhwar's view point he says in the above poem is that (1) Nindraan (Standing) : On visiting Neervannan here (at Thiruneermalai) is equal to visiting Thirunaraiyoor temple also called as Nachiar Temple, in Kumbakonam, Thanjavur District, Tamilnadu, (2) Irunthaan (Sitting) On visiting Narasimha here (at Thiruneermalai) is equal to visiting Thiruvaali Thirunagari Narasimha Temple near Sirkazhi, Nagapattinam District, Tamilnadu, (3) Kidanthaan (reclining) : On visiting Lord Ranganatha here (at Thiruneermalai) is equal to visiting Aarai Amuthai, Sarangapani, Temple, Kumbakonam, Thanjavur District, Tamilnadu, (4) Nadanthaan (Walking) : On visiting Ulagalantha Perumal here (at Thiruneermalai) is equal to visiting Thirukkovilur Ulaganathan in Thiruvikrama Kolam, Villupuram District, Tamilnadu. So visiting this Great hill Thiruneermalai attains the results of visiting 4 other shrines as per Thirumangai Azhwar. There is Kalki Mandapa, It is mentioned here that the Mandapa donated by Kalki Sadasivam (Kalki is a very old Tamil magazine in Tamilnadu) couples. We can see magnificent view of Down hill and Thiruneermalai surroundings from Kalki Mandapa. Balipeeta and Flag Post opposite to Lord Ranganatha. Moolavar (Presiding Deity) : Lord Ranganathar is found in Kidanthan (reclining) position facing his thirumugham towards South direction and the Sayana kolam is referred to as "Manicka Sayanam". He is lying on the Aadhisesha under Ranga Vimaanam. Thaayar (Goddess) : The Thayaar of this sthalam is Sri Ranganayaki Thayar and found in a separate Sannadhi. Urchavar (Processional Deity) : Here is Lord Ranganatha's Urchava Moorthi Azhagiya Manavalar is in the downhill Neervannan shrine. Abhisheka to God is not practiced and specially prepared oil consisting of various Herbals is applied to Lord Ranganatha between November and December (Tamil month Kaarthigai). It is called Thaila Kaappu. Girivalam is observed on full moon days. Temple Festivals : One Brahmotsavam for Neervannan is held in the month of March in the middle to April in the middle in the Tamil month of Panguni Uthiram is the birth star of Goddess. Celebrations for Ranganayaki Thayar are Panguni Uthiram, for Goddess Animamalar Mangai Thayar it is Masi Uthiram (birth star) is held in the month of March to April for 3 days during which pilgrims may have darshan of Presiding and Procession deities together. Another Brahmotsavam for Ranganathar held usually during the April middle to May middle in the Tamil month of Chittirai. Azhagiya Manavalar, the procession deity, who is at the foot hill, comes to the top during the occasion of flag hosting and flag lowering. The structure is magnificent we can find inner prahara around Lord Ranganathar having Ulagalantha Perrumal (Nadanthaan - Standing) and Narasimha (Irunthaan – Sitting) shrines. It is quite marvellous structure. Ventilation is also provided. Narasimha is worshipped in two forms one as Bala Narasimha in the front and another one as Ugra Narasimha in the back side. Vaikunta Ekadasi liberates the cyles of birth and death. Opening of Celestial Gate Way (Sorgha Vaasal) held on December to January on Vaikunta Ekadasi Day. A day's festival for Narasimha during June to July and Ulagalanda Perumal during July to August. Rathasapthami Day during January to February. Thirunakstarams of Azhwars and Acharyas Pavitrotsavam Daily Pooja's Kalasanthi Pooja at 9.00 a.m. to 10.00 a.m. and Sayaratcha Pooja at 6.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. Thiruneermalai is said to be one among Swayam Vyaktha Shetras meaning "self manifested shrines" Temple Timings : From 8.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m., from 4.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m. Temple Contact No. : +91-44-2238 5484, 98405 95374. In the down hill seperate shrine for Sri Maha Desikan is situated. There is a wall painting showing about free meal program. Temple authorities are providing free meals for 50 devotees every day at 12.15 p.m. Donations are accepted in the denomination of Rs. 50/-, Rs. 100/-, Rs. 500/- and Rs. 1000/-. If anybody pays Rs.1000/- that will cover one day expenditure for providing free meals. This one depicting the Sthala Purana briefly. The details about this temple have been mentioned in Brahmandapurana. How to Reach : Distance to Thiruneermalai is 5 kilometres from Pallavaram, 10 kilometres from Tambaram and 6.5 kilometres from Chennai Meenambakkam Airport. One should catch bus from Northern side (those buses which ply towards Chennai) bus stop, where we must catch bus No. 55A bound for Thiruneermalai. Due to traffic regulations bus starts from right side. S94 – Chromepet Durga Nagar to Thirumudivakkam is also having stoppage at Thiruneermalai. J66 Bus Tambaram to Poonamallee is also stops at Thiruneermalai. Frequency is less. Bus frequency during peak hours is 20 minutes, during slack hours is 30 minutes. Share vans also ply. Only Rs.5 charged per head. Nearby Railway Station is Pallavaram. Thiruneermalai Road which diverts from GST Road at Ponds Company signal towards Thiruneermalai is 5 kms distance from there. Thirumudivakkam is 7kms from this point. We have to make a right turn here under the flyover. There is a small temple for Naga Matha Saptha Kanni and Dhuma Kethu Vinayaga in front of Thiruneermalai Hill. Ohm Namo Narayanaya! Srimathe Ramanujaya Namaha! For detailed videos with English narration click the Link : https://youtu.be/L1_2seBEbio For detailed videos with Tamil narration click the Link : https://youtu.be/cG90WWnF17Y Good number of Devotees pulling the "Thirutheir" the holy car at Sri Ranganathar Temple, Thiruneermalai on the 8th of day of Brahmothsavam Festival held on 8.4.2018 at 8.00 a.m.       | ||||
| Arulmighu Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple | Sholinghur | |||
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Arulmighu Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple – History
(See the Google Driving map enlcosed).
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| Swaminarayan Akshardham | New Delhi | |||
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