Thursday 4 August 2011

Sri oppiliappan perumal temple, Kumbakonam


Sri oppiliappan perumal temple, Kumbakonam


LOCATION

The temple is situated about 7kms south of Kumbakonam and about 1\2km from Kumbakonam - Karaikal bus route. Number of town buses ply frequently between Kumbakonam and this place and Naganatha Swamy Temple (Rahu Sthalam) is also closeby.

NAMES AND MANIFESTATION



Different Names of this Holy Place:

1. Akasa Nagaram
2. Vaikunta Nagaram
3. Tiruvinnagar
4. Oppiliappan Sannidhi
5. Uppiliappan Sannidhi



Different Names of the Presiding Deity:

1. Tiruvinnagarappan
2. Thannopparillappan
3. Oppiliappan
4. Uppiliappan
5. Srinivasan
6. Venkatachalapathi


Different Names of the Goddess:

1. Bhoomi devi
2. Bhoodevi
3. Bhoomi Nachiar
4. Dharani devi
5. vasundhara


The Manner of Manifestation :

The Deity stands majestically facing east. His consort Bhoomidevi is seated with a bending knee and folded hands facing north. Markandeya is seated facing south in a posture indicative of giving Kanya - dan.

Five forms of the Lord:

Tradition has it that Lord Oppiliappan appeared to Nammalwar in 5 different forms as
1. Ponnappan.
2. Maniappan
3. Muthappan
4. Ennappan and
5. Tiruvinnagarappan.

Alwars who sang in praise of lord oppiliappan

1. Nammalwar (11 verses)
2. Tirumangai alwar (34 verses)
3. Poigai alwar (1 verse)
4. Peyalwar (2 verses), Total 48 verses

Unique Features of this Place



In his ecstacy while praising the Lord, Nammalwar could not bear the separation with Oppiliappan. The Lord in His kindness, Himself embressed the Alwar, shared His happness with his devotee and decided to stay here permanently. This is how the Alwar's verses in praise of this Lord have been interpreted by ancient commentators.

Further, in 9 of his verses in Tiruvaimozhi in praise of this Lord, Nammalwar has highlighted that God is dwelling even in mutually conflicting objects and thereby the Lord harmonises mutually contradictory objects.

Tirumangai Alwar in his first decad eulogising the Lord here, observes that if only he can have the divine vision of the Lord, he would not desire family life here. He emphasises this point by repeating the same in 9 out of 10 verses.

Those who had divine vision of the Lord here were Garuda, Kaveri River, Dharma devata and sage Markandeya, according to Purana.

Vimanam:

It is named as Suddhananda, meaning "pure happiness". Devotees who worship this vimana (tower) derive immense and unalloyed happiness. Note that the vimana in Tirumala - Tirupati is named as Ananda vimana, whereas here it is Suddhananda Vimana.

Holy place:

Because of Markandeya's severe penance, the Lord appeared here and married Bhoomidevi, who also appeared here earlier and was brought up by Markandeya. Hence it is called Markandeya Kshetra. Since Bhoomidevi appeared here among the forest of Tulasi plants, It is also known as Tulasi Vanam.

Holy waters: (pushkarini)

The pushkarini (Temple Tank) here is known as "Ahoratra Pushkarini", meaning that bathing is specially permissible here both during day and night. Normally according to sastras, bating in holy waters is not permitted during nights. But nowadays bathing is permitted here, only when the temple is kept open for darsan.

Other holy waters:

Sarnga Tirtham, Surya Tirtham, Indra Tirtham and Brahma Tirtham are situated outside the temple according to puranas. These are now dry and not fit for bathing.

Rivers:

To the south of the temple, three holy rivers flow-known as Dakshina Ganga, Dakshina Yamuna and Dakshina Godavari.

The day Lord oppiliappan appeared:

It was at noon on the day of sravanam in the Tamil month of Panguni that Lord appeared to Markandeya here. As such a 9 day festival of Brahmotsavam is celebrated every year, with rathotsava (chariot) on the day of Panguni Sravanam.

Wedding Day:

Lord oppiliappan married Bhoomi Devi on the day of Sravanam in the Tamil month Aippasi. In celebration of this, a 12-day music and dance festival, is held every year, commencing with Tirukkalyanam (holy wedding) of the Lord with Bhoomidevi on Aippasi Sravanam.

Speciality of the Temple



All food offerings at the temple are strictly and completely saltless. Salt or any food item containing salt is not allowed in the temple beyond Garuda's Sannidhi. It is a sin to carry salt inside the temple. Hence the Lord is also called as 'Lavana Varjita Venkatesa' i.e. Venkatesa who avoids salt.

There is no separate shrine for Bhoomidevi here and as already stated, Bhoomidevi is sitting with folded hands by the side of the Lord in the main sanctum sanctorum. The utsava deity oppiliappan is never taken out of the temple, without His consort, Bhoomidevi.

OTHER SANNIDHIS



Desika's Sannidhi is located near the sanctum sanctorum. On the sides of the inner-prakara (corridor), Anjaneya is on the south, and Alwar's and Sri Rama's sannidhis are located on the northern side. On the eastern side is SriRamanuja.

Outside the main temple, on the southern side is the shrine for lord Maniappan and on the northern side is Ennappan and also the holy birth-spot (avatara sthala) of Bhoomidevi. Garuda's shrine is located right opposite the main temple. Just on the southern side of the main entrance, dancing Krishna in a niche welcomes us all with a bewitching smile.

PUJAS AND PRARTHANAS



Sampradaya in the temple:

Vadakalai tradition is followed in the temple, giving importance to Vedanta Desika. He accompanies the utsava deities in almost all festivals.

Puja Practice:

Pujas and festivals are conducted in the temple according to Vaikhanasa Agama sastras. Pujas are performed six times daily, starting with Viswarupa Darsanam in the morning when recitation of Suprabhatam, Prapatti and Mangalam specially composed in praise of this deity takes place.

Tiruppavai recitation and Vedaparayanam then follow, concluding with Sathumurai. Then the principal Puja takes place, when offerings are made at all other shrines also. Then at noon another Puja is performed. Again the evening Puja is held, when recitation of Divya Prabandha and Veda Parayana takes place, followed by Sathumurai. Then about 8.00p.m. Principal night Puja is performed when offerings are made at all other shrines also. Then the last Puja for the day is performed about 9 p.m., following which the temple is closed for the day.

Prarthana Festivals:

One the specific requests of the devotees, in fulfilment of their vow, Kalyana utsavam, Garuda Sevai, Golden chariot, Brahmotsavam, Dolotsavam, Nitya-aradhana, mirror-room seva, and Darbar seva are performed at the appropriate timings. Besides, Tirumanjanam (holy bathing) of the Moolavar deity, Utsavar deity, Rama etc., is also done on requests from devotees.

The relevant fees and timings for these various prarthana festivals are given at page 5 in this book. Further details can be had from the authorities of the temple.

Sri Ramanavami:

Sri Ramanavami is celebrated for 10 days on a grand scale at this temple, with music and dance performances. On the concluding day, kanakabhishekam and Rama Pattabhishekam are conducted on a grand and majestic scale, attended by thousands of devotees.

INFORMATION ABOUT THE UTSAVAS



Tamil Month

1. Vaikasi (may-June)


Vasanta Utsavam or the spring festival for 6 days at the Nandavanam (garden), culminating on Sravanam day.


2. Avani (Aug -Sep)


Pavitrotsavam (Purifying festival) for 5 days, ending on Sravanam day, When there is early morning garuda seva of the Lord.


3. Purattasi (Sept-Oct)


Brahmotsavam for 9 days. Little Chariot (Goratham) on the last day, Sravanam.


4. Aippasi (Oct-Nov)


Kalyana Utsavam for 12 days commencing from Sravanam, when the holy marriage of god and goddess is celebrated.


5. Margazhi (Dec-Jan)


Adhyayana Utsavam-Day Utsavam for 10 days Night Utsavam for 10 days. Plus 2 days. Total 22-day festival.


6. Thai (Jan-Feb)


Float festival for 5 days culminating on Sravanam.


7. Panguni (March - April)


Brahmotsavam for 9 days with Big chariot festival on the 9th - Day Sravanam.

HISTORY OF THE TEMPLE



HISTORY OF THE HOLY PLACE FOUND IN BRAHMANDA PURANA

Narada's prayer to Brahma

Once Narada prayed to Brahma to enlighten him on the history and greatness of the holy Markandeya kshetra that will also be for the benefit of humanity.

On hearing this, Brahma gladly started narrating the greatness of Tiruvinnagar and its presiding deity, whose glory cannot be described even by Adisesha with his 1000 tongues.

Tulasi's prayer to God

Once Tulasi Devi who was born along with nectar (amrita), while churning the milky-ocean, begged Lord Narayana that she also be adorned by Him on His chest like Mahalakshmi.

Lord's boon to tulasi:

Thereupon, the Lord said that Lakshmi did very severe penance to gain a place on His chest. The Lord further said that Lakshmi would appear as Bhoomidevi at a holy place near Kumbakonam, to the south of Kaveri and would be brought up by sage Markandeya as his daughter. Tulasi should go there earlier and be in the form of lovely Tulasi plant at the sage's hermitage. Then Lakshmi would appear under the Tulasi plant as Bhoomidevi. Later on Lord Narayana would come and marry Bhoomidevi and live there forever. Then the glory of Tulasi will become known to all.

The Lord further said that those who worship Him with petals of tulasi, shall attain all prosperity in the world and also the benefit of performing 'Asvamedha yaga'. All those who reside in this holy place will attain Sri Vaikunta at the end of their lives. From then onwards, Tulasi lived in this holy place, which therefore came to be known as Tulasi Vana (Tulasi forest).

Markandeya's Penance

Sage Mrikandu's son Markandeya, after touring many holy places and bathing in sacred waters, finally reached this holy place. He was so enchanted by the congenial surroundings here that he decided to stay here permanently. Wishing to get a daughter who would be given in marriage to the Lord Himself, he started doing sever penance to achieve his objective.

Narayana's Instructions to Lakshmi

Lord Narayana was pleased by his penance and resolved to bless him. He asked Lakshmi to appear as a small child in the tulasi forest, to be brought up by sage Markandeya and given in marriage to the Lord.

Goddess Lakshmi accordingly appeared as a small child in the tulasi forest and was found by sage Markandeya. With immense pleasure he lifted the divine child Lakshmi from the ground, fondled her and asked about her parentage. For this the child replied that she did not know who her parents were and that Markandeya was everything to her. Thrilled beyond words, he named her as Bhoomidevi, as she was found on earth.

Markandeya's Concern and Worry

The sage brought her up lovingly and as she grew up, he was very much worried about her marriage. He was in frantic search for a suitable bridegroom.

At this stage Lord Narayana decided to play some mischief with the sage. So He appeared before the sage, in the guise of an old Brahmin, clad in torn clothes and with a walking stick in hand, on the day of Panguni Sravanam at noon.

Markandeya Welcoming the Old Man

Markandeya, without realising that the old man who was coughing incessantly was Sriman Narayana himself, received Him with due reverence and respectfully proceeded to serve Him, attending to His needs like washing His feet and so on. The sage then reverentially asked the old man the purpose of His visit. The visitor then proceeded to state that He was on the look - out for a suitable bride, as He wished to marry settle down in life and beget good sons. He therefore sought the hand of Bhoomidevi in marriage to enable Him to attain His objective.

Sage and Old Man - Dialogue

On hearing the strange request of the old man (Narayana), Markandeya was non-plussed and did not know what to do. He then started explaining to the old man that Bhoomidevi was very young and was too tender in age to run a family. Moreover the age disparity between the old man and the young girl was too much. He requested the old man to drop His idea. The old man would hear none of it. He threatened to commit suicide if the young girl was not given in marriage to Him.

The sage Markandeya did not know what to do. He tried all methods to dissuade the old man from insisting upon marrying the young girl. The sage told the old man that his daughter was too young and did not even know how to cook properly She might even forget to put salt in the eatables, which may result in the old man getting angry and cursing her. Finding the old man still stubborn and unrelenting, the sage silently prayed to Lord Narayana for guidance.

Bhoomidevi's Views

The sage also sought his foster - daughter's views in the matter and asked her whether she was willing to marry the old man. She threatened to commit suicide, if she was forced to marry the old man, much against her wishes.

Sage Markandeya was caught between the old man who threatened to commit suicide, if the girl was not given in marriage to him, and his daughter who threatened to commit suicide if she was given in marriage to the old man. He fervently prayed to the Lord to show him a way out of the piquant situation.

Sage's Vision

After prayers to God for a long time, the sage opened his eyes and there he found before him Lord Narayana in all splendor and glory, in the place of the old man. Realising that the Lord had played a practical joke on him, the sage danced and cried in ecstacy.

The Lord, blessing the sage Markandeya, said that He will married Bhoomidevi and will take only saltless offerings in this temple. Anyone who brings salt inside the temple will go to hell.

Sage's prayer for boon

Overwhelmed with joy, Markandeya readily agreed for the marriage and prayed for 3 boons: -

1. The Lord, after marrying Bhoomidevi, should stay in this place forever.
2. The holy place should be known in his name as Markandeya Kshetra.
3. Saltless offerings in this temple should also be relished by the devotees.

He should also be granted moksha.

The Lord gladly granted the boons as prayed for and further blessed that the place will be known as "Tiruvinnagar" and "Tulasivana Markandeya kshetra" and stated the marriage would be held in the month of Aippasi on Sravanam day. At the request of the sage, the Lord also agreed to make all arrangements for the marriage.

Garuda in the service of the Lord

The Lord Himself wrote out the marriage invitation and instructed His vehicle Garuda to hand over the invitations to Brahma and all devas and further help Him in conducting the marriage on the day of sravanam in the month of Aippasi.

The joy of Brahma and other devas knew no bounds on hearing the happy news of the divine wedding and they all duly came with their wives to attend and worship the divine couple at their marriage. The holy wedding of the Lord and Bhoomidevi was duly conducted on a grand scale according to Vaikhanasa Agamas.

Then onwards, the Lord continues to reside in this temple, along with His consort Bhoomidevi, blessing His devotees and granting them their desires.

Performance of Brahmotsavam

After invoking the grace of the Lord and obtaining His permission, Brahma performed the 'Utsavam' (and hence called Brahmotsavam) for a period of 9 days in the month of Panguni, in accordance with Vaikhanasa Agamas, with the chariot festival on the 9th day, coinciding with Sravanam.

Again in the Tamil month of Purattasi, Brahma, with the permission of the Lord, conducted another Brahmotsavam, lasting 9 days and with the small chariot (Goratham) festival on the 9th day, coinciding with Sravanam.


ALWAR'S VERSES IN PRAISE OF THIS LOARD
(Meaning)



Tirumangai alwar's Peria Tirumozhi (6-1)

It was the intention of Lord Narayana that Tirumangai alwar should have the experience of enjoying and worshipping at the holy temples here. But the Alwar saw the impermanent and evil temptations in this world, which could lead man to evil ways, to satisfy his lust and desire. So Alwar prays to the Lord here that he is terrified and disgusted with this worldly existence. He repeatedly prays to the Lord here to bless him with His grace and vision (darsan).

1. O Lord residing at Tiruvinnagar, devas and devotees have gathered here at Your holy feet with fragrant flowers, mobbed by honey-sucking bees and with prayers to You to destroy their countless sins. You traversed all worlds with Your tender feet, as Trivikrama.

* My Lord, if You bless me with the fortune of seeing You, I will not desire this worldly life, this samsara.

2. O Lord residing at Tiruvinnagar, You, as the Lord of the universe, churned the milky-ocean. You commanded Siva to drink the poison which came out of the ocean. You gave the nectar to the devas and You took the superior nectar i.e. Mahalakshmi.

3. O Lord residing at Tiruvinnagar, with divine body of bluish hue, Siva took refuge in Your body of bluish hue, Siva took refuge in Your body. When the fiery Siva destroyed Tripura, with the Mahameru Mountain as bow, You were the shining fierce arrow.

4. O Lord residing at Tiruvinnagar, during pralaya, You kept in Your stomach the sun, the moon and all worlds and all objects therein. Then You took the form of a small child and were resting on a peepal leaf in the ocean.

5. O Lord residing at Tiruvinnagar, You are the Lord of the seven worlds, seven oceans and seven mountains. During the pralaya, you contained all the seven worlds in Your tender stomach. You are known by the single alphabet "a", which is the origin of all alphabets.

6. O Lord residing at Tiruvinnagar, You are (expanded as) the oceans, mountains and all worlds. Even devas like Brahma cannot apprehend Your real nature. You are the four Vedas personified.

7. O Lord residing at Tiruvinnagar, Brahmins do homa in the fire, with freshly melted ghee, in the mornings and evenings. They then recite Veda mantras and pour offerings to devas in the fire. You are the sweet sound of the Veda mantras and denoted by pranava (OM).

8. O Lord residing at Tiruvinnagar, You are adorned with beautiful fragrant flowers on Your bejeweled kirita (crest jewel). I fear the temptations of loving and going after women, which only leads to pain and unhappiness. I therefore take refuge in You.

9. O Lord residing at Tiruvinnagar, You are that meaning of the four Vedas that are recited. You are the master of Brahma, Siva and Indra. I fully detest the misery of repeated births and deaths I take refuge at Your lotus feet.

10. Those who recite these lovable hymns composed by the reputed Tirumangai alwar on the Lord of by the reputed; Tirumangai alwar on the lord of Tiruvinnagar, who eternally resides here, surrounded on all sides by beautiful gardens, will reach the lotus feet of the Lord.

PERIA TIRUMOZHI - 6.2 , PERIA TIRUMOZHI - 6.3, TIRUVAIMOZHI - 6.3 ...(click here)

Peria Tirumozhi of Tirumangai Alwar 10-1-8

The Lord is the very life of His devotees. He is cool like the moon and dazzling like shining jewels. After worshipping Him at Tirumalirumcholai (Alagar kovil), one should proceed to Tiruvinnagar to worship Him, who is cool and pleasing like a pearl, gorgeous like a gem and enchanting like a blue diamond.

TIRUNEDUNTHANDAKAM-29

He, who married Nappinnai of the cowherd family, who churned the milky ocean, who built the bridge across the sea to Lanks in Rama avatara and wiped away Ravana and other demons with His mighty arrows, who lifted the Govardhana mountain on His finger, who stands majestically at Tiruvinnagar, surrounded by turbulent waters and who lies on Adisesha at Kumbakonam-Him the majestic Lord, I have treasured in my mind.

SIRIYA TIRUMADAL

I shall keep roaming around Tiruvinnagar where the Lord, shining like a bluish gem, resides and such other places.

PERIA TIRUMADAL

When the Alwar indulges in praising archavataras, he first starts with Tiruvinnagar.

The Lord of Tiruvinnagar, the Lord of Mahalakshmi of slender, waist, seated on a lotus, is standing majestically like a golden mountain.

POIGAI ALWAR'S FIRST TIRUVANDADI-77

Tiruvengadam, Tiruvinnagar, Tiruvehka and Tirukkoilur, surrounded by waters with fully blossomed flowers, are the places where the Lord has taken the postures of standing, sitting, lying down and taking strides respectively. If devotees think of these, their sins will be washed away.

PEYALWAR'S THIRD TIRUVANDADI-61, 62

The Lord, who eternally resides in Sri Vaikuntam and the Milky ocean, has come down to Tiruvengadam, Tirukkadigai surrounded by flowergardens with bees humming, and Tiruvinnagar, where the Lord appears eternally youthful, to bestow His grace on devotees. The Lord, who took the worlds as gift from Mahabali (as Vamana), showers His grace on devotees at Tiruvinnagar, Tiruvehka, Tiruvengadam of surging waters, Velukkai with majestic mansions, the marvelous city of Kumbakonam, Srirangam with beautiful gardens of flowers, flowing with honey and Tirukkottiyur.

108 TIRUPATI ANDADI-by Pillai Perumal Iyengar.

O Lord of Tiruvinnagar, you have blessed me with doing service only to you, with my mind, words and hands (body). So, I will not even think of going to Srivaikunta.

Address of the Temple:

Arulmigu Venkatachalapathi Swami Temple
Oppiliappan Koil
Tirunageswaram - 612 004
(Kumbakonam Taluk)
Phone (0435) 246 33 85














Srirangam Sri Ranganathasami Temple


SriRangam Ranganathar Temple





Srirangam Sri Ranganathasami Temple is also called as “Boologa Vaikuntam". Sri Ranganathasami Temple is the Number One shrine among the 108 Divya Desams. Srirangam is actually a 600-acre island-town, surrounded by the waters of the Cauvery on one side and its tributary, the Kollidam, on the other. “Sri Ranganathar” is the main god of this temple and the “Ranganayaki” is the goddess. Srirangam is considered as the capital of Vaishnavas. The gigantic temple of Sri Ranganatha, occupying 613,000 sq meters (156 acres), is the pride of this island. It has seven prakaras or enclosures. These enclosures are formed by thick and huge rampart walls which run round the sanctum. The temple has a number of firsts to its credit, the latest being the 73 metre (240 feet) tall, 13 tiered Rajagopuram, built in the 1980s, said to weigh nearly 25,000 tonnes. There are 20 other gopurams in this temple complex, and as many shrines. For ‘Vaikunda Yekaadesi’ pilgrims come from all over the World, it’s a 20 days celebration. Srirangam is the foremost of the eight self-manifested shrines (Swayam Vyakta Kshetras) of Lord Vishnu.

At the rear end is the shrine of the divine consort, Sri Ranganayaki. There are a number of shrines in the huge courtyard, including one for Sri Rama and another for Vibishana. A side entrance leads to another massive courtyard, at the end of which is yet another towering gopuram. The various vahanas for the annual Brahmotsavam are kept in a mandapam here. The pillars in the mandapam are rich with sculptures. The front of the mandapam is embellished with those Vijayanagar Nayak specialty horsemen fighting lions. So detailed are the sculptures that the craftsmen have left nothing to the imagination. The carvings above and below this tapestry in stone are equally rich in detail. The base depicts women in various postures. One of the pillars shows a rider, with the horse reared up, while below are a number of foot soldiers.

It is said that this is the only temple in India to have seven prakaras. The seven prakaras (enclosures), represent the seven centers of yoga the seven elements that make up the human body, at the heart of which is the soul. The seventh is the outer wall, more like a fort, built in the aftermath of the Islamic invasion. The Sri Venugopala Krishanan shrine is in the fourth court. The walls are adorned with carvings of women in various attire. There is also a museum here. To the couth is the Sesharayar Mandapam, opposite of which is the 1000 pillared hall, which has exquisite sculptures of gods and goddesses, alwars and acharyas. In the first prakaram dwells the Lord in his famous reclining posture. The moolavar faces south. He goes by several names, though He is famously known here as Sri Ranganathaswamy.

This Srirangam temple, as well as the Jambukeswaram shrine, suffered terrible blows during the Muslim invasions of the 14th century. The first one was in 1311 by that iconoclast general of the Khiljis, Malik Kafur. The second one was in 1323 under Ulugh Khan (the later Mohammed Bin Thuglak), the son of Ghiyasuddin Thuglak. The two Muslim raids crippled the temple to such an extent that worship ceased. The 1323 invasion was particularly devastating. Worship was restored only in 1371 when the forces of Vijayanagar stormed the temple complex. From then on for the next 350 years the Vijayanagar kings and the Nayaks lavished their riches on the temple, which has been hailed as Bhoolaka Vaikuntam (Heaven on Earth). Many are the savants and saints who have sung in praise of this deity.

Although the early Sangam literature makes mention about this temple, the earliest extant inscriptions date back to the 10th century. Almost all the major dynasties that ruled this area, like the Cholas, the Cheras, the Pandyas, and the Hoysalas have contributed to make it the biggest temple complex in the country. However, the temple owes its present prominence to the Vijayanagar Empire and its successor, the Nayaks. There is a statue of Tirumala Nayak, the greatest of the Madurai Nayak rulers, sculpted on one of the pillars o this vast temple.

Srirangam Temple History


The History Behind

Many decades later, the whole of Srirangam was merged in a violent stand-storm. The Temple of Srirangam will all its suburbs were under the sand. Once, when a Chola king went out for hunting, he took shelter under the shade of a tree. The parrot which was perching on the tree began to chat, that the Sriranga Kshetra is buried under the sands. Hearing this, the Chola king began to discover the submerged town of Srirangam and renewed all the parts and suburbs of the town. The Chola king is called the Kilikanda Cholan (The king who was advised by the parrot).

Raja Rajendra Chola

When this king began to rule the Choladesa, then also he underwent many difficulties in protecting the town of Srirangam from its ruins. So far as time permitted him the King undertook the repairs of the temple and it’s Gopurams on the East and on the South.

Nanda Chola

After the death of Raja Rajendra Cholan, King Nanda Cholan of Dharma Varma Dynasty became very much devoted to Sri Ranganatha. He had no issues. One day he found a child in the lotus-tank of his capital, which was very beautiful. The king brought up the girl with all glory and happiness. She was called “Kamala Valli”. The King had the greatest pleasure of bringing up the girl Kamala Valli. Once Kamala went into the gardens with her mates to gather flowers. Instantly she took sight of a handsome youth on a horseback. He was the Lord of Srirangam “Sri Ranganatha” Himself. Kamala Valli was cast in a great spell of love with him. Her mind was stolen away by the Lord and she began to perform a severe tapas. The truth of the incident was made known to king. At once the king decided to give her in marriage to the princely youth and conducted the marriage. It is heard that as soon as the young couple entered the temple premises they were immured into a lustrous glory of Lord Sri Ranganatha immediately. The king built a mighty temple for them with all his wealth. This is the historical episode of Woraiyr. The king, Nanda Chola established a great Nanda Vana (garden for the Lord) and built of the Thirumamani Mantapam, the outer walls and the Gopuram. After his death, the temple was protected by his successors. As usual every year the Wedding Festival of Sri Kamala Valli was conducted. This festival takes place ;in the Panguni month every year when Lord Sri Ranganatha goes over to Woraiyur for the Thiru Kalyana Utsava of Kamalavalli Nachiyar at Woraiyur.

King Kulasekara

He was one of the most famous South Indian Kings. His daughter, Cherakula Valli was given in marriage to Lord Sri Ranganatha. To commemorate this, many mantapams are built in the third Prakaram. In this mantapam the Pavitra Utsavam of Lord Sri Ranganatha is conducted every year. The third of the seven Prakaras is so named after King Kulasekara known as “Kulasekaran Tiruchuttru”.

Aryabatal Entrance

Before 360 years a rich man form the land of Gods came here to worship Lord Sri Ranganatha with a great mass of wealth. But he was not given dharsna by the Lord. So, he stayed at the entrance itself with many watchmen to protect the temple of the Lord. Soon he was drawn to the favour of the Lord and was taken into the special devotion towards the Lord. Even now, this entrance is called the Arya Batal Entrance.

Parakalan (Thirumangai Alwar)

Before 445 years ago, Saint Parakala built 4 mantapams in the prakara of Rajamahendra and famous Garuda Mantapam. This Prakara is called the Ali Nandan Tiruchuttru (Thirumangai Alwar Prakara).

Vikarama Chola

King Vikarama Chola known as Akalangan (Man devoid of vices) built the Fifth Prakaram, three Gopurams and the sacred abode of Sri Ranga Nachiar and many mantapams in the Prakalan Prakaram. The abode of Lord Narasimha – Mettu Alagiasinga Perumal was built by this king.

Sri Sundara Pandian

This king embodied the sacred Vigrahas of Cherakulavalli and the Garuda Alwar (Peria Thiruvadi Nayanar). The king made the Ratna Angi Kavacha for the Utsava Moorthy, Sri Namperumal, and built the Golden Flag Staff of Dwaja Sthamba and made many gold and silver vessels for the use in temple. He also made many Vahanas for the processions with the wealth of 18 lakhs of rupees.

Vikraman

This king Vikrama built 4 Gopuram in the Parakalan Prakaram. The prakaram built by king Vikrama is known as Thiru Vikrama thiruchuttru. This is called the Uttara Street now. Lot of ruins were made to the temple by the invasion of the mohammaden reign. A musalman king took the Utsava Deity to his capital at Delhi. Due to the unwearied enterprises of the Srivaishanava Acharya, the stolen Utsave Moorthy was restored. It is understood that the daughter of Musalman king was very much devoted to Sriranganatha and she got herself immuned in the glorious lusture of the Divinity of Lord Sri Ranganatha. Equally as to the Lord daily pujas are performed to the musalman queen in the temple. Some of the Mohammaden principles are also being observed in the temple even now-a-days. Later on, the temple was brought upto a highest state by the kings of Vijayanagar. They attended to many of the ruins in the temple and rebuilt the destroyed parts. They made many valuable Abarnas to the God. The king Vijayaranga Chokanada Nayak built many mantapams. Even now, some of the gold and Silver made by them are kept in use.

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple Sthala Purana


According to the sthala puranam, following a quarrel between Ganga and Cauvery, Lord Vishnu agreed to rest on the banks of the Cauvery. Cauvery would be like a garland round his chest, He told her. Lord Rama, it is said, worshipped Sri Ranganathaswamy, and gave away Sri Ranganatha’s image to Vibshana as his farewell gift. The idol, however, got stuck on the banks of the Cauvery. The Lord then disclosed to Vibishana the promise He had made to Cauvery. He consoled a distraught Vibishana saying that though He had made to Cauvery. He consoled a distraught Vibishana the promise He had made to Cauvery. He consoled a distraught Vibishana saying that though He would not be coming with his to Lanka, His gaze would be towards the island. The Lord is stretched towards the east, and faces south, in the direction of Lanka. Behind Him are Kubera and Sri Lakshmi.

Srirangam Sri Ranganatha Swami Temple Timings


Srirangam Sri Ranganathar Sannathi Timings
Viswaroobam seva 06.15 to 07.30
Pooja time - No seva 07.30 to 08.45
Seva 08.45 to 13.00
Pooja time – No seva 13.00 to 14.00
Seva 14.00 to 18.00
Pooja time – No seva 18.00 to 18.45
Seva 18.45 to 21.00
Free seva 20.00 to 21.00

No seva after 21.00

General Entrance – Free in all Seva time

Special Entrance – Rs.20/- per head

Srirangam Sri Ranganachiar Sannathi Timings

Viswaroobam Paid seva 06.30 to 07.15
Viswaroobam Free seva 07.15 to 08.00
Pooja time - No seva 08.00 to 08.45
Paid seva 08.45 to 12.00
Free seva 12.00 to 13.00
Pooja time – No seva 13.00 to 15.00
Free seva 15.00 to 16.00
Paid seva 16.00 to 18.00
Pooja time – No seva 18.00 to 18.45
Paid seva 18.45 to 20.00
Free seva 20.00 to 21.00
No seva after 21.00
Timings are subject to change in Festival days

Temple Guesthouses available near the main entrance of the temple.

Cloakroom available near the Garuda mandabam.

Srirangam Seven Enclosure


The temple of srirangam is the only one in India with seven enclosures, a sacred symbolic number which for present day Vaishnava believers represents either the seven centers of Yoga, or a reference to the seven elements making up the human body, in the center of which dwells the soul.

First Enclosure

The visitor at last reaches the first enclosure to which, like the second, there is only one entry, by a gate in its southern part the Nazhikettan Gopura and on either side ahs images called Sanshanidhi and Padmanidhi, the conch and the lotus respectively, which are the attributes of Vishnu. To the southwest storerooms have been fitted up. Large mirrors have been placed in the corners in the corners to reflect the statue of the god when it issues from the sanctum.
In the northwest corner are the Yagasala and the Tondaiman Mandapa of which ceiling is decorated with paintings of figures. The eastern part contains two Mandapas Arjuna Mandapa and Kili Mandapa.

Second Enclosure

The second enclosure one must go through Southern Aryabhattal. The whole of this second enclosure, which is comparatively narrow, strikes the visitor by its pervading full light, since there is an almost broken series of mandapas. Towards the northeast corner are the kitchen premises, of the god here in the past were kept the milt and gifts of food, which were distributed, to pilgrims.

Third Enclosure

The third enclosure has the Karthikai gopura where leading the Garuda Mandapa, which consists of 14 rows and it, is the most beautiful Mandapa in the Temple. In the western wing kitches and rice storehouses are found. In the eastern part of this wing is the sacred tank (Chandrapushkarani), which has been hollowed out in the form of a circle flight of steps in the east and west. The eastern wing contains several isolated sanctuaries and mandapas.

Fourth Enclosure

In the Fourth court, non-Hindus may admire in its southern wing the Temple of Venugopala Krishnan, whose outside walls are decorated with very beautifl sculptures I high relief like young women playing the Zither (Veena) or with a parrot or putting the finishing touches (Tilaka) to their appearance before a looking glass. A climb to the terrace overhanging this temple affords a general view of the Temple of Srirangam.
This court also has a museum with highly interesting objects. Non-Hindus are also admitted to the eastern courtyard of this enclosure, which is dominated by the White Gopuram. In the south there exists the famous Sesharayar Mandapam. Opposite to this mandapa can be seen the Hall of Thousand Pillars, where in the Statues of God and Goddesses, Alwars and Acharyas are set out for the great annual festival of Vaikunta Ekadesi in December and January.

Fifth Enclosure

The fifth enclosure contains the shrine of Manavala Mamunigal in the Chola Style.

Sixth Enclosure

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 cars are kept in this enclosure.

Seventh Enclosure

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 50m.

Srirangam Festivals


Festivals in the Chitra Month

The New Moon Day in the Chitra Month, the Chitra Festival (Viruppan Thirunal) festivals for 10days. On the ninth day in the Revathi Nakshtra the Chitra Car Festival takes place. This is quite famous to all and large number of village people throng to the car festival.

Festivals in the Vaikasi Month

In this month Vasanthotsava is conducted for 9 days before the Vaisaka Full Moon day. On the ninth day Namperumal goes cut on Horse Vahana on the main Chitra Street.

Festivals in the Aani Month

In this month a Sahasra kalasa (1000 towel) Mahabisheka in done to the Moolavar as well as to the Utsavar. Same Sahasrakalasa Abisheka is done to Goddess. Sri Ranganachiyar on a Friday and to the Chakrat Alwar on a Saturday. On the following days a maha nivedan is conducted namely large quantity of rice is being distributed to one and all known as Thirupavadai Prasadam.

Festivals in the Aady Month

Aady 18th day of this month, Lord Sri Ranganatha goes to the Amma Mandapam. In the evening of this Adi 18th invaluable presents are made by the Lord to the Goddess Cauvery which is taken on the temple elephant t and thrown in the river Cauvery which is in full floods especially during this Adi month.

Festivals in the Avani Month

In this month Pavithrotsava is conducted to the Lord for nine days from the Sukla-Paksha (bright fortnight) Ekadasi day. To the negligence committed during all the days in the year in the Pujas, remedy is being sought for otherwise Aparadakshanpana is being sought for. On the day of Sri Jayanthi, Krishna Ashtami , Lord Ranganatha goes in procession the Sri Pndara Mantapam where Abisheka or Thirumanchanam is conducted while the Arayar Swamigal recites the Periya Alwar Thirumozhi about Sri Krishnavathara. In the night the Krishna Avatara takes place and the following morning Lord Sri Krishna goes about playing in the main Chitra Street distributing sacred gingely oil and sundal to all the devotees. Afternoon, Lord Sri Ranganatha with his consorts along with Sri Krishna goes to the Uri-Adi mantapam and after the procession is completed round the Chitra Streets, Uri-Adi takes place at the Southern entrance, South Gate near Patala Krishna Temple.

Festivals in the Puratasi Month

Dasara navarathri Utsava takes place in the Month at the Sri Ranga Nachiyar Sannathi. On the Vijaya Dasami day (10th day) Lord Sri Ranganatha goes over to the Kattu Alagia Singaperumal Koil in th east and in the evening Lord Sri Ranganatha comes out on the Horse Vahana and the farce of encounter-namely the killing of Vaniysura takes place.

Festivals in the Aipasi Month

In this month the Thirumanchana water to the Lord is taken from the river in a golden bowel on the back of the temple-elephant. The Vaisvarupa Dharsan is considered to be the important worshipping hour daily. Throughout this month only Golden vessels are used to the Lord for the Aradhana Purposes Dolotsava or the Unjal Utsava is the most glorious festival for this month. On the Deepavali day, God Sri Ranganatha takes the Thirumanchana and in the evening all the Alwars and Acharyas are presented with new cloths before the Lord enters the Sanctum Sanctorium.

Festivals in the Karthikai Month

On the full moon day of Krithigai Nakshatra Sri Ranganatha takes the Thirumanchanam and takes a precession in a special Thiruvasi decorated with Maru floweral petals and the Blaze-fire or Chokkappani is the important item of the day and in the end, the Lord after hearing the annual accounts area by the Kanakku Pillai enters the Sanctum Sanctorium on the hands of the Priest, instead of in the Tholukku Iniyan-which is called as Kali-thala seva. On this Thir Karthigai Day the temple Premises is illuminated with oil lamps.

Festivals in the Margali Month

The important of the month is all the more famous for the recital of Thiruppavai. The Thiruppalli Yezhuchi is the important programme to the Lord, which ie don very early in the morning. The Vaikunta Ekadasi festival falls in this month which lasts for 22 days. Commencing from the day of Thiru Nedum Thandakam to the Thiruvai Mozhi Chatumurai. On the 10th day of the festival is the Mohini Alangaramto the Lord to the Lord and on the 11th day. The Vaikunta Ekadasi is celebrated in the Thirma Mani Mantapam while the Lord wears the Ratna Angi, Only once on this Sacred Occasion. This festival called as Thriu Adayayana Utsavam. On the first 10days the Thirumozhi portion of the Divya Prabanda is chanted by the aryar swamigals in the ARjuna Mantapa and on the latter half of the festival is for the Thiruvai Mozhi Thirunal. On the last day, the Saint, Nam Alwar surrenders himself at lotus feet of the Lord, which function is called as “Alwar Thiruvadi Thozhuthal”.

Festivals in the Thai Month

The Thai or the Bhupathi Thirunal is conducted for 11 days in the bright for night and on 9th day falls the Thai car festival.

Festivals in the Masi Month

Teppotsava or the floating festival is conducted and on the 8th day. The floating is conducted in the temple tank to the west of the town. The following day is observed as Panda Kakshi day.

Festivals in the Panguni Month

In this month Adi Brahmotsava is conducted during the month in Sukla Paksha (bright fornight) after the observance on the Pnguni Uttra day the Lord enjoys the Chariot festival or the Goratha festival.

Additionally several utsavas are conducted on every ekadasi, Amavasai and Sankaramana days.

Mangalasasanam


Around 1300 years ago, during the Bhakthi movement, the Alwar saint poets of Tamilnadu sang verses(Mangalasasanam) in praise of Lord Vishnu. 108 of these Shrines and mythological abodes are collectively known as the Divyadesams shrines in the Vaishnava tradition.

Except Mathirakavi Alwar, all the other eleven Alwars have done Mangalasasanam in Srirangam. Periyalwar 31 Paasurams, Sri Andal – 10 Paasurams, Kulasekara Alwar – 31 Paasurams, Thirumangai Alwar – 72 Paasurams, Poigai Alwar -1 Paasurams, Boothathalwar – 4 Paasurams, Pei Alwar -2 Passurams, Nammalwar -11 Paasurams Total – 246 Paasurams.

Hotels in Srirangam


Sri Rengaa
Pilgrims House
111 East Chitra Street,
Srirangam,
Trichy-620006
Tamil Nadu
India
Mobile: 09443593433

Chandra Tiffin Centre
2, A.M. Road
Srirangam
Trichy
Tamil Nadu
India

Kaveri Hotel
3, Gandhi Road
Srirangam
Trichy
Tamil Nadu
India

Sri Brindavan Hotel
2/2, South Gate
Trichy
Tamil Nadu
India
























SriRangam


Srirangam is beautiful island surrounded by river Cauvery and Kollidam(tributary of Cauvery). srirangam is 8 miles in length and 4 miles in breadth. The population of Srirangam is about 50 thousands. It is 7 km from Trichy junction and it also has a railway station. The island town is surrounded by 7 walls. Sri Renganatha swami temple is one of the famous vaishnavite temples in India. There are 21 gopurams, the rajagopuram (principal tower) is largest gopuram in south India. The 72m high, 13-tiered gopuram (towers) was built in 1987 and dominates the landscape for miles around, while the remaining 20


Invitation of sixth year sahasra Deepa (Thousand Lights) Festivals
gopurams were built, between the 14th and 17th centuries.

Srirangam is a holy place. Importantly for vaishnavates, because, their God Vishnu is in the name of “Renganathar” in a sleeping posture (called Anantha sayanam), which could not be seen any where else like this. Srirangam has got importance because of Renganathar temple. The Geographic location of this island between Rivers cauvery and kolidam is also a reason. There is a flower market in this place called as “sathara veedhi” from where flowers and Garlands are exported to various foreign countries.

A Garden which grows mangoes is also here. The name of that is “Thatha Chariyar Gardens”. They export tons of mangoes every year. There are totally five matriculation schools, Three Government aided schools and six primary schools providing an excellent education. This place is famous for Residential apartments. There are more than five hundred apartments in this place. Bus services are available round the clock to reach srirangam. Numerous taverns and inns are here to accommodate large number of tourists. Three art galleries are present where; people forget themselves in the beauty of antiques and crafts.
Srirangam Information
Srirangam Railway Enquery 0431-2432244
Srirangam to Chennai 315 km
Srirangam Government Hospital 0431-2432227
Srirangam Fire Service 0431-2432300
Srirangam Temple 0431-2432246
Srirangam Electricity Board 0431-2432263

Sarangapani temple - Kumbhakonam , Tamil Nadu








This is an important divya desam of Vishnu and is also known as Tiru Kudanthai. This is one of the Pancha Ranga Khestras ; Other four are temple of Sri Ranganatha; Sri Rangam, ( near Trichy) Appakudathan temple, Tirukoviladi- Trichy , Parimala Ranganathar at Tiru Indalur ( near Kumbakonam) and Sri Ranganatha Swamy temple at Srirangapatanam in Karnataka. I shall be writing on the remaining temples too.

Sarangapani temple is the biggest Vishnu temple in Kumbakonam and it belongs to 13th century. The Moolavar is Sarangan ,and the thayar is Ranganayaki. The temple sanctum is designed like a chariot with wheels and is drawn by horses and elephants.

Lord's consort also known as Kamala Valli Thayar has a separate sannidhi and there are Lord's paduka's(foot prints) in the outside prakaram where devotees offer worship. Opposite to that, there is a shrine for Patala Srinivasa Perumal. Here one has to climb down a few steps to reach the shrine .

The main temple has a beautiful mandapam in front of the temple. The sanctum has two entrances. One is known as the Uttarayana dwara and other one the Dakshinayana dwara as is in Tiruvellarai. The dakshinaya dwaram remains open from the Tamil month of Aadi to Marghazi ( mid August to mid January ) and the other door remains open from ( Mid January- mid July) Thai -Aani. This is in accordance with the movement of the Sun's path.

Temple timings are 6 am - 12 noon , 4 pm.8 pm.

How to reach: Kumbakonam is well connected by express trains from Chennai.Tamilnadu has excellent road transport systems and one can easily get buses to all parts of Tamilnadu from Kumbakonam.The nearest airport is Trichy.
Accommodation: Good hotels suiting to all sections of society are available in Kumbakonam

Gunaseelam Venkatesa Perumal Temple


Location : Gunaseelam near Tiruchirappalli.
Main Deity : Vishnu.

Nearest Town : Trichy District : Trichirappalli State : Tamil Nadu

Gunaseelam Vishnu Temple(Abhimana Sthalam) is a famous Vishnu temple near Trichy, in the state of Tamil Nadu India.It is located on the banks of river Cauvery. An exceptional feature about this temple is that mentally challenged people are taken to the temple and kept in the temple premises for 48 days(mandalam in Tamil). At the end of the 48 days it is believed that their illness is cured by the grace of the Lord Prasanna Venkatachalapathi. The etymology of the name derives from "Gunam" (Cure) and "Seelam" (Place), meaning the place in which all illnesses are cured. This temple is around 20 miles from Trichy.