Madurai Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Swamy Temple, Madurai

Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareshwarar:-

Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Temple (often called Meenakshi Amman Temple) is situated in the heart of the Madurai City, covering an area of 17 acres, the entire city being built around it.
Lord Shiva as Sundareswara or the Lord of beauty. The other sanctuaries is dedicated to Meenakshi, the wife of Shiva. Meenakshi is seen holding a parrot and a bouquet in her hand. The original temple created by Kulasekara Pandyan in the early years was in ruins. The present temple was reconstructed in the early 17th century by Tirumala Nayak. The temple is surrounded by Aadi, Chittiraj and the Massi streets.

Meenakshi (Meena meaning fish and akshi meaning eye) is the principal deity of the temple, and not Sundareswarar - this is unlike most Shiva temples in India where usually Shiva is the principal deity. And legend has it that Madurai is the actual place where the wedding of Shiva and Meenakshi took place. The Meenakshi temple complex is one of the largest and certainly one of the most ancient in the world. In fact it was in the list of top 30 nominees of the “New Seven Wonders of the world”. The temple is situated in the heart of the city covering an area of 17 acres, the entire city was built around it.

       Contrary to the custom followed in all the major temples of Tamil Nadu Goddess Meenakshi (meaning fish eyed) is worshipped first by the devotees in this temple. In other temples the male deity will be worshiped first. Here Arti/Deeparadhana is done to Meenakshi first.
        Meenakshi was born with three breasts. The Pandya king and the queen, who were her parents, were told that the third breast will disappear when she sees the right man. This happened when she met Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva). Even today a statue with three breasts can be seen in Pudumandapam opposite temple.
The lady goddess Meenakshi is the principal deity of the temple and not Sundareswarar - this is unlike most Shiva temples in South India where Shiva is the principal deity.

Shrines:-

 The central shrine of Meenakshi and her consort Sundareswarar are surrounded by three enclosures and each of these are protected by four minor towers at the four points of the compass, the outer tower growing larger and reaching higher to the corresponding inner one. The Sundareswara shrine lies at the centre of the complex, suggesting that the ritual dominance of the goddess developed later. Both the Meenakshi and Sundareswarar shrines have gold plated Vimanam (tower over sanctum). The area covered by the shrine of Sundareswarar is exactly one fourth of the area of the temple and that of Meenakshi is one fourth of that of Sundareswara.

Meenashi:-

 Devi Meenakshi, the fish-eyed Goddess, who stands with a parrot and a bouquet, radiating love and compassion. The sublime grace of the divine Mother and her infinite mercy are beyond words.
The Meenakshi’s idol is beautifully carved and her diamond nose ring dazzles in the glow of the oil lamps. She is always dressed in bright silk and looks gorgeous.

Sundareswarar:-

Lord Sundareswarar's shrine is situated in the Northern side of the Kilikoontu Mandapam. There is the idol of Lord Sri Ganesh called as the Mukkurini Pillaiyar. It is believed that the idol was found when the king Thirumalai Nayakar planned to built a tank about 3 kms from the temple. He found the idol and brought the same to the temple and erected it there.

The kadamba tree is present in the outer pragaram of the Lord Shiva's shrine. There is a dancing posture of the Lord present in the Shrine called as the Velli Ambalam which is covered with Silver all over. This is the one of the idol of Nataraja which is called as the Velli Sabhai. There is many Sabhai's present in the temples of Lord Shiva all over the state.
In the next sanctum is the shrine of Lord Nataraja where the Lord is worshiped in the dancing pose with his right foot raised. Adjacent to it is the sanctum of Sundareswarar, which is supported by 64 boothaganas (ghostly hosts), 8 elephants and 32 lions. The Sivalinga, which bears the names of deities such as Chokkanathar and Karpurachockar, inspires deep devotion.

Vinayaka:-

·        There is big statue of Lord Ganesh inside the temple. This 6 X 4 feet statue was discovered when the Nayak king was digging the earth for sand and stones for the temple. A big (Mukkuruni) kozukkattai or modak made up of 18 kilo rice and several kilos of jaggery/sugar is offered to it every year on Ganesh Chathurthy day. Kozukkattai or Modak is a steamed rice offering inside which is Puranam made of coconut or other grains.

History of the Meenakshi Temple:-

The shrine of Meenakshi at Madurai, popularly known as the Meenakshi Temple, was built during the reign of Chadayavarman Sundara Pandyan in the 12th century. The imposing 9-storey tower was built between the 13th and 16th century. During the 200-year reign of Nayakka rulers, many Mandapams (covered structure with pillars) were constructed in the temple premises, like the Hall of Thousand Pillars, Puthu Mandapam, Ashta Sakthi Mnadapam, Vandiyoor Theppakulam, and Nayakkar Mahal. The temple, as it stands today, was built between 12th and 18th century.

Mythology of Meenakshi Temple:-

The divine marriage where brother Vishnu hands his sister Parvati to Shiva (from left, Vishnu, Meenakshi, Shiva).

According to Hindu legend, Shiva came down to earth in the form of Sundareswarar to marry Meenakshi, an incarnation of [Parvati]. Parvati had earlier descended to earth in the form of a small child in response to the great penance of Malayadwaja Pandya, the ruler of Madurai. After growing up to adulthood, she began ruling the city. The Lord appeared on earth and proposed to her. The marriage was supposed to be the biggest event on earth, with the whole earth gathering near Madurai. Vishnu, the brother of Meenakshi, was traveling to preside over the marriage from his holy abode at Vaikuntam. Due to a divine play, he was tricked by god [Indra] and delayed on the way. Meanwhile, the marriage was presided over by a local god [Koodal Azhaghar]. This is celebrated anually as ‘Chitirai Thiruvizha’ in Madurai. During the period of Nayakar rule in Madurai,in order to link the ‘Azhakar Thiruvizha’ and the ‘Chitirai Thiruvizha’ a story was added that Vishnu was angered and swore he’d never cross ‘Vaigai’ Later he was pacified by the other lords. Hence born the ‘Azhaghar Thiruvizha’.

Modern History of Meenakshi Temple:-

The history of the original structure is not properly known, but Tamil literature speaks about the temple for the last couple of millennia. [Thirugnanasambandar], the famous Hindu saint of [Shaiva] philosophy, has mentioned this temple as early as the 7th century, and describes the Lord as Aalavai Iraivan. The temple was believed to have been sacked by the infamous Muslim invader Malik Kafur in 1310and all the ancient elements were destroyed. The initiative to rebuild the structure was taken by [Arya Natha Mudaliyar] , the Prime Minister of the first Nayak of Madurai (1559-1600 A.D.), the founder of ‘Poligar System’. Then came the most valuable contributions of Thirumalai Nayak circa 1623 to 1659. He took considerable interest in erecting the Vasantha Mandapa of the temple complex.

About Madurai:-

The city of Madurai has been constructed in the form of a lotus and is built around the temple. Owing to its rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor, the city is often referred to as the 'Athens of the East'. The origin of Madurai dates back to the Sangam period, the golden period of Tamil Literature.According to mythology Madurai was earlier a forest called Kadambavanam. Once a merchant passing through the forest saw Indran, the King of Gods worshipping a Swayambhulingam under a Kadam tree. This was immediately reported to King Kulsekarer Pandayan. The king cleared the forest and built a splendid temple, known as the Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarer Temple, around the holy Lingam and later built a beautiful lotus-shaped city surrounding the temple.In 302 BC, Megasthanes visited Madurai and was followed by Marcopolo and Ibn Batuta, all of whom mentioned about their visit in their travelogues. There were many others travelers, from countries like Rome and Greece, who visited the city and established trade with the Pandya Kings. Madurai was captured by the Cholas in the 10th century AD and was ruled till the end of the 13th century. In 1223 AD, Pandyas came to power again and patronized the Tamil language. The city became prosperous during the reign of the Pandya Kings.Many master-pieces or "Silapathikaram" were created during that time.

Legends:-

According to Hindu legend, in order to answer the prayers of the second Pandya king Malayadwaja Pandya and his wife Kanchanamalai, Goddess Parvati appeared out of the Holy Fire of the Putra Kameshti Yagna performed by the king.

According to another legend, the goddess herself had given a boon to Kanchanamalai in one of her previous births that she will have the privelege of mothering the goddess. This girl, who came out of the holy fire had three breasts, to the king's shock. A voice from the heavens told him not be worried and that the third breast will vanish as soon as the girl meets her future husband. The happy king named the girl as 'Tadaatagai' and brought her up.

The girl does not have any realization of her birth and she grows up as a normal human girl. Being the heir to the throne after Malayadwaja, Tadaatagai was trained carefully in all the 64 fields of knowledge, which includes warfare, too. As the time came when Tadaatagai should be coronated, according to the customs, she had to wage war on the three worlds across eight directions (Digvijayam).

After conquering Satyaloka (Lord Brahma's Abode), Vaikuntha (Lord Vishnu's Abode) and Amaravati (the Divine Abode of the Devas), she advanced to Kailasha (Lord Shiva's Abode). She very easily defeats the Ganas and Nandi, the celestial bull, she headed to attack and conquer Shiva, the owner of the place. No sooner she looked at the Lord, the third breast vanished immediately.

Tadaatagai, realizes the reason and understands that Lord Shiva is her destined husband, and she realizes that she is the incarnation of Parvati. Then both of them return to Madurai and the king arranges the coronation ceremony of his daughter, followed by her marriage with Shiva, the next day.

The marriage was supposed to be the biggest event on earth, with the whole earth gathering near Madurai. Vishnu, the brother of Meenakshi, was traveling to preside over the marriage from his holy abode at Vaikuntam. Due to a divine play, he was tricked by God Indra and delayed on the way.

Meanwhile, the marriage was presided over by a local god from Thirupparankundram Pavalaakanivaai Perumal. This is celebrated annually as 'Chitirai Thiruvizha' in Madurai.

During the period of Nayakar rule in Madurai, the ruler Thirumalai Nayakar then linked the 'Azhakar Thiruvizha' and the 'Meenakshi Wedding'. Hence born the 'Azhaghar Thiruvizha' or 'Chithirai Thiruvizha'.

Story of Kannagi:-

In fact, the Madurai that we know today is not the Madurai of ancient times, for it is said that the entire city was once destroyed in an all-consuming fire. The story behind that fire is told in the 5,270-lined epic poem Cilappatikaram ["The Story of the Jewelled Anklets"] written by a Jain monk by the name of Ilango Atikal in the 5th century C.E. According to the author of the poem, it is a story about the importance for kings following dharma, the glory of a chaste woman and the effects of past-life karma.
Kannagi    

Although Cilappatikaram was written only 1,500 years ago; the story itself is much older. The poet-monk only learned of the story when visiting the countryside near the Periyaru River with his brother, Senkuttuvan, a Chera King. On the banks of the river, villagers told the king and Ilango the story of Kannagi, a woman with a single breast who sat down under a tree and did austerities for 15 days, without food or water, until she died. The villagers worshipped Kannagi as the Goddess of Chastity, and her story so inspired the king that he asked his brother to immortalize it in poetry for the benefit of mankind.

Rather than retell the story, here are lines extracted from the translation by Professor A.L. Basham from the original Tamil.

Kovalan, the son of a wealthy merchant in Kaverippattinam, married Kannagi, the lovely daughter of another merchant. For some time they lived together happily, until, at a festival at the royal court, Kovalan met the dancer Madavi and fell in love with her. He bought her favours and in his infatuation forgot Kannagi and his home.

Gradually he spent all his wealth on the dancer. At last he was penniless, and returned repentantly to his uncomplaining wife. Their only fortune was a precious pair of anklets, which she gave to him willingly. With these as their capital they decided to go to the great city of Madurai, where Kovalan hoped to recoup his fortunes by trade.

On their arrival at Madurai, they found shelter in a cottage, and Kovalan went to the market to sell one of Kannagi's anklets. But the queen of Nedunjeliyan, the king of the Pandyas, had just been robbed of a similar anklet by a wicked court jeweller.

The jeweller happened to see Kovalan with Kannagi's anklet, and immediately seized it and informed the king. Guards were sent to apprehend Kovalan, who was then killed on the king's orders. When the news was brought to Kannagi, she went out into the town, with her eyes ablaze with anger, carrying the remaining anklet in her hand as proof of her husband's innocence. [The city caught ablaze from the fire in her eyes.]

At last the patron goddess of the city [Meenakshi] interceded with Kannagi, and she agreed to withdraw her curse, and the fire abated. Weak with loss of blood from her self-amputated breast, Kannagi struggled to a hill outside the city4, where after a few days she died, and was reunited with Kovalan in Heaven. Meanwhile the news of her death spread throughout the Tamil Land. She was deified, temples were raised and festivals held in her honour, and she became the patron goddess of wifely loyalty and chastity.

About Temple:-

Meenakshi temple has a total of 12 Gopurams inside among which South Towers is largest with 170 m. It houses 1511 idols with postures describing the legends associated with them. The most amazing thing to be noticed is that sculptural work and paintings are very delicate, detailed and  artistic.
The Raja Gopuram of the Meenakshi Amman Temple, the Pudu Mandapam and the Thirumalai Nayakar's Palace are living examples of his passion for art. Later, Madurai slipped into the hands of the British's East India Company. In 1781, British appointed George Procter to look after the city. He was the first collector of Madurai.After independence, Madurai became one of the major commercial districts of Tamil Nadu. It is surrounded by several hills, mainly Annamalai, Pasumalai and Nagamalai, named after their resemblance to an Elephant, a Cow and a Snake respectively. The city is a major exporter of Jasmine flowers. Due to its historical background, the temple city of Madurai attracts thousands of pilgrims and visitors every year from India and abroad. “

The Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple or Meenakshi Amman Temple is one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and goddess Parvati located in the holy city of Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India. It is commonly referred to as the Meenakshi temple.The main deity Sundareswarar means the Beautiful Lord and His divine wife Meenakshi means One who rules the world through her eyesight[citation needed] and Koil means temple in Tamil. The temple forms the heart and lifeline for the 2500 year old city of Madurai that is believed to be the home for the classical language of Tamil.

 According to the Hindu legends, Lord Shiva with his divine group of followers appeared here in this city of Madurai, to marry the daughter of the Pandya ruler, Meenakshi, who is believed to be a form of Hindu goddess Parvati. This temple is one of the most sacred abodes of Parvathi, others being Kamakshi of Kanchipuram, Akilandeswari of Thiruvanaikaval and Vishalakshi of Varanasi.Both the marriage and the Vishnu's passification are still celebrated as the biggest festival in Madurai, name Azhakar Thiruvizha (the festival for the beautiful lord). A detailed article on the divine marriage can be found here.The divine couple are believed to have ruled the region for a long time and it is not clear what happened to the place after they left. Another legend says that the Shiva's deity in the form of Linga was discovered by the god of heaven, Indra who built the original temple. This tradition is still followed in the temple with the deity is accompanied by a model of Indra's vehicle, during festive processions.

The temple has a stunning architecture and was a frontrunner in the election for the modern seven wonders of the world for its architectural importance. The complex houses 12 magnificent gopurams or towers that are elaborately scultptured and painted. The temple is a significant symbol for Tamil people, and has been mentioned since antiquity in Tamil literature, though the present structure is believed to have been built only in the early 17th century. According to Hindu legend, the Lord Shiva came down to earth in the form of Sundareswarar to marry the goddess Meenakshi, who is a form of Parvati, Shiva's divine consort. Parvathi had earlier descended to earth in the form of a small kid in response to the great penance of Malayadwaja Pandya, the ruler of Madurai. After growing up she starts ruleing the city and the Lord appears on earth and proposes to marry her. According to Hindu mythology, the marriage was supposed to be the biggest event on earth, with the whole earth gathering near Madurai. Lord Vishnu the divine brother of Meenakshi was traveling to preside over the marriage from his holy abode at Vaikuntam. Due to a divine play, He was tricked by god Indra and delayed on the way and the in the meanwhile marriage is presided over by a local god Koodal Azhaghar. This angers Lord Vishnu very much and he swears never to enter the city and settles in the outskirts at the beautiful hill of Alagar Koil. He was later convinced by other gods and he proceeded to bless the divine couple - Shiva and Parvati.Many majestic towers (gopurams), small and big, beckon one and all to this historic temple. As it is a common practice to worship Devi Meenakshi first and then Lord Sundareswarar, devotees enter the temple through the Ashta Sakthi Mandapam on the eastern street, named after the figures of eight sakthis represented on the pillars on two sides. At this Mandapam, one can see the vivid scriptural representation of Devi Meenakshi's wedding with Ganesha and Subramanya on either side.A three-storied 'gopuram' stands at the entrance of the shrine and on the outer sanctum, the golden flagstaff, Thirumalai Nayakar Mandapam, brass images of Dwarapalakas, and shrines of Vinayaka can be seen. The Maha Mandapam or the inner sanctum can be reached through the doors in Arukal Peedam where the shrines of Ayravatha Vinayakar, Muthukumarar, and the celestial bedroom is extant. In the shrine, Devi Meenakshi is depicted as the fish-eyed goddess who stands with a parrot and bouquet, emanating love and grace.In the next sanctum is the shrine of Lord Nataraja where the Lord is worshiped in the dancing pose with his right foot raised. Adjacent to it is the sanctum of Sundareswarar, which is supported by 64 boothaganas (ghostly hosts), 8 elephants and 32 lions. The Sivalinga, which bears the names of deities such as Chokkanathar and Karpurachockar, inspires deep devotion.Lord Siva appeared on the naming ceremony of the city and blessed it. The divine nectar (madhu) from the tangled locks of Siva fell on the blessed city and so, the city came to be known as "Madhurapuri". It is also said that centuries ago Lord Siva himself performed sixty-four wonders, called "Thiruvilaiyadals", in Madurai. Thus, the holy city finds reference in the great Indian epics - Ramayana, Kautilyas and Arthasastra. Madurai also served as the capital of Pandayan Kings.

In the next sanctum is the shrine of Lord Nataraja where the Lord is worshiped in the dancing pose with his right foot raised. Adjacent to it is the sanctum of Sundareswarar, which is supported by 64 boothaganas (ghostly hosts), 8 elephants and 32 lions. The Sivalinga, which bears the names of deities such as Chokkanathar and Karpurachockar, inspires deep devotion. This hall is a testimony to the excellence of Dravidian architecture. The hall has 985 pillars and is so arranged that from every angle they appear to be in a straight line. At the entrance is the equestrian statue of Ariyanatha Mudaliar who built this consortium of art and architecture. The 'chakram' (wheel of time) engraved on the ceiling denoting the 60 Tamil years is truly spellbinding. The images of Manmatha, Rathi, Arjuna, Mohini, and the Lady with a flute are nonetheless awe-inspiring. There is a unique exhibition of rare artifacts and idols in this hall.The Famous Musical Pillars & Mandapams,

 The Musical Pillars are near the northern tower, and there are five musical pillars each consisting of 22 smaller pillars - carved out of a single stone - that produce musical notes when tapped.Hundreds of devotees catch hold of the two big ropes by which the float is drawn and they await the signal to start. One rope is pulled by men standing on the central island and second by those on the bank of the lake. After the final ritual of worship the priests give the signal and the men strain at the ropes.Slowly, the great float moves away from the shore and begins its circuit. As the men on the rope run along the bank of Teppakulam the thousands of spectators crowding there enjoy by shouting the names of the deities in great joy. The float itself moves around the lake at slow, steady pace. After a couple of rounds, which take more than three hours, the ornamental raft is mooved to the central island and remains there till the evening. All through the day, a number of boats ply to the island bringing thousands of devotees to worship.

Both these temples of Meenakshi and Sundareshwarar are connected with a beautiful corridor. Inside the Sundareshwarar temple there is a beautiful idol of Nataraja. This is one of the Pancha sabhas of Nataraja called Velli Ambalam (the deity is adorned with silver kavacham) the other one I have visited was Nellaiappar Kovil (see my earlier post on Nellaiyappar Kovil Tirunelveli). The idol here is beautiful and around 10 foot high. Unlike the other Nataraja’s idols in a dance posture with their left leg raised the one here is having right raised which is a unique feature. It is really wonderful to watch the cosmic dance form of Lord Nataraja. It is believed that a sincere devotee requested the god to change his posture as it would be stressful to use the same leg posture always and the Lord obliged. The Siva lingam here is also beautiful.

As we come out of the Sundareshwa sannidhi we can see Dakshinamoorthy, Lingodbhavar, Durgai Amman sub shrines and Chandikeshwarar. While praying to Chandikeshwarar we have to clap our hands while praying as he is supposed to be sleeping.

When we come out of Sundarehwarar temple we can see small shrines dedicated to Danda yudhapani, Siva, and Navagrahas etc. and out side is a Nandi mandapam and the flag post in front. Nandi mandapam has beautiful carvings on all four sides.

 The four outer Gopuras in the four directions are marvellous works of art. They are of perfect proportions, though they were built at different time and though, moreover, they have been repaired and renovated from time to time. The Gopuras of Tamil Nadu, by themselves, form a chapter in the history of Indian Art. Some of the brightest pages are due to the towers of Madurai.

 West Gopura:-

The west Gopura was built in the fourteenth century, a troubled period in the history of the temple and the city following the Muslim invasions. It is difficult to believe that a venture of this magnitude could have been possible in that time of travail. But the sources of information are clear. They attribute the Gopura to a Parakrama Pandya. There were many kings of that name in the century. Since the famous Pandya crest of two carps appears on this Gopura, it may be accepted that the Pandyas did build it. This was their swan song in the temple, which will always be associated with their piety, munificence and glory. It is 48m high, rising on a base that is 31m by 14m. Like the three other Gopuras, it is of nine tiers.

 Southern Gopura:-

The most beautiful and the most artistic of the four, the southern, frequently photographed for its lovely eminence over the Golden Lily Tank, is also the tallest, 49m. Its stone base measures 32.9m by 20.4m. The tower sweeps in a graceful curve. It was built about the middle of the sixteenth century by Siramalai Sevvanthi Murti Chettiar, a scion of a family of Tiruchi, which has contributed much to the temple.

Northern Gopura:-

The latest in date is the northern Gopura, which was built by Krishna Veerappa Nayak (1564-72). For some reason, it was without a Sikhara and was not plastered. Therefore, it was called the "Mottai" Gopura. The deficiencies were supplied in renovation about the end of the last century.

Such an ancient and renowned fane has attracted considerable literature and many beautiful traditions, apart from those narrated above. It is said for example Rous Peter, a Collector in the early decades of the last century, was so beloved of the people that they called him "Peter Pandya". Every day he would go round the temple on horseback. One night when he was asleep, there was heavy rain. A little girl woke him up and beckoned him outside his house. The girl then vanished. Peter, convinced that She was Goddess Meenakshi, presented valuable jewels to the temple.

Meenakshi Nayakkar Mandapam:-

Meenakshi Nayakkar Mandapam is a huge hall, adjoining Ashta Shakthi Mandapam. It comprises of 110 pillars, which are adorned with the figures of a peculiar animal called Yalli, with the body of a lion and the head of an elephant.

Potramaraikulam (Golden Lotus Tank):-

Potramaraikulam is a huge tank, where devotees take bath in the holy water. The area surrounding the temple used to serve as the meeting place of Tamil Sangam, the ancient academy of poets. The works of its members were judged by throwing them in the water. The ones that did not sink in the tank were considered worthy of attention. A pillared corridor surrounds the holy tank.

Oonjal Mandapam and Killikoontu Mandapam:-

The western side of the tank houses the Oonjal (swing) Mandapam and Killikoontu (parrot cage) Mandapam. The golden idols of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar are placed on the swing in the Oonjal Mandapam every Friday. The parrots kept in the Kilikoontu Mandapam recite Meenakshi's name.

Thousand Pillar Mandapam:-

There is a massive hall in the Meenakshi Amman Temple, which comprises of 985 magnificently sculptured Dravidan columns. Known as the Thousand Pillar Mandapam, this hall also houses an art museum, with a rich collection of icons, photographs, drawings, etc.

Musical Pillars:-

To the west of the Thousand Pillar Mandapam are the Musical Pillars. The specialty of these pillars is that each one of them produces a different musical note, when stuck.

Kalyana Mandapa:-

Kalyana Mandapa lies to the south of Thousand Pillar Mandapam. It serves as the venue of the marriage festival of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, held every year during the Chitirai Festival in mid-April.

Vasantha Mandapam (Pudhu Mandapam):-

Thirumalai Nayakkar built the Vasantha Mandapam, also known as Pudhu Mandapam. Every year, the hall plays host to Vasanthosavam, the Spring Festival, held in the Hindu month of Vaikasi (April/May). The pillars of the hall are adorned with elaborate sculptures of Lord Shiva and Goddess Meenakshi, scenes from their wedding, along with the figures of ten of the Nayak Kings and their consorts.

Temples around Madurai:-

Koodal Alagar Temple:-

 A famous temple, situated of the city. The sanctum sanctorums of this temple are seen one above the other, it is unique to this temple. Convenient steps have been provided to reach the top floors. Just like the Peria koil tower of Tanjore, the shadows of Astanganga vimanam do not fall on the ground. The stone walls on the 3 sides of the Athittanam are full of artistic works. Sun's rays reach the sanctum sanctorum through the 7 windows in this wall. There are beautiful sculptures made of lime mortar on the Vimanam (structure over the sanctum sanctorum). In the third floor, the scenes of "Dasavatharam"(the ten Incarnations) are depited with lime mortar sculptures around the shrine. The shrine of goddess thayar Maragathavalli, built with granite stones and carved with sculptural works is seen here. There is an unjal mandapam (swinging mandapam) full of artistic wooden works.

Kallalagar Temple:-

 Kallazhagar temple is one among the 108 Divya Desams of Lord Vishnu. It is located 20 kms from the Temple town of South India, Madurai. The presiding deity of this temple is also known as Meenakshi Amman's brother. The temple is situated in a scenic milieu with Vrishabhadri hill at the backdrop for this temple. There are 2 forts near the temple.The temple gate is guarded by the deity Karuppannasami.

Tiruvedagam:-

 Nestled 20 kms from Madurai in the town of Tiruvedakam, lies the Shiva temple of Edakanatheswarar. This temple is on the banks of Vaigai river and is very closely associated with Tirugnanasambandar.

Thiruvadavur:-

 One of the most enchanting temples in my Madurai trip. A huge temple with only a very few people around. This is one of the favorite temples I would like to go back and spend time in.


Thiruparankundram:-

 Thiruparankundram is one of the 6 adobes of Lord Karthikeya. The sanctrum santorum here is constructed out of one huge rock. The temple resides in a mountain which takes different shapes when seen from different directions. The majestic hill of Thiruparankundram is the first Aarupadaiveedu (out of the six) abode of Lord Murugan. This is the place where the Lord married Devasena the daughter of Lord Indra (King of Gods).

Thirumohur:-

 When the asuras tried to stand among the devas, in order to get a share, Surya and Chandra identified them, where by their heads were replaced by snake's heads and they became rahu and kethu. So this is a place where pariharams may be offered to rahu and kethu. The puranic name of Thirumohur.

Palamudhircholai:-

The holy shrine of Pazhamudircholai is nestled 13 miles away from Madurai. Pazhamudircholai was earlier known as Solai malai. This pilgrim abode is one of the six Arupadaiveedu (six abodes) of Lord Murugan. The town of pazhamudircholai is known to be very rich in vegetables, flowers and fruits. Hence it derive this name pazhamudircholai: Pazham -fruit, udir - shake and cholai - garden. The temple is located on top of Azhagar Malai Hill. At the foot of this hill is the Vishu Temple, Azhagar Koil.
Murugan. This is the place where the Lord married Devasena the daughter of Lord Indra (King of Gods).

Thirumohur:-

When the asuras tried to stand among the devas, in order to get a share, Surya and Chandra identified them, where by their heads were replaced by snake's heads and they became rahu and kethu. So this is a place where pariharams may be offered to rahu and kethu. The puranic name of Thirumohur .

Vandiyur Thepakaulam Mariamman temple:-

Mariamman Teppakulam is a huge 16-acre water tank situated at about 5 km distance from the Meenakshi Amman Temple. Located in the region of Vandiyur, the tank has a Vinayaka temple at the center, which can be accessed only by water. Near the tank is a temple dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Mariamman and hence the name ‘Mariamman Teppakulam' (Teppakulam meaning water tank in Tamil).

Temple Timings:-
 04:00 to 12:30 and 16:00 to 21:45
Pooja Timings:-
    Thiruvanandhal Pooja
    05:00 - 06:00
    Vilaa Pooja
    06:30 - 07:00
    Kaalasandhi Pooja
    07:30 - 08:30
    Thirikaalasandhi & Uchikkaala Pooja
    10:30 - 11:30
    Saayaratchai Pooja
    16:30 - 17:00
    Arthajama Pooja
    19:30 - 20:40
    Palliyarai Pooja
    21:00 - 21:30

There are close to 50 priests in the temple who perform the puja (rituals) during festivals and on a daily basis. Like other Shiva temples of Tamil Nadu, the priests belong to Shivaite to the Adishaivas, a Brahmin sub-caste. The priests live in a closed area north of the temple.The temple has a six time pooja calendar everyday, each comprising four rituals namely abhisheka (sacred bath), alangaram (decoration), neivethanam (food offering) and deepa aradanai(waving of lamps) for both Meenakshi and Sundareswarar. The puja (worship) ceremonies are held amidst music with nagaswaram (pipe instrument) and tavil (percussion instrument), religious instructions in the Vedas by priests and prostration by worshippers in front of the temple mast.

 Festivals:-

 The most important festival associated with the temple is the "Meenakshi Thirukalyanam" (The divine marriage of Meenakshi) that is celebrated in April every year. The marriage of the divine couple is regarded as a classic instance of south Indian female-dominated marriage, The marriage brings together rural and urban people, deities and mortals, Saivas (those who worship Shiva) andVaishnavas (those who worship Vishnu) in order to celebrate Meenakshi as the royal monarch. During the one month period, there are a number of events including the "Ther Thiruvizhah" (chariot festival) and "Theppa Thiruvizhah" (float festival). As per the tradition , even today every evening, before closing the temple, a ritual procession led by drummers and a brass ensemble carries the image of Sundareswarar to Meenakshi's bedroom to consummate the union, to be taken back to his day setting the next morning at dawn.

How to Reach:-

By Air:-
 Madurai is well-connected by domestic flights with Mumbai and Chennai. The Airport is 10 km away from the main city.

By Rail:-
 Madurai is well-connected by direct trains with cities like Coimbatore, Kollam, Chennai, Bangalore, Rameshwaram, Tanjore, etc.

By Road:-
Madurai is well-connected with all the major cities of Sough India. the city has 5 major bus stands - Anna Bus Stand, Palanganatham Bus Stand, Periyar Bus Stand, Mattuthavani Bus Stand and Arapalayam Bas Stand.

Pazhamudircholai Murgan , Vallis Garden

Pazhamudircholai:-

This is the sixth abode of Lord Muruga which lies about 19 km away from Madurai, Tamil Nadu. Lord Muruga stands on the top of the hill which can be reached by the motarable road, and he is called “Solaimalai Murugan” here. This very beautiful shrine is surrounded by green woods, shrubs and hills. At the foot of hills is the, “Alagar Kovil” temple which is one of the important temples of Lord Vishnu.

Pazhamudircholai is the abode where Lord Muruga stands with both his consorts Shri Valli and Shri Deivanai. Though the temple is the simplest of all, it is the most beautiful one amidst natural sceneries.

At the entrance of Pazhamudircholai there is a temple called Azhagar Kovil, the deity being Lord Vishnu in the form of a protector, safeguarding Lord Muruga. Pazhamudircholai is a hill, which is rich in fruits, vegetables and flowers. It is a dense forest where "Valli" is supposed to have lived. It is a small temple with Valli, Deivanay, and Lord Muruga in a separate shrine. Lord Ganesha is also present in a separate shrine.

Pazhamudircholai is a hill rich in fruits, vegetables and flowers. It is a dense forest where “Valli” is supposed to have lived. There is a temple tower and monkeys abound around the area. It is a fertile hill with many natural springs and herbs.

Although there are hundreds of temples in Tamil Nadu for Lord Muruga, these six temples called the “Arupadaiveedu” are very famous, and devotees throng them throughout the year. It is in these places the legends of Lord Muruga are associated.

About Legend:-

This Pazhamudircholai Lord Murugan is praised in old Tamil literature such as Silappathikaram, Ettuthokai, Pattupattu etc. The great Tamil poet and saint Avvaiyar had been tested by Lord Murga here.

In order to play with Avvaiyar who was one of the very famous devotees of Lord Muruga, the Lord played a drama. One day Avvaiyar became tired while travelling because of very hot summer and so came under the shadow of a fruit tree. She was very hungry and thirsty. At that time, a small boy who was sitting on the tree asked her whether she wanted fruits from the tree. Avvaiyar told that she wanted fruits. At that time the boy asked Avvaiyar whether she wanted roasted fruits or unroasted fruits. Avvaiyar who was a famous Tamil poet, litterateur and having indepth knowledge in Tamil thought,"Is there any roasted fruit in the world?" and decided that the small boy didn't have knowledge even about a fruit.


But, as she was very tired, she didn't want to argue with the small boy and asked him to pick roasted fruits for her. The boy shook the tree and so fruits fell under the tree. The mud under the tree had stuck on the fruit. Avvaiyar took the fruits and blew on the fruit to remove the mud. It was observed that as the fruits were roasted and had become warm, Avvaiyar had blown the fruits to cool them. At that time, the small boy asked Avvaiyar whether the fruits were warm? Avvaiyar was astonished, "How had a small village cowboy played such an intelligent drama? She had thought that the small boy had no knowledge about fruits and how the fruits in the tree may become roasted fruits. But blowing the air on the fruit to remove the mud is like blowing air to reduce the heat as the fruit is roasted. What a beautiful comparison.

Such a beautiful comparison would not have risen in her mind even though she had gained rich knowledge in Tamil." She asked the small boy, "Who are you actually?" At ,the small boy disappeared and in his place, Lord Muruga appeared. Now Avvaiyar realized that it was a play of God and she understood that there were more and more things that she had to learn. She bowed to Lord Muruga and requested him to bestow her with bountiful knowledge.

About Temple:-

This temple is mentioned as the sixth Arupadai veedu. The place is full of natural beauty and sylvan surroundings. This hill is also known as Virshabhadri or Idabagiri. Most scholars , priests and devotees identify this as the pazhamudircholai , twelve miles north of madurai in the alagar hills.
And this temple is not as large or bustling as the other five recognised shrines , it is just as incredible to visit. At the top of the hill is Noopura Ganga , a perennial waterfall with a temple dedicated to Rakkayi amman . the Noopura Ganga is said to be orignated from the anklet of Tirumal or Vishnu and hence the name of the spring.

Though the stala is of ancient origin , the temple as in existence today was constructed only recently. From days of Yore Vel has been worshipped as the moolavar or main deity. The idol of Lord Muruga in a standing posture has a single face and four hands with Vallu and Teyvayanai on both sides. The vel made up of stone is of special significance and is worshipped with great veneration by devotees.
The sthala Viriksha is a rose apple tree. The fruits of this tree ripen during skanda Sashti festival. The temple that was in existence during sangam period no longer existed in Arunagirinatha's time. The recently constructed temple is considered as Pazhamudircholai and worshipped by devoteed.


About Deity:-

Here Murugan is worshiped along with his consorts Valli as Iccha Shakti and Devayani as Kriya Shakti and  himself as Jnana Shakti. The idol of the lord in standing posture with a single face and four hands is kept between the idols of his consorts. The Vel (spear) of the lord made up of stone is of special significance and is worshipped with a great veneration by devotees.

A natural spring called Noopura Ganga with a temple dedicated to Raakkayi Amman is located at the top of the hill. Pilgrims to the temple take a dip in this small, sacred spring which is said to have originated from the anklet of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that the devotees who worship at this shrine are blessed with wealth and health. The Silambar river flows near the temple.


At the down hills, there is a Vishnu Temple, called Azhagar Kovil.
There is beautiful stone image of Vishnu, called Soundara Rajan, the Azhagar in Tamil.  He is with Soundara Valli, Sri Lakshmi, the consort.  This is a later construction,.after  Muruga's temple.  This is praised by Azhwars, the Vaishanava Tamil Saints.  In Vaishnva Tamil works, it is called Tirumal Irum Cholai, the garden where Vishnu rests.


  Special Days In Pazhamudircholai Temple:-

    Panguni Uthiram-It is celebrated in the month of March
    Vaikasi Visakam-Clebrated in the month of Vaigaasi. Visakam is Lord Muruga’s birthday star.
    Kandha Sashti-Kanta Shasti Vratam is observed once a year in the month of ‘Aippasi' (October–November) starting from the ‘piratamai' the 1st phase of the brightening moon.
    Aadi Krithigai-This is celebrated in the month of May/June.

 Nearest Major Town/City:-

    Madurai - 9 km from Madurai to pazhamudhircholai

How to Reach:-

    By Air:-
    The nearest airport to Pazhamudhircholai is in Madurai
    By Train:-
    The nearest railway station is Madurai
    By Road:-
    Regular buses are available from Madurai.

Magha Pournami - A Holy Dip

                                                     Magha Pournami



Magh Purnima or Magha Pournami, also known as Maha Maghi, is one of the auspicious Purnima days according to the Hindu calendar. This is the full moon day in the month of Magh (mid-January to Mid-February of the Gregorian calendar). Full moons (Purnimas) and new moons (Amavasyas) have special significance in Hindu religion. The month of Magh is considered to be sacred because at the commencement of this month the sun sets on its northern path. Magh Purnima also marks the conclusion of Magha month in North India. So the day of the full-moon falling in this month is highly revered by devotees.
This day is venerated in different ways across the country. This is a very auspicious bathing day and is of the same significance as that of karthik purnima. Maghi Purnima is revered as a ‘bathing festival’ across the country.

The full moon day of Magha (January-February) is known as Magh Purnima. It is a great bathing day, and as important as Kartik Purnima for the practice of piety and devotion. On this day a fast is observed and charities are done. Early in the morning, after ablutions, the dead ancestors are offered libations, and the poor are given dakshina according to one's means and capacity.

The month of Magha is known to be an auspicious day among the Hindus, as the sun sets in the north western direction. Maghi Purnima usually falls on the last day of the month of Magh. This day is perfect taking a holy bath in Holy River of the Triveni Sangam. This auspicious festival, as said above, marks the end of Magh in the northern parts of the country. Hence, Hindus of these parts of India revere this day as extremely holy for worshipping the great Lord Vishnu, as well as the Sun god.


History and Legends:-

According to Brahmavaivartpurana, Lord Vishnu himself resides in the Ganga River during the month of Magh and therefore even a touch of this holy water can cure all sins and all diseases of a devotee.
Another legend states that Lord Vishnu resides in the Kshir Sagar during the Magh month and the Ganga River is a form of Kshir Sagar.
It is also believed that Vishwamitra also performed the holy bath in the Kumbh Mela in 2382 BCE on the day of Magh Purnima.
Even astrologically, Magh Purnima is regarded as auspicious because the Sun is in the Capricorn sign and the Moon in the Cancer Sign. Thus, taking the ritualistic bath can cure a person from all problems related to the Sun and the Moon.
According to the Matsya Purana, anyone who donates the Brahma-Vaivarta Purana on this day finds abode of Lord Brahma.


Fairs during Magh Purnima:-

Every year, a fair is organized in Prayag during Magh month. It is believed that residing in Prayag (Kalpvas) during this period is considered to be very auspicious. Devotees stay near Prayag till Maghi Purnima. A lot of devotees from all across India can be seen taking baths and performing religious activities during this period. Kalpvas extends upto the end of Magh month. On the day of Magh Purnima, devotees take a bath, make donations and perform yagnas etc. It is believed that Lord Vishnu blessed everyone who takes a bath in Ganga river on this day. Taking a bath in river Ganga on the day of Magh Purnima provides a person with success, peace of mind and salvation.


Float Festival in Madurai:-

On Magh Purnima, the ‘float’ festival is celebrated at Madurai in Tamil Nadu. On this day, the ornately decorated idols and images of Lord Sundeshwara and Meenakshi are mounted on the floats and are taken to Mariamman Teppakulam Sarovar which is a large sacred tank in Madurai. The procession is accompanied by music and chanting devotional songs.
Magh Purnima is the birthday of King Tirumala Nayak who constructed the Mariamman Teppakulam which is a few kilometres to the East of Madurai.
There is a special significance of this day in Buddhism as well. It is believed that Gautam Buddha announced his impending death on this day. There are religious ceremonies held at Viharas, prayers are dedicated to the Buddha. Religious flags are hoisted on all the monasteries at dawn and sacred verses are chanted from the Tripitaka. –

Bathing Festival:-

Grand festivals take place along the banks of the holy rivers like Ganga, Yamuna, Sarayu, Narmada, Tapti, Kaveri, Krishna, Godavari etc. Taking a holy dip on this day in Kumbakonam, Kannyakumari and Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu and Pushkar Lake in Rajasthan is also considered to be very meritorious.

Bathing in India is a ritual, a ceremony, a festival and a great purifying act. A bath on such auspicious day as Purnima, is all the more significant. On this day great bathing festivals are held at various places along the banks of the holy rivers like Ganga, Yamuna, Sarayu, Narmada, Tapti, Kaveri, Krishna etc. People walk miles and miles to have a holy dip in the sea, or river or a lake on this day. A bath in the sea at Kanyakumari and Rameshwaram, is also considered to be highly rewarding. In the same way a dip at Pushkar Lake is also considered auspicious. At Kumbhakonam near Madras, there are great shrines of Sarangpani, Kumbeshwara and Nageshwara near which there is a large sacred tank, where devotees take a holy dip on this day. It is believed that Ganga flow into this tank on this day. Once every 12 years, Kumbha Mela is also held here.


 Magha Purnima Worship:-


Magha Purnima is an auspicious day to worship the ancestors. Prayers are offered to Lord Vishnu on this day in order to liberate the souls of their ancestors. Giving alms and donations to poor and priests on this day is believed to win the blessings of the ancestors. Donating cows is a sacred act on this day and can bless the individuals with a lot of merits including freedom from sins.

Worship of Lord Vishnu:-

Magha Purnima day is one of the most auspicious days to perform Satyanarayan vrat. This vrat is observed in the evening after moon rise and the puja consists of worshipping Lord Vishnu as Satyanarayan along with Mahalakshmi. This puja is believed to bring prosperity and happiness in families.
The materials offered to Lord Vishnu on this day include sandal paste, fruits, betel leaves and nuts, panchamrit and different delicacies. The special dish made on this day is sourced from wheat and sugar. Tulsi water is distributed at the end of the puja.

Products to perform the puja :-

Worshipping Lord Vishnu is considered very auspicious on this day. Lord Satyanarayan, Lord Bruhaspati and Goddess Parvati are also worshipped on this last day of the month of Magha.
Besides, religious significance, the day of Magha Purnima is also holds importance in the science of astrology. It is held that on this day Sun enters into the Capricorn Sign and Moon moves in the Cancer constellation. Hence it is believed that taking a holy dip on Magha Purnima can put an end to all the problems correlated with Sun and Moon. The month of Magha is also beneficial from scientific point of view. It is believed that this month helps the human body to adjust with the changing seasons. Therefore taking a bath on Magha Purnima will provide strength and power to the body.

Mantra Chanting:-

While bathing on this day a person should chant ‘Om Namah Bagvate Vasudevaya Namah’. It is a mantra of Lord Krishna an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The mantra is also termed as a Mukti Mantra that promises freedom  from the cycle of birth and rebirth. It also forms the main mantra of ‘Srimad Bhagvad Geeta’. While some devotees may chant it like the Gayatri mantra others may sing it like a Bhajan.


Fasting rules on Magha Poornima:-


On the day of Magha Purnima, the devotees observe a day long fast in atonement of their sins. The fasting starts early in the morning and concludes in the evening after Puja. While the strict version of the vrat enjoins the devotee to desist from any form of eating and drinking, a lighter version allows consumption of fruits and milk.

The puja on this day includes:-

•Alms in the form of food, clothes and money are distributed to the poor.
•Saints and Brahmins are fed and given ‘daan’.
•Fasts are observed and prayers are offered to Lord Satyanarayan.
•A holy dip in the name of Lord Vishnu is the real puja of this day.
•Donations in the name of Ancestors are also done.

Murugan Devasena Married place ,Tirupparankundram

Tirupparankundram:-

Tirupparankundram, a hill five miles southwest of Madurai, is the fourth pilgrimage site of Muruga. A cave temple dedicated to the element of earth and mentioned in various classical Tamil texts as the 'Southern Himalaya' where the gods assemble, Tirupparankunram is also mentioned in legend as 'the place where the sun and moon abide'. Murugan was married to Devasena upon the hill and for many centuries the Tamil people have considered it the most auspicious place for their own marriages, especially during the time of the Pankuni Uttiram, the festival of marriage held in late March. Besides the fantastic temple to Murugan on the hill, there is also a Muslim shrine dedicated to 'Sekunder' who is associated with Murukan by the Muslim pilgrims. "Sikandar was a friend of Murugan at the time when Murugan was King here," they say.


Legends:-

 Subramanyar is said to have married Devasena (Devanai) here, and is said to have worshipped Shiva - Parangirinatheswarar.  

 Tirupparankunram is also mentioned in legend as 'the place where the sun and moon abide'. It is regarded as the sacred temple for marriages. People believe that marriages done here are succesfull due to the blessings of lord Muruga. The temple is surrounded with many trees and green lands.
Tirupparankundram is one of the Aru Padai Vedugal of lord subramaniyam.

Tirupparankundram is situated three miles southeast of Madurai on the main railway line. It is one of the Aru padai veedugal or six sacred places selected by Lord Subrahmanya for his abode. The importance of this temple is that here was celebrated the marriage of Lord Subrahmanya with the daughter of Indra, Devayani.
Long, long ago, when Lord Subrahmanya was staying at Kanda Verpu, the two daughters of Lord Maha Vishnu, Amrita Valli and Sundara Valli, cherished the desire of becoming the consorts of Subrahmanya. With this aim in mind they both went to Saravana Poigai and commenced austere penance to fulfil their desires.
Pleased with their prayer and worship, Lord Subrahmanya appeared before them and told Amrita Valli, "You will be brought up by Indra as his daughter and I shall marry you in due course." Her younger sister Sundara Valli was also graced with a similar blessing. She was born to sage Sivamuni and brought up by Nambi, the headman of Veddas.
Amrita Valli took the form of a female child and went to Mount Meru, the abode of Indra, and told him, "I am the daughter of Maha Vishnu and the responsibility of looking after me has been entrusted to you." On hearing this, Indra became very happy and directed Airavatam, his white elephant, to take care of the child.
The elephant with all love brought her up and affection and she attained the age of marriage in course of time. Hence she came to be known as Devayanai, one who was brought up by the heavenly elephant of Indra (yānai in Tamil means elephant).
The six sons of sage Parasara were cursed to become fishes in the Saravana Poigai. On request for redemption, these six boys were ordered to pray to Lord Subrahmanya.
When they got his darshan, they could get redemption. It was also made known to them that Lord Subrahmanya would come to Tirupparankunram after vanquishing the demon Surapadma. Anxiously they waited for the arrival of Subrahmanya.
When the mission of Subrahmanva to vanquish Surapadma was over at Tiruchendur, on his way, he came to this spot followed by all the devas and heavenly beings whom he had released from the untold miseries caused by Surapadma.
On his arrival at Tirupparankunram, the sons of Parasara received Subrahmanya and, at their request, he consented to stay there. He at once ordered Viswakarma to construct a beautiful abode for himself, for the devas and for others.
He also suggested to the heavenly architect to build roads and erect a city around them. Indra, the king of the angels, desired to get his daughter Devayanai married to Subrahmanya, as a mark of his gratitude for relieving him and the devas from the depredations of the demon Surapadma.
He expressed his desire to Brahma and Vishnu who were present there. They were only too glad to hear the proposal. When they communicated the desire of Indra to Lord Subrahmanya he readily agreed to it and said: "Devayanai has been praying at Saravana Poigai in the Himalayas for this happy marriage. Now the time has come for its being solemnised." As Subrahmanya agreed to this marriage, Indra sent a messenger to bring his wife Indrani and daughter Devayanai from Mout Meru.
The marriage took place at Tirupparankunram, after the victory of Subrahmanya over Surapadma. All arrangements for marriage were made and the marriage was performed at the Tirupparankunram Temple. All the devas, Siva and Parvati attended the marriage and blessed Subrahmanya and Devayanai. Since then, the temple has become a very famous abode of Subrahmanya.

Short history of the temple:-

According to another tale King Harichandra worshipped Shiva from this hillock and gained eternal wisdom. Thus he built a temple here - temple was complete with Praharams (ambulatories), walls, Gopurams (gate towers) and steps.

The "real history" (who can differentiate myths and reality in Indian past?) of the temple may start with 8th century AD when Pandya rulers built rock-cut temple.

Later, during the reign of Nayaks of Madurai (1559 - 1736 AD) the temple was supplemented with beautiful gopurams and beautified. There was built extensive and beautiful front part (mugha mandapam) with 48 ornate pillars carved during the rule of Pandya and Nayaks.


About The Temple:-

          Thiruparankundram Subramanya Temple is considered to be one of the six abodes of Lord Subramanya or Murugan.

Thiruparankundram temple is dedicated to the Lord Subramaniya. It is situated 8km south from Madurai district. These six abodes of the Lord are popularly referred to as Arupadai Veedu.  This is cave temple, One of the sangam poet Nakkirar has sung a log poem about this Temple is called Thirumurugatrupadai. Devayanai Marriage, Thirumalai Nayak and Mangammal Sculptures are there in this temple. The most important sculputure is Lord siva with flag of Rishaba in his hand cannot be found anywhere else. The important festival in this Temple is Vaigasi visagam, which is celebrated as Lord Subramaniyar’s birthday, and Surasamharam, which is celebrated in the month November or December every year.
Presiding deities of the temple are Lord Muruga and Goddess Devasena. Other deities – Shiva, Vishnu, Durga and Ganapathy – are represented as well.

       The 48 massive square pillars with beautiful carvings and lotus-shaped medallions made during Nayaka period adorn the entrance of this ancient cave temple. The most impressing feature of this temple is the idol of main deity which is carved from a single rock.  The temple tower is of seven tiers and displays magnificent carvings and sculptures. The Brahmi inscriptions found in the Thiruparankundram Temple are of significant archeological and historic value.  The Sivathandavam scene made as a sculpture is a piece of great artistic value that should not be missed.


White peacoks:-

 We know peacocks in their natural colours only. White peacocks can be seen in Tiruparankundram. According to tradition, the Devas are here in the form of white peacocks to worship Lord Muruga.

Rudrabishekam to Lord Dakshinamurthy:-

 Lord Dakshinamurthy graces with His left hand on a snake under His feet. Those afflicted with bad effects in their horoscopes, those suffering from prolonged illness offer Rudrabisheka worship in the shrine. They personify Lord Dakshinamurthy in a silver pot and engage Vedic scholars to chant the powerful and effective Rudra, Chamaha mantras for relief. The worship yields huge benefits to the devotee.


Goddess Devanai Sannidhi:-

 In the Thiruparamkundram Temple, there is a Goddess Devanai Sannidhi in the northwest corner. Other shrines found in this prakaram are Lord Sankara Narayanar, Lord Kasi Viswanathar, Vadhapuriswarar, Vedhapuriswarar, Ekambara Nathar, Mayuranathar who is facing north and Lord Chandeswarar facing south. There are also sannidhis for Lord Nataraja and Lord Baihravar. Lord Saneeswara is found facing south. Golden Kodi Maram is seen on the south.

Devi Lingam:-

While Lord Shiva was teaching the Pranava Mantra to Mother Parvathi, Muruga sitting on the lap of Mother also was also listening. Any lesson should be learnt from the Guru in a proper way. To make amends for the mistake, Lord Muruga performed penance here. Lord gave darshan to His beloved Son on a Thaipoosam day. This Shiva shrine is in a separate shrine in the name of Aadhi Sokkanathar. Those visiting Tiruparankundran should worship this Shiva first according to tradition. But as the temple is the first army camp temple of Lord Muruga, traditions changed in later days.


Sathyagiriswarar:-

Demon Mahishasura was harassing the Devas in many ways. Mother Ambica took the form of Navanayakis, fought with him and destroyed him on the nineth day. The killing of the demon brought her the Brahmmahati dosha. She worshipped Lord Shiva for release from the sin. Lord advised Her to worship Him from here for result. Ambica followed Lord’s advice and worshipped installing a Linga on the mount which itself was but a Linga. Shiva granted darshan to Durga and relieved her of the dosha.

Today too, the presiding deity is Lord Shiva only in the temple. He graces from a Kundru –Mount, and is praised as Parankundranathar and the place Parankundram. He is also praised as Sathyagiriswarar. As it is here that Lord Muruga married Deivanai, importance is more attached to Lord Muruga and the temple became Muruga Temple in the days that followed. On the full moon day – poornima in Aani month (June-July) three fruits – mango, plantain and jack – are offered to the Lord with special pujas.

Nandi with His consort:-

 Nandi, the bull vehicle of Lord Shiva graces with His consort Kalakandi in the Maha Mandap of the temple. There are twin Vinayakas by His side. While there will be prakaras-corridors in the temples with other deities, Tiruparankundram temple is different without these formalities. As the Mount itself is in the form of a Linga, only Girivalam is possible. In Pillayarpatti, though the temple is the cave type, there are prakaras within the temple.

Correcting the mistake:-

 When Lord Shiva was teaching Pranava Mantra to Mother Parvathi, Muruga being there, also listened and learnt the Mantra. As it was against the rules, Muruga wished to correct Himself of the mistake, performed penance here seeking Lord’s pardon. Lord Shiva graced His darshan to the Beloved Son on a Thaipoosam day. He graces as Aadhi Sokkanatha from a shrine opposite to the Subramaniar temple. According to tradition, those visiting Tiruparankundram should worship here first before proceeding to the present main temple.

The Son in place of Father:-

 During the festivals, flag hoisting is performed for Lord Shiva only while Lord Muruga is taken in procession. As Muruga is not different from Shiva, this procedure is followed. Muruga also bears the name Somasubramaniar representing both Shiva and Muruga.

While Durga is a sub-deity in other temple, She has Her own Kodimaram (Flag Post) and a Main Tower-Rajagopuram in this temple. After killing Mahishasura, Mother Durga worshipped Shiva installing a Linga also here. Lord Shiva graced Her with His darshan and asked Her to stay in Tiruparankundram itself. Hence, more importance is attached to Mother Durga.


Special Days In Temple:-

    Panguni Uthiram-It is celebrated in the month of March

    Vaikasi Visakam-Clebrated in the month of Vaigaasi. Visakam is Lord Muruga’s birthday star.

    Kandha Sashti-Kanta Shasti Vratam is observed once a year in the month of ‘Aippasi’ (October–November) starting from the ‘piratamai’ the 1st phase of the brightening moon.

    Aadi Krithigai-This is celebrated in the month of May/June.

    Thai Poosam-It is celebrated on the full moon in the month of Thai.

Temple Pooja timings:-

Eight-kala pooja is performed at this temple.
Pooja Schedule *
1.     Thiruvananthal     -     05.30 A.M
2.     Vila pooja     -     07.30 A.M
3.     Kaalasanthi     -     08.00 A.M
4.     Thirukaalasanthi     -     10.30 A.M
5.     Uchikkaalam     -     12.30 A.M
6.     Saayarathcai     -     05.30 P.M
7.     Arthajaamam     -     08.45 P.M
8.     Palliarai     -     09.00 P.M
Worship Time *
From 05.30 A.M – 1.00 P.M
From 04.00 P.M – 09.00 P.M.

How to reach:-

Air:-
 The nearest airport is at Madurai.
Rail:-
 The nearest railway station is at Madurai, which is an important railway junction on southern railways.
Road:-
 Tourists can access Thiruparankunram from Madurai, which is well served by Tamil Nadu government and private bus operators.

Mantralayam Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy - Mantralayam

                                              Mantralayam Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy

Mantralaya is a town in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh that lies on the banks of the river Tungabhadra. Today it is one of the most important towns in the country as it is a great religious centre and lakhs of devotees come here every year. This is the town which boasts of the presence of the Vrindavana of Guru Raghavendra Swami, a Madhwa saint who was a follower of Sri Madhwacharya. Thus the greatest attraction for mostly Vaishnavites here is the Raghavendra Swamy temple and the Math complex that is filled with people every year. It is believed that the saint was a reincarnation of Bhakti Prahlad who was a great follower of Lord Vishnu. Legend says that Prahlad saved the Lords life many times and ultimately Vishnu took the form of Narasimha and killed Prahlad’s father, thus releasing him from great evil. Raghavendra was a great humanitarian and it is said that throughout his life he has helped people and perfirmedmany miracles in his hey day. Thus even today, there is a great amount of followers of this saint. Raghavendra Swamy temple is one of the main attractions in Mantralayam. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple architecture is brilliant with many inscriptions, structures and paintings all around. The calm and aesthetic atmosphere in the temple is inviting. There are also other temples that are of great importance here. Mantralayam tourism also offers pilgrimage trips to Panchamukhi Anjaneya Temple, Chinna Tumbalam, Bichchali, Urukunda and Alampur. A place that is easily connected by road, this is one town that should be visited for its unique feature. A sect of followers and a different culture always is one of the biggest learning experiences.

It is believed that Guru Raghavendra Swami is in the Vrindavana from the past 339 years and is believed to be in the Vrindavana for another 361 years. While entering the Vrindavana, Guru Raghavendra Swami stated that he would be there (in the Vrindavana) for 700 years.

The First Incarnation Of Sri Prahlada:-

Sri prahlada was the dear son of sri lilavathi and Hiranyakasipu. Even while in his mother 's womb, he was initiated into worship of Lord Narayana,by the sage Narada .Ever since birth ,he had been absorbed in the repetition of Lord Hari's name. He had no thought of this world.
Hiranyakasipu, who considered Lord Narayana as his sworn enemy, did not like his son's behaviour. He sent his son, Prahlada, to the teachers of the demonrace, Chanda and Marka, in the hope of reforming him and educating him to be good and virtuous. Prahlada had no taste for the kind of instruction imparted by his teachers. He paid no heed to anything other than the meditation on the Lord. He began to teach his fellow -demon pupils the greatness of praying to Lord.

Narayana and led them to join him in singing the praises of Lord. Hiranyakasipu sent for the boy and asked him to recite a verse which he had learnt from his teachers. Thereupon ,the prodigy repeated a verse extolling the devine qualities of Lord and the efficacy of praying to him in these words.
Those hands deserve the name that worship the Lord:
The tongue which praises the Lord,desrve to be called so:
The sight that beholds the Lord,deverse its name:
The head that bows to Seshasayi(one who reclines onthe serpent -king Lord Adisesha) is fit to be called so:
He then affirmed fearlessly that his mind which was drunk with the nectar of the meditation onthe Lotus feet of Lord(Narayana).could not rest on any thing else.

The father then angrily demanded of him to say where Lord Hari is present ;
The boy instantly replied;
"Donot dought the presence of the Lord in one place or another.Chakri (the bearer of the wheel Vishnu) is present wherever you seek him in the world". In the end, Hiranyakasipu subjected prahlada to many cruel tortures inthe hope of making him giveup his devotion to Lord Vishnu.He caused the boy to be trampled over by elephants.He had the boy thrown down the slopes of mountains, immersed in the ocean ,cast into a blazing fire ,bitten by venomous serpants and even made him partake of a cup of the vilest poison.Prahlada came out unscathed and undeterred,because of his abiding and unflinching faith in Lord Vishnu. In utter disgust ,hiranyakasipu called his son and demanded of him to show his god,whome he had descibed omnipresent,in an adjacent pillar.Prahlada humbly but firmly agreed to do so .In his inveterato anger and arrogance,Hiranyakasipu struck the pillar with his mace .Instantaneously Lord Hari emerged from the pillar, in the manifestation of the man -lion;

"Satyam vidhatum nijabhritya bhashitam"

To prove the veracity of his devotee, Prahlada the Lord emerged from the pillar to destroy the tormentor of the world and hater of god. None of the gods or even goddess Lakshmi be calm the enraged and ferocious Man Lion. There upon Lord Brahma requested Prahlada to becalm and please the Lord, as they thought he alone was capable of doing it.
So, Prahlada prayed to the Lord in deep devotion and begged him to protect the mankind and the unverse, to redeem him from the ocean of rebirth and to grant his father a place in heaven, Lord Narasimha who is always meciful to his devoties, appriciated the sinceare devotion of Prahlada becalmed himself and granted him many boons, besides bringing cheer to the gods by the resumptionof his pleasing looks. He anoined Prahlada as king and ordained that the latter should merge in him after discharging his duties and enjoying worldly pleasures as king .There upon, the Lord disappeared.
In obedience to the Lords ordainment, Prahlada ruled over his kingdom for long years and ultimately merged himself in Lord Vishnu.

 
The Second  Incarnation Of Sri Vysaraya:-

 
Sri Vyasaraya is one of the most reputed among the propagators of the Dwaita(Dualism) philosophy. He was born of pious parents called Seethamma and Ramacharya. He had his early education from Sri Sripadaraya. Later he adorned the pontific seat of the Dwaita School of Philosophy, a repository of the teachings of knowledge , devotion and detachment . In appreciation of his deep devotion, Lord Gopal Krishna would converse with him and even dance before him. As his teacher, Sri Sripadaraya had seen this with his own eyes, his affection for Sri Vyasaraya swelled all the more. Sri Vyasaraya wrote celebrated works such as "Tatparyachandrika" , " Tarakatandavamu " and "Nyayamrutamu".
Once while Sri Vyasaraya was at the shrine of Tirumala , the worship of Sri Venkateswara was hampered. He was asked by King Salva Narasimha Raja to offer worhip on his behalf (to Sri Venkateswara) . In pursuance of this expressed desire, Sri Vyasaraya conducted worship of Sri Venkateswara for twelve years according to the traditions and rites sanctioned by the Vedas and the sastras and earned the grace of the Lord.

During the reign of Sri Krishna Deva Raya once the ruler was afflicted with a disease named "Kuhu" and he was restless with suffering. He consulted some astrologers who examined his horoscope and suggested that he would be rid of it if he forsook his throne.
Sri Krishna Deva Raya decided to relinquish his throne and was in search of a proper person to take his place as ruler. He sent out his state elephant with a garland in his trunk and offered to appoint as king whomsoever the elephant garlanded . The elephant left the city reached the forest and trumpcated before a cave when Sri Vyasaray who was performing penance came out of the cave , he garlanded Sri Vyasaraya.
The royal servants who accompanied the elephant informed Sri Vyasaraya of the kings Order. Considering the elephant's action as a divine command. Sri Vyasaraya agreed to ascend the throne. With great exultation, Sri Krishna Deva Raya offered the throne as a gift to Sri Vyasaraya Swami.
Some time after Sri Vyasaraya had commenced his reign, there were impending signs of the dreaded "kuhu" disease. He descended from the throne and leaving his upper garment on it , stood at a distance.At once , the cloth caught fire and was soon reduced to ashes. The courtiers were astonishes. They praised the greatness of the Swami. The danger of the "Kuhu" disease was averted and Sri Krishna Deva Raya's life was saved.Sri Vyasaraya told the king that he was freed from the dangerous effects of the disease and asked him to re-ascend the throne and rule the people according to the discuss of Dharma.
Sri Krishna Deva Raya obeyed the Swami's command and began to rule over his empire.
Sri Vyasaraya who had performed great penance won the grace of the Lord and written various works of philosophy founded many shrines of Sri Anjaneya in the country.
Devotees well know that the Yanthroddhara Pranadeva's image was consecrated by Sri Vyasaraya at Hampi which shrine is called 'The giver of all boons to devotees'.
Sri Vyasaraya preached to the world for many years that "Lord Hari is the greatest god" and "Vayu is the greatest Jeeva" and, after winning universal fame, being worshipped by his devotees and adorning the supreme seat of the Dwaita philosophy for ninety years, attained the Brindavan on the banks of the Tungabhadra River , near Anegondi on the fourteenth day of the dark fortnight in the month of phalguna of the year Hevilambi . At this place besides him eight pontific heads of the Dwaita School have entered Samadhi. So this place is called "Nava Brindavan".

Mantralayam Raghavendra Swamy Temple:-


Mantralayam, famed as a holy place by virtue of the Samadhi of a renowned saint Raghavendra Teertha, is a most sought religious location by Vaishnavites (Devotees of Lord Vishnu). Mantralayam, in the border of the states Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, is a calm and tiny hamlet in Andhra Pradesh.

Situated along the banks of river Tungabhadra, Mantralayam is a place blessed by the presence of Guru Raghavendra in his human form and thereafter in the form of a gracious atma(soul). The picturesque location of the place itself makes the people suffering from numerous miseries of life very calm and patient. Earlier known as Manchala teertha, today it is popular as Guru Raghavendraswamys Mutt.Location Mantralayam is situated along the river Tungabhadra in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh,in India. Air: Hyderabad (351 km) is the nearest airport. Rail: Mantralayam Road on the Chennai- Mumbai rail route is a convenient alighting station. From here, the holy town of Mantralayam is 15 km. Road: Regular APSRTC buses ply from Kurnool, Adoni, Hyderabad and many other places. It is 595 Kms. from Madras and 690 kms. from Mumbai and 360 Kms. from Hyderabad.
The venerable seat of Madhva Matacharya sitting in the holy Brindavan is 300 years old. Sri Raghavendra Thirtha has taken birth at the instance of Mahavishnu in Kaliyuga to restore moral order on our earth and taking the mankind towards pantheism. With his extra-ordinary genius he vanquished several pandits and won many titles like "Mahabashayacharya", "Venkata Bhatta" and was appointed as "Asthana Pandit". He was having a wife called Saraswathi and son named as Lakshminarayana. Saraswathi died, on learning that her husband renounced the wordly life. He became Pitadhipati at the instance of his Guru Sri Sudheendra Thirtha and commenced his journey for the propogation of lofty ideals and to establish Dharma.
On his journey, with his super natural powers he turned an illiterate man like Venkanna as a scholar, gave life to the dead son of Raghunatha Desai, made the pieces of meat, mischievously offered by Nawab of Adoni into fragrant flowers and fresh fruits and offered to the dieties, cured incurable stomache ache of Mallappa Scindia and prevailed upon Sri Thomas Munro to resume the Jagir gifted away by Nawab of Adoni. A Little More about Mantralaya Shri Raghavendra, the incarnation of Vayu and Prahalad, is one saint/guru who has been practicing the principles of Madhava. He is one of the greatest guru’s born in the 16th century. He has been helping and blessings the people from all walks of life since 16th century. He has been living in his Brindavan (a tomb made of stone) for the last 3 centuries and continues to stay for the next four hundred years and bless his devotees. He is known as the miracle god and he resides in his tomb in a small town called Matralayam (Miracle Place) in Andhra Pradesh, India. People from all walks of life and from all over the world go to Mantralaya to seek his blessings.

Dharshan Of Mantralayam Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy:-

Thungabadra river flows through the town. It is good to have a holy dip there and proceed to the temple. You can have a beautiful dharshan of the Sri Raghavendra brindavanam. In the evenings, usually, there will be three different chariots with Bhaktha Prahladha in them going around the brindavanam: wooden chariot, silver chariot and golden chariot. It is believed that Sri Raghavendra is an avatar of Bhaktha Prahladha. This is the reason for the circumambulation of Bhaktha Prahladha around the Brindavana. There are various pictures around the temple depicting the life of Sri Raghavendra. Temple timings: 5AM – 2PM and 4PM – 9PM. Lunch can be had at the Sri Raghavendra Swamy (SRS) mutt. There are also Panchamukhi (SriAnjaneya) and Bhikshalaya temples on the other side of the bank. This needs atleast half a day to visit.

Legend of Mantralayam Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy:-

Once, Guru Raghavendra Swami reached a village in which a rich man resided. He was against spiritual rituals and practices which were depicted in the Vedas. Hence, Guru Raghavendra swami accepted this as an opportunity to once again glorify the importance of the Vedas. Angered by this, the man took a muller and asked Guruji to make the sprout just like any healthy plant. Sri Raghavendra swami accepted this challenge. For next few days, he meditated and offered the holy water to the muller. On the last day, the man was amazed as he witnessed the miracle. The muller had sprouted and was about to grow into a healthy tree. He surrendered to guruji and became a staunch follower of the Vedas.

Miracles Of Mantralayam Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy:-
 
There was a Brahmin in sholapur . He passed the M.A., L. L.B Examination and, in his exultation, arranged a luncheon party for his friends. He partook of the luncheon along with his friends, but hard to explain, he vomited all that he ate. He could not his usual meal. His parents had him treated by eminent doctors. It was to no purpose. He used to vomit what ever he ate. One day, a Brahmin came to Sri Kamalakara joshi's house. The Brahmin was well aware of all the miraculous powers of swami. He said to Sri Kamalakara Joshi and his parents, " You had better go to Manthralaya and serve the swami for some days, the ailment will be cured. Food, which is eaten, will be properly digested. Health will be resorted." 
Kamalakara joshi was an atheist. He had no faith in gods or Gurus. So, he did not pay heed to the Brahmins words. But. The parents compelled him to come to the shrine of Manthralaya. He bathed in the river Thungabhadra, visited the Mutt and observed the worship and panchamrita abhisheka performed to Sri Raghavendra swami, with his own eyes. He took mangala harathi and the sacred water and sat in the corner. All the devotees went to the dining hall to take their food. Afraid of vomiting, Kamalakara Joshi did not go to take food. The Mutt people invited him to come and have his meal. Ashamed to tell them the truth of his ailment, he replied that he did not feel hungry. But, as the Mutt people forced him, he went to eat. He began to eat and as the food was tasty, he ate well. He was afraid of nausea. But, all the food he ate that day was digested fully. There was no sign of vomiting. Joshi was surprised. He came to believe that his food was digested by the grace of Sri Raghavendra and there was no fear of vomiting. He began to worship Sri Raghavendra swami daily with great devotion and fervour. His food was well digested and he was happy. With gratitude to Sri Raghavendra Swami for his grace, Joshi worshipped at the shrine for 40 days. His parents were extremely happy to hear about their son's restoration to health. They came to Manthralaya and conducted puja to Sri Raghavendra Swami.

Sri Kamalakara Joshi became a theist as a result of Sri Raghavendra Swami's grace. He regained faith in gods, Guru and Brahmins. His parents were overjoyed to see their son not only healthy but also full of devotion to god and reverence to Gurus.

History of Raghavendra (1595–1671):-

Sri Venkatanatha proved to be a very brilliant scholar from a very young age who learnt to play the Veena very proficiently thanks to his father and grandfather. After his father’s demise, Venkatanatha was brought up by his brother Sri Gururaja Bhatta and completed the initial portion of his education under his brother-in-law Lakshminarasimhacharya’s guidance in Madurai.
After his return from Madurai in 1614, Sri Venkatanatha married Smt. Saraswathi Bai in the same year and had a son Sri Lakshminarayanacharya. After his marriage, Sri Venkatanatha and his family went to Kumbakonam where he studied the Dwaita vedantha, grammar and literary works under his guru, Sri Sudheendra Theertha.

Sri Venkatanatha was already very well versed in bhashyas and consistently prevailed over renowned and reputed scholars, irrespective of the complexity of the debates. He was an ardent devotee of Sri  Rama and Sri Panchamukha MukhyaPrana Devaru (the five-faced form of Hanuman – Pancha meaning five, mukha meaning faces). He spent a large part of his Poorvashrama life teaching Sanskrit and the ancient Vedic texts to children.
Once while he was touring Kumbakonam along with his wife, Sri Venkatanatha and his family were invited to attend a function. Unfortunately, the hosts did not treat him well and wanted him to earn his food by running a chore. So they asked him to make some sandalwood paste for all the invitees. Sri Venkatanatha per his habit was chanting stotras and mantras while preparing sandalwood for Tilaka. When the guests applied this paste, it induced a burning sensation all over their bodies. Surprised by this, the hosts sought a clarification from Venkatanatha. He replied that the burning sensation was due to the Agni Suktam (hymn for the worship as defined in the Esoteric Vedas) that he was chanting while preparing sandalwood and thus eternal power of Vedic Mantras revealed it. This happens only when chanted with absolute dedication and devotion. The power is enhanced since it was chanted by someone as virtuous and devoted to Bhagwaan Hari as himself. Upon realizing his devotion and power, the host apologized profusely to Sri Venkatanatha and sought his forgiveness.
Sri Venkatanatha then prepared the paste again but chanted the Vedic Mantra to Varuna (Vedic rain gods) this time. It has been recorded that when the guests applied this paste, they were awash with a sense of being drenched in rainwater, reaffirming Sri Venkatanatha’s power of devotion.
He never demanded any money for his services and endured a life of poverty along with his wife and son. They went without food several times a week. On occasion, his wife did not have change of clothes. This forced her daily change of wear to be dependent on when the clothes dried. She would wear 1/2 the saree, wait for the other 1/2 to dry and wrap it around her. But he was so devoted in his quest for a higher spiritual plane that these obstacles never deterred his faith in the Lord. Poverty life continued and baby boy starved too.
Saraswathi got an idea, she told him to meet his Guru and take his refuge. They went to Kumbakonam. Venkathanatha and his family were welcomed in the mutt at Kumbakonam. Venkathanatha mastered all lessons at the Mutt. Swamiji took him to the debates against Adwaita school of philosophy at various King’s courts (Chola, Pandian etc.). Venkathanatha began to write commentary in all three Vedas following Acharya’s Rig Bhasaya, which was his ambition. But the circumstances did not favor his fulfillment. Venkathanatha was the apple of Shri Sudheendra Swami’s eye. He was thought quite well worthy to succeed the Swamiji, who was waiting for an opportunity to tell his disciple of his intentions. Just by the time a disciple named Yadavendra sought the blessings of Swamiji, as he was disgusted in worldly life. Swamiji named him “Yadavendra Theerta ” and he started on the religious tour.
Shri Sudheendra Swami was a genius of extraordinary and a soul of high spiritual efficacy. One day, he dreamt that Shri Mula Rama ordered that Venkathanatha alone could fit to rule the Mutt. One day he called Venkathanatha and after preliminary discussion of worldly interest, Swamiji began to reveal his intentions. Swamiji started with telling Venkathanatha that god was pleased with him and he deserves a post as the head of the Mutt. Venkathanatha could not understand the intentions of Swamiji and requested Swamiji to be clear of his intentions. Swamiji began to explain that there are many boats to ferry us across the ocean. But to all these our blessings are the sails which move the boats with great force and speed. Now why tarry on the shore? What fear is there to cross the Ocean? Venkathanatha could not understand. Shree Sudheendra Theertha knew that Venkathanatha loved his wife. When he explained clearly of his intentions, Venkathanatha expressed his inability and for renunciation, detachment was essential. So Venkathanatha explained about his wife, son and his shoulders were still young to take up the administration and responsibility of the mutt. So he was not inclined to take holy orders and take up Sanyasa. But was ready to submit himself to the mutt and Swamiji.
Time came now for Venkathanatha to succeed his Guru as the next Swamiji of the Mutt. Venkathanatha had a blessing of Sharada Devi, the goddess of Learning and that led him to realization of self and he narrated his experience of Sharada Devi to Swamiji and decided to do Upanayana to his son and accept sanyasa. He took sanyasa and Guru named him Raghavendra theertha. Saraswathi was shocked to
 hear the news and she fell into the well. She came as a ghost in front of Guru Raghavendra. He sprinkled holy water on the ghost and it attained Moksha by purification.  Guru Raghavendra was great in every respect. He was siddha Purusha (God realized person). He started performing miracles, Blind got their eyesight, Deaf could hear. As the time approached for Swamij and he was 78 years old. It was Thursday, the full moon, He announced to all his disciples that he went by the orders of Shri Hari and he decided to leave this world.
Devotees from all over the world came to see him as the news spread. On the second morning of Shravana, finished his morning religious rites and called all his devotees and said. This is our last day. Don’t’ be grieved. It is the order of Shri Hari that we should stay in this world to safeguard the interests of our faith. But we cannot stay bodily outside beyond a limit a certain limit as that would be against the rules of the present age. Therefore we are going to enter Brindavana bodily. To the last be faithful and be loyal to your God and religion. May God Bless you with all the things good. Thus he advised them.It was now mid-day. He distributed the theerta and blessed everyone. He called Venkanna Diwan and a prime devotee and gave him a parting message.”Venkanna-I am going to enter the Brindavana in an ogicposture and continue to do Japa (prayer) with a Tulasi Mala (Japa Mala/Chain of Holy beads) in the hand. When I stop the prayer place the 1200 Lakshminarayana Saligramas (Holy Stones) in a bronze container and Mrutike (Holy Sand) on my head and close it with a lid and then place some sand/mud. Venkanna was also entrusted by the Guru to build his Brindavan at Manchala (now Mantralaya). Swamiji asked enkanna to put a stone on which Lord Rama had sat during thretha yuga as the base. Nawab Sidhi Masudh Khan of Adoni granted Manchala village to Swamiji. In the afternoon, when the time was auspicious, Swamiji sat in a Yogic posture and started prayers.
The Brahmins were reciting Vedas and Shastras. Venkanna and others were supervising the activities. All eyes shed tears of joy and griefsimultaneously. As per the Swamiji instructions the stones were placed above his head as he sat in yogic posture. Thus Swamiji entered the Brindhavan bodily. As per Swamiji’s advice that very day was observed as Maha Samardhana Day. He was to live in atma form in the  Brindavan for next 700 years to come. In the Year 1671 AD, Guru Raghavendra named Yogeendra as his successor and entered the Brindavan. After Swamiji entered, his disciple Appanacharya sang the praise of his Guru and seeing the Guru’s Brindavan, He could not speak, the last verse of the song was completed by Guru in the Brindavan. Still Guru Raghavendra continues to bless people who think of him in their troubles and happiness.

How to reach Sri Nava brindavanam:-

1. Better way to go to Navabrindavan is by car and it is advisable to start early morning. It is about 200KM from Mantralayam. Roads are very tough but both sides of the road are covered by greenery with paddy, sunflower and cotton fields. There are also mountains nearby. So it is better to enjoy the nature than to complain on the toughness of the roads.
2. It would take around 4 hours to reach the destination. From Andhra border, car will go inside Karnataka border to reach Anegundi.

 Anegundi:-

Car will stop in Anegundi, which literally means elephant pit in Kannada. It is a small village in Koppal district of Karnataka state, located on the north banks of the Tungabhadra River on the opposite bank of the Vittala Temple. After reaching Anegundi, passengers can have breakfast at Hotel Sri Tulasi Garden. They give homely food and the owner arranges for travel by car also. You can go to SRS mutt nearby and inform them to have lunch there. They would tell you to return by 12PM sharp to have the prasada.
You need to walk a little bit to reach the banks of river Thungabadra where you need to take a motor boat to go the other bank. After reaching the other bank, you can have a holy dip in the river and go to Sri Navabrindavan dharshan.

There are 9 jeevasamadhis of the Madhva tradition. They are:
 1. Sri Padhmanabha Thirtha or Padmanabha Tirtha
 2. Sri Jayathirtha/Sri Raghuvarya
 3. Sri Kavindra Thirtha
 4. Sri Vageesa Thirtha
 5. Sri Vyasaraja Thirtha
 6. Sri Srinivasa Thitha
 7. Sri Rama Thirtha
 8. Sri Sudheendhra Thirtha
 9. Sri Govinda Odeyaru
You need to circumambulate 9+2 rounds to complete the dharshan. It is mandatory to walk outside the yellow line which is marked there. Also make sure to have dharshan of SriRanganatha and SriAnjaneya above the rocks. It is recommended to light 9 ghee lamps for the 9 acharyas, 1 ghee lamp for SriRanganatha and 1 ghee lamp for SriAnjaneya. There is also one more Anjaneya diety near the brindavanas wherein the face is in the form of SriAnjaneya, shoulders in the form of Bheema and the script in the hand in the form of Madhvacharya. At the back, Sri Nrusimha can be seen. It is better to get flowers, ghee and any archana items before reaching there as there will not be any shop near Navabrindavan.

After having dharshan, you can have lunch at SRS mutt and proceed to SriRanganathaswamy temple nearby, Chintamani temple – place where Vaali vadha took place, Anjanadri – birth place of SriAnjaneya (need to climb 600 steps up the hill), Sri Durga temple, Sri Lakshmi temple and Pampasarovar where Lord SriRama had taken holy bath. All these places are said to be the places mentioned in Kishkindha Kandam in SriRamayana. There is a Lakshmi Nrusimha temple while returning back at Urukkundu. Hampi is about 15KM from Anegundi or if you go by boat after crossing the river the distance is even more reduced. But we didn’t have time to see Hampi. But if you wish to see Hampi, best place to stay is Hospet and from there you can continue the journey. You would need atleast one day to sight-see Hampi. There are temples like Virupaksha, Vittal mandir, etc. All these areas belong to Vijayanagar empire.

Poojas and Rituals at Mantralayam Temple:-

Besides the special endowments, there are regular worships done at Mantralayam Raghavendra Swamy Temple.
•Regular worship of Sri Moola Ramadevara is done if HH Sri Swamiji is present at Mantralayam Temple.
•Among the daily seva, the Dinaika Sampoorna Annadana Seva refers to the food endowment that a devotee can opt for. He or she can pay a fixed amount and the prasada for the day will be funded with that amount.
•The Vastra Samarpana Seva refers to the gifting of clothes to the needy.
•The Sankalpa Seva refers to taking an oath and spending the life as per the oath. Held every day between 5Sankalpa Seva requires utensils for performing Achamana, a small plate, a whole coconut, a coconut to be offered as a symbol and change as dakshina.
•Bangaru Pallaki Seva, the Golden Chariot Seva, Kanaka Kavacha Seva, Rajata Rathotsava, Kanak Maha Pooja, Suprabhat Seva, Tulabhara Seva, Archana are some of the other seva that can be performed at the Raghavendra Swamy Temple.

Newly Seva in Mantralayam Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy:-

1.    Go-Grasa Seva:-

 The mutt owns a very big Go-Shala named KAMADHENU GOSHALA. It is stretched around 10 acres of land (Cow yard) at the outskirts of Mantralayam.  Around 700 cows are sheltered here. H.H. Sri Swamiji has proposed for further extending this noble service to public so that the devotees can participate in Go Seva directly at Go-Shala. Interested devotees can adopt a cow. An amount of Rs. 1000/- per month will be charged for this. One can adopt a cow for any number of months. Those who adopt a cow for a minimum of One Year will get 50 Parilama Prasadam, One memento and a shawl will be bestowed from Mutt.

2.    Pratyaksha Godana Seva:-

 A cow and its calf may be contributed to Kamadhenu Go-Shala. Devotees who are contributing the cow also need to pay Rs. 5000/- towards its maintenance. Donors will get 50 Parimala Prasadam, a memento and a shawl will be given by the Mutt.

3.    Godana Pratyamnaya:-

 Those who are unable to bring Cow and Calf to donate, may contribute an amount of Rs. 5000/-. The devotees will be taken to Goshala to perform Sankalpa of Godana. Donors will get 50 Parimala Prasadam, a memento and a shawl will be given by the Mutt.

4.    Svarna Pallaki Utsava:-

 Utsava Moorthy (Procession Icon) of Sri Prahlada Rajaru will be taken around the Garbha Gruha in Golden Palki.
 Seva Contribution is Rs. 8000/-
 (Devotees will get 50 Parimala Prasadams, Memento and Phala Mantrakshate).

5.    Vastra Samarpana Seva:-

 Vastra Dana (Offering holy cloths) for all Vrindavanas at Mantralayam is now made easy. No need to go around in search of weaver to get Vastra for Rayara Vrindavana. Just ask the Mutt authorities to book the seva on your name and visit Mantralaya on that date.  All that you need pay is
   
     Rs. 25000/- to offer Vastra to Sri Rayaru & H.H. Sri Swamiji
     (Devotees will get 1 A.C Guest house for 1 day, 50 Parimala Prasadams, Mementoe and Phala Mantrakshate)
     Rs. 50000/- to offer Vastra to All Vrindavanas, Lord Hanuman and Goddess Manchalamma
     (Devotees will get 1 A.C Guest house for 1 day, 100 Parimala Prasadams, Memento and Phala Mantrakshate).

6.    Dinaika Sampoorna Seva :-

 As the name itself is indicating, one can pay contributions towards all the Seva and Pooja takes place at Mantralayam.
     Seva Contribution is Rs. 100000/-
     (Devotees will get 1 A.C Guest house for 1 day, 100 Parimala Prasadams, Memento and Phala Mantrakshate).

7.    Dinaika Sampoorna Annadana Seva:-

 The Mutt distributes Teertha Prasada free of cost to all devotees. Average 5000 devotees per day will be fed through out the year. Not only devotees, students studying in schools and colleges in and around Mantralaya are also getting free food every day . Though very expensive, it has been an interrupted service. The Mutt incurs an expenditure of around Rs. 2 Lakhs per day. One can contribute this amount and render his support to this noble cause.
     Seva Contribution is Rs. 200000/-

Places to see near Mantralayam :-

Manchalamma Temple :-

Manchalamma Temple of Mantralayam is located near the Samadhi Temple, inside the Mantralayam Mutt complex. Goddess Manchlamma is the presiding deity of Mantralayam Village. It is believed that Sri Raghavendra Teertha requested land for the ‘Bridavana’ from Manchalamma and she granted it to him. Hence, it is a custom at Mantralayam that the devotees offer prayers at the Manchalamma Temple before visiting the Samadhi Temple.

Venkateshwara Temple:-

Lakshmi-Venkateshvara Temple or Sri Venkateshvara Temple, located at the heart of the Mantralayam Mutt complex, is another popular pilgrim destination in Mantralayam. Lakshmi-Venkateshvara Temple houses the Sri Lakshmi-Venkateshvara idol, which was consecrated by Sri Raghavendra Teertha. The saint, who is believed to be the incarnation of Bhakta Prahalada, is believed to have worshipped Lord Venkateshwara here, during his life time. The Tulsi Garden of Lakshmi-Venkateshvara Temple is the main source of tulsi for the temples situated inside the Mantralayam Mutt complex.
 Timing: 6.00 am – 12 pm
              4:30 pm – 8 pm

Panchamukhi Anjaneya Swamy Temple:-

Panchamukhi Anjaneya Swamy Temple is located about 23 km away from Mantralayam, atop rocky terrain near Bichchali. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Anjaneya (Hanuman) who has five heads, representing Varaha, Garuda, Hanuman, Narasimha and Hayagreeva.
 It is believed that the swayambhu(self createdmanifested) inscription of Sri Panchamukhi Anjaneya Swamy was worshipped by Sri Raghavendra Teertha. As per legends, Sri Raghavendra Teertha was an ardent devotee of Lord Venkateswara and Lord Hanuman. He performed penance for twelve years and Lord Hanuman appeared before him in the form of Panchamukhi Anjaneya.

Vedic Pathashala :-

The Vedic Pathashala is yet another attraction of the Mantralayam Mutt complex. The pathashala is a prominent center of religious and cultural learning, which imparts knowledge in the Vedas, Puranas, Dwaita philosophy and Indian traditions to Vedic scholars from India as well as abroad, who come here for advanced studies.

Bichchali:-

Bichchali, also known as Bikshalaya, is a pilgrim destination near Mantralayam. Situated on the banks of River Tungabhadra, it is about 20 km away from Mantralayam.This place is famous as the meditating site of Sri Appannachar, who was the prime disciple of Sri Raghavendra Teertha. The house of Sri Appannachar in Bichhali, in which Sri Raghavendra Teertha lived with him for 13 years, is a popular pilgrim spot for the devotees of Sri Raghavendra Swamy. 

Chinna Tumbalam:-

 The Narasimha Swamy Tample which is about 200 years old can be found in Chinna Tumbalam. This place is about 25 kilometers from Mantralayam off the Adoni Road. Once can reach this place either through buses or private transport.

Kowthalam:-

 Kowthalam is the native of Sri Guru Jagannatha Dasaru, the famous Haridasa in the Dwaitha community. The temple is being renovated and a HariKathamruthaSara mandira is being build by K Appannachar a desendent of Sri Guru Jagannatha Dasaru. This place is about 30 kilometers from Mantralayam off the Adoni Road. Once can reach this place either through buses or private transport.

Urukunda:-

Narasimha Swamy�Tample can be found in Urukunda. After the recent renovation and the Annadana facilities by various communities, Urukunda is fast becoming a major piligrim center.This place is about 30 kilometers from Mantrlaayam off the Adoni Road. Once can reach this place either through buses or private transport. Mantralyam is a Hindu religious place where the Moola Bridavanam of Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy is located. Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy, (1601-1671), was an influential saint in Hinduism. He advocated Vaishnavism (i.e. worship of Vishnu as the supreme God.) and Dvaita philosophy advocated by Sri Madhwacharya. He is considered to be a reincarnation of Prahallada, the devotee who was saved by Vishnu, in his avatar of Narasimha. Shri Raghavendra Swamy is said to have performed many miracles during his lifetime and is believed to continue to bless his devotees to this day.

Alampur:-

One of the gateway[Westren] to Srisailam. Here God and Goddess worshiped as Brahmeshwara and Jogulamba respectively.  This pilgrim site regarded as  Shakti Peetha where the upper teeth of Sati Devi fell. The old temple was invaded by the other dynasty rulers and new temple was constructed nearer to the old temple. There are few more temples nearer to the main temple.

Accommodation:-

Accommodation (boarding and lodging) is not a problem at Mantralayam with number of hotels and restaurants that have come up of late, apart from the availability of number of guest houses donated by devotees and constructed by the Mutt. Besides, Mantralayam Mutt also provides accommodation to pilgrims in their specially constructed choultries, where rooms are provided at nominal cost. Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation is also running its guest house ‘Punnami” where rooms are available.  
Another unique feature of this temple is the Mutt organizes free food facility (except on the notified days) within the Mutt to all the pilgrims in their spacious dining halls.  Besides Infosys foundation (a charitable organization) has also constructed a big dining hall for the convenience of pilgrims. One can easily find the details of accommodation from the Central Reception office as soon as they reach Mantralayam.

Mantralayam temple Darshan Timings:-

Mantralayam temple is open between 6 am to 2 pm . It closes from 2 pm to 4 pm and reopens from 4 pm to 9 pm, Entry to the temple is free. Mantralayam Temple Darshan usually takes about an hour, but can go up to 2 -3 hours on special occasions. The male devotees who want to perform Pooja themselves have to wear dhoti. While male devotees paying normal visit have to remove their shirt and female devotees have to wear Sarees or other traditional cloths.

Festivals celebrated at Mantralayam Temple:-

Mantralayam Temple celebrates various kinds of festivals throughout the year. Devotees can offer various kinds of seva to fulfil the good wishes and for the well-being of the family members.
•The Maharathostavam, also known as the car festival is celebrated with great pomp and glamour at Mantralayam Raghavendra Swamy Temple.
•Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy Aradhanostavam is another famous festival of the shrine.
•The Dhanurmasa month is of great significance at the Raghavendra Swamy Temple. Besides regular worship and rituals, special events like Tulasi Archana and Hastodaka, Rathotsava and Maha Mangal aarti takes place during this month.
•Devotees can request for special seva or endowments. There are lifetime seva or endowments which take place on holy days and again every year after the seva; the fund for the seva is raised from the fixed deposit of the seva that the devotee deposits the first time.
•These special endowment worships are not performed on Ekadasi, Grahana or Eclipse days and on Sri Krishna Janmasthami.
•Devotees can also offer seva without visiting Mantralayam Temple personally. They can send cheques and drafts for the seva and the same shall be performed on behalf of the devotees.

How to Reach Mantralayam:-

Mantralayam is well connected by road and rail.

By Road:-

APSRTC and KSRTC are running regular buses connecting Mantralayam with major towns and cities in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.  Kurnool (NH-7) in Andhra Pradesh and Raichur in Karnataka are two locations which are pretty well connected to Mantralayam. Apart from this private tourist operators are also running special buses to Mantralayam from various parts of the country.

By Rail:-

Nearest railway station is Mantralayam Road (Tungabhadra) on the Mumbai-Chennai main line which is 15 km from Mantralayam. From there it is about 30 minutes drive by Road.  All most all trains running on this route halt at Mantralayam Road.  Auto facilities are available for pick up from railway station to Mantralayam. APSRTC/KSRTC is also running buses to and from railway station at certain specific timings.

By Air:-

Nearest airport is Hyderabad which is about 250 km from Mantralayam.

Mantralayam Temple Address:-

Mantralayam,
District : Kurnool,
Pin code: 518 345,
Andhra Pradesh, India.
Phones : 08512 – 279459 / 279428.