TABLE OF CONTENTS

TIRUVIDAVENTHAI DIVYA DESAM.....................................................................................................................2

TIRU ALLIK KENI DIVYA DESAM.........................................................................................................................4
TIRUK KADIGAI DIVYA DESAM...........................................................................................................................6
TIRUPPUTKUZHI DIVYA DESAM..........................................................................................................................9
TIRUVAHINDRAPURAM DIVYA DESAM...........................................................................................................11
TIRUKOILUR DIVYA DESAM...............................................................................................................................13
Tiru Vellarai Divya Desam.........................................................................................................................................15
 Tiruvidaventhai Divya Desam
Sthala Puranam

Tiruvidaventhai is a beautiful temple located very close to Chennai. It is one the way to Mamallapuram
from Chennai and is very close to VGP Kovalam beach resort. It is about 12 miles from Mamallapuram,
which is very well known for its ancient sculptures and monuments.

This temple is the only main attraction at this village. It is facing the Bay of Bengal and is surrounded by
trees and presents a mystical atmosphere. The present day name for this place is Tiruvadanthai.

During kirEthaa yugam a King by the name Meganathan had a heroic Son by name Bali. During that time
Maali, Maalyavaan and Suumaali, Three daemons, Maali, Maalyavaan and Suumaali, were at war with
the Devas. They requested Bali's help which was turned down by Bali. This resulted in their defeat. Hence
they surrendered to Bali and pleaded with him to fight the devas on their behalf. Bali obliged and
convincingly defeated the Devas.

However, Bali's conscience bothered him and so decided to meditate on Tirumal, the Lord of the Devas,
for a long time. Lord Vishnu, pleased with Bali's efforts, satisfied Bali's request for pardon and blessed
him in the form of Lord Varaaha Perumal in the Temple tank (hence the name Varaaha Theertham).

About this time there was a Rishi by name Kuni who was meditating by the banks of Saraswati River and
reached the heavens while in meditation. His daughter, who wished to follow her father, was stopped by
Naradhar, Lord's greatest bhakta. He suggested that it was not her time as she was not yet married. He
then requested one of the sages meditating at the banks of Saraswati River to come forward and take her
hand in marriage. Kavala rishi immediately obliged and their wedding was conducted by Naradhar
himself.

Within a year they had 360 daughters. Having realized that this was possible only by the grace of Lord,
Kaalava rishi decided to give all his daughters in marriage to Lord Himself. When the 360 daughters grew
up to the marriage age, the rishi was getting worried about their future. At the same time, some pilgrims
who had reached the banks of Saraswati River, after a long journey from South, learned about Kaalava
rishi's worries. They approached him and advised him to go to Vamakavipuri and obtain the blessing of
Lord Varaaha, who was known for his generosity and kindness. They also reminded him that only Lord
Vishnu can help him solve his daughters marriage problem.

Kaalava Rishi immediately relocated and started his meditation on Lord Varaaha. Lord Narayana, took the
form of a Brahmachari and informed the rishi that he came to the Divya Desam on Yaathra. The rishi
explained his situation and requested the Brahmachari to give up his brahmachari yaathra by marrying
his daughters.

The Brahmachari obliged and married one daughter each day (hence the name Nitya Kalyaana Perumal
). On the last day, while every one was watching, the Lord (appearing as Varaaha Perumal) merged all
360 daughters into one Sri and hoisted Her on His left thigh (hence the name Tiru + ida + enthai ). Since
Sri on His thigh became the combined form of 360 Kannis, She came to be known as Akila valli
Naacciyaar.

Temple Details

This kshetram has four names: Since Lord Narayana married on each day, He is known as Nitya
Kalyaana Perumal and the kshetram, Nitya Kalyaana Puri; Since He took the form of Varaaha perumal
and blessed Bali, this place is known as Varaahapuri; Since this became the avathaara sthalam for Sri, it
is also known as Sripuri; and finally most inscriptions in the temple refer to this place as Kaala nalluur

Moolavar: Lakshmi Varaaha Perumal

Utsavar: Nithya Kalyaana Perumal
Thaayaar: Akilavalli Naacciyar, Komalavalli Naacciyaar
Theertham: Varaaha theertham, Kalyaana Theertham
Vimaanam: Kalyaana Vimaanam.
Prathyaksham: Bali and Kaalava Rishi
Sannithis: Perumal Sannithi
Komalavalli Naacciyaar Sannithi
Andaal Sannithi
Sri Ranganaathar, Sri Ranganaayaki Sannithi

This Divay desam does not have a Raja Kopuram. It has a 24 leg Mandapam at the entrance. It is in a
beautiful location, surrounded by trees (called Sauk thoppu sp??) and facing the Bay of Bengal, on the
way to Mamallapuram from Chennai. The Village near by used to be called Komalavallipuram, now
popularly known as kovalam (VGP beach). This is where kaalava rishi performed his meditation.

The Lord's Moolavar form is very unique, with right foot on the World and the left foot on AdhiSesha, with
the Thaayaar on His left thigh, explaining the Carama Slokam. The dot (pottu) on the Lord's chin
(thaadaiyil pottu) is said to have appeared naturally. It is also said that the Lord took 360 kannikai in 2
kannikai: Komalavalli Naacciyaar and Akilavalli Naacciyaar. Among the 360 kannikai, the first Sri was
named Komalavalli, hence there is a seperate sannithi for Komalavalli Naacciyar.

Temple inscriptions indicate that Raja Raja Cholan, Raja Raja Chola thevan and Kulothunga Cholan
performed kainkaryam here (So this area might have belonged to the Chola empire at one point). This
divya desam has a pallakku made from Elephent Tusks. There are only two such pallakku, the other in
Kocchi Maharaaja palace. This might indicate the yaathraas undertaken by keralites (Malayaalis) and
their kainkaryam for Deepa Araathanai (as per inscriptions).

Tiru mankai azhvar was the only azhvar to compose paasurams on this divya desam. As per the
inscriptions, Tiru mankai azhvaar had a madam under a different name (kalich singan) Sri Manavaala
Maamuni also performed mangalaa saasanam here.

At present unmarried male and female worshipers, visit this divya desam to get His blessings for a quick
and good marriage settlement.
 Tiru allik kENi Divya Desam
Sthala Puranam

This temple is situated very close to Madras Triplicane beach. One can reach here by several modes like
plane, car, train or bus. There are several town buses plying in madras city to reach here and there is also
a terminus very close to the temple itself. Auto rickshaws and taxis are also very popular mode of
traveling within the city.

The term Tiru allik kEni refers to the fact that this temple is close to a pond filled with "alli" (a type of tulip)
flowers. This temple is also known as PrunthAraNyam according to the puranas, meaning a place where
Sriman Narayana is surrounded by thulasi forest.

BrahmAnda purAnam describes this kshEthram in a chapter known as

"BrindArannya mahAthmiyam". Brindam means "thulasi" and aRanyam
means "vanam" or kaadu or jungle. Similar to Lord Oppiliappan kOil,
known as thiru viNNagaram, this place is also known as "thulasi vanam".
A king by name "sumathi" once worshipped Lord Srinivasan in
thiruvEngadam and did severe penance and sought his blessings and
darshan of the Lord as Arjuna's Sarathi. (ie as geethA Acharyan). Lord
Venkadan immediately blessed him and conveyed to the king through an
asareeri ( divine voice from deep space) that "I had already appeared at
the same thiru uruvam in brinda aranyam that has the kairavaNi
theerththam. You may go there and have your darshan". Sumathi followed
Lord's instructions and worshipped the Lord at this place.

It is notable here that since the Lord said to sumathi that he had already appeared there existed a
previous account for this kshEthram when the lord appeared here first time. Veda vyAsar had an ardent
sishyAL by name "athrEya muni". Saint Veda vyAsar gave a divya mangaLa vigraham of Lord Krishna
and ordered his disciple to carry this vigraham to brinda aranyam and worship HIM there. In many ways
this idol is much like the seer vibheeshanaaazhwaar obtained from Lord Rama which is Lord
Ranganatha. (of course the original idol and very prominet that Sri Krishan
HIMself gave to HIS cousin and minister Udhdava is in guruvaayoor).

This idol in thiru allik kEni is prominent for us in Sri sampradaayam and
those who are taking refuge at Lord's feet as per HIS charaNagathi slOkam.
It is becuase of the fact that the feature of this idol represents the moment
the Lord gave us Geetha in arjunas chariot. It is hard to find out the details as to when Saint Veda vyAsa
obtained this from Lord Krishna. However as similar to Sri Ranganathar of Sri Rangam, this idol also had
some very special features of this avatharam (Sri Krishna avathAram) carried over with it. The idol had a
changam in hand and "dhAna" muththirai on the other hand. DhAna muththirai is the one that points to
HIS thiruvadi and indirectly says that take refuge there by surrendering and I will protect you by all means
and Bless you". Lord krishna accepted all the arrows of the opponent's chief Bhisma when Lord was
covering for Arjuna, as his saarathi or charioteer. These arrows made some scars on Lord's face and
such scars are visible even today on the face of this ursavar that vyAsar did prathistai here as his
(seethanam ?) or in memory of Sri Krishna avatharam. If one can go closer to the ursavar they can see
these scars on HIS face and at this moment one can realize that this is the same Lord who stood on the
chariot in the battle filed and one will get thrilled to have this realization. ie One can really feel HIS
presence here if they can truly surrender and see this Lord, which will make one to have an electrifying
experience.

Saint athrEya muni brought this idol here to brinda AraNyam

with him and was worshipping HIM here as per HIS guru's
desire. At this time a king named sumathi met Saint athrEya
muni here and was surprised and enchanted by this idol and
wanted the idol be installed here. AthrEya muni sought his
guru's consent and finally It is conceived that Sage VyAsa
himself did prathistai of this vigraham here and also piraati
Rukmani at the right hand side of this perumaal at this
brindAranayam, Both the King sumathi and athrEya muni
performed aradhana and worshipped this Lord for a very long
time and attained moksham here. This being the previous
account, the later day king sumathi came here from
thiruvengadam and the lord had appeared here for HIM as
"Krishnan" (the moolavar), he conceived and established the
truth that the Lord revealed to him through the asareeri that it was lord of thiru vengadam who had
appeared here as "Sri krishnar" earlier. He constructed a big temple for the Lord. Since the lord of thiru
vEnkadam appeared here as Krishna this lord is known as "vEnkata krishnan".

Aththigiri munivar did a severe penance here and sought the darshan and
blessings of Lord narasimhar here. Lord Narasimhar appeared here as
theLLiya singam and offered darshan to him. The theLLiya narasimhar at
this temple has a very special feature as the muththirai of Utsavar in
Telliyasingha PerumAl Koil is "AahvAyaka Mudhra" (i-e) calling PrahladhA
to come near. Even in the fierce state of destroying the father of
PrahlAdhan for his offenses , Bhagavan Narasimhan did not forget His
Bhagavatha Sisu . Therefore He became TeLLIya Singham and invited
PrahlAdhan with Vatsalyam to approach closer. It seems during the
narasimha avathAram Lord narasimha's kobam was melting even
kailyaam and every one came to plead to lord. However the lord didn't pay
attention to anyone other than prahalada and despite HIS unexplainable
anger, HE called prahaladaha using one of HIS hand saying "don't fear;
you are my ardent devotee and it is due to your sathya graham that I took
this avatharam to kill hiranyakashipu" and by saying so it seems Lord called his devotee prahalaadha
using one hand and while the other hand is assuring HIM that HE is blessing him all the times and taking
care of him *all* the times. Even when the Lord appeared with this kobak kanal to everyone he also
showed the face of kindeness and grace to HIS devotee prahaladahan. Thus this Lord who appeared with
this clarity is called as theLLiya singam (theLLIy means "clear" or "one with clarity" in tamil).
 Tiruk kadigai Divya Desam
Sthala Puranam

This divya desam, also known as Sholingar, is situated in Madras-Bangalore Rail line. Easy way is to take
brindaavan from Madras to Arakonam Junction and take Bus from there. Sholingar Railway station is 9
miles from the temple. One can take a direct bus from Madras as well. It has some moderate facilities
including a big Kalyana Mandapam for organized group tours, a chattram for over night stay and several
"Mess" facilities. This divya desam is also known as kadikaachalam.

It is believed that if one stays at this kshethram for atleast one kadigai (about half an hour), that person is
gaurenteed mokshama. This is the only divya desam dedicated to Sri Narasimhar in Tamil Nadu. This
divya desam is visited by many seeking His blessigns. He is teacher to His bhaktas who seek the removal
of ignorance and a doctor to those who seek cure for various health problems.

Sri vishnu purraanam and paathma puraanam offers details about this sthalam. It is believed that Sri
Lakshmi Narasimhar came to this palce after hiranya vatham and stayed here for ever in this Yoga
sayanam posture. It is well kown that Srinarasimha avathaaram took place at Sri Ahobilam. However,
since munivars requested the presence of Sri Narasimha here on an endless timescale, The Lord
Narasimha chose to stay here for ever. This is also confirmed by thirumangai aazhwaar's reference to
thakkkaanai in his paasuram presented in this article. Among all the other avathaarams this and the
vaamana avathaaram are the most significant becuase of the fact that they both accomplished the
misssion instantly. Many of the LAkshmi Narasimha bakthaas believe that by praying to this Lord (who is
an instant acccomplisher), their prayers are fulfilled instantly if not atleast an instant relief is offered
without delay by this Lord.

It is a belief that, One, would attain Moksham simply by staying here for one Kadigai (period of time) ie
approximately half hour in this shekthram. Hence it is named Thiruk kadigai. It is believed that Saint
Vishvaamitrar meditated for one kadigai on Lord Narasimhar and obtained his title Bramha Maharishi
here. The Saptha Rishis and vaamathEvar came to this place and and started penance to have darshan
of Narasimha Avathaaram, and the Lord fulfilled their wish within one kadigai of penance. Hence this hill
is known as Kadikaachalam.

After Sri Raama avathaaram, aanchneYa wanted to go back to Sri vaikundam, and
serve the Lord there. The Lord instructed anchnEya to goto this place and protect the
rishis penance from the oncoming danger. Two demons by name kaalan and kEyan
appeared as soon as the rishis started penance and started to distrub their effort. Sri
hanuman wanted an instant tool to stop it and Lord Rama offered him his changu
and chakram with the help of which Hanuman killed the demons who tried to prevent
the tapas of saptha rishis and vaamathEvar . Hanuman also had the darshan of Sri
Narasimha in his avathaara kOlam at the lapse of a kadigai, and along with the
rishis, and accepted the order of Lord Narasimha to sit in front of Him in the small hill
and serve as a protector for those whoever comes to this hills seeking relief from
demons or demon effects.
It is believed that Lord Narasimha asked Hanuman to stay here until the end of the Kali yugam and reach
him after that. There is no other place AanchnEyaa has such prominance, ( a hill and temple as his own
abode) and also with changu chakram and with four hands.

Sage Durvaasa once sought the thiruth thuzhaay maalai (ie thulasi garland)
of this perumal and danced with great joy by sporting this maalai on his own
shoulder and and sirasu. There were many saadhus present at that time and
were witnessing this event. Buthan or mercury one of the Nava grahams was
also present in the form of a saadhu and he laughed at this sage's act. Sage
Thurvaasa cursed him and lord budhan had to stay here in this sthalam and
served all those sages who came with great pleasure to this shrine after
taking bath in the paandava theerththam and got his curse (spell) cured or
removed.

On the way to hills Garuda Aaaroodar Varadha Raaja perumal sannithi is

there. It is believed that Kaanchi Varadhar offered Garuda Vaahana Sevai to Maha Achaaryar known as
Thottaachaaryar here. (as he was not able to goto Kanchi that year and instead did meditate on this Lord
to offer that darshn there itself). Even to-day this event is observed in Kaanchi and simulatneously here
as a puase is kept at the entrance of this temple during the bramotsavam and garuda sErvai such that the
Lord goes to kadigai for that instant to offer sEvai to thottaach chaaryaa. Similarly erumbiyapa was also
one of the great mahaans lived in this place and served the Lord. This place is also used to be very fertile
like chola naadu and was hence called as Chola Simha puram which became sholinga puram later. In
pattinap paalai, it is refeerred that, Cholan karikaalan peruvaLaththaan called this district as kadigaik
kOttam; when he subdivided his kingdom into 48 distritcs. This place is also one of the 74 simhaasanam
established by Sri Raamaanuja in his 74 simhhaasanaas outlining the principles of Sri vishitaahthvaitham.

Similar to Gunaseelam near Trichy, this place is also known for relief from
possessing, Billi Sooniyam, etc. People come here and do Vratham for
many days, take bath in Thakkaan kulam which is believed to have the
essence of many Mooligais and climb the hills every day to pray
anchaneYaa and Lord Narasimhar and get their Pini or Diseases or
Theeraatha nOykaL cured here.

This place is also known for the presence of many Siththars similar to
Thiruvannaamalai, Kollimalai, and Kutraalamalai. It is believed that the
administration of this temple is under the Aatheenam of Sthala aachaarya
purushaals of Thottaachaaryar clan.

This malai or hill is also known as Ekasilaa parvatham meaning that the entire hill is made of one stone,
which is true and one can see that when they visit this shrine. There are unique methods or procedures
attributed to each of the 108 sthalam as vazhipaatu niyamanam. At thiruppathi having the hair shaved and
having a supra paatha darshanam are the best, in oppiliappan koil observing sravana vratham (without
salt) on sravanms is the ideal. In this temple, it is the desire of the Lord that his bakthas climb the steep
footsteps (which are similar to the parama patha Sobaanam) and pray the Lord.

Temple Details

This divya desam has three temples.

Temple in the Town (the foot hill)

Utsavar: Baktavatsala PerumaaL (Takkaan)

This temple does not have a Moolavar. One can have Darshan of Adikesava perumal at the rear end of
this temple only on certain occasions. There are separate sannathis for Andaal, Azhwaars, Erumbiyappa,
and Thottaachaarya. Bhaktas who cannot climb the steps to the
Periya malai can visit this temple and get His blessings.
Kadikaachalam (Periya malai)

The main temple is on the Periya malai, which is about 500 feet high.

Moolavar: Yoga Narasimhar (Akkaarak kani), East facing, sitting in the lotus posture and deep
meditation.
Thaayaar: Amirtha Valli.
Theertham: Amirtha Theertham, Thakkaan Kulam, paandava theerththam
Vimaanam: Simha Koshtakruthi Vimaanam, Simhaagra Vimaanam and hEma kOti vimaanam.
Prathyaksham: Saptha Rishis, Vishvaamitrar, Siriya thiruvadi

Siriya Thirumalai

This is a smaller hill, about 250 feet in height. Bhaktas visiting this divya desam first
climb the main hill and then climb this hill.

Deity: Yoga Aancchneyar has Changu, Chakkram in his hands, has four hands.
 Tirupputkuzhi Divya Desam
Sthala Puranam

Tirupputkuzhi is one of the 108 Divya Desams with a special significance. This is the place where Sri
Ramanujar studied Vedanta under Yadavaprakasa. This town is located about 10 K. M. from
Kanchipuram. Buses from Madras to Arkadu, Arrani, Velur, Chittur, Kudiyatham amd Krishnagiri, go via
Tiruputkuzhi. The temple is about 5 minuite walk from the bus stop.

The author of Guru parampara prabhavam, Sri Pinpazhakiya perumal jeeyar was also born at this place.
The temple complex has numerous inscriptions. Among them, one inscription indicates that in 1300 A.D.
the temple tower was built by one Sunthara Paandiyan.

The most important purana associated with this sthalam is the sacrifice of Jatayu, the king of birds. Sri
Rama performed the last rites for Jatayu at this sthalam. Hence, this is a very important Divya Desam for
all Vaishnavas.

Then the Lord, folding His hands in reverence, said, By this act of committing your life at the altar of
service, you have attained the adobe of greatest rishis and savants, oh! Jataayu! you shall come to my
supreme heaven, higher than the heighest.

Thus ends the fourth canto of Sri Vamana Purana which hails Sri Rama, who in his form as Sriman
Narayana blessed Jatayu, after himself performing the Antima samskara of the king of Birds. The legend,
in which is found a narration of the Kshethra Mahatmiyam of Tirupputkuzhi detailed by sage Brughu to
sage Bharatwaja, extolls in 60 verses, the noble deed of Jatayu, which brought eminence to this place.

Near Kanchipuram, away from the banks of the river Vegavathi lies the vast and verdant forest land of
Gridhra Rajapura. Jatayu, the chief of the eagles, who ruled that place was known for his valour and
courage. Jatayu was a good friend of king Dasaratha. When Sri Rama was in exile, Jatayu took a
paternal care of him, and promised to take proper care of Sita, in Rama's absence. Fate had so decreed
that the infatuated Ravana should abduct Sita and cross Gridhrarajapura on his flight to Srilanka.

Jatayu, resting on the tree, heard Sita's anxious cry, and pounced angrily on Ravana. What ensued wasa
great and seemingly endless war between two equally strong, ferocious figheters. Jatayu was fighting for
Sita's honour. He was motivated by his sathya to Sri Rama and his great dedication to integrity. Seeing
this, the vile Ravana stopped the war for a brief while as if to seek peace. When the confused Jatayu
hesitated, Ravana chopped off his wings and rendered him immobile.

The hapless Sita, embraced Jatayu, now in shambles and prayed that he should be alive till he met her
husband, who was sure to reach there on his search for Sita. It did not take long. Soon rama following the
trail, reached Gridhararajapura. He was shoked to see jatayu in that condition. Deprived of the natural
form, Jatayu looked like a ghost of huge clouds along the mountain. Rama was reminded of his father. He
wept aloud. He asked, 'with whom did you fight to cause so many heads to fall and so many broken
weapons to crowd the ground?'

Jatayu haltingly narrated the fight with Ravana and how he had carried away Sita. having conveyed the
news, with Ramanam in his lips, Jatayu gave up his physical body. Rama filled with sorrow, said to
Lakshmana, The king of the eagles, died a hero's death in discharging a noble deed. He is reverd as my
father. I shall myself perform his samskara which he richly deserves."

While Jatayu's body was being placed on the pyre, Sri Rama assumed His original form of Sri Vishnu,
who alone can bestow Heaven. Adoring his bracelets and all ornaments, in this divine form with four arms
bearing Sanka, Chakra and Mace, with the beaming Kaustuba gem radiating brilliant shine, with his
consort Sridevi and Bhudevi on the flanks, with the host of Devas and Sages singing His praise in
astonished reverence the Lord set fire to the funeral pyre. It was then that the Lord, folding hs hands in
reverence promised Jatayu the supreme heaven.

The Lord scratched the earth whith the tip of his bow and uttered the prayer to Varuna. In the sacred
spring that gushed forth he bathed, and offered Jala tharpana to the soul of Jatayu. He requested Jatayu
to ask for boons. Jatayu prayed to the Lord, to come to the same place, after his successful war with
Ravana, 'you must remain here in this form as Samara Pungava, and grant infinite boons to people,
who bathe in this spring and worship you at your temple".

The Lord granted the boons of jatayu. He said, " Let this spring attain fame as Gridhrapushkarani (the
tank of the sacred eagle). Let all the sacred rivers like Ganga confer their presence in this tank. Those
who spend even one night in this sacred place of the name Satyavratha, shall be relieved of his sins.
Sterile women, who bathe in this tank and worship me in devotion, shall bear noble sons. Whatever gift is
made here, shall yield fruits manyfold. Whatever gift is given during eclipses shall yield inexhaustible
fruits, through My grace. Whoever parys here devotedly, shall be relieved of all diseases". Thus the fifth
canto of The Vamana Purana narrating the sacred history of Tirupputkuzhi, ends on a worshipful note. As
directed by Sage Brighu, sage Bharatwaja worshipped Sir Vijayaraghava and stayed for quite a long
period on the kshethra.

Jatayu's battle with Ravana is more important than the battles in Lanka. Hence the pious revere Jatayu
along with Bharata and look him as an Alwaar, a guide in the holy path. To millions of men, women and
children, the Ramayana is not a mere tale. It has more truth and meaning than the events in one's own
life. Just as plants grow under the influence of sun light, the people of India grow in mental strength and
culture by absorbing the glowing inspiration of the Ramayana. When we see helpless person in danger or
difficulty, let us think of Jatayu and with a firm mind try to help regardless of the circumstances.
 Tiruvahindrapuram Divya Desam
Sthala Purana

A view of the gopuram Moolavar: Devanayaka Perumal

The Lord here is known as Devanayaka and Devanatha, or ``Lord of the gods''. He is also known in
Tamil as ``adiyavarkku meyyan'', ``the One Who is true to His devotees''. Thaayaar is known here as
Hemambuja Nayaki.

The Lord is praised here as having manifested Himself as Brahma, Vishnu, and Siva all in one form.
Tirumangai Alvar sings of Devanayaka Perumal as ``moovar aagiya oruvan,'' the One who became three,
for the purpose of universal creation, preservation, and dissolution.

Lord Devanayaka is considered an elder brother of Tirupati Srinivasa Perumal and offerings to Lord
Srinivasa can also be done here.

The town of Tiruvahindrapuram (tiru-aheendra-puram, now called tiru-vEndi-puram) is located just west of
Cuddalore, in South Arcot District of Tamil Nadu. It is only a few hours by bus or train from Madras. The
temple is located three miles west of the Tiruppappuliyur Railway Station on the metre gauge main line of
the Southern Railway. Hotels, choultries, shops, and transportation are available near the station. The
setting of the temple is idyllic, with the Garuda Nadi (river) flowing north behind the temple and the
hallowed hill known as Aushada Giri standing in front.

Tiruvahindrapuram, situated 5 km west of Cuddalore, the historic coastal city, is one among the two "nadu
naattu thirupathigaL" among the 108 Divya Desams sanctified by the visit of the Alvars. The temple of
Lord Devanatha is flanked by the inspiring Aushada Giri, a herbal drop on the Lap of Time from the hands
of speeding Anjaneya to the battlefield of Lanka and the serpentine holy river Garudanadhi. The
importance of this sthala has found place in many Puranas.
Tirumangai Alvar has hailed the presiding deity of this temple as the Godhead of Trinity, viz. Siva,
Brahma, and Vishnu (moovar aagiya oruvan). True to the appellation of "adiyavarkku meyyan", Lord
Devanatha's charm and power attract thousands of pilgrims day in and day out from all over the country.

The structure and inscriptions found in the temple bear testimony to the association of later Pallavas,
Chola and Pandya dynasty rules.

Legend has it that when Lord Devanatha was feeling thirsty he asked for water. Garuda made Garuda
Nadi by ploughing the earth with his beak and Adisesha did so by carving the earth. Adisesha was first to
come back with water and the Lord quenched his thirst with that. On seeing this Garuda was sad and to
cheer him up, the Lord chose water from Garuda Nadi for his thirumanjanam (holy bath) and from Sesha
Tirtham for nivedanam (offering).

Since the place was constructed by Aheendran (Adisesha), it is called Aheendrapuram. The body of water
brought up by Garuda flows as Garuda Nadi, whereas the one brought by Adisesha is available as Sesha
Tirtham.

People offer pepper,salt, milk, honey, turmeric and others into the Sesha Tirtham as part of their prayers
and still it is indeed a divine wonder that the water is used for preparing the daily nivedanam to the Lord.
 Tirukoilur Divya Desam
Sthala Puranam

This divya desam is one among the Nadu Nattu Divya desams. Closeby is Srimushnam which is a
famous puranic place. This sthalam is on the Villupuram-Katpadi railway line. All buses from Villupram to
Tiruvannamalai go via this divya desam. This sthalam is one among the Pancha Krishnaranya kshetrams,
the other four being Tirukkannankudi, kapisthalam, Tirukkannapuram and Tirukkannamangai. This is one
of the few temples whose administration is not under the State government, it is under the control of
Tirukoilur Sri Emperumaanaar Swamy.

The sthala puranam for this divya desam can be found in both the Brahmanada puranam and Padma
puranam. The story of Tiruvikrama avataram of Lord Vishnu is very well known. Bali Chakravarti, who was
known for his generosity was troubling the Devas, who eventually approached Vishnu for help. Lord
Vishnu decided to use Bali's week point, his generosity, and came to this world as the son of Kashyapa
rishi and his wife Athithi. He took on the form of Vamana murthi. In the course of time, this brahmachari
went to Bali chakravarti and asked for gift of land which could be covered by his three steps. Bali
Chakravarti agreed. The Vamanan then assumed the Viswaroopa and covered the entire earth with one
step, the Heavens with the second and at the request of Bali put the third step on the head of Bali and
pushed him to Pathala. It is said the Tiruvikrama avataram of Lord was at Tirukkoilur.
When this avataram took place, Mirukandu rishi, the father of Markandeya rishi was not at that place.
When he heared about the avataram, he felt sad as he was not there to witness the glorious form of the
Lord. He undertook severe penance wanting the God to appear before him in the same form. He visited
many kshetrams such as Gaya, Badri etc. On the advice of Brahma, he come down to Krishnabadra
River and reached Krishnapuri where Brahma had told he will get Perumal's darshan. In the course of
time, an old brahmin and his wife approached Mirukandu rishi and said he and his wife were very hungry
and tired. The rishi, even though he knew he had no extra food, went in and asked his wife to somehow
prepare food for the old couple. His wife Mithravathi prayed to thayar and somehow was able to feed the
old brahmain and his wife, to their satisfaction. At the end the brahmin appeared in front of the rishi with
Sangu and Chakra in his hands. The old couple was none other than Perumal and Thaayaar. Mirukandu
rishi prayed to God to show him His Tiruvikrama roopa so that he who had missed it earlier could derive
the divine satisfaction. His wishes were satisfied by Lord and gave the rishi the Tiruvikram darshan. The
rishi requested Lord to continue to stay in this form at this place for ever, so that other devotees could
also have the similar darshan.

Another story connected with this place refers to the atrocities committed by a rakshasa Pathala Kethu
who lived here. He had earlier prayed to Brahma and obtained a boon that he would be invincible. Having
attained this boon, he became arrogant and started troubling both Devas and Minis performing tapas at
Krishnapuram. Hence the Devas and the Munis approached Lord Vishnu and requested his to rid Krishna
kshetram of this rakshas. Lord Vishnu assured them that he would protect them and find a solution soon.
In the course of time, a King by name Kusadwajan came to Krishnaranya kshetram. The munis
performing tapas here noticed his and immediately knew it was due to Lord Vishnu's grace they have the
protection of the King. They informed the king about the asura and their trouble with him. The king
promised them he would take care of the asura. At this time, form no where, a horse by name Kuvalayam
appeared. It was Lord Vishnus gift to the king to perform the holy task of killing the asura. The king got on
the horse chased the asura and killed him in Kavala rishi's ashram as he was hiding there. Having
completed the task, the king asked Kavala rishi for the sure path to attain moksha. Kavala rishi advised
him to stay here at Krishna kshetram and worship Tiruvikrama and his wish would be granted. The King
did the same and latter Lord Vishnu apeared before him and granted his wish.

It is also believed that Brahma came to Krishna kshetram (Tirukkoilur) and prayed on the banks of
Krishnabadra River (now known as Pennai Aru). Lord Vishnu appeared before him as Tiruvikrama at this
place and assured his that he would stay here in His Archa form, thus enabling the rishis and other
devotees to have His darshan for ever.
 Tiru Vellarai Divya Desam
Sthala Puranam

This divya desam is located about 12 miles from Trichy on the wat to Turaiyur. It can also be reached from
Srirangam on the way to Uttamar koil. This place is also known as Svethagiri kshetram. It is believed that
this temple was built by Sibi Chakravarti who belongs to the same dynasty as Sri Rama. The lineage is as
follows: The grandson of Sibi Chakravarti is Sagaran, his grandson is Bagirathan, his grandson is
Dileepan, whose son is Raghu, whose son is Ajan, whose son is Dasarathan, and one of his four sons is
Sri Rama. Thus this temple has been built by one of the illustriuos forefathers of Sri Rama himself.

The Brahmanda puranam, kshetra kandam details the purana relating to this divya desam. In Treta
yugam Sibi Chakravarti was ruling Ayodya. At this time he had heard of the attrcocities of Ravana and
assembled an army to wage a war and defeat him. He and his army reached Neelikavanam near Svetha
giri. They all were resting for a while, when the king noticed a white boar, the color that was unusual for
the region. So he wanted to catch the boar and folowed it. The boar went into a bush and suddenly
disappeared. When the king looked past the bush, he found Bhoomi devi and Markandeya rishi
performing tapas and no sign of the boar.

At this time the king was not sure what was going on. He heard an Asareeri which said "O Sibi Raja! I will
be born in course of time as a son of Dasaratha. I will destroy Ravana at that time." The king was not sure
where the voice was comming from. He had his doubts and again another asareeri mentioned that he
should construct a temple for Perumal at Tiruvellarai, and Perumal will appear there in order to fulfill the
promise he had given to Thaayaar. It is said that once thaayaar expressed desire to have the pleasure of
ruling the world created by Perumal. Perumail, in turn, promised that She would be given an opportunity
to do Sengol Paripalanam at Tiruvellarai when Perumal would be descending to the earth in response to
the penence of Markandeya maharishi and Bhoomidevi.

Latter when Markandeya rishi heared the incident from Sibi Chakravarti, he mentioned that the white boar
was none other than Perumal Himself in His Varaha avataram and the King was lucky to have had the
darshan. He requested the King to stay in Tiruvellarai and build a temple for Perumal. He also assured
him that Perumal himself would soon take the Rama avataram and the King of Lanka would meet his end
at the hands pf Perumal Himself.

Accordingly, Sibi Chakravarti built the temple at Svetha giri and installed the Perumal in the archa form.
The Perumal here is also known as Svetha Girinathan. There are 5 theerthams inside the temple itself.
About 13 miles South east of Svetha giri, there is a village known as Pankaja selvi. This village is on the
Samapuram-Tiruchy road and has lands registered in the name of Thaayaar. The residents of this village
even today are honoured during Panguni Uttiram.

Temple Details

This divya desam is one among the Chola Nattu divya desams and is also known as Svethagiri
kshetram. Literally translated, Svetha giri means holy white hill. According to the sthala purana,
it is believed that this temple was built by Sibi Chakravarti, an illustrious forefathers of Sri
Rama.

Moolavar: Pundarikaakshan, in a standing posture facing east.

Utsavar: Pundarikaakshan
Thaayaar: Shenbagavalli
Theertham: Padma theertham, Varaha theertham, Mani karnika theertham, Kusahasthi
theertham, Kandha theertham.
Vimaanam: Vimalakruti Vimanam.
Prathyaksham: Garuda, Sibi Chakravarti, Bhoodevi, Markandeya rishi, Brahma, Rudra and Indra.
Sannithis: Perumal Sannithi , thaayaar Sannithi
 Udayavar Sannithi

When the temple was built by Sibi Chakravarti, Markandeya rishi wanted to have all the religious
functions performed. So he ordered 3700 Vaishnavites from Antarvedi that lies between the Ganges and
Yamuna rivers to be brought to tiruvellarai to attend to these functions. Accordingly, 3700 families were
brought to Tiruvellaria. During this time, one of the 3700 died, and so Lord himself appeared as a
replacement for the departed soul, and completed the festivities. It is said that when one of the 3700
Vaishnavas died, Lord Vishnu himself took the place of the missing person and performed Avini Avittam
along with others. During Avani Avittam, even today, Sri Vaishnavas here, have their bath in Kusahasti
theertham and proceed to the temple and the homam is performed in the temple precincts itself. In the
course of time the 3700 brahmins got dispersed to Srivilliputtur, Tirukoshtiyur, Vembathur, Kidaram
Perunkaruani, where there are, even today, identified as Tiruvellarai Sri Vaishnavas. Ramanuja, when he
went to Melkote, took 52 families from Tiruvellarai. Another 64 went to Kongu Nadu (present day Erode).

This sthalam has an interesting episode involving Perumal and Thaayaar. It is said that one day there was
a delay in Perumal returning after his rounds in the village. Thaayaar asked Him as to why He was
delayed and arrived late at a particular entrance. Lord is reported to have told her the reason and only
then entered the temple precincts. Sicne then this entrance is known as Naazhi kEtta Vaasal

Another interesting episode involving this sthalam is the fact that Lord promised Thaayaar that she would
have Sengol paripalanam. So even today when both Perumal and Thaayaar are taken out in prcession
during festivals, the utsavar for Thaayaar will go first and Perumal will follow. Similarly, Thaayaar will
reach the moolasthanam before Perumal.

The moolavar who is on top of the hill has to be approached by climbing 59 steps. The first 18 of these
are said to represent the 18 chapters of Bhagavad Gita. The next 4 steps represent the four vedas. After
crossing these, one reaches the Bali peetam. After offering prayer at Bali peetam, one has to cross 5
more steps, which represent the Pancha boothams. After which we find the affromentioned Naazhi
kEtta Vaasal. Then one goes around the hill in a pradakshina form, crossing two entrnaces viz.,
Utharayana and Dakshinayana. After crossing these entrances, there are eight setps representing the
Ashtaakshara Mantram. Then comes the final 24 steps that represent the Gayatri Mantram.

At the end of these 24 steps we reach the Moolasthanam, where Perumal is flanked by the Sun God
(Suryan) on the right and the Moon God (Chandran) on the left, each facing the moolavar. Gadruda and
Adisesha, in their human form, can be seen to the right and left, respectively, of Perumal. Next we see,
Markandeya to the right and Bhoomipiraati to the left, both in seated posture performing tapas. In front of
the Moolavar is Pankaja nayaki and Pundarikakshan Utsava murthis.

Due to problems in Srirangam, Udayavar spent about 12 years here. There is a sanithi for Udayavar on
the street in front of the temple. It is said that when thaayaar asked what He proposed to do for the
Sanyaasi staying here, Perumal replied that She should send to him as prasad, food after She has
partaken of it. Enven today, the food, after it is offered to Thaayaar, is taken as prasad to the Udayavar
sannithi and offered as neivedhyam to Udayavar.

Tiruvellarai is the avathara sthalam for two prominent acharyas, Uyakkondaar and Engalalvan.
Uyakkondaar, know intially as Pundarikakshan was one of the two sishyas of Nathamuni, Kurukai
Kavalappar is the other. When Nathamuni wanted to wanted to train each the path for moksha,
Pundarikakshar took the path of Divya Prabhandam, which has the potential to provide mokasham for the
entire human race. Pundarikakshar was able to help the entire world by learning the prabhandas from
Nathamuni and making sure that the recitation and the text are preserved for future acharya and bhaktas.
Hence Nathamuni, named him Uyakkondar, for his selfless service to others.