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Location:
Srivilliputtur
near Tirunelveli
(Pandya Naadu)
Vishnu: Andal, Vatapatrasayee-Rangamannar
Taayaar: Andal (Godha
Naachiyaar)
Theertham:Tirumukkulam
Paasuram :Periyalwar, Andal
Vimaanam:Samsana Vimanam
Travel Base:Tirunelveli, Tuticorin
Description Srivilliputtur
the birthplace of Andal, is considered to be among the holiest of the
108 Divya Desam shrines dedicated to Vishnu. This is the birthplace of
Andal and Periyalwar and is closely associated with the life of Andal,
who attained Vishnu's hand in marriage. As in Srirangam
and Alwar Tirunagari Araiyar Sevai where the Alwar
Paasurams are recited with expression, music and rhythm - is performed
here. Also in Srivilliputtur is the Madavar Vilagam Vaidyanathar temple
enshrining a six feet high monolithic image of Natarajar considered to
be a masterpiece. This temple was also patronized by the Madurai
Nayak kings.
Deities:
The Moolavar here is Vatapatrasayee in a reclining posture facing east,
while Taayaar here is Andaal. There are shrines to Andal (where she was
discovered in a garden) and Perialwar here.
Legends:
The name Villiputtur stems from the legend that this town was built by
two hunters Villi and Puttan. Legend has it that Periyalwar a devotee
of Vatapatrasaayee, served the temple, by fashioning garlands out of fresh
flowers from the garden which he maintained. Andal his daughter (discovered
in the temple garden) was in the habit of wearing the garland prior to
submitting them to the deity. An aghast Periyalwar, tried to stop Andal's
deed, and was directed by the deity, that he indeed preferred garlands
which had been worn by Andal, and hence Andal's name 'Soodittanda Sudarkkodi'.
It is believed that Andal left her mortal body and merged with Ranganathar.
Andal is the author
of Tiruppaavai, the celebrated colleciton of 30 poems sung especially
in the month of Margazhi, the month considered special for the observance
of Paavai Nonbu.
The temple:
8th century inscriptions are seen in this temple which underwent
extensive renovations during the Madurai Nayak period.. This temple
has among the tallest towers in Tamilnadu. The 12 tiered Rajagopuram rises
to a height of 192 feet. Exquisite carvings adorn the temple.
Festivals:
Six worship services are carried out each day. Annual festivals are celebrated
in the months of Aadi and Margazhi.
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