SRI ANDAL

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Sri Andal

 

Andal, the incarnation of Mother Earth, Bhoodevi, is one of the twelve

Aalvaars, great devotees of Vishnu. She was found in the garden of

Periyaalvar. She grew up to be a great devotee of Vishnu and a mystic poet.

She is the author of Thiruppavai. Even as a human she attained beatitude, as

the consort of her chosen Lord Ranganatha of Srirangam. She is the best

exponent of Bakthi Marga and a celebrated model of " bridal mysticism " .

SLOKA/PRAYER

Sree Vishnu Chiththa Kula Nandhana Kalpa Valleem

Sree Ranga Raaja Hari Chandhana Yoga Dhrusyaam

Saakshhat Kshammaam Kaarunyaa Kamalaami Vaanyaam

Godhaam Ananya Sarana: Saranam Prapadhye.

MEANING

Bereft of any other refuge in Godha (Andal) who is merciful like Goddess

Mahalakshmi, has come in human form of Andal. She is like a wish fulfilling

creeper, that makes the family of Vishnuchitta (Periyaalvar) happy. With her

inner eye, she always sees and dwells on her Lord, the king and God at

Sriranga.

AUSPICIOUS DAYS AND FESTIVALS

Wednesdays and Fridays are auspicious to Andal. Andal married Sri Ranganatha

on the Makara Sankaranthi day. On that day Andal's marriage is celebrated in

a grand style. " Aadi Pooram " and " Aani Thirumanjanam " are also important

festivals to Andal.

SPECIAL OFFERINGS

Andal is specially worshipped by reciting her songs called Thiruppaavai,

early in the mornings during the Hindu month of Dhanu. Performing Andal

Kalyanam is customary. Venpongal and Sweet Pongal are offered to Andal.

GAYATHRI

Dhanurdharaayai Cha Vidmahe Sarva

Siddhayai Cha Dheemahi

Thanno Dharaa Prachodhayaath.

MEANING

We worship the Goddess who adorns a bow and arrow in her hand. Salutations

to the Goddess who gives all the boons to the devotees. May that Boodhevi

stimulate our creative faculties.