Divya Desam series: - TIRUMAALIRUNCHOLAI (Azhagar Koyil)

February 25, 2008

TIRUMAALIRUNCHOLAI (Azhagar Koyil) This Divya shetram is located in the suburbs of Madurai, and is around 15 Kms by road, at the foot of Vrishabadri Hills. The moolavar is Kallazhagar also called Sundararajan in a standing posture and the Thayar is Sundaravalli. The Theertham is Noopura Gangai and the Vimanam Somasundara Vimanam. Legend has it that Yama the lord of death once undertook a pilgrimage. While he was visiting all the holy shrines, he was attracted by the serenity and beauty of Azhagar Malai and meditated to Lord Vishnu to reside in the beautiful surroundings for the benefit of the people. Responding to Yama’s request the Lord ordered Viswakarma, the architect of the celestials, to construct a temple for him there. The Lord took this place as his permanent abode with his consorts Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi. There is also an interesting story that the water that was used by Brahma to wash the feet of the Lord in the Trivikrama Avatara passed through the Silambu (ornament worn on the legs) and fell down at this shetram and hence the river that flows

close by is called Silambaru. The river water is being used for Tirumanjanam to the deity. Azhwar Mangalaasaasanam: Periyaazhwar –71,258, 338-59, 453-62 Andaal – 534, 587-96 Tirumangai Azhwar – 1022, 1114, 1573, 1634, 1765, 1818-37, 1855, 1969, 2020, 2034, 2673, 2774 Bhootathazhwar – 2227, 2229, 2235 Nammaazhwar – 1002, 3012, 3849-59, Peyaazhwar – 2342 (pasuram number as found in Naalaayira Divya prabhandam) It is one of the few temples in the country built in tiers. The tower consists of 3 tiers depicting Lord Vishnu in 3 postures, sitting, standing and reclining. The shadow of the

Vimanam never falls on the ground. The doors of the temple over the famous 18 steps are considered to be a manifestation of Karuppannaswami the guardian deity here. Chittirai Tiruvizha is the important festival. Om Namo Narayanaya Padmashri Sampathkumar

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