Swamy Madhurakavi Azhwar …. Swamy Ananthazhwan.. Swamy Nadadoor Ammal…

Swamy Ananthazhwan …………………
and Acharyar Nadadoor Ammal
Let us recollect their devotion to Acharyar and the great Lordships on this wonderful day .
Acharyar Varadaguru the great Acharya had the deepest bhakti to Lord Varadaraja of Kanchipuram One night when he was serving ” LORD” in an ecstatic mood, the priest brought very hot milk to the Lord as offering .
Acharyar Varadaguru was deeply distressed that such hot milk would burn the tender tongue of the Lord! He stopped the priest from offering the hot milk and began cooling it down until it was warms enough to be offered.
The Lord himself was moved by the Vatsalya bhava of Varadaguru and called him ‘Amma’ – my mother!
From then onwards Varadaguru became Nadadoor Ammal.
After this episode, in a dream one night, Lord Varadaraja commanded Ammal to erect a Mantapam for His Vasantotsavam.
Accordingly Ammal fulfilled the Lord’s desire, just as a mother would fulfill the wishes of her son in spite of difficulties.
Another glorious pastime remains to be cherished .
Once Ammal and his disciples undertook a pilgrimage to Tirumalai hills.
The graceful personality and humility of Acharyar attracted the people there..
A Chieftain Kandavaran was the leader of that Lada race .
He was annoyed and irritated to see the crowd falling the the feet of Acharyar.
He decided to disturb them.
With his mantric power he made the disciples unconscious.
Ammal meditated and chanted the Sudarsana maha mantra and his own composition ‘Hetipungavastotram’ and broke the spell.
The angry Kandavaran called Ammal for a debate and when defeated surrendered to the Acharya himself.
The benevolent guru not only excused him but also made him a Srivaishnava by offering him Panchasamskaras.
With the money offered by Kandavaran, Ammal established a beautiful village and named it ‘Ladagraharam’ and continued his journey.
On the way, the Lord himself came as a young brahmachari and appeased the hunger of the pilgrims with curd and rice.
At the same time, there was a big commotion in the temple as the silver vessel with the naivedyam had suddenly disappeared.
Lord Venkateswara Himself announced to the temple authorities that He Himself fed his dear Ammal and his disciples and that they should receive Ammal with all temple honours who will be arriving shortly .
Swami Engalazhwan was Acharya of Nadathur Ammal , who was the direct disciple of Thirukkurukaippiran Pillan . All glories to our Acharyar
Acharya Nadadoor Thiruvadigale sharanam
Let us cherish the great devotee and most revered disciple of Swamy Ramanuja ………………….
Ananthazhwan vaibhavam now
The sacred TIRUMALA Hills consisting of seven peaks is considered to be seven-hooded. Blessed are the devotees who are fortunate to have his darshan .
There are countless devotees who have served the LORD since ages .
One such great devotee was Swamy Ananthazhwan an ardent disciple of Swamy Ramanuja .
As per Swamy Ramanuja’s directives he served the LORD few hundred years ago .There are several pastimes of Swamy Anathazhwan with Lord Srinivasa .
One divine pastime is memorable as Lord himself accepts to become Swamy Anathazhwans disciple .
Knowing about the initiatives taken by Swamy Anathazhwan in organising the temple rituals with religious fervor few devotees decided to trek the hills and have darshanam of Lord and seek the blessings of his dear devotee too .
The Srivaishnavites were walking from Srirangam and it was a very long journey . While ascending the Hills, coming from they were feeling tired and had to take some rest .
Completely exhausted they were perplexed how could they complete their pilgrimage. All of a sudden a young lad appeared before them .
The boy was appearing with divine tejas .
With srivaishna Urdhva pundram he was almost looking like vamana avatara brahmachari .
He offered his humble obeisances and said .
Oh swamins !
Adiyen has brought some temple prasada for all of you .Kindly honor the same and please feel comfortable .
The srivaishnavites being orthodox were initially impressed with the divine boy However one Elder person among the group wanted him to introduce his lineage and his Acharyar whom he was initiated .
The divine lad he was , smiled at the simple question .
He proudly replied that his name was Madhurakavidasa and his Acharyar was Swamy Anathazhwan who is serving Lord in all ways .
It was his Acharyars instructions , he had walked down the sacred hills to handover the prasada coming to know about their visit .
He further expressed that the Prasada was coming directly from the temple which was handed over to him by Swamy Anathazhwan to be given to them .
A bit surprised , the elders said ..
Oh swamin ……
Its nice to know about your association to Swamy Anathazhwan .
But we wish to hear from you about his glories .
Can we hear your swamys Thanian ? as this a custom for the srivaishnavas to recite their Acharyars glories in the form of Thanians .
The divine boy majestically recited the thanian about Swamy Anathazhwan in the seven hills which vibrated
Akhilatmagunavasam ajnanatimirpaham
Asritanam susaranam vande Anantharyadesikam”
(I bow to Acharya Ananthazhvan, who is the repository of knowledge, mercy and wisdom, the one Acharyar who removes ignorance and is eminently eligible for surrender by disciples)
They liked the divine lads confident answer .
However the Srivaishnavas then questioned the youngster how his taniyan made no reference to Ananthazhvan’s relation to Swamy Ramanuja.
The divine boy smiled and replied Swamins !
Actually there are two Thaniyans in praise of adiyens Acharyar Swamy Ananthazhvan, one referring to the glory of his divine personality and another referring to his connection with Swamy Ramanuja.
And please listen to the second verse of the Thanian
‘Srimath Ramanujacharya Sripadamboruhadvayam
Sathutha manga sandaryam Anantharyamaham Bhaje..
( I prostrate before adiyens Acharyar Swamy Ananthalvan who is the lotus feet of Swamy Ramanuja and who is worshipped by Srivaishnavas all over the earth )
The Srivaishnavas were convinced that the divine boy was a true disciple of Swamy Ananthalvan . They honoured the prasada with relish .
They thanked the boy for his affection and love and blessed him .
The divine boy took leave of them and ascended the Hills welcoming them to join him . Slowly, the Srivaishnavas ascended the Hills and walked into Swamy Anathazhwans ashram .
Swamy Anathazhwan was overjoyed to receive the guests from Srirangam .
They offered their obeisances and thanked him for the kind courtesy in sending the maha prasada down to the Hills They appreciated the young boy for his kindness and hospitality .
They praised the boys intellect and kindness and expressed their gratefulness to Swamy Ananthazhvan for having sent prasada through one of his bright young disciples.
Swamy Ananthalvan was bewildered. Amazed to note the divine leela , he was in total dark .
He realised that it was his LORD who took the pains to walk down with the mahaprasada to his devotees .
With tears , he wished to know about the divine lad .The Srivaishnavas explained about the divine glow the boy exhibited .
His majestic recitation of the Thanians was memorable ..
The boy was so down to earth serving the prasada They informed that the boy introduced himself as Madhurakavidasa and had recited two slokas in his praise and as they were just trekking behind him up to the hills safely .
They said that the boy went inside the temple citing some pending works. Swamy Anathazhwan pleaded them to recite the verses the boy had sung ..
They recited the two verses before Swamy Ananthazhvan.
The entire assembly was wonder struck. Swamy Anathazhwan was in tears .
They realised that the Lord had declared himself as Ananthalvan’s disciple and had chosen the name Madhurakavidasa
.Even though there were so many other Acharyas the second verse showed that it was Ananthazhvan who could be fittingly considered equal to the Lotus feet of Swamy Ramanuja.
Since then the paduka (sathari) at the shrine of Swamy Ramanuja sanctorium up the Hills came to be known as Ananthazhvan since then the two verses became famous as the Thaniyans in praise of Swamy Ananthazhvan….
Swamy Ananthazhvan thiruadigale sharanam
Our next great Acharyar is Madhurakavi (meaning in sanskrit the sweet poet ) who appeared at a holy place in Thirukolur, Tamilnadu
Once Madhurakavi Azhwar undertook an pilgrimage to Ayodhya.
He was very moved by the beauty of deities of Lord Rama, Sita Devi, Lakshmana & Anjaneya and decided to stay in Ayodhya for sometime.
During his stay, one night he saw a bright light in the sky emitting from the southern direction .
He couldn’t comprehend if it was a bright star, a forest fire or anything else.
Amazed with the strange happening , he decided to follow the light and see it for himself. Unmindful walking long distances , he followed the light .
After days of voyage, he finally reached Azhwarthirunagari a remote village and the light suddenly disappeared .
He was surprised at the phenomenon.
He enquired from the villagers about anything strange happening in their village assuming the dazzling light could have some prophecy too .
The villagers replied in negative, but expressed that a boy has been meditating under a Tamarind tree for past 16 years without even opening his eyes.
He had crawled to the tree as a baby 16 years back and remained in the tree thereafter.
Madhurakavi Azhwar was amazed with the villagers expression .He decided to see the child for himself.
Azhwar goes close as near to the tree and finds the divine child with tejas .
Eyes closed and meditating the boy was glowing with radiance which was what he saw at Ayodhya .
The place was filled with divine aura and true the boy was looking too divine as much as Lordships themselves .. Azhwar attempts to question the divine boy about what is True knowledge and gets convinced with his instant replies .
He immediately accepts the divine boy who is none other than our great Swamy Nammazhwar as his ACHARYAN Sri Madurakavi AzhwAr becomes an ardent disciple of NammAzhwAr and serves him with utmost devotion .
With all humility he submits the 11 verses of the grand KaNNinunchiRuthAmbhu glorifying his Acharyan Swamy NammAzhwAr / Sri SaTakOpar with all humility equating to Lordships . A devotee can dwell and enjoy these verses for ages on the divine works of Madhura kavi AzhwAr’s grand …..
“KaNNinunchiRuthAmbhu” .
Azhwar declared in this Prabhandham
“tEvu maRRariyEn”
( I do not know of any God other than my AchAryan, Swamy NammAzhwAr).
After NammAzhwAr departed from this earthly world to srivaikuntam , MadhurakaviAzhwAr was worshipping deity of Swamy NammAzhwAr with deep devotion which he consecrated and performed ThiruvarAdhanA and uthsavams in his honour.
Impressed by Swamy NammAzhwAr’s works he wanted to stage NammAzhwAr’s works in front of other scholars .
Azhwar used to contemplate on the divine knowledge shared by Acharyar .
Vaikaasi visaakam the appearance day of Swamy NammAzhwar was celebrated in a grand manner .
One particular year, when Swami Madhurakavi azhwar was taking azhwar’s deity in a procession during the celebrations, few poets from Madurai Thamizh Sangam objected to Swami Madhurakavi azhwar and said .
“Oh! Madhurakavi!!
You are worshiping Nammazhwar who is a just a ordinary devotee not Perumal and reciting verses glorifying him
..Are those verses “sangam” certified? and authenticated by the great Madurai Tamil Sangam as “ the original and of the highest quality”? …
and is he really qualified enough to translate the Vedas into tamil ”?
Azhwar was completely disappointed hearing these critics .
He politely went to Azhwar’s sannidhi and pleaded “Azhweer!!
These people are objecting to adiyen’s only kainkaryam which is my only purpose of life ..Please do something that will not come in the way of my service to you .
Nammazhwar pleased with his devotion appeared before Swami Madhurakavi azhwar in a disguised form.
Dressed like an old man he asked Swami Madhurakavi azhwar about his reason for his grief.
Swami repeated the story to the old man.
The old man replied please do not worry about these trivial issues.
Submit this pAsuram of “kaNNan kazhaliNai…” and see the miracle “saying this he disappeared.
“Kannan Kazhalinai” will support you always”.
Madhurakavi obeyed as instructed and proceeded to Madurai to meet the so called great sangam poets .
All of them were debating in a boat discussing the authenticity of the literature . Madhurakavi offered the holy verse to the poets .
(Madhurakavi azhwar had offered the divine verses in a small leaf which was used during olden times and the divine verse “Kannam Kazhalinai…” from Thiruvaaimozhi was ever glowing )
The poets read those verses and laughed at Swami Madhurakavi azhwar for his childishness and threw it aside .
Suddenly the whole boat top sided all the poets much to their surprise .
They swam hard and with great difficulty reached the shore. To their astonishment, they found that the boat retained only that palm leaf .
The poets read it patiently and were of opinion that Swamy Nammazhwar was not any ordinary saint and apologized for their foolishness .
Thus their ego was shattered Azhwar further says that For a true devotee of Lord Krishna …. all is Lord Krishna the Food – eaten to satisfy the appetite,water drunk to quench the thirst, the betel leaves consumed after the food, are all Lord Krishna .
Chanting HIS holy name,
speaking of HIS qualities,
and thinking of HIM ,
HIS devotee will feel the hunger and the thirst
and all other needs satisfied.
They will not eat any other food since
KRISHNA CONSCIOUSNESS is enough food for them and always remain in that bliss forever …..
It is also Appearance day of our Paramacharyar “Sri. Sreesailachariar ” of Mudaliandan Thirumaligai – the paramacharyar of the present acharyar, Sri Kandhadai Kumara Venkatacharyar(Ramanujar) . Swamy is the 22nd descendant in Mudaliyandan’s (Swamy Ramanujar’s nephew) lineage.
Mudaliandan also known as Dasarathi-who is considered as reincarnation of Lord Rama was ordained to remain in Gruhastashrama (family life) by Swamy Ramanuja . He was the premier disciple of the 74 simhadipatis who were nominated by Ramanuja to continue Srivaishnava sampradaya, of them, few were sanyasis, others were gruhastas.
Srisailacharyar’s father ,Sri Mudaliandan (the 21st descendant in the lineage) gave his son his father’s name to the child who was born on the auspicious day of Chitra Pournami in Chithra star.
Glories to the acharyar who surrendered at the feet of Manavalamamunigal,Sri Dasarathi, the acharyar who stayed at Singaperumal kovil, Kanchipuram, Yadhugiri(Melkote), the one who attained Madhurakavigal’s position due to his acharyar bhakti.
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Shreemadh vadhoola kulavaaridhi poorna chandhram |
vaadhoola dheshika gurooththama puthra rathnam |
thath paadha yugma sharanam thadhupaasithaaram |
shreeshaila dheshikam aham sharanam prapdhye ||
Lord Sriman Narayana’s lotus feet is glorified as
Sri Satagopan (Swami Nammazhwar).
Swami Nammazhwar’s lotus feet is glorified as
Madhurakavigal at all places except at Azhwaarthirunagari where it is glorified as as Sri Ramanujan.
Swamy Ramanuja’s Lotus Feet is glorified as “ Mudaliandan” except in Tirumala where it is known as “Anantazhwan”
Adiyen Ramanuja dasan
All pics and videos have been taken from google images and social media and very greatful to the devotees who had posted them
Also special thanks to antaryami.net, Smt Geetavasudevan, divyadesam all the advanced devotees who captured the pics
Videos : Credits 4000 Divyaprabhandam.org

“Thiruvedupari utsavam” 24/03/2024. The Divine loot by Azhwar at Seerkazhee in Tamil Nadu..

Azhwars were the incarnations of of Lord Sriman Narayana’s divine weapons and ornaments (“Azhwar” in Tamil means ‘one who is immersed’).

Since the advanced saints were always immersed in the Lord and His qualities, they were glorified as Azhwars and the places which was glorified by Azhwars are earmarked as Divya desams .
Out of the 12 azhwars, 4 Azhwars appeared towards the end of Dwapara yuga and Eight Azhwars appeared during Kali yuga.

Thirumangai Azhwar appeared on the 397^th year after the advent of Kaliyuga as per “Guru Parampara prabhavam” composed by Sri.Pinbhagzhagiya Perumal Jeey.ar Neelan as he was called appeared on a bright Thursday in Nala varushey(year name), Karthigai maasey (karthigai month as per tamil calender[Nov-Dec])on Krithikai star on Pournami in Kallar kulam at Thirukuraiyalur – a small village near Thirunangoor about one hour drive from Sirkazhi.

The remote village of Thirunangoor near Sirkazhi reverberates with satsangh all through out the year .
Three important festivities are celebrated grandly in this village.
(1) Thai Amavaasai for 3 days (Jan-Feb)
(2)Thiruvedupari utsavam on Panguni-Pooram (March-April)
(3)Thiru avataara utsavam-10 day utsavam during Karthigai month culminating on Karthigaiyil Karthigai

Thirumangai Azhwar affectionately called as Kaliyan, was the valiant army chief of the then Chola King that the king gifted him with a small territory to rule over.
Hence, he was known as Thirumangai Mannan .

“Thirumangai mannan” who had that power , fame , position which took him to material pleasures like any human .
The possessions and power engulfed him .
Blinded by daring heroism, Neelan was indulged in sensual pleasures..
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By Lord’s mercy , for his reformation he happened to meet Kumudavalli daughter of a physician in Thiruvellakulam who played a vital role in transforming Neelan into Azhwar.
Kumudhavalli a damsel (apsaras) who was named Thirumaamagal/Sumangalai along with her friends descended on Himalayan forests mocked at a siddhar who was being imparted knowledge by Kapila maharishi.

The infuriated rishi cursed her to descend to earth and get married to a human being .
When she repented for her mistake and asked for a means to go back to the heavenly planet, the sage advised her to transform Neelan(an amsam of Saarangam) and make him a great devotee and get married to him.
After accomplishing her mission, he blessed her that she would be able to get back to her heavenly abode.
Thus , she appeared as a small girl on the banks of Swetha Pushkarini(Thiru vella kulam) in front of Srinivasar Kovil in Thirunangoor.

A physician who happened to pass by was attracted to the small kid. He learnt from her about the cause of her appearance and adopted her as his daughter.

As he was childless for a long time, he considered to be Lord Srinivasar’s blessings .As she was seen holding Kumudha flower, he named her as Kumudavalli.
Once Neelan , the ruler of the province around Thirunangoor happened to come to Thiruvellakulam. He was mesmerized by Kumudavalli’s beauty and expressed his ardent desire to marry her. He approached her parents and expressed his desire .

The Parents were overjoyed as the King was at their doorstep . However , Kumudavalli expressed her desire “to marry only to a person who sported Thiruman kaapu ( Tilak ) on his forehead and got pancha samskaaram ( initiation ) done”.
Immediately Neelan set out in search of an Acharya to get initiated (pancha samskaaram in srivaishnava sampradaya) done.
No one dared to initiate him considering his qualities. The ever compassionate Lord Srinivasar of Thirunaraiyur appeared before him as a Priest and did panchasamskaaram to Neelan.
Later, Thirukannapuram Lord Sowriraja Perumal imparted the intricate meanings of Ashtakshari to him. Hence, these two Lordships are considered as “Acharyar” for Azhwar.

Having fulfilled her condition, Neelan approached Kumudavalli .
She replied Oh Prince !
Am glad with your desire in entering a relationship with me .But please understand as your better half I have another condition . I wish you undertake to carry out the bhaagavatha dhadhiaaradanam to 1000 people for one year which gives me immense satisfaction.
Neelan accepts the condition with a smile as she would be his queen soon .
Now , the couple did dhadhiyaaradhanam for one year and continued with the kainkaryam later. The place where he did dhadhiyaaradhanai kainkaryam is known as “Mangai maadam”.
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It was a grand feast every day . A vast area was covered with pandals .for devotees thronging daily . It became a sacred shrine with hundred of devotees gathering daily with vaishnava tilaks and glorifying Lordships with songs . Few were discussing the greatness of Neelan and kumudha .Filled with bhagavathas , the place became more vibrant with devotion.

Neelan loved the new role. He never questioned the spending even the coffers of Thirumangai was coming to a stock out position . The Ministers whispered about the coffers getting emptied , but he continued the services selling his jewellary and other precious things .
The news reached the chozha king. He summoned Neelan to return the entire money or face repercussion. As Neelan didn’t oblige, the king had to send an army . Neelan defeated the army with ease . Shocked , the king came in person to wage a war.

Knowing Neelan’s might, the king with the help of his minister, conspired a plan to trick Neelan and arrested him.
Neelan was locked up in a temple for 3 days without food and water.(very similar to bhakta Ramadasar).
The ever compassionate Lord Varadarajar of Kanchipuram appeared in Neelan’s dream informing that he could use the wealth lying on the banks of Vegavati river in Kanchipuram to clear the king’s dues.
The next day , Neelan informed the king that he would return the entire money given a chance . The King sent Neelan along with his soldiers to the banks of Vegavati river.
He cleared the king’s dues and kept the balance with him for continuing the bhagavatha kainkaryam which he got infected to.
Neelan resigned from the king’s service and dedicated his full time for bhaagavatha kainkaryam. To continue the kainkaryam, Neelan resorted to looting wealth from the rich peasants who were egoistic selfish and greedy .
He did that by waylaying with the help of his four friends -Neermel nadappan(one who could walk across water), nizhalil odhunguvaan(one who was an expert in following a person’s shadow), thaaaludhuvaan (one who could open any lock without key), tholavazhakkan(one who could not be defeated in any argument).
As the looting expedition was also getting a bad name to Neelan who was doing a great kainkaryam ( service ) Lordships of Thiruvaali divyadesam along with Thaayar had to intervene.
The Lordships appeared as a newly wed couple fully bedecked with costly jewels and set out on a closed palanquin to Thiruvaali .
His friends who came to know of this, informed Neelan that if the bridal party is looted, they would have enough wealth to support lifelong bhagavatha kainkaryam. Neelan was very pleased .He immediately galloped on his horse(Aadalmaa) followed by his thief-friends and reached the place which is presently known as “Thirumanan kollai”.
On reaching the place, Neelan threatened the couple to part with their entire jewellery. Accordingly , the couple surrendered all their jewellery except the toe ring on the bride as it could not be removed. Though Neelan had the entire loot , Lord veiled a maya on him which made him to lure for the toe ring too which was very attractive.
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Neelan himself bent down to remove the ring but as his efforts were futile, he tried to remove the ring with the help of his teeth by his mouth. Unknowingly, he surrendered to Thayar’s lotus feet for the material wealth .But , by coming into contact with Goddess (Thayar’s) lotus feet, wisdom dawned on him. He was mesmerized and choked with no words .He attempted to move quickly and thus bundled the entire loot in a big cloth. Looking at the divine couple , he tried to lift the baggage but for its weight .
Shocked that the small booty could not be lifted , Neelan thought that the bridegroom must have cast a spell on the bundle . He wanted to frighten the bridegroom now . He threatened them with a dagger to reveal the secret which made that booty so heavy that he couldnt lift it .
The mischievous bridegroom smiled and agreed to share the secret with him .He advised him to purify himself in the nearby stream and wait under the banyan tree (arasa maram).
Neelan did as advised and the bride groom uttered the sacred Ashtakshari mantram on Neelan’s right ear.
Wisdom dawned on Neelan and there was an instant flash ….
he repented for all his deeds.
He understood his real purpose of his birth .
The divine couple appeared as Lord Lakshmi-Narayanan on Garuda vahanam and blessed their child .
Lord addressed him as Thirumangai mannan as he had the blessing of Thiru (Thayar first).
Now the jeevatma “Thirumangai mannan” in ecstasy repenting for all his misdeeds outpours torrential verses instantaneously in presence of Divyadampathigal starting with the most beautiful verse ….
“vaadinen vaadi varundhinene manathaal……”
concluding each phrase glorifying “Narayana” naamam…..

The name N A R A Y A Y A N A itself can give stature and wealth.The name destroys miseries .This Holy name gives a seat in heaven a seat in Paramapadam .It will give you strength It will give you everything .This lovely name will give more that what a loving mother can give …And thus Azhwar reveals saying ..
I have found such a good word in HIS holy name….
This wonderful incident is recapitulated every year in the holy place and is celebrated grandly as “Thiru vedupari utsavam” on the night preceding Panguni Uthiram in the month of March-April .

As part of 10 day brahmotsava celebrations at Thiruvaali, on the sixth day, Lord (Perumal ) arrives to wed Goddess ( Thayar ) and set out on a “moodu pallaku”. The divine wedding (thirukalyanam) takes place in the afternoon and saatrumarai goshti gets over by 9 p.m .
Later the divine couple set out on a palanquin slowly and head toward Thirumangai maadam and rest in a mandapam. Azhwar sets out from Thirunagari temple at midnight and swiftly reaches the mantapam and goes round the couple thrice.
A screen is drawn and it is presumed that all the ornaments are removed. Lord gets ready to give darshan on Garuda vahanam along with Thayar. Meanwhile Thirumangai mannan is taken to a nearby mandapam where thousands of devotees throng to have the beautiful sight of Azhwar riding on the horse for about an hour.
Later Azhwar is taken towards Perumal who imparts the Eight syllable mantra “Ashtakshari. The bhog is offered to the Lordship. Azhwar circumblates around Lordships with benevolence.
Lord blesses Thirumangai Azhwar with prasadam, maalai, parivattam. The assembled goshti start reciting “Vaadinen vaadi….” slowly and after completing of the first 10 pasurams, mangalaaarthi is given to both Perumal and Azhwar.
This beautiful incident is re enacted at this holy place and happens around midnight .Almost around 2 AM , a group of devotees playing the role of Neelan’s friends ente the temple to inform Neelan about the newly wed couple.

Within minutes, the temple doors are opened . Thirumangai mannan in blue velvette dress wearing innumerable intrinsic jewellery holding gem studded sword , precious gems studded dagger and all other weapons required by a king majestically gallops on his favourite horse”Aadalma”. The gathering rushes outside the temple and set forth on the journey to loot the wealth .
The night is pitch dark . The sevarthees bearing torches literally run along with Neelan ( Our Azhwar ) . It is a sight never to be missed. The zeal with which Kaliyan rides on the horse is inexplicable.
One has to be physically present to witness this Neelan swiftly marches through the narrow muddy roads to reach the place .Meanwhile Lord ( Perumal) and Thayar in Kalyana Thirukolam arrive giving darshan to the assembled devotees.
One devotee relished his experience that when the azhwar sets out from the temple to loot the Lord, his valour ,pride ,strength ,determination can be seen on Azhwar’s thirumugam and when he returns after having Perumal’s darsanam, Azhwar’s speed is reduced as he becomes submissive having shed away his pride and takes about 4 hours to reach the temple as the procession moves slowly.
Coming back to the divine incident , ..Neelan who becomes transformed to Thirumangai Azhwar decides to visit all the holy shrines and glorify the Lordships .
Lord captivated his attention by giving HIM beautiful darshan in all the temples. In his divine pasurams, he vividly describes the Lord, location of the holy place , surroundings and the opulence .

Azhwar now sets to have darshan of all Divya desams and glorifies LORD the maximum number of temples – 86 divya desams and has the credit of glorifying 47 divya desams exclusively.
His outburst of HIS BLISS was shared through HIS pasurams and visited almost about 86 temples . He also took efforts to construct Temple walls of Srirangam without affecting ThoNdaradippodiAzhwAr’s nandhavanam.
(“pAdi pAdi paraparappAi thirinthAr”)
His compositions were
1. Periya thirumozhi
2. Periya thirumadal
3. SiRiya thirumadal
4. Thiru nedunthANdakam
5. Thiru KurunthANdakam
6. Thiru vezhuk kurrirukkai.
His pAsurams are marvellous; excellent and have unsurpassed beauty in them.
Here is one of his periya thirumozhi pasurams recorded at the venue

vAdinEn vAdi varundhinEn manatthaal/
perun thuyaridum idumbaiyil piRanNdhu/
koodinEn koodi iLaiyavar thammOdu/
avar tharum kalaviyE karudhi/
OdinEn Odi uyvadhOr poruLaal/
uNarvenum perumpadhan therindhu/
naadinEn nAdi nadi nAn kaNdukoNdEn/
nArAyaNA vennum nAmam.Being born into this body, a reservoir of profound sorrow, I am repenting, melting and crying, I am filled with pathos and self-pity;I have let myself run after beautiful women, seeking the sensual pleasures from their union; Through the grace of our Lord I have now realized that there is a greater goal and That will deliver me into eternal happiness; I have been searching for this state and have now found it IN THE SWEET NAME NARAYANA.

This pasuram will bring tears to the eyes of any devotee for AzhwAr’sBhakti and love and his heart longing for the lotus feet of our Lord Narayana.
All glories to the devotees who will be attending the Thiruvedipuri Utsavam on April 4 , 2023
Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

“Total surrender”…. ..” Pranaya Kalagam Uthsavam ( Panguni Uthiram vaibha

Kaveri Viraja Seyam Vaikuntam Rangamandiram,
Sri Vasudevo Rangesaha, Prathyaksham paramam patham
Vimanam Pranavakaram, Vedasrungam mahadbhutham
SriRangasayi bhagavan pranavaartha prakasakaha!

…….Vaishnavanam yatha sambhuh purananam idam tatha……. Parama Shiva is the foremost of all the Vaishnavas…….

Srimad Bhagavatam reveals that ParamaShiva is the foremost of all the Vaishnavas. (SB – 12.13.16) Vaishnavanam yatha sambhuh purananam idam tatha……

The great devotee of LORD NARASINGHA ” Swamy Annavilappan”

Lord SrimanNarayana out of abundant mercy sent Azhwars who appeared at different parts of South India during kaliyuga to spread Srivaishanvism and steadfast faith and devotion to Lord for their own up liftment .
They expressed their divine experience of Lord and His glorious kalyanagunas in their mystic outpourings in chaste Tamil language which are collectively known as “Nalayira Divya Prabandham”.
The divine pasurams (songs) contain rich philosophical and religious thoughts drawn from the Upanishads and Ithihasa Puranas. They cover all the essential teachings of Sri Vaishnavism and thus made a very great contribution for further development by our Poorvacharyas like Sriman Nathamunigal, Sri Yamunacharya, Swami Ramanuja and other revered acharyas who came after the Azhwars.
Swami Ramanuja made the most significant contribution to the development and propagation of the Visishtadvaita philosophy .

Swami Ramanuja systematized the system of thought of Srivaishnavism religion and the Azhwar’s pasurams to propagate among the masses.
Swami had thus established the Seventy Four (74) Simhasanadhipathis all over.
Swami also initiated in touring extensively all throughout the country visiting all the Srivaishnava Divya Desams where the presiding deities were praised by our Azhwars.
The foremost among the Seventy Four Simhasanadhipathis instituted by Swami Ramanuja was Vadhulakula Tilaka Swamy Mudaliyandan , the priya Bagineyar (nephew ) of Swami Ramanuja.
Swami Appachiaranna was the direct descendant of Swami Mudaliyandan and occupies the nineth (9) position in the order. Swami Appachiaranna was addressed by Swami Manavala Mamunigal as “Nam Appachiarannao” .
It is said that swami Mamunigal gave him Sri Ramanujas Thirukkaipathram ( vessel ) to make two similar vigrahas ( idols ) of Mamunigal, one for the worship of Sri Appachiaranna Swamy himself and the other for Sri Vanamamalai Jeer Swami, the acharya of Sri Appachiaranna.
Sri Manavala Mamunigal also gave Appachiaranna the idol of
“Ennai Dheemanam Keduthar” ) worshipped by Sri Atkondavilli Jeer.
As directed by Swami Manaval Mamunigal, Appachiaranna lived at Kancheepuram in the Thirumaligai of Kandhadai Thozhapper performing Nithya Thiruvaradhanam to Lord “Sri Azhaithu Vazhvithavar” one among the shad bheras of Kanchi Perarulalan Perumal .
Check this post appended about Swamy Appacharianna ..
https://kazhiyurvaradanblog.in/2015/09/15/swami-appachiaranna-appearance-day-avani-hastam/

In the foot steps of Swami Ramanuja, Appachiaranna also spent his life time doing the Salaikinaru Kanikaryam ( The well from where water was taken for worshipping LORD VARADARAJA in Kancheepuram ) for the thirumanjanam of Perarulalan and Perundevi Thayar.
Swamy Appachiaranna Swami, the nineth descendant in the Vadhula race was sincerely serving Kancheepuram LORD VARADARAJA as per his Acharyars directions .
Swami Annavilappan , Thirukumarar (son ) of Appachiaranna Swami had a divine dream. The Lord of Singaperumal Koil Pataladhri Narasimha, appeared in the dream of Swami Annavilappan and ordered him to set right his abode at … Narasimha Vinnagaram…which was submerged in the sand dumes in the past ….
His abode which was covered under sand dunes and establish a place with agraharam and kainkaryaparas and to live ever in His Service.
Accordingly, Swami Annavilappan followed the divine order and lived his full life time in the service of the Lord of Singaperumal Koil

The present “Singaperumal Koil” was built during 8th century by the kings, Mahendra Varman and Narasimha Varman.
It was known as “Narasimha Vinnagaram” in those days, and belonged to Chengundram Village. Later the temple was eroded by sand.
Swami Annavilappan renovated this temple in later 15th century and established it to be the most visited temple by devotees .
The appearance day of this great Acharyar Swami Anavillapan is celebrated in a grand way at Singaperumal koil at chennai

The great acharya Swami Annavilappan’s Thirumasikettai Thirunakshatra Mahotsavam is celebrated in a grand way at Singaperumal Koil at Chennai during the tamil month of Maasi , Feb- March . Today March 14th 2023 is the appearance day of our Swamy .
Singaperumal Koil is about 25 kms from Tambaram and the temple is just 100 meters off the GST Road.
Jai Jai Narasimha
Sri Annavillappan Swami Thiru Avathara Mahotsavam (Maasi Kettai) is celebrated at Sri Mudaliandan Swami Thirumaligai (Singaperumal Koil) in a grand way.
Thiru Maasi kettai Satrumurai will be celebrated on March 4th 2024

Swamy Annavillappan Swami Thanian ( Glorification )
Vaadhoola Varadhacharya krupaapoorna manoratham |
Shri venkata gurum vandhe sheelathi guna saagaram ||
Devotees interested in participating in the seva may
Contribute by M.O/D.D/Cheque to the below address
In favor of “Sri Dasarathy Trust”,
Sri Mudaliandan Swami Thirumaligai,
4/345, Sannadhi Street,
Singaperumal Koil (near Chengalpet),
Kancheepuram District,
Pin Code – 603 204
Adiyen Ramanuja dasan
Pics : Courtesy Mudaliandan.com

LORD VENKATESHWARA AS PERCEIVED BY AZHWARS AND ACHARYAS

The term “Azhwar“ refers to those saintly souls who immerse themselves in the exclusive devotion of Lord Sriman Narayana in total and unconditional surrender.  The saints, as the supreme devotees of Lord Vishnu propagated Sri Vaishnavism among the masses through their poetical compositions in the vernacular highlighting the beautiful effulgent form, auspicious attributes and divine deeds of the Supreme Lord in His various incarnations based on their personal mystic experiences in 108 Divya desams . 

The Divya Prabhandams of the Azhwars are, therefore, held in as great veneration and reverence as the Vedas in Sanskrit. 

The Azhwars have together rendered 195 verses in praise of the Lord of the Seven Hills Sri Venkateshwara.  The largest number of compositions i.e. 63 have been compiled by the last among the twelve Azhwars named Tirumangai Azhwar

while Tiruppan Azhwar makes a passing reference to Tirumala in two of his eleven verses in praise of the Lord of Tiruvarangam. 

The first three Azhwars are collectively known as the Mudal Azhwars.  The first among them named Poigai Azhwar is the author of the Mudal Tiruvanthathi or the first hundred psalms and he has sung ten verses in praise of Lord Balaji.  He calls Venkatam as MAL UGANDA VUR i.e. the Abode most preferred by the Supreme Lord. 

The second Azhwar known as Bhutatazhwar has given us the Irandam Tiruvanthathi or the second hundred verses.  He has rendered nine verses on Tirmalaiappan and he refers to Lord Venkatesa as  VENKADATHAN VINNOR MUDI THOYUM PADHATHAN meaning thereby that the prostrating Devas or the demi-gods with bowed head worship the Lotus Feet of the Lord of the Seven Hills who is the Parama Purusha of the Vedas in Archa form in Tirumalai.

  The third Azhwar called Peyazhwar is the author of Munram Tiruvanthathi or the third hundred verses and he has composed as many as 19 verses in praise of Lord Govinda.

Peyazhwar refers to Venkadathan as VEDATHAN indicating that Lord Venkatesa is the one Supreme Lord without a second and the Ultimate Truth and Reality of the Vedas.  The fourth Azhwar by name Tirumalisai Azhwar who is the author of Nanmugan Tiruvanthathi has recorded 12 verses in praise of Tiruvenkadathan more or less on the lines of his three illustrious predecessors

Nammazhwar who is the crest jewel and the most prominent of all the Azhwars in one of his 44 verses in praise of Lord Venkatesa says that the entire life time should be spent in ceaseless loving service of the Supreme Lord in Tirumalai.  In his most popular verse beginning with the words AKALAHILLEN the saint abjectly surrenders himself to the Lotus Feet of the Lord declaring that His Consort Shree resides for ever in the bosom of the Lord inseparably united and indistinguishable from Him as fragrance from Lotus flower.

  The two are in fact One conceptually but different functionally.  The ethical idea of justice and the rule of law and the religious idea of redemption from sins by Grace are reconciled in Saint Nammazhwar`s Prapatti to the Divya Dhampathi. 

The inner purport is that Lord Venkateshwara rules strictly by the moral law of Karma whereas Mother Shree in His bosom entices Him by love to pardon the sinning souls.  Mother’s love is indispensable for gaining the Lord’s Grace.  Knowledge is inspired by devotion and Bhakti is illumined by Jnana and the two together constitute Bhakti utpanna Jnana or knowledge inspired by devotion. 

The whole attitude of devotion is consummated in Prapatti or Saranagathi ( surrender ) in the case of Nammazhwar when he says  PUGALONDRILLA ADIYEN UN ADIKKEEZH AMARNDU PUKUNDENE.

 His Lotus Feet are the sole refuge for all sinful souls.

In the eleven most poignant and moving verses composed by Kulaseharazhvar, the saint fervently prays to the Lord of the Seven Hills that he should always reside with the Tirumal in His Tirumala hills either as an insect or a bird or a fish or a vessel or a flower or a tree or a passing stream or a foot-step or any other object to see the coral lips of the Supreme Lord in ceaseless remembrance. 

In fact, the psalms of all the ten Azhwars on the Lord of the Seven Hills are full of piety and love that can move even the most stone hearted people into tears. 

These verses describe vividly the natural beauty of Tiruvengadam as also the glory and greatness of the Supreme Lord in lyrically brilliant Tamil verses, which cannot be recaptured in English translation

Name of the Azhwar             His work                                         Number of Verses

        

Periazhwar                              Tiruppallandu                                                  1

 Periazhwar    ,,                       Periazhwar Tirumozhi                                     7

Poigai Azhwar                          Mudal Tiruvanthathi                                      10

Bhutatazhwar                          Irandam Tiruvanthathi                                     9

Peyazhwar                               Mundram Tiruvanthathi                                 19

Trimalisaiazhwar                     Nanmugan Tiruvanthathi                               12

       ,,                                       Tirucchandaviruttam                                       2

Nammazhwar                          Tiruviruttam                                                     8

       ,,                                       Peria Tiruvanthathi                                           1

       ,,                                       Tiruvaimozhi                                                  35

Andal                                      Nacchiar Tirumozhi                                       16

Kulasekharazhwar                   Perumal Tirumozhi                                         11

Tiruppanazhwar                      Amalanadipiran                                                2

Tirumangaiazhwar       Peria Tirumozhi                                              55

         ,,                                     Tirukkurundandakam                                       1

         ,,                                     Tirunedunthandakam                                       3

         ,,                                     Siriya Tirumadal                                              1

         ,,                                     Peria Tirumadal                                               2

                                                         Total                         195 verses

Sri Ramanujacharya has not composed any devotional hymn in praise of the Lord of the Seven Hills.  However, at the very start of his monumental Magnum Opus called the Sri Bhasya which is his detailed commentary on the Vedanta Sutras, in the Invocatory verse he begins the work praying to the Lord in Tirumala with the words SRUTI SIRASSI VIDEEPTE BRAHMANI SRINIVASE.  In this introductory verse he seeks the blessings of Lord Venkatesa with the words -“ May my mind be filled with devotion towards the Highest Brahman the Abode of Goddess Shree who is luminously revealed in the Upanishads. 

Swamy Yamunacharya (also glorified as as Alavandar who was Acharyar to Swamy Ramanuja )  who in his poetical work called the STOTRA RATNA  (the Hymn Jewel) asks the question KAHA SRIHI SRIYAHA?  His question is who is the Lord of Shree?  This question is an obvious reference to the passage in the Purusha Sukhta  HRISCHA TE LAKSMISCHA PATNYOU i.e. Hari and Shree are Lord Srinivasa`s consorts

Among the subsequent Sri Vaishnava Acharyas Swamy Vedanta Desika and Pillai Perumal Iyengar have rendered detailed poetical works in praise of Lord Venkateswara. 

In his hymnal work called DAYA SATAKAM Swamy Vedanta Desika has composed a hundred and odd verses exclusively in praise of the Daya /Abundant mercy of the Lord of the Seven Hills.  The prolific poet begins his work with the words

PRAPDYE TAM GIRIM PRAYAHA SRINIVASANUKAMPAYA

by surrendering himself like Swamy Nammalwar in AGALAHILLEN to Lord Venkateshwara before taking up the task of describing the Lord’s profound mercy.  According to scholarly Acharyas, this work of hundred verses can be grouped into ten verses each and each decade refers to an auspicious attribute of Lord Venkateshwara

1. He is the sole Lord of Immortality
2. He is omniscient and omnipotent , all knowing and all powerful
3. He removes the miseries and ills of His devotees
4. He is the sole means for release from samsara
5. He is the one single goal of life
6. He is the sole refuge in Prapatti (Surrender)
7. He is easily accessible even to the most sinful
8. The Supreme Lord’s Abode is Tirumala
9. He takes Avataras and
10. Those who surrender to Him gain release here and now

“Venkatadri Samasthanam Brahmande Nasti Kinchana,

Venkatesha Samo Devo Na Bhuto Na Bhavishyati”

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pictures/Videos : Courtesy Google images

What makes me king is not the crown which men set on my head.. But king only , when our Emperor Lord Rama’s Lotus- Feet adorn on my head as my crown.”

One day, during the recitation of the Srimad Ramayana by the  Royal guru,  King  Kulasekhara heard the following passage:

There twice seven thousand giants stand
with impious heart and cruel hand.
Here Rama stands, by virtue known;
how can the hero fight alone?

On hearing the lines “How can the hero fight alone?” King Kulasekhara rose in a frenzy of devotion for  Lord  Rama and commanded his army to march with him to where  Lord  Rama was fighting alone and helpless.  

To relieve Kulasekhara’s distress, the ministers silently  arranged for a battalion  of soldiers to meet him as he was going out and tell him that  Lord Rama had been victorious thus avoiding the King’s confusion. In spiritual delirium, Kulasekhara believed their tale and returned home

The daily recital of Srimad Ramayana went on as usual andevery important event which was read, was celebrated with great  pomp and rejoicings, and taking Lord  Sri Rama’s deity along with all the family members  in  huge  procession throughthe streets of his city with royal endeavours    ending with the  sumptuous feedings  to devotees and donations to  sages  and with distribution of charities  and whatever a King could offer in celebration of the Emperors of the celestial world .That was the great Kulashekara Alwar a great devotee of Lord Rama

Knowing the peculiar temperament of the king, and his keen spiritual susceptibility which carried him to the stigmata-stage, the reader (to the king) of Ramayana exercised utmost caution during the daily recitation of Srimad Ramayana

RaghuVeera Gadyam

However, one day, the reader Royal Guru was obliged to be absent himself, as other business called him elsewhere. He deputed his son to do the recital in his place.

The son was unaware of the king’s abnormal religious fervour; and so he read and expatiated on all passages of the Srimad  Ramayana alike. And the incident of Sita’s abduction by the demon  Ravana, came to be read.

Ayodhya Sree Raam lalla

 Instantly, it lit fire to the King’s imagination, his wrath roused, and his enthusiasm burst forth.

Come on … “Immediately, he roared

  Yes !!!   I must  take charge and ,”across the ocean,” he raved, ‘”reduce Lanka to ashes,  slay its ruler, Ravana, with all his crew of brothers, friends and relations,  rescue my weeping mother Sita and join her with my Father Sri  Rama.”

 As he raved, he rose, armed himself, bid his army. He rushed immediately along with his armies forth to the sea-shore, looking towards Lanka, plunged into it without a thought of the dire consequences which must follow from such rash and reasonless act.

The ministers and others were shocked in anxiety and dread, and wonder staring in their faces, eagerly watched the King’s procedure. They were so staggered as not to be able even to think how to advise him against his head strong impulses, nor dare to move to prevent him from giving action to his impulses.

As they could not think anything at this critical juncture, they simply stared.

 As they stared, the King had already plunged into the sea, and was neck-deep in water, resolved to swim the vast stretch of the ocean beyond, to reach the shores of Lanka.That was the deep devotion he had for the Lordships

All compassionate Lord SriRama who was being worshipped in our Saint’s Home-Shrine, was watching throughout, the course of events.

Now matters had assumed a critical aspect. There was noalternative.

   I must appear now to my child said HE and lo! as the King was about to swim forward in the delirium of his frenzy, he saw before him the  most enchanting sight of our Lord  Sri Rama approaching him, with his dear consort sita, clinging to His powerfularm.

Addressing his devout servant, our King-Saint Kulasekhara-

Lord Sri Rama spoke, O my dear Kulasekhara ! My child

 We are returning victorious from the battlefield. Our foe-men have all perished. Our illustrious Partner we have rescued. Your .venture for our aid has been forestalled, and your wish has been fulfilled.

Pray let us all return to thy city. Let me lift and carry you  to the shore, even as souls are lifted and carried by us from the larger and deeper sea of Samsara, to the shores of Heaven beyond.

“So saying, Sri  Rama caught hold of His king-servant, brought  him safe to the shore, and accompanying him as far as the city, vanished out of sight.

The ministers and the crowd surrounding him whispered ..

“God-sick is our king; what is the remedy for this disease?

 Let us diagnose. Ah, we find the cause row.

It is the association with the Godly and the Saintly  -the Vaishwavas—that has brought the king to this pass

.Let us wean him then from such associations.” Such were the cogitations of the poor ministers who surrounded the king.

The king who, on the other hand,was daily sighing to go to Sri Rangam and live there forever, was now in earnest.He ordered preparations to be made for his bidding adieu to his kingdom and join the Kingdom of God.

The ministers thought: —”When the king  goes there, he will never return. The association with the Godly there, is even of a worse (!) type than here.

Irresistible associations abound there; let us devise a plan to foil the king’s designs. He is so attached to Godly men—the vaishnavas that he looks upon them  as God’s•own ; and being so, worthy of first worship, or worthy of worship even before God Himself.” So, whenever the king essayed to go to SrlRaniga Shrine, the ministers had a batch of Srl-Vaishnavas ready as hailing from one Holy Shrine or the other. The king would postpone his journey on their account. In course of time, the ministers found that their plan proved but a case of ‘out of the frying pan into the fire,’ for the king’s court, hispalace, his private apartments as well as public places all became swarmed with  vaishnavas  who  came and went regularly.

The Vaishnavas were allowed free access and familiarity, and the king literally venerated and adored them according to the procedures  as Sastric  injunction  say that ‘ a Srt vaishmiva even once worshipped’ carried the merit of worshipping the Supreme Lord himself  The ministers found these Godly folks a nuisance and were in a fix as to what to do.

They felt  worried as any move will upset the King . If they tried to wean the king from his Srt-Ranga journey, they had to suffer the Godly people assembling in huge numbers and  to assemble and accumulate-but their crowd was becoming unmanageable-

but if they tried to eradicate this root of the king’s divine ailment,— asthey thought always by bringing about their evacuation from the country, the king would say farewell to his dominions and depart.

“Supposing we could by some means calumniate these  people , in the king’s eye, “they thought, “then he would certainly awake from his delusion of believing: these are godly men.

 If the godly,-as he thinks-were proved ungodly, there is a good chance of re claiming the king from his odd ways.

” They thus hit upon a method:–Out of the box ‘ containing the valuable jewellery of the king’s darling deity Lord  Sri-Rama, they secreted a precious necklace, unknown to anyone. It would be missed, and reported to the king of course.

 He would hold an inquiry. And who should be the culprit ?

Surely these seeming vaishnavas , who arc the warders and guarders of the jewellery, the appointed priests as they were for fulfilling the function of daily worshipping Sita Rama and therefore directly concerned in constantly using the jewellery. So, the necklace was missed and a report was made to the king that the Sri Vaishnavas who had the management in their hands of the worship-department, were culpable; and were to be subjected to trial  and punishment.

The king heard it all but at last exclaimed in a loud tone

“Hear  hey … ministers,

True Lovers of God are incapable of stealing.

It is impossible that even a notion of vice can enter into their thought, motto  say of act. Be hold ! I can swear to what I say. To prove this truth of my conviction and prove the falsity of your accusation against my Innocents, let a vessel, with a live venomous cobra imprisoned in it, be brought to me. I shall thrust my hand into it.” As soon said  as done. And the King, before his Court in solemnconclave assembled, said : “If my Innocents are straight In thought, word and deed, I cannot be bit by thiscobra ; but if they are crooked, let it bite me and kill.”

So saying, he fearlessly plunged his arm into the vessel of death, but drew it forth as clean as when he thrust in . The ministers were put to shame they hung

their heads.

 It was useless, they thought, to dodge and trifle with the king, who was to’o much for them ;fell at his feet, confessed their trick, brought the necklace and placed it before him in fear and respect.

The king pardoned them even as Kama pardoned the vile culprit Kakusura, the crow,—and the King was Lord Rama’sdiscipl and bid them from that away forward to be the slaves of his Innocents.

” No more will I dwell with these  vile and scheming ministers “, the king thought within himself, “l am disgusted with all of them.

Why them  ? well the whole worlds weary to me.

With the world and with the worldliness  feel as if I would rather allow myself to be placed in the midst of flaming fire than keep company with them.

Brutes are  those who are turned away from God

” So determined, our Saint would no longer bear to remaining his kingly estate, but called his son named Dridhavrata(so called after his grand-father), and entrusted him with the charge of his government, and accompanied by his daughter,—who, it is recorded, was a divine daughter of the Amsa of devi  went to the Shrine of Ranga, — his heart’s Eternal Hunger. And there he gave his daughter in marriage to Lord Ranganatha  Himself and remained there for a length of time engaged in conducting manifold services to the

Majestic Lordships  and his devout servants

 At intervals he undertook pilgrimages to  Holy Shrines as Tiruvewgadam( Tirupati ,Ayodhya, Chitrakutam, and all divine places  and as an embodiment of the divine emotions and enjoyments which came to him on all these occasions, is penned to us  as the Dravida Prabandha, called  Perumal Tirumozhi, consistingof one hundred and five stanzas .

He undertook a pilgrimage to the Shrine of Swamy .Nammnzhvar, (Tirunagari near Tirunalvelli),

It was this Royal Saint who sang the gem of strotas  MUKUNDA MALA

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pics : Courtesy Google images and Pics shared by devotees from social media

THIRUMANGAI AZHWAR APPEARANCE DAY 27-11-2023

All Merciful “Lord Sriman Narayana” appears in five different forms as para, vyuha, vibhava, archai and antaryAmi . To uplift the fallen souls Lord advises the Nityasurees to incarnate in the mortal world and spread the message of divine love and true knowledge for a common man to come back to God head .

Thus Azhwars were the incarnations of of Lord Sriman Narayana’s divine weapons and ornaments (“Azhwar” in Tamil means ‘one who is immersed’). Since the advanced saints were always immersed in the Lord and His qualities, they were glorified as Azhwars and the places which was glorified by Azhwars are earmarked as Divya desams . Out of the 12 azhwars, 4 Azhwars appeared towards the end of Dwapara yuga and Eight Azhwars appeared during Kali yuga.

• Poigai Azhwar – Panchajanya ( Lord Krishna’s conch)
• Bhootha Azhwar – Kaumodakee (Lord Maha Vishnu’s Mace/Club)
• Pey Azhwar – Nandaka ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s sword)
• Tirumazhisai Azhwar – Sudarshanam ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s discus)
• Nammazhwar – Vishvaksena ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s commander)
• Madhurakavi Azhwar – Vainatheya ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s , Garuda)
• Kulasekara Azhwar – Kaustubha ( Lord MahaVishnu’s necklace)
• PeriyaAzhwar – Garuda ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s eagle
• Andal – Bhoodevi
• Thondaradippodi Azhwar – Vanamaalai ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s garland)
• Tiruppaan Azhwar- Srivatsa (An auspicious mark on Lord Maha Vishnu’s chest)
• TirumangaiAzhwar – Sharanga ( Lord Rama’s bow)

The Srivaishnava Divyadesams are  the temples glorified by 12 azhwars. Among the 108 Divyadesams, 105 temples are located in India and one in Nepal. The remaining two temples are in the celestial world glorified as Sri Vaikuntam and ThiruParamapadham.  The 106 temples are classified into six divisions –

• Chozha Nadu divya desam – 40 temples situated in Central Tamilnadu around Trichy,Kumbakonam,Mayavaram, Srikazhi,Nagapatinam
• Pandya Nadu divya desams– 18 temples situated in southern part of Tamilnadu around Madurai,Tirunelveli, Ramnathapuram, Sivakasi
• Nadu nadu divya desams – 2 temples in the northern part of Tamilnadu located near Virudhunagar and Cuddalore
• Thondai nadu divya desams -22 temples in the northern part of Tamilnadu located in and around Chennai(4),Kanchipuram (15), Arakonam(3)
• Malai nadu divya desams – 13 temples out of which 2 are in Southern tip of tamilnadu and the rest 11 temples are in Kerala scattered around Trivandrum,Chenganoor, Ernakulam, Thrissur
• Vada nadu divya desams – 11 temples out of which 2 are in Andhra Pradesh, 1 in Gujarat, 4 in Uttar Pradesh, 3 in Uttaranchal and 1 in Muktinath.

The 4000 Divya Prabandham(Naalayira Divyaprabhandham) also known as “Dravida Vedas” are the out pouring of the Azhwars who  appeared in Southern India  few thousand year ago as per the divine commands of Lord Sriman Narayana to uplift the humankind and thus composed the divine pasurams which all the vaishnavas make it a law to recite . In Srimad Bhagavatam, Lord declares that HIS devotees would be born in Kaliyuga around the banks of Tambaraparani ,Cauvery rivers. As the recitation of vedas is restricted tto only few (women and low caste are not allowed to recite them), the compassionate Lord made azhwars appear on the earth for the upliftment of one and all and compose the pasurams in nectarian Tamil so that it could be relished by all.

Thirumangai Azhwar, the last among all the Azhwars was the only Azhwar who has glorified the maximum number of temples -86 divya desams and he alone has the credit of glorifying  47 divya desams exclusively. 

Azhwar appeared on the 397^th year after the advent of Kaliyuga as per “Guru Parampara prabhavam” composed by Sri.Pinbhagzhagiya Perumal Jeeyar a disciple of Swamy Nampillai,,,

Neelan as he was called appeared on a bright Thursday in Nala varushey(year name), Karthigai maasey (karthigai month as per tamil calender[Nov-Dec])on Krithikai star on Pournami in Kallar kulam at Thirukuraiyalur – a small village near Thirunangoor about one hour drive from Sirkazhi

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His parents –Aaliaaduudaiyaar(father) and Vallithiru (mother) named him as “Neelan” as he was Neelavarnan . He had various other names which he himself mentions in the last verse of his works (pasuram) dedicated to Sirkazhi Perumal as “Aali naadan”, “Arulmaari”, “Aratamukki”, “mangai vendhan”, “parakaalan”, “kaliyan”,”thirumangai mannan”, “Naalukavi Perumal). Lord (Perumal) addressed him as “kaliyano??” .

As he was like kaalan for people who refuted “paran”(perumal), he came to be known as “Parakaalan” . He was an expert in composing different types of poems in different meters as per Tamil grammar which earned him the name “Naalu Kavi Perumal”.

In thanian ( Introductory verses ) for Peria Thirumozhi, Swamy Embaar says “Engal gathiye Ramanusa muniye…..mangaiyar kon eendha marai aayiram anaithum thangumanam enaku thaa” which means Swamy Embaar submits to Swamy Ramanuja grace for remembering the 1000 pasurams sung by the famous Thirumangai Azhwar and hence the Sattaree is “Ramanuja Padhuka” who in turn is considered as “Thirumangai Azhwar’s padhuka” at Tirunagari divya desam

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Swamy Manavala Maamunigal in the ninth verse (pasuram) of the great work Upadesaratnamalai glorifies the appearance day of Thirumangai Azhwar as “VEERUDAYA KARTHIGAIYIL KAARTHIGAI NAAL”as this azhwar exhibited his veeram (valour) in getting Perumal’s anugraham. 

Its a great day as Azhwar , Acharyar Nampillai and Asmath acharyar-Sri Kumara Venkatacharyar( descendant of Swamy MudaliAndaan ) also appeared on the same dayThree important festivities are celebrated grandly in this village.(1) Thai Amavaasai for 3 days (Jan-Feb)(2)Thiruvedupari utsavam on Panguni-Pooram (March-April)(3)Thiru avataara utsavam-10 day utsavam during Karthigai month culminating on Karthigaiyil Karthigai

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Neelan was very valiant and brave which earned him a position as army chief in Chola kingdom . He was later elevated to the position of a king for a small territory named “Aalinaadu” . Thus we have “Thirumangai mannan” who had that power , fame , position which took him to material pleasures like any human . The possessions and power engulfed him . Blinded by daring heroism, Neelan was indulged in sensual pleasures

(Azhwar himself admits in his pasurams that he was behind dove-eyed beautiful women).

By Perumal’s nirukethu sankalpam, he happened to meet Kumudavalli daughter of a physician in Thiruvellakulam who played a vital role in transforming Neelan into Azhwar. Her appearance also was a divine plan to correct Neelan in the right path …

Kumudhavalli a damsel (apsaras) who was named Thirumaamagal/Sumangalai along with her friends descended on Himalayan forests mocked at a siddhar who was being imparted knowledge by Kapila maharishi. The infuriated rishi cursed her to descend to earth and get married to a human being .

When she repented for her mistake and asked for a means to go back to the heavenly planet, the sage advised her to transform Neelan(an amsam of Saarangam) and make him a great devotee and get married to him.

After accomplishing her mission, he blessed her that she would be able to get back to her heavenly abode. Thus , she appeared as a small girl on the banks of Swetha Pushkarini(Thiru vella kulam) in front of Srinivasar Kovil in Thirunangoor.

A physician who happened to pass by was attracted to the small kid. He learnt from her about the cause of her appearance and adopted her as his daughter. As he was childless for a long time, he considered to be Lord Srinivasar’s blessings .As she was seen holding Kumudha flower, he named her as Kumudavalli.

Once Neelan , the ruler of the province around Thirunangoor happened to come to Thiruvellakulam. He was mesmerized by Kumudavalli’s beauty and expressed his ardent desire to marry her. He approached her parents and expressed hos desire .

The Parents were overjoyed as the King was at their doorstep . However , Kumudavalli expressed her desire “to marry only to a person who sported Thiruman kaapu ( Tilak ) on his forehead and got pancha samskaaram ( initiation ) done”.

Immediately Neelan set out in search of an Acharya to get initiated (pancha samskaaram in srivaishnava sampradaya) done.

No one dared to initiate him considering his qualities.

The ever compassionate Lord Srinivasar of Thirunaraiyur appeared before him as a Priest and did panchasamskaaram to Neelan. Later, Thirukannapuram Lord Sowriraja Perumal imparted the intricate meanings of Ashtakshari to him. Hence, these two Lordships are considered as “Acharyar” for Azhwar.

Having fulfilled her condition, Neelan approached Kumudavalli . She replied

Oh Prince ! Am glad with your desire in entering a relationship with me .But please understand as your better half I have another condition . I wish you undertake to carry out the bhaagavatha dhadhiaaradanam to 1000 people for one year which gives me immense satisfaction.

Neelan accepts the condition with a smile as she would be his queen soon .

Now , the couple did dhadhiyaaradhanam for one year and continued with the kainkaryam later. The place where he did dhadhiyaaradhanai kainkaryam is known as “Mangai maadam”.

It was a grand feast every day . A vast area was covered with pandals .for devotees thronging daily . It became a sacred shrine with hundred of devotees gathering daily with vaishnava tilaks and glorifying Lordships with songs . Few were discussing the greatness of Neelan and kumudha .Filled with bhagavathas , the place became more vibrant with devotion.

Neelan loved the new role. He never questioned the spending even the coffers of Thirumangai was coming to a stock out position . The Ministers whispered about the coffers getting emptied , but he continued the services selling his jewellary and other precious things .

The news reached the chozha king. He summoned Neelan to return the entire money or face repercussion. As Neelan didn’t oblige, the king had to send an army . Neelan defeated the army with ease . Shocked , the king came in person to wage a war.

Knowing Neelan’s might, the king with the help of his minister, conspired a plan to trick Neelan and arrested him.

Neelan was locked up in a temple for 3 days without food and water.(very similar to bhakta Ramadasar). The ever compassionate Lord Varadarajar of Kanchipuram appeared in Neelan’s dream informing that he could use the wealth lying on the banks of Vegavati river in Kanchipuram to clear the king’s dues.

The next day , Neelan informed the king that he would return the entire money given a chance . The King sent Neelan along with his soldiers to the banks of Vegavati river.

The search could not find any wealth . The Soldiers were instructed to harm Neelan If the search was untrue.

Lord appeared in Neelan’s dream again and informed him the exact location of the wealth. Neelan , overjoyed once again marched to the river and thus found the wealth. He cleared the king’s dues and kept the balance with him for continuing the bhagavatha kainkaryam which he got infected to.

The greedy king along with few others who realized that Neelan had wealth , claimed that their dues were not fully settled and asked for more wealth.

Neelan prayed to Lordships to help him out . The Compassionate Lord asked him to measure the sand on the banks of Vegavati river using “marakkal”( a measure) and settle the dues.

Obediently , Neelan accordingly collected the sand and handed over the same in gunny bags. This infuriated the king that Neelan was giving them sand instead of wealth.

But as the soldier who was trying to put the same in treasury , it turned into gold dust. The king realized that Neelan was not an ordinary person. He begged forgivance and after rewarding him sumptuously , released him forever,

It was a home coming . Neelan resigned from the king’s service and dedicated his full time for bhaagavatha kainkaryam. To continue the kainkaryam, Neelan resorted to looting wealth from the rich peasants who were egoistic selfish and greedy .

He did that by waylaying with the help of his four friends -Neermel nadappan(one who could walk across water), nizhalil odhunguvaan(one who was an expert in following a person’s shadow), thaaaludhuvaan (one who could open any lock without key), tholavazhakkan(one who could not be defeated in any argument).

As the looting expedition was also getting a bad name to Neelan who was doing a great kainkaryam ( service ) Lordships of Thiruvaali divyadesam along with Thaayar had to intervene.

The Lordships appeared as a newly wed couple fully bedecked with costly jewels and set out on a closed palanquin to Thiruvaali .

Neelan’s friends who came to know of this, informed Neelan that if the bridal party is looted, they would have enough wealth to support lifelong bhagavatha kainkaryam. Neelan was very pleased . He immediately galloped on his horse(Aadalmaa) followed by his thief-friends and reached the place which is presently known as “Thirumanan kollai”.

On reaching the place, Neelan threatened the couple to part with their entire jewellery. Accordingly , the couple surrendered all their jewellery except the toe ring on the bride as it could not be removed.

Though Neelan had the entire loot , Lord veiled a maya on him which made him to lure for the toe ring too which was very attractive. Neelan himself bent down to remove the ring but as his efforts were futile, he tried to remove the ring with the help of his teeth by his mouth.

Unknowingly, he surrendered to Thayar’s lotus feet for the material wealth .But , by coming into contact with Goddess (Thayar’s) lotus feet, wisdom dawned on him. He was mesmerized and choked with no words . He attempted to move quickly and thus bundled the entire loot in a big cloth. Looking at the divine couple , he tried to lift the baggage but for its weight .

Shocked that the small booty could not be lifted , Neelan thought that the bridegroom must have cast a spell on the bundle . He wanted to frighten the bridegroom now . He threatened them with a dagger to reveal the secret which made that booty so heavy that he couldnt lift it .

The mischievous bridegroom smiled and agreed to share the secret with him . He advised him to purify himself in the nearby stream and wait under the banyan tree (arasa maram).

Neelan did as advised and the bride groom uttered the sacred Ashtakshari mantram on Neelan’s right ear.

Wisdom dawned on Neelan and there was an instant flash …. he repented for all his deeds. He understood his real purpose of his birth . The divine couple appeared as Lord Lakshmi-Narayanan on Garuda vahanam and blessed their child .

Lord addressed him as Thirumangai mannan as he had the blessing of Thiru (Thayar first).

Now the jeevatma “Thirumangai mannan” in ecstasy repenting for all his misdeeds outpours torrential verses instantaneously in presence of Divyadampathigal starting with the most beautiful verse ….

“vaadinen vaadi varundhinene manathaal……”

concluding each phrase glorifying “Narayana” naamam…..

The name N A R A Y A Y A N A itself can give stature and wealth. The name destroys miseries .This Holy name gives a seat in heaven a seat in Paramapadam .It will give you strength It will give you everything .This lovely name will give more that what a loving mother can give …And thus Azhwar reveals saying ..

.I have found such a good word in HIS holy name….

This wonderful incident is recapitulated every year in the holy place and is celebrated grandly as “Thiru vedupari utsavam” on the night preceding Panguni Uthiram in the month of March-April . As part of 10 day brahmotsava celebrations at Thiruvaali, on the sixth day, Lord (Perumal ) arrives to wed Goddess ( Thayar ) and set out on a “moodu pallaku”. The divine wedding (thirukalyanam) takes place in the afternoon and saatrumarai goshti gets over by 9 p.m .

Later the divine couple set out on a palanquin slowly and head toward Thirumangai maadam and rest in a mandapam. Azhwar sets out from Thirunagari temple at midnight and swiftly reaches the mantapam and goes round the couple thrice.

A screen is drawn and it is presumed that all the ornaments are removed. Lord gets ready to give darshan on Garuda vahanam along with Thayar. Meanwhile Thirumangai mannan is taken to a nearby mandapam where thousands of devotees throng to have the beautiful sight of Azhwar riding on the horse for about an hour.

Later Azhwar is taken towards Perumal who imparts the Eight syllable mantra “Ashtakshari. The bhog is offered to the Lordship. Azhwar circumblates around Lordships with benevolence.

Lord blesses Thirumangai Azhwar with prasadam, maalai, parivattam. The assembled goshti start reciting “Vaadinen vaadi….” slowly and after completing of the first 10 pasurams, mangalaaarthi is given to both Perumal and Azhwar.

This incident happens around early hours 2-3 a.m. The entire group return to Thiruvaali temple and on the way , the entire Peria Thirumozhi ( the compositions of Thirumangai Azhwar ) is recited by the goshti.

One devotee relished his experience that when the azhwar sets out from the temple to loot the Lord, his valour ,pride ,strength ,determination can be seen on Azhwar’s thirumugam and when he returns after having Perumal’s darsanam, Azhwar’s speed is reduced as he becomes submissive having shed away his pride and takes about 4 hours to reach the temple as the procession moves slowly.

Coming back to the divine incident , Neelan who becomes transformed to Thirumangai Azhwar decides to visit all the holy shrines and glorify the Lordships .

Lord captivated his attention by giving HIM beautiful darshan in all the temples. In his divine pasurams, he vividly describes the Lord, location of the holy place , surroundings and the opulence .

Azhwar , personally visits the divya desams beginning with the Northern side temples starting at Thirupiridhi ( JoshirMutt ) and submits his glorifications to the Lord . Every verse he puts before LORD moves the person with tears reciting them .

The struggle of a jiva in this material world seeking true knowledge with stiff opposition of maya draws comparision with all of us .

Thirumangai Azhwar composed six prabhandhams which are treasures .He stands second to Swamy Nammazhwar in the contributions to Divya Prabhandam.

Thirumangai Azhwar’s six prabhandhams are the six angams for Maaran’s four works (Nammazhwar’s four prabhandhams-

Thiruvaimozhi,

Thiruvirutham,

Thiruvaasiriyam ,

Peria Thiruvandhadhi)

Azhwar’s compositions are:

• Peria Thirumozhi comprising of 1084 pasurams
• Thirukurunthandakam comprising of 20 pasurams
• Thirunedunthandakam comprising of 30 pasurams
• Thiruvezhukootruirukai comprising of 1 pasuram
• Siriya Thirumadal consisting of 155 lines considered as 1 pasuram
• Peria Thirumadal consisting of 297 lines considered as 1 pasuram

Details of 86 temples glorified by Azhwar starting from Srirangam with PRABHANDHAM reference are given below:

Out of these, 70 temples are in Tamilnadu,

2 in Andhra,

4 in Kerala,

1 in Gujarat,

4 in Uttar Pradesh,

2 in Uttaranchal,

1 in Nepal and 2 out of reach.

(PT-Peria thirumozhi; TKD-thirukurundhandakam; TND-tirunedundandakam

STM-siria thirumadal; PTM-peria thirumadal; TVKT-thiruvezhukootruirukai)

1. CHOLA NADU DIVYA DESAMS (Trichy,Kumbakonam,Thanjavur,Mayavaram ,Sirkazhi)

• Srirangam                             – 73   (PT, TKD, TND, STM, PTM)
• Thirukozhi(Uraiyur) -Uraiyur near Trichy –  01   (PT)
• Thirukarambanur(Uttamar kovil) – 01    (PT)
• Thiruvellarai                                                   -13     (PT,STM, PTM)
• Thirupernagar                                -19     (PT,TKD,TND, STM,PTM)
• Thirukandiyur                                                 – 01    (TKD)
• Thirukoodalur                              -10     (PT)
• Thirupullamboothangudi                              -10     (PT)
• Thiruaadhanoor                                  -01     (PTM)
• Thirukudandhai                                 -25   (PT,TKD,TND,STM, PTM, TVKT)-only Perumal who was referred to in all the 6 prabhandams
• Thiruvinnagar                                 -34     (PT,TND,STM,PTM)
• Thirunaraiyur                               -110   (PT, TND,STM, PTM)
• Thirucherai                                 -13     (PT,STM, PTM)
• Thirukannamangai                                -14      (PT,STM,PTM)
• Thirukannapuram                           -104    (PT, TND, STM,PTM)
• Thirukannangudi                             -10      (PT)
• Tirunaagai                           – 10 (PT)
• Thiruthanjhaimaamanikovil    –  03 (PT)
• Thirunandipuravinnagaram                        –  10 (PT)
• Thiruvelliangudi                          – 10 (PT)
• Thiruvazhundur                          -45 (PT, TND,STM,PTM)
• Thirusirupuliyur                        – 10 (PT)
• Thiruthalaisanganaanmadiyam  – 02 (PT)
• Thiruindhalur                         -11 (PT,PTM)
• Thirukaavalampaadi                     – 10 (PT)
• Thirukaazhiseerama vinagaram  – 10(PT)
• Thiruarimeya vinnagaram                     – 10 (PT)
• Thiruvanpurudothamam                   – 10 (PT)
• Thirusemponseikovil                      -10 (PT)
• Thirumanimadakovil                         -12 (PT,PTM)
• Thiruvaikuntavinnagaram                      – 10 (PT)
• Thiruvaali Tirunagari                        –  41 (PT, TND,STM,PTM)
• Thirudevanaar thogai                     -10 (PT)
• Thiruthetriambalam                    -10 (PT)
• Thirumanikoodam                   -10 (PT)
• Thiruvellakulam                      -10 (PT)
• Thirupaarthanpalli                      – 10 (PT)
• Thiruchitrakoodam                      – 21(PT,PTM)

NADU NADU DIVYA DESAMS(near Cuddalore,Vizhupuram)

• Thiruvahindrapuram                         – 10(PT)
• Thirukovalur                       –  18 (PT, TND, STM,PTM)

THONDAI NADU DIVYA DESAMS(in and around Kanchi, Arakonam,Chennai)

• Thirukachi athigiri                     – 04 (PT,TKD, TND)
• Thiruashtabuyakaram                         – 11(PT, PTM)
• Thiruthankaa                          -02 (PT,TND)
• Thiruvellukai                           – 01 (PTM)
• Thiruneeragam                         – 01 (TND)
• Thirupaadagam                          -02  (PT, PTM)
• Thirunilathingalthundam                    – 01 (TND)
• Thiruooragam                    –  04 (TND, STM, PTM)
• Thiruvekka                     –  06 (PT,TND,STM,PTM)
• Thirukaaragam                                             –  01 (TND)
• Thirukaarvaanam                     – 01 (TND)
• Thirukalvanoor                      – 01 (TND)
• Thirupavazhavannam                   – 01 (TND)
• Thiruparameswara vinnagaram                    -10 (PT)
• Thiruputkuzhi                      – 02 (PT, PTM)
• Thirunindravoor                     -02 (PT)
• Thiruevvul                                   – 11 (PT, PTM)
• Thiruallikeni                    -10 (PT)
• Thiruneermalai                    -19 (PT, TND,STM,PTM)
• Thiruidavendhai                        -13 (PT,STM,PTM)
• Thirukadalmallai                      -26 (PT,TKD,STM,PTM)
• Thirukadigai                     -03 (PT,STM)

VADA NADU DIVYA DESAMS(Andhra,Gujarat,Uttar Pradesh,Uttaranchal,Nepal)

• Thiruayodhi               – 01(PT)
• Thirunaimisaranyam                -10 (PT)
• Thirupiridhi                  -10 (PT)
• Thiruvadhariasramam                     -21 (PT, STM)
• Thirusalagraamam                    -10 (PT)
• Thiruvadamadurai                   -04 (PT, STM)
• Thiruvaayarpaadi                                        -07 (PT, STM)
• Thirudwaarakai                     -02 (PT)
• Thirusingavelkundram                   -10 (PT)
• Thiruvenkatam                    -61 (PT, TKD,TND,STM,PTM)

MALAI NADU DIVYA DESAMS(Kerala)

• Thirunaavai                                                        – 02(PT)
• Thirumoozhikalam                      – 03(PT,TND,PTM)
• Thiruvallavaazh                                             -11 (PT,PTM)
• Thirupuliyur                -01 (STM)

PANDYA NADU DIVYA DESAMS(near Madurai,Tirunelveli,Sivakasi,Ramnad,Trichy)

• Thirukurungudi                    -25 (PT,TND, PTM)
• Thiruthankaal            -04 (PT,TND, STM, PTM)
• Thirukoodal            – 01 (PT)
• Thirumaliruncholai             – 33(PT, TKD,STM,PTM)
• Thirumoghur                -01 (STM)
• Thirugoshtiyur               – 13 (PT,PTM)
• Thirupullani        – 21 (PT, PTM)
• Thirumeyyam            – 09 (PT, TKD,PTM)

DIVYA DESAMS NOT IN THIS WORLD

• Thirupaarkadal         – 11 (PT, TND)
• Thiruparamapadam                     – 01 (TKD)

As per the great compositions of “Peria Thirumozhi” Azhwar started from north, has sung ranging from minimum 10 pasurams to 100 pasurams .  Azhwar’s pasurams details the geographical locations . Peria Thirumozhi is divided into 10 hundreds and in each of the 10 pasurams, Ahwar glorifies only that particular divya desa Perumal.  ONly in the 10th hundred pasurams, azhwar has sung pasurams on multiple divyadesams.  IN Peria Thirumozhi, azhwar eloborates about 50 divya desams and the remaining 36 divya desams(out of 86 glorified by him) have been referred to in other prabhandhams.

While one recites them, the ambience feeling and the quench to have darshan of the Divya dampathees draws us closer and gives the soul to rejoice in bliss knowing its identity in seeking our loving Lord….

Divya desams as per Peria Thirumozhi are given below:-

VADA NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thirupiridhi (10) – Joshirmutt in Uttaranchal
• Thiruvadhiri (20) — Badrikasramam in Uttaranchal
• Thirusaalagramam (10) — Muktinath in Nepal
• Naimisaaranyam (10) — near Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh
• Singavelkundram (10) — Ahobilam in Andhra Pradesh
• Thiruvengadam (61) — Tirumala Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh

THONDAI NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thiruevvul (11) — Thiruvallur near Arakonam in Tamil nadu
• Thiruvellikeni (10) — Triplicane in Chennai
• Thiruneermalai (19) –Pallavaram in Chennai
• Thirukadalmallai (26) –Mahabalipuram near Chennai
• Thiruvidandhai (13) — near Mahabalipuram
• Thiruvattabuyakaran (11) — Ashtabhuja perumal in Kanchipuram
• Thiruparameswara vinnagaram (10) — In Kanchipuram

NADU NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thirukovalur (18) – in Vizhupuram-Thiruvannamalai route
• Thiruvahindrapuram (10) – near Cuddalore

CHOLA NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thillai Chitrakoodam (11) – Chidambaram Natarajar temple
• Thirukaazhi seeraama vinnagaram (10) -1 km from Sirkazhi station

THIRUNANGOOR DIVYA DESAMS TOTAL 11(About 1 hour drive from Sirkazhi)

• Thiruvaali Thirunagari (41) – 8 kms south east of Sirkazhi
• Thirumanimadakovil (12) – Thirunangoor- 8 kms from Sirkazhi
• Thiruvaikunta Vinnagaram (10) – Thirunangoor
• Thiruarimeya vinnagaram (10) – Thirunangoor
• Thirudevanaar thogai (10) – 4 kms from Thirunangoor
• Thiruvanpurudothamam (10) -8 kms from Sirkazh
• Thirusemponseikovil (10) -Thirunangoor
• Thiruthetriambalam (10) -Thirunangoor
• Thirumanikoodam (10) -1 km from Thirunangoor
• Thirukaavalampadi (10) -10 kms south of Sirkazhi
• Thiruvellakulam (10) -10 kms from Sirkazhi enroute to Nagapatinam
• Thirupaarthaanpalli (10) -3 kms from Sirkazhi Venkadu
• Thiruindhaloor (11) -in Mayavaram
• Thiruvelliangudi (10) -Kumbakonam -near Aduthurai
• Thirupullamboothangudi (10) -Kumbakonam-near Swamimalai
• Thirukoodalur (10) -Kumbakonam –tanjavur route near thiruvaiyaaru
• Thiruvellarai (13) -20 kms from Trichy near Thuraiyur
• Thiruvarangam (73) -Srirangam -12 kms from Trichy
• Thirunandhipuravinnagaram ( 10) – Nathan kovil-4 kms south of Kumbakonam
• Thiruvinnagar (34) -Oppiliappan kovil -7 kms from Kumbakonam
• Thirunaraiyur (110) – 9 kms from Kumbakonam enroute to Thiruvaarur
• Thirucherai (13) – 24 kms in Kumbakonam-Thiruvaarur route
• Therazhundhur (45) -21 kms from mayavaram enroute to Komal
• Sirupuliyur (10) -3 kms from Kollumangudi station-

in Mayavaram-thirvarur route

• Thirukannamangai (14) – 7 kms from Thiruvaarur
• Thirukannapuram (104) – 2 kms from Thirupugalur on Nagapatinam-

Nannilam route

• Thirukannangudi (10) – 1 km from Aazhiyur on Nagapatinam route
• Thirunaagai (10) – Nagapatinam

PANDYA NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thirupullani (21) -near Ramnathapuram
• Thirukurungudi (25) -12 kms from Nanguneri near Tirunelveli
• Tirumaliruncholai (33) -20 kms from Madurai
• Thirugoshtiyur (13) – near Karaikudi

MALAI NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thiruvallavaazh (11) -Tiruvalla on Ernakulam-Kollam route

In most of the pasurams , Azhwar repents starting with “vaadinen vaadi….” and claims that he has got everything now with the great Narayana thirunaamam.

He confesses to Lord Srinivasar at Tirumala for all his misdeeds and praises his mind for having resorted to the Lord’s holy feet.He says that he was under the illusion that his parents,wife etc are everything -did many mistakes when he was in  youth,later he strived hard for serving his family and now with repentance approached the Lord like a dog and prays to Lord to accept him.  (Azhwar who is an amsam of Lord couldn’t have been so but just to uplift us, he demeans himself)

In pasurams dedicated to Lord Narasimhar of Ahobilam, the place is only accessible to devas.

IN the pasurams dedicated to Naimisaranyam, he surrenders to the Lord Devarajan for upliftment. He addresses the Lord as “mother-Naimisaaranyathul enthaai…” .

He addresses all the five forms of the Lord at Thiruvellikeni-Parthasarathy, Thelliya singam, Gajendra Varadar,Ramar,Ranganathar.

During his course of enlightened journey the Divya dampathees ( Lordships in the temples ) were eager to meet their child which can be authenticated by citing a divine incident. During his journey Azhwar by oversight skipped Thirunindravoor near chennai and after doing mangalasaasanam at Thiru-evvul, he directly proceeds to Thiruvellikeni and in due course reached Mahabalipuram.

Goddess Sudhavalli Thayar-the divine consort of Lord Bhaktavatsalan persuades Lord to invite Azhwar as he had missed them by oversight. . Lord appeared at his next destination Thirukadalmallai and while glorifying the Lordships at Thirukadalmallai, Lord Bhaktavatsalan gave a vision to azhwar which made him take HIS name.

In the course of his travel, Azhwar glorified (mangalasaasanam) at 86 divya desams and finally reached Srirangam and undertook various construction and renovation activities.

However, Lord commanded to continue his services as HE wanted to relish the nectarine outpourings of Azhwar. (Very similar to Annamacharyar’s life)

Later he composed Thirukurunthandakam comprising of 20 pasurams where he begs Lord (Perumal) expressing his craving to have HIS darshan (as Perumal wanted him to reach the highest transcendental bliss)

Thirunedunthandakam comprising of 30 pasurams(in the first set of 10 pasurams, Azhwar sings with his own identity , in the 2^nd set of 10 pasurams, azhwar assumes the role of a mother expressing her daughter’s plight and in the last set of 10 pasurams , donning the role of a girl expresses her desire to attain Perumal to her friend ) .

Our most revered Acharyar Swamy Parasara bhattar used to always contemplate on this prabhandham and thus invited Nanjeeyar into Srivaishnavism by a debate based on this lovely prabhandham. During Adhyayana utsavam , this is recited on the first day and the goshti is honoured with medicated oil to be smeared on the vaishnavas neck who would recite as a honrarium.

Thiruezhukootruirukkai comprising of one pasuram glorifies Lord Aaravamudhan of Thirukudandhai.

In Siriya Thirumadal Azhwar assumes the role of a lovelorn lady who suffers pangs of separation from her lover-. She holds his picture in her hand, longing for her lover’s association. She contemplates on how to defame the various archa murthis but faith prevails upon her which makes her restrain from doing so. She waits patiently and with confidence that her Lord would come to take her. The emotional outpourings takes us to transcendental heights.He composed both the madals at Thirunaraiyur as the Lord of Thirunariayur is considered as the acharyar for him.

In Peria thirumadal, Azhwar becomes restless for poor response from the Lordships. He starts lamenting how the Lord who had taken various forms and resides in various divyadesams didn’t concede her request even after repeated pleading . Realising that the Lord cannot be confronted in commanding , he decides by just surrendering to HIM he would be pleased and respond.

Thirumangai Azhwar personally visited all the above holy shrines on his courageous horse “aadalma”.

He has done mangalasaasanam (glorified) to 86 divyadesams and has the special honor of glorifying the Lord exclusively in 47 divya desams. The 47 divyadesams which was glorified by Thirumangai Azhwar alone are as follows ….

Thirukozhi, Thirukarambanur, Thirukandiyur, Thirukoodalur, Thirupullamboothangudi, Thiruaadhanoor, Thirucherai, Thirukannamangai, Thirukannangudi, Thirunaagai, Tirunandipuravinnagaram,Thiruvelliangudi, Thiruvazhundur, Tirusirupuliyur, Thiruthalaisanganaanmadhiyam, Tiruindalur, Tirukavalampadi, Thirukazhiseerama vinnagaram, Thiruarimeya vinnagaram, Thiruvanpurudothamam, Thirusemponseikovil, Thirumanimadakovil, Thiruvaikuntavinnagaram, Tirudevanarthogai, Thiruthetriambalam, Thirumanikoodam, Thiruvellakulam, Thirupaarthanpalli, Thiruvahindrapuram, Thirukovalur, Thiruthankaa, Thiruvellukai, Thiruneeragam, Thirunilathingal thundam, Thirukaaragam, Thirukaarvaanam, Thirukalvanoor, Thirupavazhavannam, Thiruparameswara vinnagaram, Thiruputkuzhi, Thirunindravoor, Thiruvidavendhai, Thirunaimisaranyam, Thirupiridhi, Thirusingavelkundram, Thiruthankaal, Thirupullani,Thirumeyyam.

He was more inclined to have darshan of Archa Moorthy at the holy shrines on the earth rather than the Lord in Paramapadam. Azhwar’s pasurams serve as a guide for visiting various divya desams.

Azhwar continued with his divine services in various divya desams especially at Srirangam.

His ardent desire to construct vimanam, mandapam, big walls around Srirangam, gopuram, kitchen etc. for Srirangam temple needed financial support .

Azhwar priorities was service to Perumal and HIS children for which he went to any extent of getting wealth by looting, robbery etc. Coming to know about the golden Buddha vigraham at Nagapatinam from a passerby , he decided to try his skills to possess it . He was informed that the vigraham was being protected by a revolving wheel.

He managed to pick the golden Buddha idol from Nagapatinam to construct the compound walls of Srirangam temple . On follow ups from them, he issued a promissory note to the Buddhists saying he would return even the little finger unscathed and after one year, he just gave them the little finger and won them by argument.

After the completion of the projects , he did not have sufficient money to pay them . Still he assured all of them that they would be paid for their divine deed . The laborers who were travelling by a boat got drowned due to some imbalance in the middle of the river.

Unknowingly , the kith and kin of the laborers approached the Azhwar. Azhwar cooly replied everything that has happened was with Lord’s will .To reveal their state he advised them to come the next day.

Lord Ranganathar with abundant mercy appeared in Azhwar’s dream and advised him to ask the relatives of the deceased to enter into Srirangam temple after taking a dip in Kaveri. On reaching the temple, Lord Ranganathar made them have a vision of not only their deceased ones but also their great ancestors.

The muktas applauded Azhwar’s contributions and felt fortunate to be associated with him. They advised their kith and kin that they would attain the highest position by serving Azhwar who was performing devotional service which would assure them salvation.

Extremely pleased with Azhwar’s services one day Lord Ranganathar called Azhwar and asked him to choose a boon.

Azhwar expressed his deep desire to have darshan of the dasa avataarams of Lord. Lord Ranganathar fulfilled his desire immediately .

Thanking Lord , Azhwar requested Lordships to honour Swamy Nammazhwar’s Thiruvaimozhi for 10 days starting from Vaikunta Ekadasi which was immediately accepted . The grand “Thiruvadhyayana utsavam” at Srirangam was started by Thirumangai Azhwar.  Azhwar arranged to get Nammazhwar’s idol from Azhwar Thirunagari and in the presence of Namperumal in the newly constructed mandapam, Azhwar arranged for recitation of Nammazhwar’s Thiruvaimozhi for 10 days.  Initially, Adhyayana utsavam was celebrated for 10 days during azhwar’s time.  Later Nathamunigal arranged for 21 day festival by including recitation of the entire divyaprabhandam by dividing it as “Pagal pathu” and “Raa pathu ” utsavams.

As per Lord’s instructions, Thirumangai Azhwar constructed a mandapam for Namperumal to listen to Nammazhwar’s nectarian Thiruvaimozhi.

Lord also blessed Azhwar that whoever reads the six prabhandams composed by Tirumangai Azhwar considered as the six angams for Swamy Nammazhwar’s works will be blessed with salvation.

As a mark of confirmation ,Lord commands Azhwar to throw his Vel ( spear) assuring that the entire place where the spear falls, if a person’s last rites are performed , he would be liberated .

This special place is on the northern banks of Kaveri. ( “Paadiya vaalan Padithurai” where last rites are performed for the departed even today).

As days passed one day Azhwar requested Lord to liberate him from this samsara . Lord out of abundant compassion advised Azhwar to go to Thirukurungudi a holy divya desam which is known as “Siriya Veedu”to serve MalaiNambee perumal .

Azhwar overjoyed leaves Srirangam. Like a newly wedded girl who before leaving for her inlaws place bids goodbye to her relatives, Azhwar recollects Lordships at various divya desams .

Thirumangai Azhwar reaches Thirukurungudi and continues his services at this temple On a Vaikunta Ekadasi day with Lord’s mercy he attained salvation . Even today we can have darshan of this holy place which is about 3 kms from Thirukurungudi temple

Azhwar doesn’t have a spear and is seen with folded hands along with Kumudavalli Naachiyar.

After few years , Swamy Manavala maamunigal visited Thirunagari to have darsanam of Azhwar. He was in ecstasy and composed “Vadivazhagu Choornikai “-a beautiful poem vividly describing the beauty of Azhwar.

This deity of Azhwar was installed by Tirumangai Azhwar’s brother in law as per Lord Ranganathar’s instructions in Thirunagari temple at Tirunangoor – a small village near Sirkazhi and is being worshipped since time immemorial.

Freely translated, Swamy describes Azhwar’s beauty as the one who is holding spear(vel), with folded hands, wearing thiruman, lips slightly opened in such a way as if he is uttering “Omkaram”, having a sharp nose, cool face, broad eyes, curly hair, ears slightly bent as if to listen to Ashtakshari ( Eight word syllable )being imparted by Lordships , long ear rings, body bent at 3 places (thribangam) near neck, hip and feet , standing benevolently to obtain Lord’s grace.

He glorifies further about Thirumannankollai-the place where Perumal ( Lord) imparted ashtakshari –how he threatened Lakshmi’s husband with a knife forcing him to reveal the spell and how Lord gave the precious mantra extolled by the vedas to him and having received the mantra how realisation dawned on him and he got transformed into a devotee and humbly stood in front of the Lord with folded hands .

Swamy concludes that his eyes are blessed to see the broad chest holding the spear, one who utters the eight lettered mantra , the beautiful face and the holy feet.

VAAZHI PARAKAALAN

VAAZHI KALIKANDRI

VAAZHI KURAIYALUR

VAAZH VENDHAN

VAAZHIYARO MAAYONAI

VAAL VALIYAAL MANDHIRANKOL MANGAIYARKONE THOOYONE CHUDARMAANA VEL.

All glories Thirumangai Azhwar

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pics Courtesy : Google images uploaded by several devotees

The Chariot festival …

Kathopanishad says:-
Atmaanam rathinam viddhi shareeram rathamevatu
Buddhim tu saarathim viddhi manah pragrahameva cha
The Rath yatra on June 20 2023 …..
The body is the Chariot and the soul is the deity installed in the chariot. The wisdom acts as the charioteer to control the mind and thoughts. Rath Yatra is celebrated in Puri in the month of Aashadam(June-July) on the second day of the waxing moon (After Amavasya) in Sukla paksham with great pomp.

Glories of Srimad Narayaneeyam Day … Dec 14 th 2023

Narayana Narayana Narayana

…….Vaishnavanam yatha sambhuh purananam idam tatha……. Parama Shiva is the foremost of all the Vaishnavas.

Srimad Bhagavatam reveals that ParamaShiva is the foremost of all the Vaishnavas. (SB – 12.13.16) Vaishnavanam yatha sambhuh purananam idam tatha……

Jaya Jaya Sri sudarsana, Jaya Jaya Sri Sudarsana.

Today appearance day of Thirumazhisai Azhwar

Azhwar who is glorified as the dust at the feet of devotees ” Thondar addi podi Azhwar ” appearance day on 09-1-2024..

“VEERUDAYA KARTHIGAIYIL KAARTHIGAI NAAL”

All Merciful “Lord Sriman Narayana” appears in five different forms as para, vyuha, vibhava, archai and antaryAmi . To uplift the fallen souls Lord advises the Nityasurees to incarnate in the mortal world and spread the message of divine love and true knowledge for a common man to come back to God head .

Thus Azhwars were the incarnations of of Lord Sriman Narayana’s divine weapons and ornaments (“Azhwar” in Tamil means ‘one who is immersed’). Since the advanced saints were always immersed in the Lord and His qualities, they were glorified as Azhwars and the places which was glorified by Azhwars are earmarked as Divya desams . Out of the 12 azhwars, 4 Azhwars appeared towards the end of Dwapara yuga and Eight Azhwars appeared during Kali yuga.

• Poigai Azhwar – Panchajanya ( Lord Krishna’s conch)
• Bhootha Azhwar – Kaumodakee (Lord Maha Vishnu’s Mace/Club)
• Pey Azhwar – Nandaka ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s sword)
• Tirumazhisai Azhwar – Sudarshanam ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s discus)
• Nammazhwar – Vishvaksena ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s commander)
• Madhurakavi Azhwar – Vainatheya ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s , Garuda)
• Kulasekara Azhwar – Kaustubha ( Lord MahaVishnu’s necklace)
• PeriyaAzhwar – Garuda ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s eagle
• Andal – Bhoodevi
• Thondaradippodi Azhwar – Vanamaalai ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s garland)
• Tiruppaan Azhwar- Srivatsa (An auspicious mark on Lord Maha Vishnu’s chest)
• TirumangaiAzhwar – Sharanga ( Lord Rama’s bow)

The Srivaishnava Divyadesams are  the temples glorified by 12 azhwars. Among the 108 Divyadesams, 105 temples are located in India and one in Nepal. The remaining two temples are in the celestial world glorified as Sri Vaikuntam and ThiruParamapadham.  The 106 temples are classified into six divisions –

• Chozha Nadu divya desam – 40 temples situated in Central Tamilnadu around Trichy,Kumbakonam,Mayavaram, Srikazhi,Nagapatinam
• Pandya Nadu divya desams– 18 temples situated in southern part of Tamilnadu around Madurai,Tirunelveli, Ramnathapuram, Sivakasi
• Nadu nadu divya desams – 2 temples in the northern part of Tamilnadu located near Virudhunagar and Cuddalore
• Thondai nadu divya desams -22 temples in the northern part of Tamilnadu located in and around Chennai(4),Kanchipuram (15), Arakonam(3)
• Malai nadu divya desams – 13 temples out of which 2 are in Southern tip of tamilnadu and the rest 11 temples are in Kerala scattered around Trivandrum,Chenganoor, Ernakulam, Thrissur
• Vada nadu divya desams – 11 temples out of which 2 are in Andhra Pradesh, 1 in Gujarat, 4 in Uttar Pradesh, 3 in Uttaranchal and 1 in Muktinath.

The 4000 Divya Prabandham(Naalayira Divyaprabhandham) also known as “Dravida Vedas” are the out pouring of the Azhwars who  appeared in Southern India  few thousand year ago as per the divine commands of Lord Sriman Narayana to uplift the humankind and thus composed the divine pasurams which all the vaishnavas make it a law to recite . In Srimad Bhagavatam, Lord declares that HIS devotees would be born in Kaliyuga around the banks of Tambaraparani ,Cauvery rivers. As the recitation of vedas is restricted tto only few (women and low caste are not allowed to recite them), the compassionate Lord made azhwars appear on the earth for the upliftment of one and all and compose the pasurams in nectarian Tamil so that it could be relished by all.

Thirumangai Azhwar, the last among all the Azhwars was the only Azhwar who has glorified the maximum number of temples -86 divya desams and he alone has the credit of glorifying  47 divya desams exclusively. 

Azhwar appeared on the 397^th year after the advent of Kaliyuga as per “Guru Parampara prabhavam” composed by Sri.Pinbhagzhagiya Perumal Jeeyar a disciple of Swamy Nampillai,

Neelan as he was called appeared on a bright Thursday in Nala varushey(year name), Karthigai maasey (karthigai month as per tamil calender[Nov-Dec])on Krithikai star on Pournami in Kallar kulam at Thirukuraiyalur – a small village near Thirunangoor about one hour drive from Sirkazhi

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His parents –Aaliaaduudaiyaar(father) and Vallithiru (mother) named him as “Neelan” as he was Neelavarnan . He had various other names which he himself mentions in the last verse of his works (pasuram) dedicated to Sirkazhi Perumal as “Aali naadan”, “Arulmaari”, “Aratamukki”, “mangai vendhan”, “parakaalan”, “kaliyan”,”thirumangai mannan”, “Naalukavi Perumal). Lord (Perumal) addressed him as “kaliyano??” .

As he was like kaalan for people who refuted “paran”(perumal), he came to be known as “Parakaalan” . He was an expert in composing different types of poems in different meters as per Tamil grammar which earned him the name “Naalu Kavi Perumal”.

In thanian ( Introductory verses ) for Peria Thirumozhi, Swamy Embaar says “Engal gathiye Ramanusa muniye…..mangaiyar kon eendha marai aayiram anaithum thangumanam enaku thaa” which means Swamy Embaar submits to Swamy Ramanuja grace for remembering the 1000 pasurams sung by the famous Thirumangai Azhwar and hence the Sattaree is “Ramanuja Padhuka” who in turn is considered as “Thirumangai Azhwar’s padhuka” at Tirunagari divya desam

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Swamy Manavala Maamunigal in the ninth verse (pasuram) of the great work Upadesaratnamalai glorifies the appearance day of Thirumangai Azhwar as “VEERUDAYA KARTHIGAIYIL KAARTHIGAI NAAL”as this azhwar exhibited his veeram (valour) in getting Perumal’s anugraham. 

Its a great day as Azhwar , Acharyar Nampillai and Asmath acharyar-Sri Kumara Venkatacharyar( descendant of Swamy MudaliAndaan ) also appeared on the same day

Three important festivities are celebrated grandly in this village.

(1) Thai Amavaasai for 3 days (Jan-Feb)

(2)Thiruvedupari utsavam on Panguni-Pooram (March-April)

(3)Thiru avataara utsavam-10 day utsavam during Karthigai month culminating on Karthigaiyil Karthigai

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Neelan was very valiant and brave which earned him a position as army chief in Chola kingdom . He was later elevated to the position of a king for a small territory named “Aalinaadu” . Thus we have “Thirumangai mannan” who had that power , fame , position which took him to material pleasures like any human . The possessions and power engulfed him . Blinded by daring heroism, Neelan was indulged in sensual pleasures

(Azhwar himself admits in his pasurams that he was behind dove-eyed beautiful women).

By Perumal’s nirukethu sankalpam, he happened to meet Kumudavalli daughter of a physician in Thiruvellakulam who played a vital role in transforming Neelan into Azhwar. Her appearance also was a divine plan to correct Neelan in the right path …

Kumudhavalli a damsel (apsaras) who was named Thirumaamagal/Sumangalai along with her friends descended on Himalayan forests mocked at a siddhar who was being imparted knowledge by Kapila maharishi. The infuriated rishi cursed her to descend to earth and get married to a human being .

When she repented for her mistake and asked for a means to go back to the heavenly planet, the sage advised her to transform Neelan(an amsam of Saarangam) and make him a great devotee and get married to him.

After accomplishing her mission, he blessed her that she would be able to get back to her heavenly abode. Thus , she appeared as a small girl on the banks of Swetha Pushkarini(Thiru vella kulam) in front of Srinivasar Kovil in Thirunangoor.

A physician who happened to pass by was attracted to the small kid. He learnt from her about the cause of her appearance and adopted her as his daughter. As he was childless for a long time, he considered to be Lord Srinivasar’s blessings .As she was seen holding Kumudha flower, he named her as Kumudavalli.

Once Neelan , the ruler of the province around Thirunangoor happened to come to Thiruvellakulam. He was mesmerized by Kumudavalli’s beauty and expressed his ardent desire to marry her. He approached her parents and expressed hos desire .

The Parents were overjoyed as the King was at their doorstep . However , Kumudavalli expressed her desire “to marry only to a person who sported Thiruman kaapu ( Tilak ) on his forehead and got pancha samskaaram ( initiation ) done”.

Immediately Neelan set out in search of an Acharya to get initiated (pancha samskaaram in srivaishnava sampradaya) done.

No one dared to initiate him considering his qualities.

The ever compassionate Lord Srinivasar of Thirunaraiyur appeared before him as a Priest and did panchasamskaaram to Neelan. Later, Thirukannapuram Lord Sowriraja Perumal imparted the intricate meanings of Ashtakshari to him. Hence, these two Lordships are considered as “Acharyar” for Azhwar.

Having fulfilled her condition, Neelan approached Kumudavalli . She replied

Oh Prince ! Am glad with your desire in entering a relationship with me .But please understand as your better half I have another condition . I wish you undertake to carry out the bhaagavatha dhadhiaaradanam to 1000 people for one year which gives me immense satisfaction.

Neelan accepts the condition with a smile as she would be his queen soon .

Now , the couple did dhadhiyaaradhanam for one year and continued with the kainkaryam later. The place where he did dhadhiyaaradhanai kainkaryam is known as “Mangai maadam”.

It was a grand feast every day . A vast area was covered with pandals .for devotees thronging daily . It became a sacred shrine with hundred of devotees gathering daily with vaishnava tilaks and glorifying Lordships with songs . Few were discussing the greatness of Neelan and kumudha .Filled with bhagavathas , the place became more vibrant with devotion.

Neelan loved the new role. He never questioned the spending even the coffers of Thirumangai was coming to a stock out position . The Ministers whispered about the coffers getting emptied , but he continued the services selling his jewellary and other precious things .

The news reached the chozha king. He summoned Neelan to return the entire money or face repercussion. As Neelan didn’t oblige, the king had to send an army . Neelan defeated the army with ease . Shocked , the king came in person to wage a war.

Knowing Neelan’s might, the king with the help of his minister, conspired a plan to trick Neelan and arrested him.

Neelan was locked up in a temple for 3 days without food and water.(very similar to bhakta Ramadasar). The ever compassionate Lord Varadarajar of Kanchipuram appeared in Neelan’s dream informing that he could use the wealth lying on the banks of Vegavati river in Kanchipuram to clear the king’s dues.

The next day , Neelan informed the king that he would return the entire money given a chance . The King sent Neelan along with his soldiers to the banks of Vegavati river.

The search could not find any wealth . The Soldiers were instructed to harm Neelan If the search was untrue.

Lord appeared in Neelan’s dream again and informed him the exact location of the wealth. Neelan , overjoyed once again marched to the river and thus found the wealth. He cleared the king’s dues and kept the balance with him for continuing the bhagavatha kainkaryam which he got infected to.

The greedy king along with few others who realized that Neelan had wealth , claimed that their dues were not fully settled and asked for more wealth.

Neelan prayed to Lordships to help him out . The Compassionate Lord asked him to measure the sand on the banks of Vegavati river using “marakkal”( a measure) and settle the dues.

Obediently , Neelan accordingly collected the sand and handed over the same in gunny bags. This infuriated the king that Neelan was giving them sand instead of wealth.

But as the soldier who was trying to put the same in treasury , it turned into gold dust. The king realized that Neelan was not an ordinary person. He begged forgivance and after rewarding him sumptuously , released him forever,

It was a home coming . Neelan resigned from the king’s service and dedicated his full time for bhaagavatha kainkaryam. To continue the kainkaryam, Neelan resorted to looting wealth from the rich peasants who were egoistic selfish and greedy .

He did that by waylaying with the help of his four friends -Neermel nadappan(one who could walk across water), nizhalil odhunguvaan(one who was an expert in following a person’s shadow), thaaaludhuvaan (one who could open any lock without key), tholavazhakkan(one who could not be defeated in any argument).

As the looting expedition was also getting a bad name to Neelan who was doing a great kainkaryam ( service ) Lordships of Thiruvaali divyadesam along with Thaayar had to intervene.

The Lordships appeared as a newly wed couple fully bedecked with costly jewels and set out on a closed palanquin to Thiruvaali .

Neelan’s friends who came to know of this, informed Neelan that if the bridal party is looted, they would have enough wealth to support lifelong bhagavatha kainkaryam. Neelan was very pleased . He immediately galloped on his horse(Aadalmaa) followed by his thief-friends and reached the place which is presently known as “Thirumanan kollai”.

On reaching the place, Neelan threatened the couple to part with their entire jewellery. Accordingly , the couple surrendered all their jewellery except the toe ring on the bride as it could not be removed.

Though Neelan had the entire loot , Lord veiled a maya on him which made him to lure for the toe ring too which was very attractive. Neelan himself bent down to remove the ring but as his efforts were futile, he tried to remove the ring with the help of his teeth by his mouth.

Unknowingly, he surrendered to Thayar’s lotus feet for the material wealth .But , by coming into contact with Goddess (Thayar’s) lotus feet, wisdom dawned on him. He was mesmerized and choked with no words . He attempted to move quickly and thus bundled the entire loot in a big cloth. Looking at the divine couple , he tried to lift the baggage but for its weight .

Shocked that the small booty could not be lifted , Neelan thought that the bridegroom must have cast a spell on the bundle . He wanted to frighten the bridegroom now . He threatened them with a dagger to reveal the secret which made that booty so heavy that he couldnt lift it .

The mischievous bridegroom smiled and agreed to share the secret with him . He advised him to purify himself in the nearby stream and wait under the banyan tree (arasa maram).

Neelan did as advised and the bride groom uttered the sacred Ashtakshari mantram on Neelan’s right ear.

Wisdom dawned on Neelan and there was an instant flash …. he repented for all his deeds. He understood his real purpose of his birth . The divine couple appeared as Lord Lakshmi-Narayanan on Garuda vahanam and blessed their child .

Lord addressed him as Thirumangai mannan as he had the blessing of Thiru (Thayar first).

Now the jeevatma “Thirumangai mannan” in ecstasy repenting for all his misdeeds outpours torrential verses instantaneously in presence of Divyadampathigal starting with the most beautiful verse ….

“vaadinen vaadi varundhinene manathaal……”

concluding each phrase glorifying “Narayana” naamam…..

The name N A R A Y A Y A N A itself can give stature and wealth. The name destroys miseries .This Holy name gives a seat in heaven a seat in Paramapadam .It will give you strength It will give you everything .This lovely name will give more that what a loving mother can give …And thus Azhwar reveals saying ..

.I have found such a good word in HIS holy name….

This wonderful incident is recapitulated every year in the holy place and is celebrated grandly as “Thiru vedupari utsavam” on the night preceding Panguni Uthiram in the month of March-April . As part of 10 day brahmotsava celebrations at Thiruvaali, on the sixth day, Lord (Perumal ) arrives to wed Goddess ( Thayar ) and set out on a “moodu pallaku”. The divine wedding (thirukalyanam) takes place in the afternoon and saatrumarai goshti gets over by 9 p.m .

Later the divine couple set out on a palanquin slowly and head toward Thirumangai maadam and rest in a mandapam. Azhwar sets out from Thirunagari temple at midnight and swiftly reaches the mantapam and goes round the couple thrice.

A screen is drawn and it is presumed that all the ornaments are removed. Lord gets ready to give darshan on Garuda vahanam along with Thayar. Meanwhile Thirumangai mannan is taken to a nearby mandapam where thousands of devotees throng to have the beautiful sight of Azhwar riding on the horse for about an hour.

Later Azhwar is taken towards Perumal who imparts the Eight syllable mantra “Ashtakshari. The bhog is offered to the Lordship. Azhwar circumblates around Lordships with benevolence.

Lord blesses Thirumangai Azhwar with prasadam, maalai, parivattam. The assembled goshti start reciting “Vaadinen vaadi….” slowly and after completing of the first 10 pasurams, mangalaaarthi is given to both Perumal and Azhwar.

This incident happens around early hours 2-3 a.m. The entire group return to Thiruvaali temple and on the way , the entire Peria Thirumozhi ( the compositions of Thirumangai Azhwar ) is recited by the goshti.

One devotee relished his experience that when the azhwar sets out from the temple to loot the Lord, his valour ,pride ,strength ,determination can be seen on Azhwar’s thirumugam and when he returns after having Perumal’s darsanam, Azhwar’s speed is reduced as he becomes submissive having shed away his pride and takes about 4 hours to reach the temple as the procession moves slowly.

Coming back to the divine incident , Neelan who becomes transformed to Thirumangai Azhwar decides to visit all the holy shrines and glorify the Lordships .

Lord captivated his attention by giving HIM beautiful darshan in all the temples. In his divine pasurams, he vividly describes the Lord, location of the holy place , surroundings and the opulence .

Azhwar , personally visits the divya desams beginning with the Northern side temples starting at Thirupiridhi ( JoshirMutt ) and submits his glorifications to the Lord . Every verse he puts before LORD moves the person with tears reciting them .

The struggle of a jiva in this material world seeking true knowledge with stiff opposition of maya draws comparision with all of us .

Thirumangai Azhwar composed six prabhandhams which are treasures .He stands second to Swamy Nammazhwar in the contributions to Divya Prabhandam.

Thirumangai Azhwar’s six prabhandhams are the six angams for Maaran’s four works (Nammazhwar’s four prabhandhams-

Thiruvaimozhi,

Thiruvirutham,

Thiruvaasiriyam ,

Peria Thiruvandhadhi)

Azhwar’s compositions are:

• Peria Thirumozhi comprising of 1084 pasurams
• Thirukurunthandakam comprising of 20 pasurams
• Thirunedunthandakam comprising of 30 pasurams
• Thiruvezhukootruirukai comprising of 1 pasuram
• Siriya Thirumadal consisting of 155 lines considered as 1 pasuram
• Peria Thirumadal consisting of 297 lines considered as 1 pasuram

Details of 86 temples glorified by Azhwar starting from Srirangam with PRABHANDHAM reference are given below:

Out of these, 70 temples are in Tamilnadu,

2 in Andhra,

4 in Kerala,

1 in Gujarat,

4 in Uttar Pradesh,

2 in Uttaranchal,

1 in Nepal and 2 out of reach.

(PT-Peria thirumozhi; TKD-thirukurundhandakam; TND-tirunedundandakam

STM-siria thirumadal; PTM-peria thirumadal; TVKT-thiruvezhukootruirukai)

1. CHOLA NADU DIVYA DESAMS (Trichy,Kumbakonam,Thanjavur,Mayavaram ,Sirkazhi)

• Srirangam                             – 73   (PT, TKD, TND, STM, PTM)
• Thirukozhi(Uraiyur) -Uraiyur near Trichy –  01   (PT)
• Thirukarambanur(Uttamar kovil) – 01    (PT)
• Thiruvellarai                                                   -13     (PT,STM, PTM)
• Thirupernagar                                -19     (PT,TKD,TND, STM,PTM)
• Thirukandiyur                                                 – 01    (TKD)
• Thirukoodalur                              -10     (PT)
• Thirupullamboothangudi                              -10     (PT)
• Thiruaadhanoor                                  -01     (PTM)
• Thirukudandhai                                 -25   (PT,TKD,TND,STM, PTM, TVKT)-only Perumal who was referred to in all the 6 prabhandams
• Thiruvinnagar                                 -34     (PT,TND,STM,PTM)
• Thirunaraiyur                               -110   (PT, TND,STM, PTM)
• Thirucherai                                 -13     (PT,STM, PTM)
• Thirukannamangai                                -14      (PT,STM,PTM)
• Thirukannapuram                           -104    (PT, TND, STM,PTM)
• Thirukannangudi                             -10      (PT)
• Tirunaagai                           – 10 (PT)
• Thiruthanjhaimaamanikovil    –  03 (PT)
• Thirunandipuravinnagaram                        –  10 (PT)
• Thiruvelliangudi                          – 10 (PT)
• Thiruvazhundur                          -45 (PT, TND,STM,PTM)
• Thirusirupuliyur                        – 10 (PT)
• Thiruthalaisanganaanmadiyam  – 02 (PT)
• Thiruindhalur                         -11 (PT,PTM)
• Thirukaavalampaadi                     – 10 (PT)
• Thirukaazhiseerama vinagaram  – 10(PT)
• Thiruarimeya vinnagaram                     – 10 (PT)
• Thiruvanpurudothamam                   – 10 (PT)
• Thirusemponseikovil                      -10 (PT)
• Thirumanimadakovil                         -12 (PT,PTM)
• Thiruvaikuntavinnagaram                      – 10 (PT)
• Thiruvaali Tirunagari                        –  41 (PT, TND,STM,PTM)
• Thirudevanaar thogai                     -10 (PT)
• Thiruthetriambalam                    -10 (PT)
• Thirumanikoodam                   -10 (PT)
• Thiruvellakulam                      -10 (PT)
• Thirupaarthanpalli                      – 10 (PT)
• Thiruchitrakoodam                      – 21(PT,PTM)

NADU NADU DIVYA DESAMS(near Cuddalore,Vizhupuram)

• Thiruvahindrapuram                         – 10(PT)
• Thirukovalur                       –  18 (PT, TND, STM,PTM)

THONDAI NADU DIVYA DESAMS(in and around Kanchi, Arakonam,Chennai)

• Thirukachi athigiri                     – 04 (PT,TKD, TND)
• Thiruashtabuyakaram                         – 11(PT, PTM)
• Thiruthankaa                          -02 (PT,TND)
• Thiruvellukai                           – 01 (PTM)
• Thiruneeragam                         – 01 (TND)
• Thirupaadagam                          -02  (PT, PTM)
• Thirunilathingalthundam                    – 01 (TND)
• Thiruooragam                    –  04 (TND, STM, PTM)
• Thiruvekka                     –  06 (PT,TND,STM,PTM)
• Thirukaaragam                                             –  01 (TND)
• Thirukaarvaanam                     – 01 (TND)
• Thirukalvanoor                      – 01 (TND)
• Thirupavazhavannam                   – 01 (TND)
• Thiruparameswara vinnagaram                    -10 (PT)
• Thiruputkuzhi                      – 02 (PT, PTM)
• Thirunindravoor                     -02 (PT)
• Thiruevvul                                   – 11 (PT, PTM)
• Thiruallikeni                    -10 (PT)
• Thiruneermalai                    -19 (PT, TND,STM,PTM)
• Thiruidavendhai                        -13 (PT,STM,PTM)
• Thirukadalmallai                      -26 (PT,TKD,STM,PTM)
• Thirukadigai                     -03 (PT,STM)

VADA NADU DIVYA DESAMS(Andhra,Gujarat,Uttar Pradesh,Uttaranchal,Nepal)

• Thiruayodhi               – 01(PT)
• Thirunaimisaranyam                -10 (PT)
• Thirupiridhi                  -10 (PT)
• Thiruvadhariasramam                     -21 (PT, STM)
• Thirusalagraamam                    -10 (PT)
• Thiruvadamadurai                   -04 (PT, STM)
• Thiruvaayarpaadi                                        -07 (PT, STM)
• Thirudwaarakai                     -02 (PT)
• Thirusingavelkundram                   -10 (PT)
• Thiruvenkatam                    -61 (PT, TKD,TND,STM,PTM)

MALAI NADU DIVYA DESAMS(Kerala)

• Thirunaavai                                                        – 02(PT)
• Thirumoozhikalam                      – 03(PT,TND,PTM)
• Thiruvallavaazh                                             -11 (PT,PTM)
• Thirupuliyur                -01 (STM)

PANDYA NADU DIVYA DESAMS(near Madurai,Tirunelveli,Sivakasi,Ramnad,Trichy)

• Thirukurungudi                    -25 (PT,TND, PTM)
• Thiruthankaal            -04 (PT,TND, STM, PTM)
• Thirukoodal            – 01 (PT)
• Thirumaliruncholai             – 33(PT, TKD,STM,PTM)
• Thirumoghur                -01 (STM)
• Thirugoshtiyur               – 13 (PT,PTM)
• Thirupullani        – 21 (PT, PTM)
• Thirumeyyam            – 09 (PT, TKD,PTM)

DIVYA DESAMS NOT IN THIS WORLD

• Thirupaarkadal         – 11 (PT, TND)
• Thiruparamapadam                     – 01 (TKD)

As per the great compositions of “Peria Thirumozhi” Azhwar started from north, has sung ranging from minimum 10 pasurams to 100 pasurams .  Azhwar’s pasurams details the geographical locations . Peria Thirumozhi is divided into 10 hundreds and in each of the 10 pasurams, Ahwar glorifies only that particular divya desa Perumal.  ONly in the 10th hundred pasurams, azhwar has sung pasurams on multiple divyadesams.  IN Peria Thirumozhi, azhwar eloborates about 50 divya desams and the remaining 36 divya desams(out of 86 glorified by him) have been referred to in other prabhandhams.

While one recites them, the ambience feeling and the quench to have darshan of the Divya dampathees draws us closer and gives the soul to rejoice in bliss knowing its identity in seeking our loving Lord….

Divya desams as per Peria Thirumozhi are given below:-

VADA NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thirupiridhi (10) – Joshirmutt in Uttaranchal
• Thiruvadhiri (20) — Badrikasramam in Uttaranchal
• Thirusaalagramam (10) — Muktinath in Nepal
• Naimisaaranyam (10) — near Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh
• Singavelkundram (10) — Ahobilam in Andhra Pradesh
• Thiruvengadam (61) — Tirumala Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh

THONDAI NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thiruevvul (11) — Thiruvallur near Arakonam in Tamil nadu
• Thiruvellikeni (10) — Triplicane in Chennai
• Thiruneermalai (19) –Pallavaram in Chennai
• Thirukadalmallai (26) –Mahabalipuram near Chennai
• Thiruvidandhai (13) — near Mahabalipuram
• Thiruvattabuyakaran (11) — Ashtabhuja perumal in Kanchipuram
• Thiruparameswara vinnagaram (10) — In Kanchipuram

NADU NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thirukovalur (18) – in Vizhupuram-Thiruvannamalai route
• Thiruvahindrapuram (10) – near Cuddalore

CHOLA NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thillai Chitrakoodam (11) – Chidambaram Natarajar temple
• Thirukaazhi seeraama vinnagaram (10) -1 km from Sirkazhi station

THIRUNANGOOR DIVYA DESAMS TOTAL 11(About 1 hour drive from Sirkazhi)

• Thiruvaali Thirunagari (41) – 8 kms south east of Sirkazhi
• Thirumanimadakovil (12) – Thirunangoor- 8 kms from Sirkazhi
• Thiruvaikunta Vinnagaram (10) – Thirunangoor
• Thiruarimeya vinnagaram (10) – Thirunangoor
• Thirudevanaar thogai (10) – 4 kms from Thirunangoor
• Thiruvanpurudothamam (10) -8 kms from Sirkazh
• Thirusemponseikovil (10) -Thirunangoor
• Thiruthetriambalam (10) -Thirunangoor
• Thirumanikoodam (10) -1 km from Thirunangoor
• Thirukaavalampadi (10) -10 kms south of Sirkazhi
• Thiruvellakulam (10) -10 kms from Sirkazhi enroute to Nagapatinam
• Thirupaarthaanpalli (10) -3 kms from Sirkazhi Venkadu
• Thiruindhaloor (11) -in Mayavaram
• Thiruvelliangudi (10) -Kumbakonam -near Aduthurai
• Thirupullamboothangudi (10) -Kumbakonam-near Swamimalai
• Thirukoodalur (10) -Kumbakonam –tanjavur route near thiruvaiyaaru
• Thiruvellarai (13) -20 kms from Trichy near Thuraiyur
• Thiruvarangam (73) -Srirangam -12 kms from Trichy
• Thirunandhipuravinnagaram ( 10) – Nathan kovil-4 kms south of Kumbakonam
• Thiruvinnagar (34) -Oppiliappan kovil -7 kms from Kumbakonam
• Thirunaraiyur (110) – 9 kms from Kumbakonam enroute to Thiruvaarur
• Thirucherai (13) – 24 kms in Kumbakonam-Thiruvaarur route
• Therazhundhur (45) -21 kms from mayavaram enroute to Komal
• Sirupuliyur (10) -3 kms from Kollumangudi station-

in Mayavaram-thirvarur route

• Thirukannamangai (14) – 7 kms from Thiruvaarur
• Thirukannapuram (104) – 2 kms from Thirupugalur on Nagapatinam-

Nannilam route

• Thirukannangudi (10) – 1 km from Aazhiyur on Nagapatinam route
• Thirunaagai (10) – Nagapatinam

PANDYA NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thirupullani (21) -near Ramnathapuram
• Thirukurungudi (25) -12 kms from Nanguneri near Tirunelveli
• Tirumaliruncholai (33) -20 kms from Madurai
• Thirugoshtiyur (13) – near Karaikudi

MALAI NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thiruvallavaazh (11) -Tiruvalla on Ernakulam-Kollam route

In most of the pasurams , Azhwar repents starting with “vaadinen vaadi….” and claims that he has got everything now with the great Narayana thirunaamam.

He confesses to Lord Srinivasar at Tirumala for all his misdeeds and praises his mind for having resorted to the Lord’s holy feet.He says that he was under the illusion that his parents,wife etc are everything -did many mistakes when he was in  youth,later he strived hard for serving his family and now with repentance approached the Lord like a dog and prays to Lord to accept him.  (Azhwar who is an amsam of Lord couldn’t have been so but just to uplift us, he demeans himself)

In pasurams dedicated to Lord Narasimhar of Ahobilam, the place is only accessible to devas.

IN the pasurams dedicated to Naimisaranyam, he surrenders to the Lord Devarajan for upliftment. He addresses the Lord as “mother-Naimisaaranyathul enthaai…” .

He addresses all the five forms of the Lord at Thiruvellikeni-Parthasarathy, Thelliya singam, Gajendra Varadar,Ramar,Ranganathar.

During his course of enlightened journey the Divya dampathees ( Lordships in the temples ) were eager to meet their child which can be authenticated by citing a divine incident. During his journey Azhwar by oversight skipped Thirunindravoor near chennai and after doing mangalasaasanam at Thiru-evvul, he directly proceeds to Thiruvellikeni and in due course reached Mahabalipuram.

Goddess Sudhavalli Thayar-the divine consort of Lord Bhaktavatsalan persuades Lord to invite Azhwar as he had missed them by oversight. . Lord appeared at his next destination Thirukadalmallai and while glorifying the Lordships at Thirukadalmallai, Lord Bhaktavatsalan gave a vision to azhwar which made him take HIS name.

In the course of his travel, Azhwar glorified (mangalasaasanam) at 86 divya desams and finally reached Srirangam and undertook various construction and renovation activities.

However, Lord commanded to continue his services as HE wanted to relish the nectarine outpourings of Azhwar. (Very similar to Annamacharyar’s life)

Later he composed Thirukurunthandakam comprising of 20 pasurams where he begs Lord (Perumal) expressing his craving to have HIS darshan (as Perumal wanted him to reach the highest transcendental bliss)

Thirunedunthandakam comprising of 30 pasurams(in the first set of 10 pasurams, Azhwar sings with his own identity , in the 2^nd set of 10 pasurams, azhwar assumes the role of a mother expressing her daughter’s plight and in the last set of 10 pasurams , donning the role of a girl expresses her desire to attain Perumal to her friend ) .

Our most revered Acharyar Swamy Parasara bhattar used to always contemplate on this prabhandham and thus invited Nanjeeyar into Srivaishnavism by a debate based on this lovely prabhandham. During Adhyayana utsavam , this is recited on the first day and the goshti is honoured with medicated oil to be smeared on the vaishnavas neck who would recite as a honrarium.

e smeared on the vaishnavas neck who would recite as a honrarium. https://video.wordpress.com/embed/oSh04oND?hd=0&autoPlay=0&permalink=1&loop=0&preloadContent=metadata&muted=0&playsinline=0&controls=1&cover=1

Thiruezhukootruirukkai comprising of one pasuram glorifies Lord Aaravamudhan of Thirukudandhai.

In Siriya Thirumadal Azhwar assumes the role of a lovelorn lady who suffers pangs of separation from her lover-. She holds his picture in her hand, longing for her lover’s association. She contemplates on how to defame the various archa murthis but faith prevails upon her which makes her restrain from doing so. She waits patiently and with confidence that her Lord would come to take her. The emotional outpourings takes us to transcendental heights.He composed both the madals at Thirunaraiyur as the Lord of Thirunariayur is considered as the acharyar for him.

In Peria thirumadal, Azhwar becomes restless for poor response from the Lordships. He starts lamenting how the Lord who had taken various forms and resides in various divyadesams didn’t concede her request even after repeated pleading . Realising that the Lord cannot be confronted in commanding , he decides by just surrendering to HIM he would be pleased and respond.

Thirumangai Azhwar personally visited all the above holy shrines on his courageous horse “aadalma”.

He has done mangalasaasanam (glorified) to 86 divyadesams and has the special honor of glorifying the Lord exclusively in 47 divya desams. The 47 divyadesams which was glorified by Thirumangai Azhwar alone are as follows ….

Thirukozhi, Thirukarambanur, Thirukandiyur, Thirukoodalur, Thirupullamboothangudi, Thiruaadhanoor, Thirucherai, Thirukannamangai, Thirukannangudi, Thirunaagai, Tirunandipuravinnagaram,Thiruvelliangudi, Thiruvazhundur, Tirusirupuliyur, Thiruthalaisanganaanmadhiyam, Tiruindalur, Tirukavalampadi, Thirukazhiseerama vinnagaram, Thiruarimeya vinnagaram, Thiruvanpurudothamam, Thirusemponseikovil, Thirumanimadakovil, Thiruvaikuntavinnagaram, Tirudevanarthogai, Thiruthetriambalam, Thirumanikoodam, Thiruvellakulam, Thirupaarthanpalli, Thiruvahindrapuram, Thirukovalur, Thiruthankaa, Thiruvellukai, Thiruneeragam, Thirunilathingal thundam, Thirukaaragam, Thirukaarvaanam, Thirukalvanoor, Thirupavazhavannam, Thiruparameswara vinnagaram, Thiruputkuzhi, Thirunindravoor, Thiruvidavendhai, Thirunaimisaranyam, Thirupiridhi, Thirusingavelkundram, Thiruthankaal, Thirupullani,Thirumeyyam.

He was more inclined to have darshan of Archa Moorthy at the holy shrines on the earth rather than the Lord in Paramapadam. Azhwar’s pasurams serve as a guide for visiting various divya desams.

Azhwar continued with his divine services in various divya desams especially at Srirangam.

His ardent desire to construct vimanam, mandapam, big walls around Srirangam, gopuram, kitchen etc. for Srirangam temple needed financial support .

Azhwar priorities was service to Perumal and HIS children for which he went to any extent of getting wealth by looting, robbery etc. Coming to know about the golden Buddha vigraham at Nagapatinam from a passerby , he decided to try his skills to possess it . He was informed that the vigraham was being protected by a revolving wheel.

He managed to pick the golden Buddha idol from Nagapatinam to construct the compound walls of Srirangam temple . On follow ups from them, he issued a promissory note to the Buddhists saying he would return even the little finger unscathed and after one year, he just gave them the little finger and won them by argument.

After the completion of the projects , he did not have sufficient money to pay them . Still he assured all of them that they would be paid for their divine deed . The laborers who were travelling by a boat got drowned due to some imbalance in the middle of the river.

Unknowingly , the kith and kin of the laborers approached the Azhwar. Azhwar cooly replied everything that has happened was with Lord’s will .To reveal their state he advised them to come the next day.

Lord Ranganathar with abundant mercy appeared in Azhwar’s dream and advised him to ask the relatives of the deceased to enter into Srirangam temple after taking a dip in Kaveri. On reaching the temple, Lord Ranganathar made them have a vision of not only their deceased ones but also their great ancestors.

The muktas applauded Azhwar’s contributions and felt fortunate to be associated with him. They advised their kith and kin that they would attain the highest position by serving Azhwar who was performing devotional service which would assure them salvation.

Extremely pleased with Azhwar’s services one day Lord Ranganathar called Azhwar and asked him to choose a boon.

Azhwar expressed his deep desire to have darshan of the dasa avataarams of Lord. Lord Ranganathar fulfilled his desire immediately .

https://video.wordpress.com/embed/gmUye6fk?hd=0&autoPlay=0&permalink=1&loop=0&preloadContent=auto&muted=0&playsinline=0&controls=1&cover=1

Thanking Lord , Azhwar requested Lordships to honour Swamy Nammazhwar’s Thiruvaimozhi for 10 days starting from Vaikunta Ekadasi which was immediately accepted . The grand “Thiruvadhyayana utsavam” at Srirangam was started by Thirumangai Azhwar.  Azhwar arranged to get Nammazhwar’s idol from Azhwar Thirunagari and in the presence of Namperumal in the newly constructed mandapam, Azhwar arranged for recitation of Nammazhwar’s Thiruvaimozhi for 10 days.  Initially, Adhyayana utsavam was celebrated for 10 days during azhwar’s time.  Later Nathamunigal arranged for 21 day festival by including recitation of the entire divyaprabhandam by dividing it as “Pagal pathu” and “Raa pathu ” utsavams.

As per Lord’s instructions, Thirumangai Azhwar constructed a mandapam for Namperumal to listen to Nammazhwar’s nectarian Thiruvaimozhi.

Lord also blessed Azhwar that whoever reads the six prabhandams composed by Tirumangai Azhwar considered as the six angams for Swamy Nammazhwar’s works will be blessed with salvation.

As a mark of confirmation ,Lord commands Azhwar to throw his Vel ( spear) assuring that the entire place where the spear falls, if a person’s last rites are performed , he would be liberated .

This special place is on the northern banks of Kaveri. ( “Paadiya vaalan Padithurai” where last rites are performed for the departed even today).

As days passed one day Azhwar requested Lord to liberate him from this samsara . Lord out of abundant compassion advised Azhwar to go to Thirukurungudi a holy divya desam which is known as “Siriya Veedu”to serve MalaiNambee perumal .

Azhwar overjoyed leaves Srirangam. Like a newly wedded girl who before leaving for her inlaws place bids goodbye to her relatives, Azhwar recollects Lordships at various divya desams .

Thirumangai Azhwar reaches Thirukurungudi and continues his services at this temple On a Vaikunta Ekadasi day with Lord’s mercy he attained salvation . Even today we can have darshan of this holy place which is about 3 kms from Thirukurungudi temple

Azhwar doesn’t have a spear and is seen with folded hands along with Kumudavalli Naachiyar.

After few years , Swamy Manavala maamunigal visited Thirunagari to have darsanam of Azhwar. He was in ecstasy and composed “Vadivazhagu Choornikai “-a beautiful poem vividly describing the beauty of Azhwar.

This deity of Azhwar was installed by Tirumangai Azhwar’s brother in law as per Lord Ranganathar’s instructions in Thirunagari temple at Tirunangoor – a small village near Sirkazhi and is being worshipped since time immemorial.

Freely translated, Swamy describes Azhwar’s beauty as the one who is holding spear(vel), with folded hands, wearing thiruman, lips slightly opened in such a way as if he is uttering “Omkaram”, having a sharp nose, cool face, broad eyes, curly hair, ears slightly bent as if to listen to Ashtakshari ( Eight word syllable )being imparted by Lordships , long ear rings, body bent at 3 places (thribangam) near neck, hip and feet , standing benevolently to obtain Lord’s grace. https://video.wordpress.com/embed/yDg9rggm?hd=0&autoPlay=0&permalink=1&loop=0&preloadContent=metadata&muted=0&playsinline=0&controls=1&cover=1

He glorifies further about Thirumannankollai-the place where Perumal ( Lord) imparted ashtakshari –how he threatened Lakshmi’s husband with a knife forcing him to reveal the spell and how Lord gave the precious mantra extolled by the vedas to him and having received the mantra how realisation dawned on him and he got transformed into a devotee and humbly stood in front of the Lord with folded hands .

Swamy concludes that his eyes are blessed to see the broad chest holding the spear, one who utters the eight lettered mantra , the beautiful face and the holy feet.

VAAZHI PARAKAALAN

VAAZHI KALIKANDRI

VAAZHI KURAIYALUR

VAAZH VENDHAN

VAAZHIYARO MAAYONAI

VAAL VALIYAAL MANDHIRANKOL MANGAIYARKONE THOOYONE CHUDARMAANA VEL.

All glories Thirumangai Azhwar

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan Pics Courtesy : Google images uploaded by several devotees

Thirumangai Azhwar at Nagapattinam …………… A divine pastime…

Azhwar  proceeded to Thiruvali his native place .Overjoyed to see the wonderful lushy green fields and the magnetic aroma of divinity sang several verses on the Lordships of Thirunangoor. He proceeded to Thiruvindaloor . Lord mischievously disaaperaed after appearing for few seconds sending Azhwar  into grief . He recited the nectarine pasuram …. Vasi vallir Indaloor Vazhude pom Nire … and Lords heart melted .He reappeared and gave a graceful darshan relishing the nectarine pasuram. Proceeding further worshipping the Lordships he finally reached Srirangam. With the deep gratitude for the Supreme Lord Azhwar recited several glorification verses . The Supreme  Lord was pleased and appeared . Lord with abundant mercy spoke , My dear son  you have glorified us by going all along the borders and we bless you and the  verses with effulgence in awakening pure love towards us . It is too tiring too for you travelling so long . We  advise you to stay with us and take part in strengthening our temple by providing means for the bhagavathas to   be taken care with ramparts corridors, splendid towers aisles and other structures for the benefit of the devotees and recesses to our holy premises

Azhwar was overjoyed for the kainkaryam ( services ) Lord bestowed on him . He invited all his friends to discuss the means to achieve this gigantic task in re modeling the temple . One relative who was his own brother in law  Yatirasan  suggested for visiting Nagapatnam for he heard that there was a priceless golden idol of Buddha . The information was welcomed with absolute joy and all accepted in one tone to proceed to Nagapatinam . Arriving at Nagapatinam Azhwar set about to enquire about the place . Fortunately a goodly woman made him understand it was a secret and she was told by her moher in law the whereabouts of the place  but it had such secret passages and mechanical contrivances which was difficult for strangers to reach. However the architect lived out in the sea in a small island . Azhwar along with his men took a boat and proceeded to the shores of the  island and discovered the Architects residence . Azhwar planned something different to extract more about that dwelling . Azhwar along with his men would loiter near his house as if way farers met and exchanged intelligence of other countries and ensured the architect was listening .  They would wait for him to dine and stroll for a walk . Looking at him , they started …Oh my friends !! what  afate has has fallen on Nagapatinam. What a fall of gloom over the temple… You know the temple has been reduced to dust by the invading mighty Turks. And that golden Buddha has been stolen by those ruffians . How sad …. And am afraid what is more to come ..

This information was heard by the Archiect . The Archiect was shell shocked .He never expected this calamity . He shed tears and came running and said ..It cannot be possible ..Is it that easy to move that whirling wheel at the main entrance … and that secret chain hanging from that top of the tower and invisible where a pin is hidden under the stone pavement under which that Go mukhee waters drop ? Impossible ..It was my design …How can that be possible to enter the temple which has zig zaw entrances bringing the person to confusion except for the one who takes the path which is circular and has a underground entrance seeming to look like a pavement ..and he went On… even If he enters how will he walk into those invisible stairs looking like a painting …he lamented …. The Azhwars detectives learnt all the clues looking at each other secretly and laughing in their sleeves as their project was opening up with more information .  They thanked internally for his lamentation and approached him . Take heart Oh good soul they consoled him ..Why must you cry over the spoilt milk .. Be cool ..Go home and relax .. We bid good bye to you ..Thank you and take care said the detectives of Azhwar ….

Azhwar was briefed and they chalked a strategy . They arrived at the sea shore and saw a huge ship laden with areca nuts about to be displaced to Nagapatinam . A merchant was busy weighing the loads .  Dressed as mendicants they approached him , blessed him and asked to give them a passage without any fare . He gladly accepted . En route  on their travelling , Azhwar who was seated near the loads of Areca nut . Azhwar took a full nut , cut into two halves and dropping one half said to the merchant who was watching .. Sir .. Will you let me have my half the nut on arrival of destination ?  Certainly said the Merchant .Azhwar smiled and said .. Please give me a written chit what you said .  The chit HALF the nut is yours … was handed over to Azhwar .

On arrivingat the harbor at Nagapatinam , Azhwar claimed half the load of areca nuts. The merchant remonstrated but Azhwar  challenged .An appeal was put .But the elders seeing the chit as promised by the merchant to Azhwar favoured Azhwar was right . Very puzzled the merchant had to give half the ship load to Azhwar as agreed on the paper . The merchant presumed it was some pre natal debt with them . He consoled himself and proceeded .  Azhwar blessed the merchant and entered Nagapatinam ,

They all hid themselves inside the temple enclosure .  At midnight they slowly came out for conducting the plan . The heavy pavement stone was located .Slowly they lifted and found the secret pin and walked towards the zig zag raods and reached that invisible steps . They slowly looked down and released the chain . As they mounted over the tower the cap of which to which the chain was fastened was now freee . Slowly they opened and looking down could see  the dazzling gold idol of Buddha almost shining like the sun .. Azhwar seeing the idol exclaimed .. Will Buddha who renunciated everything will be happy to be made in Gold ? Foolish fellows … saying he watched closely . There was a teethed whirling  wheel which was preventing in approaching the golden idol

Foolish fellows … saying he watched closely . There was a teethed whirling  wheel which was preventing in approaching the golden idol.They brought a number of plantain trunks and cast one after another at the wheel. The bark sticking to the teeth of the wheel got tangled and stopped the movement . Azhwar  was looking for a person who can dare to go in and complete the formalities but must be quick .  His brotherin law volunteered to get in . Yatiraja got down and when he put his hands on the idol it escaped and  ran in circular motion . Yatirasan was sweating and he some how managed to drop his sweat on the idol thus polluting the idols mantra siddhee. The mantra power that gave the idol this motion vanished with Yatirajan throwing his sweat over the idol.

He clutched the idol and hoisted it up in the aperture for Azhwar to pick it up easily from the gopuram tower. Azhar lifted the idol and next pulled up Yathirajan ..But low… he couldn’t pass through that hole as it was too small . But in the process , put his head and the rest part of the body was hooked into the aperture  as the hole was too small.

Azhwar was confused . Oh Rangaaaaaa

He said.. my dear what Am I supposed to do know …you are stuck inthis hole ..Though mission is accomplished cant leave you like his … And how will I go without you?

But I must go and must serve Lord Ranga as per HIS command … but at what cost? 

Rangaaa.. What is this litmus test ??   

Yatiraja saw his brother in law. And said. Please don’t forget the divine command …Have you forgotten your mission on earth And is not our life in earth for lightining duration  Is not the divine service our only purpose of life … Is not this body perishable , subject to hunger disease and a series of calamities ? Is it not but a stinking mixture of flesh and nerve and blood and bones. My time has come to pass out of this dismal prison of urine and feces and pass in with a spiritual body to serve the eternal .. Please don’t worry ..My savior over there will take care . Please don’t  feel pity . Please make me  HIS victim in this mission . Am I not worth HIS service .. Please  ..In this norrow pass please cut this head of mine once for all and let the mission be accomplished and escape the discovery of this event .

Azhwar with heavy heart says ..Oh Yathiraja …What will I tell my sister …This is a big test for me …

Holy saint …Please extend your vision beyong matter and all temporal interests … Please cut my head off once for all ..It is dawning already ..We may be noticed … Let me be off to HIS eternal world …

Ehirajan began to cry with a sense of love to Saint ….The  litmus test was being watched by all the great souls …and that moment was nearing …. Repeatedly praying Lord Ranganatha to forgive him … took superhuman courage and with tears said … Oh My yathiraajaa if any one deserves heaven Its You and you only  and Invoking Rangaa…with his humble heart to come out of this divine ordeal …he said …Oh Rangaa in thy name I do this ….he flashed his sword and in one stroke took Yathiraajas head off..

Merciful heaven …This scenean unparalled martyrdom for the cause of LORD…. All the above was being watched by the gods of blue celestium .  Azhwar quickly came down with yathirajans head and the golden budha. The party now laid yathirajans head on stretcher covered it as a corpse and ranging themselves into funeral procession  with a fire pot  wood and sobblings sliiped into he Nagapatinam town as if nothing was noticed . Going far away beyond human sight they deposited yathirajans head safely in a thicket and carrying the gold idol proceeded their journey

Our Divine mother mercy Incarnate who stands as light to sun and scent to flower ..                                   Our Sri Ranganayakee the mercy unlimited was embittered in her heart that one of her brave son should meet such a horrible death .. She marched to the chamber of Lord Ranganatha and expostulated with concern… Swamy How can you be so cruel watching silently such things happening ? Have your omniscience and omnipotence taken leave of you ?  Swamy Should I remind your valour bringing back all the vanaras of Sugriva camp after they were dead in the war due to Indrajits high handedness

And did you not bring back your Guru Sandipanis sons from the ocean?  Like our Gajendra and Vibhishina my Yathirajan had no selfish motto except your glory and hence sacrificed his life .  Strange indeed are your ways ..Am heartbroken seeing all this …And I cannot accept this  and I can accept my child Andal to be made a widow …. I plead  I pray grant his life Oh Lord …

The Lord became affected on hearing the pleadings of his tender hearted consort and summoning Garuda bid him to go to the tower  of Budhas temple at once and rescue the trunk of Yathirajans body join it with his head and breathe life into it and review their journey .

Garuda was overjoyed to take up the service as he was going to see a martyr for LORDS cause . He atonce flew to the tower reverently lifted the trunk lying there and carrying it to where the head lay ..united them and breathed life …

Yathirajaa opened his eyes out of a shock and seing the feathered GarudaAzhwar promptly fell at his feet and learning from him all the events which led to his rebirth …

With tears filed eyes … He said what a sinful creature I am … I have been denied heaven now …. Sobbing uncontrollable he thanked LORD for his abundant mercy … Gardaazhwar simply lifted him and took him near Azhwar and safely dropped him and returned to Srirangam to give a full account to the Supreme Lord

Azhwars joy knew no bounds seing his brother in law . He and his men embraced him . They kissed him , wept with tears of joy and danced with him …

Our Azhwar said …. What is celestial joy  after all joy of serving the Supreme Lord right here in this land of darkness … Our Royalty is here ..Our life is for HIM and HIM only ..No force can sop us from our service to HIM …Maddened with outflush of divine enthusiasm they minded for the night and rose for the next day chanting  Rangaaaaa…..

To be continued....

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan 

Pictures credits: Google images
Uploaded by advanced devotees 

THE TEMPLE WHERE LORD KRISHNA ALONG WITH FAMILY GIVE DARSHAN

Shri krishna sharanam mamah, Shri krishna sharanam mamah,
Jai Shri krishna.. ….. Jai Jai Sree Krishna

Swamy NAMPILLAI AND PILLAIATHAN ………. WHEN DEVOTION OVER RULED PRIDE …

Swamy Nampillai the great Acharyar appeared  in Krithikai Month on Krithikai Nakshatra

Swamy Nampillai was a disciple of  Swamy Nanjeeyar who in turn was the disciple of Parasarar bhattar , son of Koorathazhwar.  Swamy  wrote commentaries for the great  works Kanninunsirutthambu,  Thiruviruttam, and Thiruvoimozhi, all belonged to and included in the collection of works “Nalayira Divya Prabandam”. His commentary on Thiruvoimozhi is glorified  known as Edu.

Swamy Nampillai discoursed the lectures of Parasara Bhattar to his disciples Periyavachaan Pillai and Vadakku Thiruveedi Pillai who in turn employed them in their respective commentaries..

An interesting   incident happened  when Swamy Nampillai should have been 25 years old and his teacher, Nanjeeyar should have been in his early fifties. 

One sunny  day  Pillaiathan approached  Swamy Nanjeeyar  . He was about forty years old. He prostrated at the  lotus feet of  Swamy Nanjeeyar and  requested  him to teach any one padhikam (a set of eleven songs) of Thiruvaimozhi. The  Sacred hymns “Thiruvaimozhi “written by  a great Azwar Sri Nammazhwar  which consists of  100 padhikams.  

Swamy Nanjeeyar was busy in some service to the Supreme Lord
He told Pillaiathan,
“I am a little busy now. The best person to teach you Thiruvaimozhi is my disciple  Swamy Nampillai.  Please go to him.” I will advise him to teach you . Pillaithan was not interested as he was elder to Nampillai .. He said …
“But Swami, there is a delicate problem in that.”
“What’s the problem?”

“Our sasthras dictate that a student should prostrate at the feet of his master. You see I am a forty year old man. I can fall at your feet because you are a sanyasi and you are older than me. But Nampillai is much younger to me. And he is a householder. How do you expect somebody of my stature to fall at his feet?

Swamy ”Nanjeeyar now knew where exactly the problem was .Oh !!

 “That’s not an issue.

Our sasthras allow us to waive that condition in exceptional cases.

Any way Your case appears to be quite exceptional. I will advise Nampillai not to expect the usual formality of the disciple falling at his Guru’s feet.

You may start the classes from tomorrow.

”Pillaiathan went back happily. 

   Nanjeeyar called Nampillai and reported the conversation verbatim. 
“My dear boy, Nampillai,  we have a moral responsibility for the long-term welfare of our disciples. I have told you what is there in his mind. It is up to you to make him realize what is right and what is wrong. I am sure you will teach him the lessons in his expectations

Swamy Nampillai replied    “As you wish, Acharya.”
Next day Pillaiathan went to Nampillai’s house.

Nampillai had already made the seating arrangements for the classes.

A seat was placed two steps above the ground level. Another seat was placed at the ground level.

Pillaiathan now knew the trick. He thought: ‘This boy is offended because I won’t prostrate before him. That’s why he has made a high seat for himself.

What a pride! I should make it a point to tell this to Nanjeeyar.’

Mean time , to his surprise  , Nampillai came near Pillaiathan, took his hand in his and led him to the high seat over his . He made Pillaiathan sit there and he sat at the ground level.
That was probably the only one-to-one class in the whole world where the teacher sat at a lower level than his student. 

‘What a nice boy! He has given me the proper seat respecting my age, erudition and my position in the society.’
A teacher’s role is not just to fan the ego of his student.

  Nampillai remembered his Guru’s words.
I have told you what is there in his mind. It is up to you to make him realize what is right and what is wrong. I am sure you will teach him without hurting him.”

The lessons started. Nampillai had cleverly chosen the 27th prose in which Nammazhwar talks about his love for the devotees of the Supreme  Lord.
In the third  verse  in that paasuram ,  Nammazhwar melts;
The heaven and the earth always sing praises about the  Supreme  Lord, Sriman Narayana, the one who loves Tulsi leaves. The Lord has a shining golden disc about him and he is more than a father to me. 
Many fall at the feet of that kind Lord. Even greater are those who fall at the feet of those who worship that Great Lord.

And I am a slave to those who worship the devotees of our Lord.

I am a slave to them not only in this birth, but all my births to follow.
As Nampillai was quoting from the scriptures, from Ramayana, from many religious texts and emphasizing the importance of selfless love and the total absence of pride, Pillaiathan was transported to a different world. 

He now realized his mistake  of refusing to prostrate at the feet of this great man. He started crying for what he had done. 
He could not sit in the high chair any longer looking down on one of the greatest teachers of his time, of all times.

He stood up from his place.
Nampillai misunderstood the meaning of that gesture.
“I know Pillaiathan, that you are a true devotee of God.

Now come and stand here facing East.

Let me fall at your feet and get your blessings.”
As Nampillai prepared to prostrate at his feet, Pillaiathan prevented it with all his might.
“Swami, you are my Acharya.

You have made me realize the dangers of pride.

I had never known about this padhikam of Namazhwar. By deciding to teach me this, you have reformed me. Now please stand there. Let me fall at your feet. Please forgive me, Swami.”
Now it was Nampillai’s turn to block his move. 
“Pillaiathan, my Acharyar , Nanjeeyar has clearly told me that you will not prostrate at my feet. I am a householder and I am younger to you.”
“Oh, Swami, please do not kill me with my own words.”
“No, Pillaiathan I wont let you worship me. It’s against the orders of my  Acharyar

.” “Ok, Swami. Then grant me a favour. Please come with me.”
Pillaiathan did not even wait for Nampillai’s answer.

He grabbed him by his hand and walked out of the house.

He virtually dragged Nampillai to Nanjeeyar’s place. 
Nanjeeyar was taking classes at that time.

There were more than fifty students in the class.

Pillaiathan begged Nanjeeyar to stop teaching for a while.

He then told him what had happened.He fell at Nanjeeyar’s feet. He stood up and amidst tears begged him,
“Swami, please instruct your disciple Nampillai to accept me as his disciple.

Please tell him that I am going to fall at his feet in your presence and that he should accept and bless me.”
Nanjeeyar was very happy with his disciple.

He then nodded to Nampillai. 

Pillaiathan then fell at Nampillai’s feet in the presence of Nanjeeyar and all the students in his class. 

Nampillai lifted him up and hugged him.

Thereafter Pillaiathan learned the entire Thiruvaimozhi from Nampillai.

At the beginning and at the end of every class he would fall at his young teacher’s feet. 

All glories to our Swamy  Nampillai

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pictures/Videos : Courtesy Google images and uploaded by many devotees in social media

THE WRESTLER AND THE MOST BEAUTIFUL EYES

Villidasan instantly fell in love with those large, beautiful eyes, for which nothing in the world is even a pale comparison. Villi prostrated at Sri Ramanujar’s feet proclaiming his slavery to the saint. …………………http://kazhiyurvaradanblog.in/2015/08/26/the-wrestler-and-the-most-beautiful-eyes-2/

Radharani ki Jai….. Maharaani ki jai …..

The whole Brajbhoomi vibrates with the name “Radhey Radhey”. Radharani, the dearest gopi of Krishna is “personification of bhakti”. To attain Krishna’s lotus feet, one must pray to RAdharani for HER divine intervention and grace. She alone is capable of uniting us with Lord Krishna.

Srimati Radharani, the personification of bhakti and the foremost dearest gopi of Lord Krishna appeared on a lotus in a pond at a place presently known as Rawal to Vrishabanu.

She was affectionately brought up by King Vrishabanu and Kirti Devi at Barsana . When Mother Yasodha along with child Krishna visited Vrishnabanu’s palace, little Krishna went to Radharani and touched her. Due to SriKrishna’s sparsham, the little girl opened her eyes and saw Krishna. From that moment, they became inseparable . It may be recalled that in Kaliyugam, our Kodhai nachiyar(Andal) also appeared near a Tulasi plant and was brought up affectionately by Periazhwar. Like Radharani, Kodhai was also immersed in Krishna bhakti and was enthralled by Gopika bhakti that SHE chose to be one of the gopis in Vrindavan and did paavai nombu for attaining Krishna.!! Finally, she was successful.

At the same time, Vrishnabanu’s brother was blessed with a girl named Chandravalli at Rittora. Chandravali attained Krishna by her own means .

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Radharani was always surrounded and served by her thousands of gopi-friends out of which eight of them are very prominent and are collectively known as Ashta sakhis. They are Lalitha , Vishaka, Tungadevi, Rangadevi, Indulekha, Chitralekha, Sudevi and Champakalatha. These sakhis appeared in different villages around Barsana.

L

alitha at Ucchagaon, Visakha at Kamaai, Champakalatha at Karela, Tungavidya devi at Dabaara, Rangadevi at Raakoli, Sudevi at Sunera, Chitradevi at Chiksoli, Indulekha at Anjhanak.

These sakhis individually had many assistants under them for serving Radha Krishna. Few of them are elder to Radharani and others are younger to Radha. The appearance days of all these sakhis coincide with RAdhastami- Radharani’s appearance day which is celebrated after Sri Krishna Janmashtami. Starting from Sashti thithi upto Pournami, the appearance days of these ashta sakhis are celebrated and Radharani’s appearance day celebrated on RAdhashtami that happens to be today

The temple of Radharani is located on a small hill in Barsana . There are four paths leading to the temple. Devotees have darshan of Sri Krishna and Radharani all through the day. On Radhashtami, ( Abhishekham ) thirumanjanam is performed to deity of Radharani which had appeared under a tree.

As per scriptures, there were about 5 lakh gopikas in Vrindavan during Krishnavataaram. All these gopikas were immersed in Krishna bhakti. All the gopis were elder to our little Krishna. Our Krishna stayed in Vrindavan till HE was 10 years old. The exchange of love between our chinni Krishna and gopikas is transcendal and great sages swoon away when they remember the rasa kreeda performed by Krishna with the gopis. It may be noted that Krishnavataram took some 5200 years ago and due to passage of time, all the places related to the divine pastimes of Lord Krishna disappeared. Just about 500 years ago, Krishna and Radha appeared as Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in Mayapur to revive the Madhurya bhakti . When Mahaprabhu arrived in Braj bhoomi, he went into ecstasy and by the will of Providence, discovered all the places related to Lord Krishna. Before I proceed further, I offer my humble obeisances to VEdavyasar who wrote the Srimad Bhagavatham, Sukar who expounded it to Parikshit Maharaj, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu who discovered the transcendental places, the six Goswamis of Vrindavan who revived all those places and to all other devotees like Krishna Premi Swamigal, ISKCON etc for propagating the importance of these places.

All these temples are around Barsana and can be covered within half a day by car if we start early.

Early morning , after having darshan of Radharani at Barsana, proceed to Chitra sakhi temple at Chiksoli, from there drive to Tungadevi sakhi temple at Dabaara, from there drive to Rangadevi sakhi temple at Raakoli,return to Barsana. Take Delhi route ,drive for about 5 kms to Indulekha sakhi temple at Anjhanak and return to Barsana. Take different route to go to Lalitha sakhi temple at Ucchagaon, proceed to Sudevi temple at Sunera and return to Barsana. Take Rajasthan route to go to visit Champakalatha sakhi temple at Karela and another route to go to Visakha sakhi temple at Kamai. The services rendered by these ashta sakhis as per Gaudiya Sampradayam differs with Nimbarka and Vallabhacharya sampradayas. We need to realise that these sakhis rendered service to the lotus feet of Radha and Krishna and attained eternal bliss.

In all the temples, we find Radha and Krishna in the centre, the sakhi who appeared at that place is usually seen on right side and another sakhi is on the left side.

Wishing you all a wonderful Radhashtami..

Jai jai Sree Radhey

RADHA RANI KI JAI MAHAARAANI KI JAI .. ASHTA SAKHI TEMPLES NEAR BARSAANA VRINDAVAN..

Puranas reveal that out of many thousands of gopis, sixteen thousand are predominant and among them 108 gopis are very close , eight are still more prominent . Radharani and Candravalli are very prominent and Srimathi Radharani is the most prominent. Because Radharani possesses all the charm and sweetness to attract Lord Krishna .The Eight Gopis who are the foremost, dearest and most beloved friends of Shri Shri Radharani are glorified as Asta-sakhis Gopis .Their names are Lalita, Visakha, Chitralekha, Champakalata, Tungavidya, Indulekha, Rangadevi and Sudevi. check the appended blog post for more details

JagathAcharyar Swamy Ramanuja original paadukaas being worshipped since 800 years at Sri Kongil Aachaan Ashram in Srirangam

Many years ago there was a severe drought in melnadu located near present coimbatore The drought continued for almost 12 long years . An old couple who were living there decided to leave to the banks of cauvery and reside near the holy Sri Ranga Kshetra .

They shifted their camp near to the Lord’s temple . Good or bad is Lords divine will .They surrendered to the Lordships and managed their daily lives .

One day they observed huge number of srivaishnavaites following Swamy Ramanuja to the banks of cauvery . Curious to know about the following , they followed Swamy Ramanuja and found the entire place were his followers .

The elderly lady was charmed by the divine tejas of Swamy Ramanuja . She walked near the banks and asked the villagers ,Who the revered swami was and those followers .

The group replied that Swamy Ramanuja was the king of Ascetics and he moves along with 700 ascetics 74 Acharya Purushas , 1200 Ekangees and 300 kotti ammai .

Several kings and sattadars are his disciples . You are blessed to have his darshan remarked a old man .

She liked the place and the vibrations .She used to observe Swamy Ramanuja completing his temple duties and entering seven houses daily for alms . She tried her best to have an audience with the great seer but was unsuccessful .

One day as she waited she saw Swamy entering her house . She offered obeisance’s and with all humility spoke to him .

Oh Revered Swamin … please listen to my prayer …. You are a sanyasi who had given up everything in life and there are no possibility for having wealth , gold , jewels , mansions or any other worldly prosperity. You just have a saffron cloth , a Tridanda and Bikshu .When that is the case how was that so many people are following you all the time ? and landlords , kings fall at your lotus feet ,and whereas you are living on biksha only. what is that you can give to so many followers who are with you . What is the secret behind all these disciples as I don’t find any difference between a King and you . You are truly YathiRaja..

Swamy Ramanuja with abundant compassion told the old lady , Mother ! I don not have any wealth to share but I give them bits of information about Lordships and have a mantra that will cut the bonds of samsara which is full of worldly cares and that as a result of this they would get grace of the LORD which would confer eternal bliss in the form of their attaining to the presence of Lord Vaikuntanatha .

The lady was quick to request Acharyar for the mantra for her upliftment as she was in a pitiable condition . She fell at Swamys feet and shed copious tears , in great distress crying all the while that Swamy must grace her . Swamy Ramanuja looking at her supreme devotion informed the disciples to help her in her endeavor . They guided her to be at ashram for the initiation ceremony and succeeded in becoming Swamy Ramanujas disciple .With great mercy he asked her to repeat the Guruparampara verses and later initiated her with the sacred ashtakshari mantra .

Swamy Ramanuja performed Panchasanksaram, did Mantra Upadesam and the lady got a Dasya Name as “Kongil Periya Piraattiyaar”. The old lady was overjoyed and offered her obeisances to the revered saint with all humility .

After few months , the situation in Karnataka was better and the old day decided it was time to leave Srirangam . Kongil Piratti went to Swamy Ramanuja’s mutt and seeking Swamys blessings informed about her leaving Srirangam . She longed to have something special to remember her Acharyar forever and hence pleaded Swamy Ramanujar to bless her with Swamys Padukas . Swamy Ramanuja gave his pair of divine sandals (Padhukas) on the request of his disciple . With much relief and joy, she returned back to her native place.

Years rolled by, By divine will Swamy Ramanuja had to leave Srirangam for some time . After few days of trekking though the Nilagiri hills and the dense forests , Swamy along with his disciples saw few tribal people nearby . Looking at the srivaishnava marks and the aura they came near them and inquired about their well being .

On knowing they were from Srirangam , they inquired about Swamy Ramanuja well being . They could not identify Swamy Ramanuja among them due to the white dress worn by the Holy seer . The tribals lead them to the heart of Nilagiris with utmost caution as it was dark and the weather was too chilly . Trekking almost for many hours they reached the Chiefs house . The Chief had gone on hunting rounds .

They requested the chiefs wife to take care of the sri vaishnavas with due respects as they were disciples of Swamy Ramanuja and their Guru Nallan Chakravarthy had commanded them to accept Swamy Ramanuja as their Maha guru .Touched by the august presence of almost 50 disciples the Chief offered fruits and honey .

He knew the brahmanas will not eat at their place .He commanded his men to go to the neighboring village to the house of a brahmana by name Kattalai vari along with abundant provisions to honor the revered guests with food without any delay . The wife of Kattalai Vari was our KONGIL PIRATTI also called as Chelanchalamba .

Now , the disciples along with Swamy Ramanuja reached Kongil Pirattis hut . She was overjoyed to have darshan of so many sri vaishnavas in the remote forest . She offered her humble obeisance and prostrated them . She pleaded them to honor the food at her place . The disciples were keen to know her discipleship for entertaining her in cooking for them . She politely replied she was a disciple of Swamy Ramanuja and requested them to reveal their Acharyars name . When the disciples echoed it was Swamy Ramanuja she happily said that It was a great honor to cook for them and hence allow her to cook food for them .

Swamy Ramanuja who was in white dress was overhearing the discussion between the disciples and Kongil Piratti . He called one of the disciple and asked him to observe Kongil Piratti while cooking . Kongil Piratti in turn went to her hut , cleaned the entire place with cow dung and water . She had a bath , brought new pots and entered the kitchen chanting

Srimathey Ramanujaya namah :

Srimathey Ramanujaya namah :

All the time ,while she was cooking , the chanting of her Acharyar Thirunamam was going on . She also recited few Prabhandam pasurams . After completing her cooking , she took all the dishes in a clean basket into the chapel . She offered her obeisances to the sandals that was given by Swamy Ramanuja .

She offered the dishes to the Padukas and mentally chanted few slokas . Once done , she went to the srivaishnavas and asked them to honor the maha prasada. The diciple who was observing the scene went to Swamy Ramanuja and informed how exactly Kongil Pirattis was cooking in the kitchen . The disciple said as it was dark in the chapel and he couldn’t really see whom the dishes were being offered .

Though Swamy Ramanuja knew whose sandals they were , he called Kongil Piratti and said , my mother ! can we see the sandals whom you are worshipping . Kongil Piratti without any inhibition brought the sandals among the disciples . The disciples informed her Swamy Ramanuja was amongst them .Immediately she offered the sandals and when Swamy decorated himself with the sandals , her joy touched new heights .She was ecstatic and felt overjoyed . Offering obeisances and washing the lotus feet she apologized that she couldn’t recognize as Swamy Ramanujar was wearing white dress .

The sandals that adorned the lotus feet of JagathAcharyar swamy Ramanuja

Swamy Sri Koil KongilAachaan

Out of abundant mercy Swamy Ramanuja said , Lord Krishna dined with Vidura , Lord Rama had fruits from Sabari and all of you shall honor the prasada served by our Kongil Piratti .

( Swamy Ramanuja did not partake the food as it was offered to his sandals)

Kongil Piratti humbly submitted , Acharya please have some fruits from us . Acharyar with compassion partook few fruits and blessed her . Kongil piratti served the prasada to all the disciples and took the remnants along with the Sripada water to her husband . She woke him up and said , My dear please have this nectar which we are so fortunate to have . The husband looking at her Acharyar bhakthee asked her why she was fasting ?

She replied , My Acharyar had just fruits and remember he is on a fast since one week .What is store for me .. But !!! Promise me you will surrender to asmath Acharyar for initiation tomorrow . The husband readily agreed .The next day Kongil Piratti humbly surrendered to Acharyar along with her husband . She requested Swamy to initiate him into Srivaishnava fold . Swamy Ramanujar initiated him with Panchasamskara and blessed him . After this, memorable incident , Swamy Ramanuja proceeded towards Melkote where he lived for about 20 years.

Pictorial Representation of the divine leela

In SrimadRamayana, Bharatha got the divine sandals of Lord Rama and as a servant to Sri Rama’s Padhukas, he ruled Ayodhya for nearly 14 years.

In the second instance, Kongu Piraatti got the Padukas of her Acharya Swamy Ramanuja, worshipped them and was performing Poojas daily .

Kongu Piraatti’s husband Sri Kongilachan was 24th among the 74 Simhasanadhipathis who propagated Srivaishnavism.

The Appearance day of the great Acharya is being celebrated this year at Srirangam on September 4th 2022 in a grand manner .

Koil KongilAachaan Thirumaligai

All devotees are requested to participate in the satsangha .The Varthaman Acharyar can be contacted on the below Mobile number 99445 48161

Contribution to this divine service may be done in this Account

Karur vysya Bank, Srirangam
S.B. ACC.NO: 1276155000142914
IFSC Code : KVBL0001276
Name: V.Mahalakshmi

G PAY/ PHONE PAY can be remitted on Mobile number 99445 48161

Varthamana Sri Koil KongilAachaan Swamy

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pics credits: Sri Koyil Kongilaachaan Thirumaaligai and google images .

Swamy Appachiaranna.. (descendant of Swamy MudaliAndaan ) appearance day 16th September 2023

Swamy Mudali Andan  was the  foremost  disciple of Jagatha Acharyar Swamy Ramanuja .  AndAn  was sad that he did not have a male heir to continue the kainkaryam of Lord Ranganathar  at Srirangam.

Lord out of abundant mercy enacted a divine play .  Inside the temple at the same time , Swamy Ramanuja received prasadam from the temple  priest which was covered with a garment (Kandadai- Kandal Gandam + aadai – a piece of cloth with fragrance) worn by Lord ( Lordships ).

Swamy Ramanuja indicated to Andaan about the auspicious happening and told him he will be blessed with a son soon.  As per the divine will , during  the tamil Masi Month , Poonarvasu thirunakshatram , Swamy Mudali AndAn was blessed with a child with divya thEjas.

Mudaliandan took the young boy wrapped in  the  cloth that  was  used to dry periya perumal after his ritual bath . The  torn cloth was smelling of gandham ( sandal ) . Swamy Ramanuja took the little boy  and blessed him . and said he came in a torn cloth, but he shall be with a golden heart and spread Sriman narayana’s moola mantram to the world and hence will be called Kandhadai .

Years passed ,  the child grew up and came to be known as KanthAdai AndAn . KanthAdai AndAn was  just  28 years old when his father Swamy MudaliAndaan  reached Srivaikuntam  .

Swamy Ramanujar consoled him, took him to NamperumAls Sannidhi and gave him the duties and responsibilities performed by his father Mudali AndAn .

KanthAdai AndAn also discharged the responsibilities like his father  . Among this great lineage  another great Acharyar  Swamy Appachiaranna appeared .

Swamy Appachiaranna was  the direct descendant of  Swamy  Mudaliandan Swami and  occupies  the nineth (9) position in the  legacy .

Appachiaranna was addresed by Swami Manavala Mamunigal as “Nam Appachiarannao”.  Swamy  Manavala mamunigal  out of abundant compassion  gifted  two similar deities of   himself  to Appachiaranna (one for the worship of Sri Appachiaranna Swamy himself and the other for Swamy Vanamamalai jeer Swami, the Acharya of Appachiaranna) , made from the theerthapathram used by Swamy Ramanujar  received by  Swamy manavala mamunigal which was  in a  poor condition and later named as  ‘RAMANUJAN’.

Swamy  Manavala Mamunigal also gave Appachiaranna the  deity  of ” Lord  Teemanam Keduthar”, the Perumal worshipped by Sri Atkondavilli Jeer.

As directed by Swami Manavala Mamunigal, Appachiaranna lived at Kancheepuram at Swamy  Mudaliandan thirumaligai performing Nithya Thiruvaradhanam to “Sri Azhaithu Vazhivithavar” (the Lordships  given to kandhadai thozzappar by ( Lord Varadarajar)  Perulala perumal himself) one among the shad bheras of Kanchi Perarulalan .

In the foot steps of Swami Ramanuja, Appachiaranna also spent his life time doing the Salaikinaru Kainkaryam for the ( Abhishekam )  thirumanjanam of Perarulalan and Perundevi Thayar.

Swamy Appachiaranna’s thirunakshatram is Avani Hastham  falls on 16 th of  September 2023

This grand festival  is being celebrated for 5 days  at Sri Sri Mudaliandan Swami Thirumaligai ,  Singaperumal Koil, Thirunarayanapuram & Srirangam .

On this grand occasion, Chellapillai Perumal and Swami Ramanujar  grace Swamy  Mudaliandan Thirumaligai at Thirunarayapuram ( Melkote)  to bless all Sishyas and abhimanis. This  grand festival is taking place for many years as practiced by our Poorvacharya’s.

Shreemadh vaana mahaashaila raamaanuja munipriyam |
Vaadhoola varadhaachaaryam vandhe vaathsalya saagaram ||

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pics credits : mudaliAndan.com  website

videos : Social media

The Rope of pure love

Mother Yasodha was on lookout for her little naughty child Krishna .She was worried about his pranks. He was not seen in his usual place where he used to play. The kitchen, cow sheds, porch and the huge storage room for curds and yogurts.

The little fellow dark as the clouds had unusual craving for the yummy curds, butter and yoghurt especially in their colony milk maid’s houses and he ensured he tastes their curds more frequently.

She recollected the little fella’s pranks and guessed that he was into some mischief. She called him loudly much to the surprise of the cattle around. The name was so sweet to call and sweeter to hear.

Krishnaaa ..Kanna … where are you. .I am tired searching for you … The calves looked around with curiosity .

Suddenly at the entrance there was a commotion. All the milkmaids from the colonies assembled and called names. Oh Yasodha ! Your son has done his part once again.  He has robbed all the pots full of butter that was in the kitchen. Am done.

I guess whether you are really feeding the poor child as much he wants. There words were pungent and piercing.

Yasodha was upset. She could not accept the comment.

She decided to punish the little one. She ran like a girl of twelve searching for the little master.

In the process she reached at a place surrounded by a pond. The calves and cows were grazing peacefully .The Peacocks were on the trees making noise .It was a pleasant site. Far away over a small hillock she saw the dark child climbing over few small pots to reach the bigger pot with care .He somehow managed to put his tiny hands on the large pot that had yummy butter.   Yasodha was surprised how the little fella could carry that huge pot which a fully grown adult also cannot do it alone.  He took the yummy butter and blabbered …now you come … show me your hand …. And this is how you must eat …

Yasodha was curious to find who he was feeding… She slowly marched behind the hillock to see. She was amazed to see little monkeys were standing in a row to collect the butter.

She shooed away all the monkeys and approached the little one. She knew he must have brought all those pots from the milkmaid’s house.

The sight was a feast to watch. But the anger was not subsiding. She grabbed him and started dragging him away carrying him briskly saying he deserved a punishment. The little fella was watching his mother innocently thinking what mistake he had done by serving those little monkeys. The cattle were watching the drama patiently.

Yasodha now reached her home. She saw a stone mortar lying near to a cow shed. AH! Yes I must bind him here. She saw a rope around. Yes Imprisonment to this little fella is the best punishment .She brought the rope and started tying him to the mortar .But she couldn’t as the rope was short .She looked around, there was another piece of rope lying. She brought the same and made a knot and once again tied the rope to the child. But even then the rope was not fitting his little size. She looked around and found heap of tiny ropes lying that was used to tie the cattle. She made knots with the ropes and said now this length will be enough to bind him. Somehow once again the rope fell short to bind him. The kid was watching innocently the daring moments and thought why mother was so angry.

Yasodha looked at the child and saw those dark eyes that can dissolve even a huge whale. A tear stain on his cheeks was something strange. The sun light reflecting on the tear showed a huge rainbow. She could not resist in hugging the child, but was firm. He needs to be punished. She looked at the sky and prayed the Supreme Lord to help her in tying the kid.

The lord of the high skies, Omnipotent, Omnipresent, Omniscient being bound by an ordinary, illiterate milk maid who was standing before her like an innocent kid was blinded by that pure love .

And yes the Lord reciprocated by getting binded to the mortar to teach the world what love is….The Supreme one who can be blinded with love and only pure love …

Not for grand sacrifices or great rituals. And any day you will prefer the tear stained cheeks to the grand mansions and other material comforts.

And the Lord not only obeyed his mother for her prayer, but proved the world by bearing the marks of this rope on his waist all the time. When Lord gave us the greatest philosophy in the battle field, those rope marks made him remember the mothers love.

And when Lord laid down in this kaliyuga  as a statue in Srirangam , he made those ropes impressions visible to all the man kind to proclaim his abundant love for all the mothers and his own children  making this world full of  unconditional love ….

The indulgent smile of little Krishna made everyone faint ..

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Photos : Courtesy Google images

Videos : Social media

Yamunacharya to Aalavandar…… The Acharyar who was guru of Swami Ramanuja

Journey to the Eternal world …Introduction….

This whole world is moving according to the plan of the Supreme Personality of Godhead.  There is a specific plan being carried out in this material world. What is this plan? The cosmic manifestation is a chance for the elevated souls to go back to Godhead.  By the imperceptible power of time, the greatest of Himalayan Mountains will become dust, the great oceans will dry up, and the stars in the sky will perish – what to speak of our lifetime in comparison to those objects within the creation. Nothing can alter the influence of time even for a moment. Conquerors cannot defeat it. Beauty queens cannot seduce it. Billionaires cannot bribe it. Scientists cannot manipulate it. Champions cannot win over it. Geniuses cannot trick it. Military arsenals cannot stop it. A time piece may stop but time won’t, as the saying goes, “Time and tide wait for none.” When bored, we want to kill time but no one can do so. It is   Kaala purushaa ( TIME ) who kills all without discrimination

     Bhagavad Gita refers TIME   as a power that pervades the entire creation – like a commanding force pushing us ever forward. Young people often find it a difficult task to grasp the concept of devouring nature of time. They are impatient and always looking for the opportunities in the future. First, when will I grow up and go to school? And then, when will I ride my bicycle? While in school, when will I get vacations so that I can play cricket like all these other big people? After growing up and entering a college, when will I graduate so that I can develop a career? And then, they are waiting to get married – all the while longing for the watch to speed up so that they can enjoy life. But by the invincible power of time, they grow old if they are fortunate (because some people never make it that long in the world.) While in old age, they are inclined to think of the past: what I used to do and how was life in those days. The good old days! Those expectations and mysteries do not stand any longer in front of them. They become apprehensive and nervous while the old age creeps in – making things worse.

Staring into their eyes, death begins to approach rapidly. We could drive for a long time recollecting  and seeing all the old photographs and those memories . It will look impressive, but on closer examination we see it’s a sad reflection of the real world — devoid of all its glamour and glitz.  A dead person is cremated and few customs bury them in an attractive casket. Then, there is the tombstone which is made of granite or marble. All are there inside the same soil few cremated and few buried with luxury of their tomb stones and   the dates of birth and death are written on the tombstone along with a message.

A few friends drop by for a few years to remember the dead person. Although the body is buried seven feet below the ground, still the insects feast on the casket and the body. There’s nothing in the cemetery except for the name and the years of our life. We thus become an insignificant statistic after a few years, lost in the teeming crowd of millions who are wandering in this material world. Our life in this world is as brief as a flash of lightening in comparison to the sky of eternity.

 The first fundamental principle of Bhagavad Gita is that the soul is beyond time. The body is always changing from childhood to youth to old age, but the soul remains the same. For the soul, there is neither birth nor death. True wisdom is to appreciate the potential of every moment by grounding ourselves in the reality of the timeless soul.  

 Now the important question of ourselves. From Albert Einstein to Stephen Hawkings all modern physicists have been confronted by common questions about evolution, existence and sustenance of human life on planet earth. Doctors of medical science often wonder what death is, and why it should be inevitable.

Modern Science, despite its great advancements in many fields has been unable to answer some of these questions most satisfactorily.

Who am I? (My nature)
Who is the Supreme Personality of Godhead?
What is the purpose/s of human life on earth?)
How can I achieve this goal or life purpose?
What are my obstacles to achieving this goal or life purpose?

The most revered Srivaishanava  LokaAcharyar H H  Swami Pillai Lokarcharyar answers the above questions in his great work “Artha Panchakam”

Who am I?
“I” refers to the Jeevatma (Soul) that owns this physical human body.

  Jeevatmas ( Souls) are classified into five sects
Nityar – Jeevatmas (Souls) who live eternally in the Lord’s kingdom serving HIM.

SOULS JOURNEY.. .courtesy ISKCON

  They include our Adisesha , Garudar , Vishvaksenar, and all the Nitya soories .
Muktar: (Souls) Jeevatmas who have reached the Supreme Lord’s kingdom having attained salvation (Moksha) from cycles of birth and death
Baddhar:  (Souls) Jeevatmas who are born on earth and continue to live through the cycles of birth and death (this includes those born as human beings, animals, plants etc.)
Kevalar:  (Souls) Jeevatmas stuck in “self-experience” of the Atma
Mumukshu:  (Souls) Jeevatmas presently born as Baddhar but strive in achieving ( Salvation )Moksha and graduating to the Lord’s kingdom as soon as possibleto join Nityar.

To be continued………….in detail

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pictures Courtesy Google images and Social media ….

“Aashada Ekadasi ” darshan to Santh Kurmadasar

“Aashada Ekadasi ” darshan to Santh Kurmadasar at Pandharpur

Jai jai Rama Krishna Hari

Millions of devotees all over the world gather at Pandharpur on the eleventh day of the waxing moon in June -July ( Aashaada Suddha Ekadasi) and in October -November ( Karthik Suddha Ekadasi ) . The lovely devotees mostly are Varkaris . Kari means one who undertakes .. Vari means periodical piligrimage ..

Varkaris are advance devotees of Lord Vittala . The devotees form society ( mandalies) for spreading the love of Lord among the people by story telling , singing devotional songs and preaching Holy name . Walking in groups accompany the palanquin in which are placed the silver paadukaas of the liberated saints on their Annual piligrimage . Trekking on foot for almost 41 days helping each other , singing together , Singing Kirtans and dancing together repeating ………………………….. Vithobaaa.. Rakhumai .. Jai Jai Rama Krishna Hari …. making the place Golokaa…

Fortunate souls get this oppurtunity to serve the Lordships amongst the advanced devotees .

The annual Pandharpur yatra to the famous Vithoba temple at Pandharpur in Maharashtra culminates on this auspicious Aashada Ekadasi day ( Apperance day of Lord Vittala) on June 29 , 2023

. A vast sea of humanity seeking the Supreme Lord is seen at this holy place . The saints have shown their merciful favor. Several devotees and several saints have given us a path for devotion and surrender which takes us out of the material world which is temporary .

Santh Gynandeva laid the foundation and erected the temple of devotion . Santh Namadeva built the wall surrounding . Santh Ekanath erected the pillar in the form of commentary on Srimad Bhagavatha Purana . Santh Tukaram became its pinnacle . Now the worship in this temple should be our goal .

Few hundred years back , there lived a devotee Kurmadas in a village called Paithan . about 450 kms away from Pandharpur . He desired to have darsanam of the Lord on HIS appearance day-Aashada Ekadasi.

  As he had tiny limbs, he couldn’t walk  . But the strong desire to have darshan was making him anxious . Whoever he met , he used to ask the form and beauty of Lord Vittala . He wished to join few devotees to have darshan . But was feeling shy to ask them as his trekking along with them would delay their yatra .His prayers was sincere . Repeatedly thinking of the beautiful form of the Supreme Lord the desire to have darshan became more and more serious . He decided he would make it If Lord wishes . He took leave of family and undertook his pilgrimage by literally crawling .

Many villagers discouraged him and mocked at him for this tedious task.  But he was firm in his devotion, he started off thinking of the Supreme Lord .  Every day, he could crawl for few kms and take rest. 

Every step was filled with the chant Jai Jai Ramakrishna Hari ….filled with unconditional love to Lord . Many watching him crawl laughed at his movements .

Lord appeared before him in the guise of a business man and asked, ‘

My dear friend , where are you going?

Isn’t it difficult for you to crawl thus without feet?’

When he heard about his mission, the business man said, ‘Oh! That’s fine. I too am proceeding to Pandharpur.

https://videopress.com/v/64ajpJCC?preloadContent=metadata

I am a business man there. My name is Vitobha. We make good company.’

Kurmadas laughed and said Sir How can we make good company?

You can walk very fast, while I cannot even walk.

Vitobha assured him, ‘Don’t you worry. I’ll take care of you.

So saying he provided him food, clothing and shelter for the night. Next morning Vitobha asked Kurmadas to proceed slowly. He said he would wait for him in the next village with food and shelter.’ I serve the poor pilgrims on their way to Pandharpur. That is my duty he added.

Kurmadas with great difficulty reached nearby village by evening.

Vitobha used to eagerly wait like a affectionate mother for her child . He used to make delicious food and served him food . Later he would make a nice bed for him sleep to comfortably for the night there. This practice continued for nearly four months. His food and accommodation was taken care of all throughout the journey. If there was no village en route by the evening Lord created one for him to make his stay comfortable.

Kurmadasa crawled like a lizard on the road continuously for four months … Finally , he reached a village called Laul which is 5 kms from a town kuruduwadi . By then, his body was totally scratched with blood oozing out everywhere. He couldn’t move an inch any more. Totally exhausted and understanding he cannot make it any more to Pandharpur , he mentally offered his prayers with tears saying he could not make it for Aashadaa Ekadasee.

He stayed back at the village Laul . He called few varkaris and sent a word to Lord Panduranga Vittala about his pitiable condition . They were touched by his pathetic story and offered to convey his message specially . Will Lord be unmindful of such staunch devotees?

When his devotee could not reach him, Lord reached him.

He went personally to Laul accompanied by three more devotees Jnanadev, Namadev and Savithamali.

Lord appeared in the same form he was meditating . Lord’s eyes were long like petals of a blooming lotus, and His charming lotus-like face made all the more charming by His extremely beautiful and sweet, nectarous smiles. His profuse curling hairs , the golden flute in his hand, and his blue-colored skin glowing with innumerable moons around ….

Can words describe the joy of Kurmadas on seeing his Lord Vittala with his close devotees, come down to personally bless him?

Tears gushed from his eyes like torrent ….

Oh My Lord !!!!! my life purpose is fulfilled. Your divine darsan liberates me from the cycle of life and death.

Oh Lord …Sorry for this trouble …Kurmadas was crying like a small child for disturbing the Lord Of Lords ..

Oh Lord !!! Instead of me reaching your lotus feet …You have walked down to see this sinner

He was uncontrollable .

Lord Vittala was moved by the Ananya Bhakti of his devotee. He embraced his devotee like a mother and behold the child regained his arms and limbs

Lord looked at him with bewitching smile and wanted to grace him further .. He asks him , my child I want to give you anything you wish …..

‘Oh My saviour ..Vittala..Vittala

! Why do you divert my attention? Why do you want to tempt me with desires?

You have imbibed in me that desires lead to sorrow.

Desires arise out of ignorance Do you want me to fall a prey to them once again ?

Oh My Lord , I do not seek any thing ,,anything

My mind has become blank. My senses have come to a stand still. My eyes which are blessed with the sight of your celestial divine beauty will not be compromised for any lesser beauty. My ears which were blessed with the nectar like sounds emanated from you are deaf to any other sound, however interesting it may be.

A honeybee, if it is dropped into a big vessel of honey, enjoys the honey to its maximum and remains there itself. Presently, I am like that. I am dead for the rest of the world. I have a new birth into your Kingdom my Supreme Lord . I don’t have any more desire! My life’s purpose is completed.

All the same, I can’t deny your grant of wish. It is not fair on my part to refuse a boon offered by you in the presence of my manasika gurus . Let me seek a small favor from you. There may be many more crippled and handicapped people like me who may not be able to have darshan of Pandharapur where you reside . Kindly stay back here in this village for many many souls to have your darshan

. As per his wish, Lord Vittala turned out to be an deity there and disappeared with his three saints .

Even today, this holy place where LORD personally visited is treated on par with Pandharpur. The devotees who go to Pandharpur in Ashad and Kartik months go for darshan at this place after the special festival at Pandharpur .

Jai Jai Bhaktha Kurmadasa

All glories to the great saints and the devotees

Your servant offers countless dandaavats pranaams to the mahasants who were able to please the LORD to remain here in the wonderful dhaam .and

All glories to the devotees who are in Pandharpur dhaam serving the Supreme Lord

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pics & Videos : Courtesy from afvance devotees who have uploaded in social web sites

Jai Jai vittala Jai Hari Vittala

Jai Jai Ramakrishna Hari

Jai Jai    Panduranga Hari

Jai Jai Ramakrishna Hari

Jai Jai Panduranga Hari

Sri Rakumaayi sametha Sri Panduranga parabrahmane namah

Srimathey Ramanujaya namah

Jai Jai Ramakrishna Hari

Pilgrimage to Pandharpur near   Sholapur in Maharashtra  and  having  darshan of Lord Vittal  is incomplete without having the darshan of the great saints Sri Bhanudasar, Sri Janardhan Swamy, Eknath Maharaj, Jnaneswar, Tukaram Maharaj, Namdev, Chokamela,Sakkubai, Jaanabai, Gora Kumbar, Kurmadasar, Sant Savanta Mali and many many more …The craving to visit all these holy places finally fructified few years ago Reading “Maha Bhakta Vijayam” –a compilation of divine pastimes of various devotees ,especially  Lord Pandurangan devotees was a regular thing and we used to cherish the divine pastimes . His Holiness  Sri Sri Muralidhar Swamy who personally visited  all the places and telecasted the same in Vijay T.V. as “Veedu Thedi Varuvan Vittalan” was the Inspiration .All glories to His Holiness  Sri Sri Muralidhar Swamy for the wonderful journey and instilling bhakthi to zillions of devotees .

Adiyen with family planned to first take the blessings of the great saints and devotees of Lord Pandurangan popularly known as  Lord Vittaljee in Maharashtra  before having HIS darshan at Pandharapur.

OUR TRAVELOGUE…

The moment one thinks of Vittala..the devotees  the kirtan and the yatra is cherished ..

watch the clip …..

We proceeded to  Aurangabad from Secunderabad by Narsapur-Nagersol Express in the late hours and reached Aurangabad at 6.30 A.M. next day morning. 

Keeping Aurangabad as base, our itinary was to visit  the great santh Sri Sri Janardhana Swami mandir in Dhaulagiri,  Santh Eknath temple in Soolipanjan where he meditated for 12 years,  then proceed  to  Prathistanapuram(Paithan) and visit Eknath Maharaj’s house, his Divya Samadhi mandir on the banks of River Godavari, Naag ghat where  Santh Jnaneshwar Maharaj made a buffalo recite Vedas, visit Aape Gaon-the birth place of  Santh Jnaneswar and Nevasa-where  Santh Jnaneswar wrote Bhaavartha Deepika-the Marathi translation of Srimad Bhagavad Gita. 

These places are in different routes.

Dhaulagiri, Grushneshwar and Soolipanjan are  in “Aurangabad-Dhauladabad” route, Paithan is on the southern side of Aurangabad, Aape gaon and Nevasa are in “Aurangabad-Pune” route.  To visit all these places and to be dropped at Nevasa bus stop, we had finalized  a cab Indica for Rs.3000/- by contacting Mr.Mahender(07387900950) who operates M/s Sai Baba Travels  in Aurangabad .

Mandir up the hill and finally the Samadhi (resting place ) of Sri Janardhana Swamy at the mountain peak.

The driver who was ready to pick us up from Aurangabad station took us to a nearby hotel for refreshing ourselves. The lodge charged 300/- for one hour and  Rs.50/- for providing hot water.  Mr.Mahender called up saying that he would arrange a devotee-driver who was very familiar with  all these places.   

 Aurangabad is a tourist centre with more monuments and sight seeing and so the drivers are familiar with only such places.  We need to ensure that we get a good devotee driver who is aware of the temples in Paitan, Dhauladabad, Nevasa, Aape Gaon. Somehow Vittaljee  took care of  our itenary in HIS divine way ..

We proceeded chanting the  juicy mantra JAI JAI RAMAKRISHNA HARI …All through the drive, we were listening to   Vittal’jees  abhangs and bhajans .  The driver first took us to Dauladabad which is about 12 kms from Aurangabad.  The holy footprints of Sri Janardhana Swami who was  Eknath Maharaj’s guru is here up above the hill .  Dauladabad Fort is a heritage monument and attracts many tourists everyday.  The entrance ticket is Rs.5/- per person.  We can see cannons and other military equipments, the  fortress which guarded the kingdom, Bharat Mata temple, Chand Minar, Ganesh mandir.DEVAGIRI (DAULADABAD FORT)

SHRI JANARDHAN SWAMYS DARSHAN AT DAULATABAD FORT TOP     

This fort has a sad past about the glorious Hindu kings .However  we  walked through the pavement surrounded by gardens for about 10 minutes and reached the foot of the hill which is like an entrance.  From here, the ascent to the hill starts.  Initially, the pathway is quite broad with big boulders on the way, we need to cross a narrow wooden bridge to gain entry into another hill.

There are about 510 steep steps to ascend to the hill.  At some places, the steps are very broad and at some places, there are  steep steps about 2 feet high.  The ascent is challenging especially when we have to enter into a pitch-dark caves where the path is very narrow ,uneven  and the steps are very steep. This itself is known as “Andheri gate”. We were groping in the dark unable to find the way.  Luckily, the  flashlight in my daughter’s cell came handy and we managed to find our way. After crossing this, the ascent is comparatively easier with the roof open to the sky.

Most of the tourists picnic here.  It takes about 1.5 hours to reach the hill.  On the way, there is a small temple for Vinayaka (Ganesh mandir). A lady who was taking care of the temple said that the cave  we were seeking is very far and as we were totally exhausted, we half –heartedly decided to return. Suddenly  an elderly person who was climbing very fast offered us  help saying  that he was also going to have darshan of  Sri Janardhan Swami and encouraged us by sharing the pastimes. He said that it would take only 20 minutes from Ganesh mandir to reach the temple.

This boosted our energy levels and continued our journey.  Beyond Ganesh mandir, a flight of steps leads us to a mantapam from where we can have a bird’s view of the entire city.

The cool breeze is soothing for the stress undertaken by us.  Further ascent of about 20 steep uneven steps  leads us to the mountain peak.

We have to get down about 5 steps to enter into the  cave where Sri Janardhana Swamy used to meditate daily and finally took Samadhi.  At the entrance , we find the words  “Sri Janardhana Swami Samadhi” painted on the cave.A VIEW OF DAULADABAD FROM DEVAGIRI MOUNTAIN PEAK

Eknath Maharaj, one of the foremost devotees of Pandurangan who is known for “Guru bhakti” served Sri Janardhana Swamy at this place for 8 years without expecting anything in return.  The guru pleased with his services blessed him to have his diety, Sri Dattatareya’s darshan.  While Eknath was returning from Godavari, Lord Dattatareyar (the embodiment of the Trinities-Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva who is seen holding the divine weapons and with 4 vedas as four dogs and dharma devathai as ) gave darshan .

Eknath paid obeisances to the God and was as usual serving his guru with unperturbed mind and dedication.  When questioned by his guru, he replied that his guru was “everything for him” and hence not excited having Dattatareya’s darshan.

We entered the dark cave and on the left most corner , we can find the footprints of Sri Janardhana Swami.  We  Offered dry fruits to him and placing few Tulasi leaves prayed to him to bestow bhakti in us and bless to serve our acharyar forever.       Profusely thanked the elderly person who guided us all through the trek, ( Was it Vittaljees leela )  especially the return trip when adiyen could not cope up with my daughter’s speed and had to cross the dark cave.

It was as if Lord Pandurangan HIMSELF came to my rescue as I was all alone. That devotee patiently accompanied me all through the trek.    Adiyen was amazed to note that I didn’t have the nagging knee pain which I usually get even if I ascend about 20 steps and was still energetic.   While returning, we visited Ganesh mandir and finally reached the foot of the hills at about 11.30 a.m.

That elderly person guided me till I reached the foot of the hill and went away.  The compassion of the Lord cannot be described in words.  This incident enhanced my faith in the Lord manifold times .  The Supreme Lord once again proved that HE is “bhakta vatsalan “ and “”aapath bhandhavan” .  That person advised us to visit Grushneshwar-one of the 12 jyotirlingas before the temple is closed in the afternoon and then proceed to Soolipanjan which is about 10 kms from Grushneshwar.

Grushneshwar darshan 

Grushneshwar is about 12 kms from Dauladabad Fort and about 4 kms from Ellora caves.  After replenishing ourselves with sugarcane juice, we drove to Grushneshwar.  Being Pournami, the temple was open and continuous abhishekam to ParamaShiva amidst chanting of Rudram and  chamakam was pleasing .  We offered bilva leaves, flowers, sweets to Lord Shiva -the foremost devotee of Lord Vishnu while few devotees were personally pouring milk and water on the Shiva lingam .

Despite asking the driver to take us to Soolipanjan, he straightaway drove to Paithan which is about 84 kms from Grushneshwar and 60 kms from Aurangabad station saying that while returning we would be visiting Soolipanjan. We drove for about an hour and  reached Paithan at about 4 p.m.

Finding Eknath Maharaj’s Samadhi mandir was not difficult.  There are two entrances to the temple known as “Datta mandir” and another “Godavari darshan”.ENTRANCE TO EKNATH SAMADHI

This holy dhaam  is on the banks of River Godavari.  It is advisable to do  purification (prokshanam)  of the holy river (sprinkling water) on the head instead of a holy bath.  Few shops sell puja articles and sweets at the entrance.

Eknath Maharaj lived for about 64 years in this world.  He along with his wife took “jala Samadhi”(they walked into Godavari river) and disappeared informing his followers that on the third day, they would find a banyan leaf and a Tulasi leaf floating on the river and advised them to build a Samadhi for him at the place where the leaves float.  A beautiful Samadhi with his footprints enshrined with silver is constructed.EKNATH MAHARAJ’S SAMADHI

A big hall for accommodating devotees to  perform NAMA SANKIRTANA (bhajan)  is also present inside the mandir. 

An elderly pujari was continuously reading  “Nath Bhagavatham” while another pujari was offering the holy water to the devotees.  Beautiful pictures of Eknath Maharaj in deep meditation, the picture of Lord Dattatareya in the centre  along with  Sri Janardhana Swami and Eknath Maharaj on either sides, a beautiful picture of  Lord Vijaya Pandurangan, a rare picture of Bhakti devi and the ways of attaining the Lord through bhakti devi-the nava vidha bhaktis namely sravanam, kirtanam, smaranam, paadha sevanam, daasyam,sakhyam, atma nivedanam on the left side of the Samadhi   decorate the walls of the temple.SRI DATTATAREYAR (CENTRE), SRI JANARDHANA SWAMI(LEFT), EKNATH MAHARAJ(RIGHT)

On either sides of Eknath Maharaj’s Samadhi, we can find small samadhis of his father and his son.  We were lost in the thoughts of Eknath Maharaj’s vaibhavam and were doing bhajan for about half an hour.  The elderly priest who initially was not ready to open the grilled gate, opened it later to enable us to take photographs and videos of the Samadhi. WE thought that it was Eknath Maharaj sankalpam to bless us with a clear view of his charan padukas.

The priest removed the flowers to enable us to have clear darshan of the holy feet and showed us the water which oozes from the Samadhi  continously.EKNATH MAHARAJ’S THIRUVADI(FEET) AT HIS SAMADHI

He gave a coconut and few flowers and tulasi leaves as prasadam.  The elderly priest with tears welling up his eyes narrated Eknath Maharaj’s vaibhavam in detail :

• Jnaneswar was born as Eknath and his brother, Nivrutti deva who was Jnaneswar Maharaj’s guru was reborn as Janardhana Swami. As Jnaneswar lived for only 21 years and didn’t get enough time to save his gurudeva, he appeared as Eknath Maharaj and served his guru for 12 years.  Lord Vittal pleased with Eknath’s guru bhakti served him as “Kandiya Krishnan” for 12 years.  (This once again endorses our Vaishnava philosophy that we should serve  the bhagavathas (devotees) to attain God.  Adiyen recollected Thiruvaimozhi 8-10   “ Nedumaarku adimai….” wherein Swamy Nammazhwar emphasizes service to devotees.)
• Eknath’s bheej (disappearance day) falls on sashti thithi after Holi Pournami. All the important incidents related to Eknath Maharaj like his birth, guru upadesam, Lord’s darsanam, his disappearance day  happened on Sashti thithi.
• Four days prior to Eknath’s bheej (disappearance day) i.e. on Dwaidyai thithi which coincides with Tukaram’s Bheej ,devotees bring water and pour in the well. On Sashti thithi, when the Lord HIMSELF pours water into the well, it gets filled up and starts overflowing.  The water from the well is then distributed as Eknath’s prasadam.  Thousands of devotees assemble at the Samadhi mandir on Sashti thithi and continuously do kirtan.
• Eknath Maharaj was an embodiment of patience, compassion, universal love. He used to see Vittal in everyone. He never used to get angry for all the inflictions caused to him by the people around.  The priest narrated an incident when a person tried to provoke Eknatha Maharaj by spitting on him several times until he got exhausted.  Eknath used to patiently used to take a dip in Godavari to clean this.
• Lord Pandurangan used to assist Eknath in performing aaradhana daily by bringing flowers, grinding sandal paste, keeping the altar ready and used to assist Eknath’s wife in buying groceries and vegetables, cutting vegetables and doing all household chores. The utensils used by the Lord, the grinding stone etc can be seen even today.  The Lord used to fan Eknath .  There are two red painted pillars in Eknath’s house.  Eknath used to lean on the left pillar while Lord Pandurangan as Kandiya Krishnan used to lean on the right side pillar and fan him.
• Lord Krishna used to fetch water from Godavari and store it in a small well inside the house. This can be seen even today.

THE PLACE WHERE KANDIYA KRISHNAN USED TO FILL WATER IN EKNATH MAHARAJ’S HOUSE

• Once while Eknath Maharaj was making preparations for performing shraddham (yearly puja done for departed souls), a low caste lady who was passing by expressed her desire to taste the food as the aroma was irresistible. Eknath immediately invited them to his house and fed them . The other Brahmins got infuriated with this action and decided to stay away from participating in the ceremony and ensured that no one from neighbouring villages would attend. Eknath Maharaj invoked the Lord, and Lord Panduranga along with Brahma and the pithru devatas came ,completed the rituals and partook the food offerings.
• Like Kooratathzhwan, Eknath Maharaj used to do dhadhiyaaradhanai kainkaryam(feeding devotees daily ) in huge numbers. That place can be seen in Eknath Maharaj’s house.
• Eknath is personification of “Acharyar Bhakti” like Madurakavi Azhwar, Anantazhwan.
• All the Gods were pleased with Eknath Maharaj. Lord Dattatareya appeared before him and gave darshan.  Lord Dattatareya stood guard at Eknath Maharaj’s house entrance.  We can find the pictures of Garudan and Dattatareyar at the entrance on either sides. Durga devi used to do the cleaning work while Lord Krishna left Dwaraka  and served him for 12 years as “Kandiya Krishnan”. Lord Triyambakeswar advised a devotee who was suffering from leprosy to partake the sripadha theertham(water used for washing feet) of Eknath Maharaj and he was cured.
• A poor lady who desired to feed 1000 people was advised by the mahants to invite Eknath Maharaj for lunch as it was equal to feeding 1000 people. The lady informed this to Eknath Maharaj and requested him to accept her invite.  Evknath’s son who was present there was wondering how it could be equal to feeding 1000 people.  After Eknath honoured prasadam served by the lady, he asked his son to remove the banana leaf and clean the place.  The son was perplexed as he had to remove 1000 leaves.

• A rich person made a beautiful vigraham of Pandurangan to be worshipped by him in his house. The Lord repeatedly appeared in that person’s dream and expressed HIS desire to stay in Eknath’s house.   Finally, the rich person came to Eknath’s house, informed him about his dream and handed over the diety to Eknath amidst assembled devotees.  Eknath was overwhelmed at the Lord’s compassion and offered HIM butter.  Immediately, to everyone’s surprise, the Lord removed HIS hand from HIS right waist and lent forward to accept the butter.  Hence, we can find Lord Vijaya Pandurangan with HIS left hand on HIS waist and HIS right palm forward. This diety is in Eknath Maharaj’s house and is being worshipped by his descendants.  Only at the time of abhishekam, we can have the darshan of the hand when all the floral decorations are removed.

EKNATH MAHARAJ

EKNAATH MAHARAJS HOUSE AND LORDS SERVICES AT HIS PLACE 

We requested a vendor outside the Samadhi mandir to accompany us to  Santh Eknath’s house and Naag ghat who could speak in Hindi.  Most of the residents speak in Marathi and we were finding it difficult to converse with them.  Luckily, we found this person who was willing to guide us.  The temple pujari informed that they also reside in that place .  This is about 2 kilometres from the Samadhi.  Eknath’s forefather, Sri Bhanudasar also lived in this place.  Driving past narrow,unleveled,hilly roads , we reached the temple.  Renovation work is going on in the temple.  At the entrance, we can find the pictures of Garudan and Dattatareyar as guards.

In the centre, there is a big hall where few devotees were singing abhangs, while another devotee was spotted with Tambura in his hand.  On either sides of the hall, there are rooms where Eknath Maharaj’s descendants reside. On the left side in the main hall, we can find a small well which was closed with a stone and protected by grills on all sides

.  The priest informed us that Lord Krishna used to fetch water from Godavari and fill this well.  This well is opened only 4 days before Bheej.  As informed earlier, the devotees bring water in  small pots and fill the well until it gets filled up and starts overflowing.  There is a strong belief that on Sashti thithi, Lord HIMSELF pours water and immediately the well gets filled up.  In  the garbagriham, we can find the beautiful vigraham of Lord Vijaya Pandurangan bedecked with ornaments and flowers.  Beneath , we can find the photos of Eknath Maharaj with his gurudeva and Dattatareya.LORD VIJAYA PANDURANGAN SANNIDHI AT EKNATH MAHARAJ’S HOUSE, PAITAN

As mentioned earlier, the Lord out of HIS own free will, appeared here .  We were told that the grinding stone used for making sandal paste was inside the garbagriham and as no one was around, we couldn’t have darshan of the same.  We were fortunate to touch the two pillars in front of the garbagriham  on which Eknath and Lord Krishna used to lean.  To distinguish , these two pillars are painted in red.  We circumbulated and touched the pillars and prayed for enhancement of bhakti and left the place.

From here, we proceeded to Naag ghat which is nearby.  This is on the banks of Godavari.  As the name suggests, a big snake painted on the wall draws our attention.  There is a small naagam where devotees assemble to please the snake-god.  We can find a stone-laid mantapam in an open space on the banks of Godavari which used to be the seat of the learned pundits in Prathistanapuram.  The pundits used to give their verdict in the assembly at this place.  This place is related to an important incident in Jnaneswar Maharaj’s life which is mentioned below.

Santh Jnaneswar Maharaj’s pastimes 

Vittal Pant who was not interested in leading a family life renounced his wife Rukmini and took sanyas from a guru in Varanasi without his wife’s knowledge. During one of his teertha yatras, the guru visits Aape gaon and blesses Vittal Pant’s wife,Rukmini with children.  Rukmini informs him that her husband had taken sanyas from the guru .  The guru orders Vittal Pant to return to the village and lead a householder’s life.  Being guru’s orders, Vittal Pant returns and in due course is blessed with 4 children who were the amsams of the Trinities.  Nivrutti was Shiva’s amsam, Sopan ws Brahma’s , Jnaneswar was Vishnu’s amsam and Muktabai was Durga’s amsam. 

The family was banished from the village because VittalPant had returned to family life after sanyasam.  When Vittal Pant and Rukmini along with their children approached Prathistanapuram for requesting the learned pundits to perform thread ceremony for their children , they refused to do so and as a prayachitham ordered them to end their lives in Ganges. 

Accordingly, Jnaneswar’s parents went to Triveni Sangamam and got themselves drowned because they were more interested in their children’s welfare.  The children once again approached the pundits and informed about their parents act and requested them to perform thread ceremony.  The learned pundits mocked at them about their interest to learn the sacred books. 

This was only a ritual.  The trinities, especially Jnaneswar who was an embodiment of knowledge didn’t require all the rituals but had approached the pundits to satisfy their parent’s desire.  When the pundits were thus insulting them, Jnaneswar said that anyone could recite the Vedas.  The pundits pointed out to a buffalo which was gazing nearby and asked whether it could recite.  Jnaneswar immediately ordered the buffalo to recite the Vedas and the buffalo did so.

The shocked pundits sought apology and realized Jnanadev’s greatness.  To recapitulate this incident, we find the buffalo temple here. This incident is painted on the wall.  Opposite to this, we find Ganesh mandir and further down towards Godavari, we find Siddeshwar sannidhi.

This buffalo followed Jnanadev till its end.  Infact, this buffalo used to nod its head in acceptance while Jnaneswar was expounding commentary on Bhagavad Gita.

We dropped the vendor back at Eknath Samadhi with some dakshina and proceeded on our journey.  It was already 6 p.m..   and hence we had to surrender to the mahaans  at Soolipanjan in our minds itself.

However as it was too late we had to surrender to the santh at Aape Gaon on the way to Nevasa.   Though the Kalleshwar temple in Nevasa  was  about 7 kms from the highway we had to pray from the bus stop itself . A local person informed that within 30 minutes, we could visit the temple and also informed that Shirdi was about 1 hour from this place and we could stay there and go to Pune the next day. 

This meant that we would be reaching Pune only by noon .  As we were running short of time, we decided to proceed to Pune even if it meant night journey by road with kids . The manager of Ahobila Mutt,Pune was glad to know that we are  Sri  Mudaliandan swamy’s sishyas and agreed  to accommodate us in the mutt and provide prasadam.

………….Reaching Nagar to take a bus to Pune 

We waited for about half an hour and to our dismay , no bus turned up. 

WE saw many non-stop buses from Aurangabad to Pune    and cursed ourselves for listening to the driver. We dispensed  the driver by paying  3200/- (including his tip) and were left stranded in the night on the highway. 

The person with whom I was conversing arranged for  a jeep for all 10 of us waiting for the bus to go to Nagar which is about 40 kms from Nevasa.  Ahmed Nagar popularly known as “Nagar” is an important route from where buses to various towns are available .  We reached Nagar at 9 p.m. and had to wait for solid one hour to board Pune bus.  Luckily we got AC bus to Pune.  The bus fare is 335/- per person .  It is about 3.5 hours drive from Nagar to Pune. 

We called up Ahobila Mutt Manager, Sri Rangachary that we would be reaching Pune at about 1 a.m.  The Manager was kind enough to remain awake and was giving directions to reach Ahobila Mutt .  He had kept 3 packets of Pongal, water,beds ready for us. Ahobila Mutt is popularly known as “Pashan Balaji Mandir” and has kalyana mantapam in the first floor with rooms for the bride and groom parties.  We were ushered into a room with all provisions.   We are greatly indebted to him for his services. Paid 300/- to the auto driver and retired for the night after partaking prasadam and thanked the manager profusely.  We later learnt that despite his ill health , he remained awake for our sake.  Our obeisances to the great devotee who gave us shelter.

After a long journey, we curdled in the divine lap of LAKSHMI NARASIMHAR and SRINIVASAR.

On 7th morning, we participated in the Saatrumarai seva in Balaji mandir at 9 a.m.  After partaking the curd rice prasadam, we left for Dehu.  We engaged a car through Ola Cabs to visit Dehu and Alandi for which we paid Rs.1300/-.  The car picked us up at 10.10 a.m. and reached Dehu at 11 a.m.  Dehu is about 41 kms from Ahobila Mutt.  At the entrance, a beautiful arc mentioning Sant Tukaram’s birthplace with Tamburas on either side welcomes us.  This comes under Military area.  There was a heavy influx of pilgrims on that day as it was Tukaram’s Bheej (disappearance day).

We could drive for about one kilometer only and all the vehicles had to be parked there itself.  From the parking area, the Samadhi temple is about 3-4 kilometres.  WE were charged up seeing the devotion of the pilgrims singing bhajans holding Tulasi pots on their hand, some were playing tambura , kartaal etc.  This was an experience to be cherished.  It is the usual practice of the devotees to fast on that day and have prasadam only after taking Tukaram’s blessings.

The shopkeeper from whom we purchased water informed that the tree under which Tukaram left for Vaikuntam was about 3 kms and we had to walk.  My wife approached a driver for help stating that I had just recovered from a fracture and would not be able to walk the distance.

He immediately stopped a bus which was coming from the opposite direction and asked us to get in.  Along with us, other devotees joined and within no time, the bus was jam packed.  The bus was however parked at a distance of about  one kilometer.  The entire place was charged up in devotional fervor.

This reminded us of the festivities during Thiruvedupari utsavam in Thirunangoor where the otherwise sleepy village comes to life with lots of activities.  A typical Indian village fare  selling ice creams, snacks, tulasi beads ,fruits, juices were seen.ADIYEN AT DEHU PARTICIPATING IN TUKARAM BHEEJ

We could hear Tukaram’s abhangs being played everywhere through the sound systems.  There is another arc with the beautiful words “ JNAN,BHAKTI,VAIRAGYA TUKARAM”.  The crowd reminded us of Brahmotsava celebrations in Tirumala.  WE were amidst “jana samudram”. Atleast a lakh of devotees were present at that time on that day to witness a miracle which happens every year at noon. Our ears were drawn to the melodious kirtan by Srila Prabhupada singing the Maha mantram.  A big cut-out of Lord Pandurangan from a distance attracted everyone’s attention.

Few ISKCON volunteers from Pune centre were doing yomen service of book distribution.  We purchased a beautiful and informative book on Tukaram by Shri.Radhanath Maharaj at ISKCON shop. They were glad to note that we are life members and requested us to honour prasadam on the way back. We found nearly 5 groups of ISKCON volunteers following Srila Prabhupada’s instructions of book distribution.

On the way, we could have sparsham of Tukaram’s padhukas which were placed in a palanquin.   Unmindful of the scorching heat and clasping each other’s hands we proceeded to Tukaram’s Samadhi mandir. On the left side, we find Indrani river which was witness to the various incidents in Tukaram’s life flowing peacefully.  Many pilgrims were purifying themselves in the water.  This  river which flows past Alandi, brings Jnanadev’s blessings too along with her to this place.  Pilgrims who have a holy dip are benefitted with Jnanadev and Tukaram Maharaj’s grace.TUKARAM MAHARAJ TEMPLE IN PANDHARPUR

Sant Tukaram like Nammazhwar was the only person who left for Vaikuntam with this mortal body.  Lord sent Garuda vahanam and singing the praises of the Lord , while everyone was watching, Sant Tukaram embarked on the Garuda vahanam and ascended to Srivaikuntam.  He promised his followers that on every disappearance day which falls on the second day after Holi ,popularly known as Bheej, he would come from Vaikuntam exactly at noon in the form of a gentle breeze to this place and bless the devotees.  Because of the gentle breeze, the leaves of the tree which was a witness to the incident gently move and the leaves fall.

To enable the assembled devotees who stand far away from the tree, the temple authorities have tied a red flag as an indication.  When the breeze gently blows, the red flag moves which can be witnessed by everyone. 

The assembled devotees continuously sing the abhangs and as noon approaches, the fervor and intensity of the bhajans increases.  Words cannot describe the sight. One has to personally witness this incident.  Because of the heavy rush, we could not go very near the temple and had to miss Bandaara hills which is about 8 kms from this place.  The heat was unbearable and as were running short of time, we prayed for Punar darsanam at this place.  WE were content of having the most desirable darshan on the auspicious day.

The ISKCON volunteers whom we met earlier ushered us to a building under construction and served pooris,curry, rice,dal ,kesari as prasadam.  We learnt that there is an ISKCON centre at this place.  So, we were confident that during our next visit to Dehu which should happen with Sant Tukaram’s grace, we can stay in ISKCON and relish Sant Tukaram’s pastimes. We paid Rs.10/- per head for the bus to drop us at the parking lot .

From Dehu, we proceeded to Alandi.  Actually the distance from Dehu to Alandi via “Alandi-Dehu road” is about 25 kms but we learnt that  due to heavy crowd, the road was closed.  So, we had to go via Pune.  These two places are in perpendicular directions.

Alandi, the most frequented place by devotees is the place where Jnaneswar Maharaj, popularly known as “Jnanadev”/”Mouli” took jiva Samadhi. Sri Jnaneswar Maharaj took Samadhi at the age of 21 under the rare tree known as “Ajaana vruskh” which cannot be found anywhere.  Being weekend , there was heavy rush of pilgrims.  The simple,  bhakti fervor of the Maharashtrians can be seen at these religious places.  The Samadhi mandir is on the banks of Indrani river.  On either sides, we can find shops selling all types of puja items, refreshments .  It was 3 p.m. when we reached this place .Devotees were waiting in the serpentine queues seeing which I guessed would take easily one hour to have darshan.  In the temples which we visited,  I found that there is no “paid ticket queues”- no seegra darshan.

Everyone has to go in a single queue.  Devotees standing in the queue were sining bhajans which I guess must be the abhangs written by Jnaneswar maharaj.  Unmindful of the hot breeze and the rush, devotees were immersed in the prayers.  My wife approached a security person and requested him to help us out as adiyen couldn’t stand for long.  The security ushered us directly into the Samadhi through the exit door. Within minutes, we could have darshanam of the Samadhi. 

A black stone is laid at the place where Jnaneswar took Samadhi, Devotees were offering flowers and sweets to the Samadhi.  Everyone is allowed to have sparsham of the Samadhi(touch the Samadhi). Even today  ,Jnaneswar Maharaj responds to the devotees’ prayers from the Samadhi and many incidents prove this.  Behind the Samadhi, Lord Pandurangan along with Rakumaayi(Rukmini) gives darshan with HIS ever benevolent smile and grace.( It was as if Lord was mocking at me for approaching touts (as is our usual practice in Tirumala) for darshan!!!)

On the outer wall of the Samadhi temple, a big photograph of Sant Jnaneswar with Vittal gracing him from behind draws our attention.  Opposite to this  is Muktabai’s sannidhi.  When we come in circumbulation, we can have darsanam of the banyan tree.  Rukmini-Jnaneswar’s mother used to circumbulate this tree 1008 times daily as she considered that to be her “daily Pandharpur yatra”. Beside this , we find Ajaanavruksh tree which is worshipped by all the devotees.  We came across devotees sitting and reading Bhaavartha Deepika near the tree.

It was under this tree that Jnaneswar took jiva Samadhi.  Later a temple was constructed at this place but we find the tree spreading its branches over the Samadhi even now.  Descending two steps from the tree, we enter into a mandapam which has been constructed for the devotees to recite Bhavaartha Deepika.  In this mantapam, we can find the images of Lord Vittalan with Rakumaayi and the silver palanquin which is used to carry Jnaneswar’s padhukas to Pandharpur from Alandi.

Jnaneswar was the founder of Varkaari sampradayam- they emphasise more on bhajans and abhangs.  Aashada Ekadasi is the most important festival in Pandharpur because this is the appearance day of LORD KRISHNA as PANDURANGAN to Pundalikan.  Every Ekadasi is important but Aashada and Karthika Ekadasis are the most important festivals for varkaaris and in Pandirpur.  Aashada Ekadasi is also known as ‘Sayana Ekadasi” when Lord Jagannath goes to sleep for four months at the onset of Chaathur maas.  It is also known as “tholi Ekadasi”  for Telugus because it marks the beginning of festivals after a gap of about 3-4 months.  In Tamilnadu, in almost all the temples, during this period, Jyestabhishekam is performed to the deities. So, this month  is important for all the Hindus.

Back to Aashada Ekadasi celebrations, thousands of devotees gather at Alandi and Dehu.  In Alandi, the assembled devotees place the padhukas of Jnaneswar in the palanquin (“paalki’) and continuously do bhajan until they get consent from Jnaneswar for the yaatra to begin. The bell on the Samadhi of Jnaneswar rings, leaves fall from Ajaana vruksham and there is a drizzle.  Only when all these three things happen, it is treated as  Sant Jnaneswar’s  consent  and the procession starts.  The procession takes about 15-20 days  to reach Pandharpur. All through the paada-yaatra, devotees keep singing abhangs, they carry tulasi pots , and partake prasadam with everyone.

We reached Swaargate bus stop in Pune at about 5 p.m. intending to take Satara bus. Initailly, we planned to go to Satara ,stay in the ISKCON centre (we never knew that ISKCON has a centre there but the devotees in Dehu provided us with the number and asked us to contact them (08806619098) for prashadam and accommodation.  We planned to stay there for the night and go to Sajjan gad which is about 18 kms south of Satara and visit Samartha Ramdas Samadhi mandir on the hill.  

  There was communication gap with the ISKCON person and hence we could not get confirmation about the stay. Maybe it was Lord’s will to fulfill our desire of having Mahalakshmi darsanam at Kolhapur . We found a bus which was ready to leave for Kolhapur . Purchased tickets and reached Kolhapur at 10 p.m.  The Kolhapur Mahalakshmi temple is about 8 kms away from the bus stop.  We hired an auto for Rs.70/- who dropped us in Venkateswara Lodge for Rs.1000/- room rent.  We had spoken to one of the priests of Kolhapur temple who advised us to be at the temple entrance by 7.30 a.m. to  participate in Abhishekam for Thayar.

HOW THE DIVYA DAMPATHIS  MAHAVISHNU AND MAHALAKSHMI DESCENDED ON EARTH FOR GRACING US IN KALIYUGA..

It may be recollected that Bhrigu rishi was assigned the task of finding out the most tolerant and compassionate God among the Trinities who could be worshipped by the fallen souls like us in Kali Yuga.  When Bhrigu rishi reached Satyalokam, Brahma was lost in meditation while Saraswathi was playing the veena.  As Brahma didn’t welcome the rishi, he got angry and left the place cursing that Brahma would not be worshipped on earth.(an exception to this are the temples at Pushkar and Bittoor).Bhrigu rishi proceeded to Mount Kailash where he found Shiva and Parvathi performing thandaavam (a dance type) and didn’t greet him.  The offended rishi cursed Shiva that he would not be worshipped in his original form and people would only worship him as “linga”.  Bhrigu rishi was totally infuriated at the behavior of Brahma and Shiva  and angrily proceeded to Vaikuntam.  He presumed that Vishnu who was lying on the cosmic ocean would also extend the same treatment .  Without following any decorum, he straight away went to the Paarkadal and seeing Perumal in yoga nidra and Thayar pressing the Lord’s holy feet, he committed an unpardonable offence by kicking Perumal on HIS holy chest which is the vaasasthalam (residing place) of Jaganmatha, Sri Mahalakshmi. 

Perumal who was pretending to be asleep immediately got up seeking forgiveness from the rishi.  Perumal seated the rishi on a throne and started pressing the rishi’s legs for the pain that would have arisen due to the offence.  The moment Perumal’s sparsham was felt by the rishi, he calmed down and realized his mistake.  While Perumal was pressing the rishi’s legs, he gradually pressed the third eye under the rishi’s feet which was the cause of anger in the rishi.  Rishis who have mastered their senses ought to be calm and forgiving whereas this rishi despite doing tapas for hundreds of years failed to master his senses. 

All the evil got accumulated in his third eye which was the cause for his temperament.  The rishi realized his mistake and begged for forgiveness.  He praised Perumal that HE is the most compassionate God to be worshipped and left the place.  Mahalakshmi Thayar who always resides in Perumal’s chest  who is never inseperable from Perumal (as Nammazhwar says “Agalagillene Iraiyum endru alarmel mangai urai maarbha) was offended by this act of Perumal.  She couldn’t accept Lords’s compassion on a sinner who desecrated her place.  The Vedas identify Perumal as the “one who has Sridevi on HIS chest”. Lord is known as “SRI-NIVASAN” meaning the abode of Sri (Lakshmi).

Pey Azhwar endorses this  in Moondram Thiruvandhadhi as “THIRU KANDENE, PON MENI KANDENE…..” meaning that he first saw “Thiru”(Lakshmi) and because of HER luster, he could see the golden luster on Perumal’s body.. . Our poorvacharyars vouch for Thayar and clearly emphasise HER importance as SHE alone acts as Purushakaaram(bridge between Jivatma and Paramatma) and prevail upon the Lord’s will to grant moksham (freedom from rebirth) on our behalf. 

That is why ,Swamy Ramanujar chose the holy day of Panguni Uthiram and sought refuge at Ranganayaki Thayar’s holy feet to intervene on our behalf and grant moksham.  Our poorvacharyars say that one can count the innumerable qualities of Perumal whereas it is just not possible to count Thayar’s qualities. 

Swami Desikan prays to Thayar to intervene on our behalf and ensure that Perumal does not punish for our various uncountable sins. 

Annamacharyar first sang 100 songs on Thayar and only later he started singing for Perumal.  Thyagarajar says “Nannu Bhrova mani cheppave, Sitamma thalli….), Ramdas in his outpourings sings “Yey theeruguna dhaya …..” .

On a day prior to Vaikunta Ekadasi  in Srirangam, when Namperumal dressed as Mohini by wearing Thayar’s costumes appeared in front of  Parasara Bhattar asking him to comment, Sri Parasara Bhattar commented that even though Perumal dressed up like nachiyar, HIS eyes which always wander to punish the sinner cannot be compared with Thayar’s benovolent compassion.  Thayar’s kataksham is always cool and forgiving whereas Perumal always tries to punish us when we deviate from dharma.  Such is the vaibhavam of Mahalakshmi Thayar whom Bhrigu rishi insulted.  Thayar who could not bear this humiliation and left Vaikuntam and landed in this bhooloka at Karaveerapuram for doing penance. 

The moment Thayar left Vaikuntam, Vaikuntam lost all its splendour  and Mahavishnu also set out for Bhooloka in search of Thayar. The Lord ascended at Tirumala Hills and later on married Padmavathi who was an amsam ofBhoo devi and who played a vital role in Ramayanam as mentioned in “Sri Venkateswara Mahatyam”.  Mahalakshmi Thayar who was doing penance was informed by Narada rishi about these developments and SHE came to Tirumala and participated in the wedding.  Thayar once again occupied HER original place in Perumal’s chest and resides forever.

A beautiful temple is constructed at the place where Thayar did penance.  Mahalakshmi Thayar is in standing posture, Mahavishnu and Mahalakshmi have blessed this place by staying here forever.  In this temple, everyday Thirumanjanam is performed to Thayar’s sataari (holy feet) in HER presence.

On 8th morning, adiyongal met the temple priest at South gate.  There are four entrances to the temple.  Kolhapur previously known as “Karaveera puram” is the place where Goddess Mahalakshmi first placed HER holy feet on earth.

      ABHISHEKAM BEING PERFORMED FOR MAHALAKSHMI AT KOLHAPUR

In this temple, all the activities are followed systematically.  Only gents are allowed to sit for the Thirumanjana seva and the ladies can stand behind and watch the seva.  Seva cost is Rs.350/- per person . https://video.wordpress.com/embed/2CQq4bJw?hd=0&autoPlay=0&permalink=1&loop=0&preloadContent=metadata&muted=0&playsinline=0&controls=1&cover=1

This seva is performed in the mornings from 5 a.m. at hourly slots.   For this purpose, there are two sataris.  One of the priests ask us to do sankalpam and after this is over, the devotees are involved in all the sevas.  A priest hands over a bowl of holy milk mixed with water,cur,turmeric,honey to be poured on one sataari and this is done by all the assembled gents devotees. 

During Thirumanjanam, Sri Sooktam was being chanted. Dhoopam, deepam, flowers, neivedyam are separately passed on to all the devotees who individually offer it  to the satari from their place .  Later, another pujari while reciting Lakshmi archana, gives us some kumkum to be offered to the second sataari.  After this, the devotees are sent for darshanam from close quarters.  While we were performing Thirumanjanam, we observed that a priest was patiently adorning the main diety ,Moolavar with all the sarees offered by devotees.  At a time, Thayar is draped in 10 sets of sarees in everyone’s presence. 

Later after giving haarthi and sweet offerings, these were removed. It is usual practice for the devotees who visit this temple to offer bangles, sarees, blouse pieces, kumkum etc. to the Thayar.  All the shops near the entrances sell these items.   Moolavar’s thirumanjanam also was performed in everyone’s presence.  The priest anointed some oil on Thayar’s thirumugam(face) and all over the body.  Later abhishekam was performed using water and milk.  This process is not that elaborate as we find in Southern temples.  Thayar was once again dressed in new sarees.  Dakshina of Rs.350/- towards Thirumanjanam charges are to be given to the head priest .  These amounts are later distributed amongst all the pandas/pujaris.  We were lucky to be in Thayar’s presence for nearly an hour .Our hearts were filled with HER benevolent grace.  Karaveerapuram is also connected with Sakku Bai, one of the great devotees of Pandurangan.  Sakkubai hailed from a nearby village in Pandirpur but was living with her inlaws at Karaveerapuram, the present Kolhapur.  To enable Sakkubai to have HIS darshan on Aashada Ekadasi, Lord assumed her form and lived in Karaveerapuram serving her inlaws and husband doing all menial jobs.  So, we wanted to visit this place.  But unfortunately, no one was able to guide us.  So, we had to satisfy ourselves by thinking of the Lord’s pastimes and her bhakti.

We left the temple at about 9.30 a.m. and checked out of the lodge at about 10.30 a.m.  Boarded Pandharpur bus from Kolhapur bus stand at 11 a.m. and reached Pandharpur around 4 p.m.  Took an auto for Rs.100/- to go to ISKCON, Pandharpur .  Being life members, we had made advance reservation of our accommodation and the manager, Sri Praveen Prabhu was kind enough to keep some prashadam for us.  After refreshing ourselves, we first had Sri Radha Pandirnath darshan in ISKCON and after honouring prasadam, went to Chandrabhaga river and sprinkled the holy water on us.  Construction of ghat as desired by Srila Prabhupada has commenced at this place with the support of volunteers.

We participated in the evening aarthi in ISKCON  at 7 p.m. Shri Praveen prabhu had arranged for an auto for us to go to the temple.

ONLINE DARSHAN FACILITY FOR PILGRIMS VISITING PANDHARPUR

To have a hassle-free darshan in  Pandharpur avoiding long queues, the temple authorities have started “online booking” scheme. We need to log on to http://www.vitthalrukminimandir.org/onlineDarshan.html and choose the date and time slot.  Book the darshan ticket online by uploading your photo and filling up the application.

We booked our darshan for 7p.m. to 8p.m. slot and so left for the temple at 7.30p.m. after the kirtan.  The temple is about 10 minutes drive from ISKCON.  The darshan is free of cost.VITTAL TEMPLE,PANDHARPUR

The security at the entrance ushered us to go to a nearby office near Tukaram dwaar to get our tickets stamped.  Once this is over, we can straight away enter the temple for darshan. We first had darshan of Chokamela’s Samadhi near the entrance.  Offering obeisances to Namdev at Namdev Pairi, we entered the temple singing songs on Panduranga including few abhangs.   Lord Panduranga was very kind to us.  He gave darshan from the closest quarters and allowed us to have HIS PAADHA SPARSHAM (touching the holy feet) which is done only in Pandirpur. The Supreme Personality was dressed in white dhoti with big green borders (typical South Indian dhoti) .We felt that the Lord was pleased with us because we had darshan of his devotees and then approached HIM.  The blessings of HIS dear devotees shielded our shortcomings enabling the Lord to pour HIS BENOVOLENT GRACE ON US.  The Lord also gave us a bonus by allowing us to watch HIS THIRUMANJANA SEVA  ( ABHISHEKAM ) on the next day.SRI RAKUMAAYI SAMETHA SRI PANDURANGAN

An ISKCON devotee who was introduced to us by Praveen prabhu advised us to be at the Mahadwaar by 2 a.m.  Only 30-40 devotees are allowed inside to have darshan of the Thirumanjana seva.  But as advised by the auto driver, we ensured to be present at mahadwaar by 1 a.m. The auto driver arrived at ISKCON during the wee hours and dropped us at Vittal temple.  Handing over the mobile to him and requesting him to come at 6 a.m. for picking us up, adiyen accompanied by my wife,  joined the queue outside the mahadwaar.  Luckily, only two devotees were present.  Chanting on our beads , we waited till 4 a.m. for the gates to open.

The security organized everything nicely.  The ladies were first allowed to get inside the temple first and were made to sit in front of the garbagriham in the big hall which is about 12-15 feet away from the main deity.  The gents were allowed later and had to stand/sit behind the ladies.  We recollected our past two  sevas few years back when the pandas used to take us from some other entrance other than the maha dwaar , make the gents sit and the ladies used to stand behind.  The pandas also used to charge exhorbitantly ranging from Rs.2000-5000 based on the number of persons.  But after the Endowment department has taken charge, things have been simplified for the benefit of devotees.  There is no charge for any seva.  Hope all the Endowment managed temples in our country follow this system.

ABHISHEKAM TO LORD PANDURANGAN IN PANDHARPUR

After about half an hour, the rituals started.  The pujari first removed the tulasi leaves which were placed on the Lord’s holy feet the previous night  and distributed it amongst the assembled devotees.  There were about 6 priests engaged in the service of bringing holy water, milk, sugar, flowers , chandan paste etc.  A male devotee in his late fifties helped in cleaning the inner halls while a lady who seemed to be an advanced devotee was cleaning the thresholds with water and decorating with kolams.  All through her activities, she was happily singing aloud songs on Vittal .

The songs by the pure devotee was nectarian.  As we were not familiar with the language, we could only guess from few Hindi words that she was singing appropriate songs for the sevas.  While the Lord was awakened, she sang  a nice song.  While offering milk , we guessed she was singing in Yashoda bhaavam, during Thirumanjanam and haarthi, she was outpouring the divine nectarian songs.  She reminded us of the great devotee, Jaana bai who used to sing beautiful abhangs on Lord Vittalan while discharging her duties.  The Lord was so pleased with her abhangs that he used to remember and relish her sweet outpourings.ABHISHEKAM WITH MILK PERFORMED FOR LORD PANDURANGAN

The milk which was offered to the Lord was distributed amongst all of us.  The diety was now ready for Thirumanjanam.  The pujaris kept two pots in front of the Lord containing milk and water and did sankalpam.  Inside the garbagriham, the priests were chanting Purusha suktam while this lady along with the elderly person was singing abhangs.  Lord was given holy bath with water, milk, chandan, sugar .  Sugar was applied on the Lord’s pavazhavaai(mouth) and on HIS holy feet. The Lord’s divya mangala swaroopam can be clearly seen during Thirumanjanam.  The Lord has a lingam on HIS head (Mastaka lingam), the Lord  places HIS palms  on HIS hips. The Lord is seen holding sankhu in HIS left palm and HIS right hand rests on the hip.  Lord’s dress and the sweat on HIS divine face can be seen clearly.  The brick on which the Lord places HIS holy feet can also be seen.  Indra, the king of devas, to atone for the sin of killing Viratasuran, a Brahmin was afflicted with bhrama hathi dosham.  To atone for this sin, Indra assumed the form of a brick and requested Srihari to purify him by placing HIS divine feet.   Haarthi was given to the Lord while the lady was clapping. First, the golden crown was placed on the Lord’s Head.  The Lord was clad in white silk clothes and with a white velvet cloth as the upper garment.  The lady was singing a song referring to the various days and the colour of dresses adorned by Vittalan.  The Lord was bedecked with a floral garland and a Tulasi garland.  Chandanam was applied on the Lord’s forehead in an “inverted leaf” form and a black Tilak was applied in the centre. 

The Lord’s beauty was very captivating..No wonder, so many devotees attained HIM. The moment abhishekam got over, the lady left the place to do some other service.  How fortunate she is to do kainkaryam right in front of Perumal, sit in front of HIM and sing for HIM.  WE were mesmerized by her unflinched devotion  to Vittalan.  After archana, the Lord was offered bhog.  Later we were all ushered in to have close darshan.  The ladies were allowed first and the gents followed suit.  Adiyen with my wife who was waiting in the queue had darshan of Vittalan in close quarters and fell at HIS holy feet.  May the Lord bless us with PREMA BHAKTI.  After having darsanam of Rakumaayi, Subhadra, Radharani, Balaji and after circumbulating the holy tree we cherished our memories sitting in the temple.

KAANGOPATRA CHARITAM- THE GREAT DEVOTEE WHO BECAME ONE WITH THE LORD

Kaangopaatra who lived in Mangalvedha  was a very pious,devoted,beautiful lady who was always lost in Vittalan’s thoughts.  The king ordered her to be brought to his presence forcibly.  On the way, she requested the soldiers to allow her to have darsanam of Pandurangan for the last time who obliged to her request. 

She ran inside the temple and crying piteously falling at the feet of Pandurangan, she gave up her life.  The priests hid her body behind the temple and immediately a big tree grew in that place.  This is the holy tree inside the temple which is worshipped by the devotees. When the king who didn’t believe the preists’ version personally came, he was shocked to see the upper cloth worn by Kaangopatra now decorating the Lord.  WE later learnt from the car driver that Narasing Mehta’s Samadhi mandir is in Mangalvedha.

WE returned to ISKCON and after taking rest for some time, honoured prasadam and went to visit other important places by auto in Pandirpur.  We first went to Pundalikan Samadhi located on the banks of Chandrabhaga.  This temple is visible from ISKCON.

“PUNDALIKA VARADHEY       HARI VITTALA “ is the most often heard word amongst Vittalan devotees and in Pandirpuram. Pleased with the services of Pundalikan to his parents, the Supreme Lord appeared in this tiny village to bless him and gives darshan to everyone till date.  Another speciality is the Lord’s sowlabhyam to his devotees.  Everyone irrespective of caste,creed,gender is allowed to touch the Holy feet of the Lord.  In Pandirpuram, we can have the darshan of the MOST COMPASSIONATE LORD who  mingled with all the devotees and assumed various forms like a cobbler, barber, servant, potter, and always assisted his devotees right from helping them in household chores and encouraged them to do bhajan.  Lord Pandurangan is pleased with bhajans only.PUNDALIKAN SAMADHI ON THE BANKS OF RIVER CHANDRABHAGA

“CHANDRABHAAGE SNANA THEERTHA   PUNDALIKA KSHETRA PAALA…” is the famous abhang which not only Maharashtrians but also South Indians know….

PUNDALIKAN

THE DEVOTEE FOR WHOM  LORD VITTAL’S APPEARED  IN PANDHARPUR

Pilgrimage to Pandharpur and Vittal darshan is incomplete without mentioning Pundalikan.  PUndalaikan who hailed from south India along with his parents, wife and children undertook a yatra to Kasi.  As his parents couldn’t withstand the long journey, they stayed on the banks of Bhima river in the present Pandharpur. Pundalikan changed the course of river so that it would pass by his hut to enable his parents for bathing. The shape was in the shape of crescent and hence the river came to be known as “Chandrabhaga” river.

Lord Krishna who was then ruling Dwaraka,learnt from  Narada about Pundalikan  who was serving his  parents and personally visited his hut to bless him. Pundalikan could not immediately get up and receive the Lord because his parents were resting on his lap.   When Lord Krishna called him,  Pundalikan replied that he couldn’t come and receive the Lord of the Universe and requested the Lord to wait for him till he finished. He requested the Lord to  stand on a brick which was laying nearby. Indra to atone for his brahmahathi dosham took the form of brick and was eagerly awaiting Lord’s arrival so that the Lord would place HIS holy feet.

As the Lord was waiting for long time outside his house, HE slowly put HIS hands on the waist and was observing Pundalikan’s activities.  Pundalikan was happy to see the Lord and prayed to HIM to stay there forever. Rukmini ,SAtyabhama who came in search of the Lord were happy to see the form of the Lord , assumed the same posture and blessed Pundalikan. AT the behest of Pundalikan, Lord resides here and gives darshan. As Lord stands on Vittu(brick) , HE is known as Vittalan.

The place where the Lord   stands is the present temple.   Pundalikan and his parents attained Lord’s feet and their samadhis were constructed on the banks of Chandrabhaga river.    There are two samadhis- one is of Pundalikan where a copper image of Pundalikan’s face is worshipped on the Samadhi.  Behind is his parents’ Samadhi.  The beautiful painting of Lord Vittalan carrying Namdev and Jnaneswar on HIS shoulders and other devotees clinging to the Lord attracts everyone’s attention.  Few photographers have kept small vigrahams of Vittal-Rakumayi and the devotees take photo along with them.PUNDALIKAN SAMADHI ON THE BANKS OF CHANDRABHAGA RIVER

The main entrance to the temple is known as “Namdev pairi”. This is the place where the great bhakta Namdev, who could converse and play with the Lord attained Samadhi.  A vigraham of Namdev’s face is placed at this place.  Along with Namdev, 14 of his family members attained Samadhi at this place whose names are mentioned on the nearby wall.

CHOKAMELA-

THE DEVOTEE WITH WHOM LORD WOULD CONVERSE DAILY AND  HAD PRASADAM ON A DWADASI DAY- 

Near the entrance to the temple, we can find Chokamela’s Samadhi facing the temple.  Chokamela was an outcaste whom Lord loved and would personally go to his house after the temple doors closed after sayana aarthi.  Chokamela like Chaitanya Mahaprabhu always used to be in ecstasy singing, dancing, clapping hands, crying, and was always immersed in Lord’s thoughts.  As the Lord was invisible to others, seeing Chokamela’s acts, the people branded him “mad”. The Lord would happily converse with Chokamela. (This reminds us of the great bhakta, Haathiraam Bhabha in Tirumala with whom Lord Srinivasa used to play dice every night after Ekantha seva and return to temple during Suprabhatam). Once Chokamela desired to see Lord’s house .  The Lord took him inside the garbagriham with his maya after the temple was closed.  They spent the whole night conversing with each other and when the temple doors were opened the next morning, the pujaries were shocked to see Chokamela inside the garbagriham.  The priests informed that the mad person had now entered the temple premises to the king who ordered him to leave the place and never to enter the temple again.  Chokamela was not at all disturbed with this order and moved along with his wife to the other bank of Chandrabhaga .  The Lord continued to visit him daily. Fasting on Ekadasi is followed by all the Vaishnavas as per shastras . 

On Dwadasi, the vaishnava has to feed someone and then break the fast.  In Pandirpur, Ekadasi vrutham is observed by everyone and they follow this practice of feeding someone on Dwadasi.  On one occasion, Chokamela desired to feed Krishna on Dwadasi day .  The Lord immediately accepted his request and visited his house on the following day along with Rukmini , Namdev and Indran.  Chokamela’s wife was serving the guests with the prasadam when accidentally curd pot fell down spilling over Lord’s peethambaram.  Chokamela chastised his wife for this behavior while the Lord simply smiled.  The Lord wanted to show the world Chokamela’s bhakti.  At the same time, mid-day neivedyam was being offered to the deity in the temple when the priests were shocked to see curd on Lord’s peethambaram.  Few people who happened to converse with Chokamela learnt from him that Lord HIMSELF had come for partaking lunch in his house and about the curd incident.  They informed the priests about the incident who immediately approached Chokamela’s house and begged for forgiveness. This incident in the form of photograph is hung in Chokamela’s  Samadhi.  Chokamela was always immersed in devotion to such an extent that when he left his mortal body, Lord ordered Namdev to perform the last rites.  When the remnants of the burnt body along with the bones were brought by Chokamela’s relatives, they observed that the burnt bones danced hearing Hari Naama sankeertana.  Lord instructed the ashes and the bones to be kept in a Samadhi facing HIM so that Chokamela’s remnants could always have Vittal’s darsanam.

NARAHARI SONA- LORD GAVE DARSHAN AS VISHNU AND SHIVA

On the left side towards Namdev Dwaar, the main entrance to the temple, we find Narahari Sona’s Samadhi and opposite is the Mallikarjuneswar’s sannidhi.  Narahari Sona ,a goldsmith by profession was  a staunch Siva devotee differentiated the forms of Vishnu and Shiva.  He was against worshipping/ thinking/ hearing about the presiding diety.  Lord, who is Jagan naataka Sootradhaari, has HIS own way of bringing everyone to HIS holy feet.  Lord wanted to remove his illusion and enacted a divine leela.NARAHARI SONA

A rich person in the neighbouring village who was childless prayed to Pandurangan for progeny promising the Lord that he would offer a golden kavacham for Lord Vittalan.  In due  course, the rich man’s wish was fulfilled and he wanted to fulfill his wish.  Everyone referred to Narahari Sona, the goldsmith living in Pandirpur as he was an expert.  Due to the divine intervention, Narahari Sona accepted the order but after learning that it was for the Lord whom he hated , he was hesitant.  Lord prevailed upon the rich person luring him  that with the huge fee which he would get, he could renovate the Mallikarjuneswara Swamy temple .  Sona felt that his long cherished desire of renovating his God’s templke could be fulfilled and ceepted. He finally relented to the rich person with a condition that someone has to get the Lord’s measurements as he would not enter the temple.  The rich person agreed to this and the measurements were given to Sona who made a wonderful kavacham for the Lord.  The rich man on an auspicious day offered it to Lord but when the priests adorned, it did not fit correctly and was big for the diety.  The richman asked Sona to make the necessary changes and tthis time the kavacham didn’t fit the diety.  The rich man started abusing Sona who was now forced to personally take the measurements.  As he had taken a vow not to place his feet inside the temple and also see the Lord, the richman ordered 2 persons to carry Narahari Sona inside the temple with blindfolded eyes.  When Narahari Sona started measuring the dhivya mangala thirumeni of the archa murthi, he suddenly felt naagam on the neck, tiger skin on the body, rudraksham on the neck.  As these things are adorned by Shiva, he felt that the vigrham was that of Shiva and opened his eyes.  Immediately, the Lord gave darshan as Pandurangan. Looking at Pandurangan, he immediately closed his eyes and once again attempted to take the measurements.  This leela was repeated.  With closed eyes, he could visualize Shiva and with eyes open, he had Pandurangan darshan.  Thus his ignorance was removed by the all-compassionate Lord and he became a great devotee of the Lord.

JAANABAI- LORD HELPED HER IN HOUSEHOLD CHORES

We then drove to Gopalpuri which is about 6 kms from Pandirpur.  The house turned temple is situated on a small hillock.  The inmates sitting in the various sannidhis force us for money.  So, we need to be careful.  Here the vessels used by Janabai in Namdev’s house which had Lord Vittalan’s karana sparasham(touched by Lord’s hands) , the stone grinder etc can be seen.  Janabai who had come to Pandirpur with her parents lost them in the crowd when she was a small child.  Seeing the crying child, Namdev gave shelter to her.  Namdev was an embodiment of bhakti who could see and converse with Vittalan.  Vittalan used to visit him daily.  In that conducive environment, Janabai’s bhakti developed.  She always used to sing the Lord’s beauty while doing work.  Lord used to help her in cooking and used to grind flour for her in the stone mortar while she would be lost singing HIS divine beauty.

LORD VITTALAN HELPING JAANABAI

This incident in the form of a picture is hung on the wall.  Janabai’s bhakti was like that of Andal and Mirabai.  Lord always used to relish and recap her abhangs .

In the same premises, a few steep steps inside a cave leads us to a small place where the idols of Vittalan and Sakkubai are kept. Sakkubai with folded hands and Vittalan give darshan.  Rs.5/- per head is charged for entry into this.SAKKUBAI SANNIDHI AT GOPAL PURI

SAKKUBAI- LORD ASSUMED HER FORM AND SERVED IN HER HOUSE FOR MANY MONTHS

While Sakkubai was still a child, a senior devotee who was going to Pandirpur handed over a tambura to her and gave her mantra which she used to always contemplate upon.  She always desired to go to Pandirpuram to have Vittalan’s darshan.  In due course, she was married to a person  and started to live in Karaveerapuram, the present Kolhapur serving her inlaws and husband.  She was always lost in thought of Pandurangan and was not at all interested in material life.  Unmindful of the inflictions by her atheist inlaws, she used to discharge all her household duties while thinking of Pandurangan always.  Once when she went to the river to fetch water, she saw a bhajan group proceeding to Pandirpur.  The group was led by the devotee who had earlier given Tambura to her. Lost in the thoughts of Pandurangan, she joined the group and reached Pandirpur.

Meanwhile, Pandurangan assumed her form and did all the chores at Karaveerapuram.  Noone  could guess that it was the Lord in the form of Sakkubai who was with them and served for many months. She was in ecstasy looking at the divine form of the Lord and gave up her body.  Rukmini devi, the divine consort of the Lord was perplexed at this incident.  She ordered Sakkubai’s body to be brought to her and the Jagan Maatha , the Universal Mother gave life to Sakkubai.  Rukmini Devi revealed about the Lord’s act to Sakkubai and advised her to return to her village so that the Lord could come back to Pandirpur and give darsanam.  Sakkubai obeyed Mother Rukmini’s orders.  The original Sakkubai met the Lord on the banks of the same river where she left earlier and sought forgiveness for the trouble.  Lord gave her darshan in HIS Resplendant form and blessing her left the place.  In our trip, we went to Kolhapur to visit this place.  No one whom we enquired could guide us  and so had to remember her in Mahalakshmi Thayar’s presence.

While returning to Pandirpur, we first visited Gora Kumbar Samadhi mandir in a small lane.  In the big hall in front of the Samadhi, we can find beautiful pictures of Vittalan and HIS various leelas.

GORA KUMBAR- THE POTTER TO WHOM LORD WORKED AS AN ASSISTANT

In front of the Samadhi, on the left side, we find a beautiful picture of Gorakumbar singing in ecstasy while stamping the clay and his child clinging to his feet.  Opposite to him, we find Gorakumbar’s wife.  Inside the altar , we find the Samadhi of Gorakumbar with a copper head being worshipped and images of Pandurangan,Rakumayi.GORA KUMBAR ENGROSSED IN KIRTAN WHILE HIS INFANT SON IS CLINGING TO HIS FEET

Gora Kumbar , a potter by profession lived in Teri village in  Osmanabad district along with his wife Tulasi  and child-Hari.   He used to be so immersed in bhakti that he would not know what was happening around .  Once it so happened  that his wife went outside to fetch some ghee for the infant and left the child in Gorakumbar’s custody.  While stamping the clay for uniform consistency to make pots, dark clouds formed in the sky seeing which Gora Kumbar was lost in Krishna’s beauty and was singing in ecstasy.  The lighting and the downpour startled the little child who crawled and clasped Gora kumbar’s feet.  While mixing the clay with his feet, Gora Kumbar was completely lost in Lord’s thoughts with his hands raised above his head and was visualizing Vittal everywhere.  Unknowingly, the child got caught in between his legs and in due course was crushed to death.  Gorakumbar’s wife who returned after the rain subsided was searching for the child and to her dismay saw the remains of the child  mixed in the clay.  She shouted at Gorakumbar and brought him to senses. Angered by the thought that because of Lord Pandurangan, her husband was lost in devotion, she proceeded to hit Vittalan.  Gorakumbar attacked his wife to stop her from doing apachaaram and was about to hit her.  To save herself, she proclaimed promise on Vittalan that he should not touch her.  Gorakumbar refrained from this act and tried to pacify her .

As the child’s memories haunted her, Tulasi literally became mad.  Gora sent her to her father’s place for a change.  Gora was continuing his sadhana.  Tulasi repented for her act and wanted to have a child’s presence in their house so that the old memories would slowly fade away.  She prevailed upon her father to give her sister in marriage to Gora.  As Gora was basically a nice person, her father too agreed and the wedding was solemnized in Vittalan’s presence .He requested Gora to take care of the new bride like his first wife. Gora treated the second wife also like Tulasi and abstained from maintaining any contact with them.  Gora never used to touch the food prepared by his wives and did everything immediately.  Once when his wives forcibly served him, he repented that the promise on Pandurangan had broken and immediately chopped off both his hands.  Now, the sole bread earner of the family was handicapped and thus could not continue his profession.  The ever compassionate Lord Vittalan who could not bear his devotee suffering, reached Gora Kumbar’s house and as a small boy served him.  The Lord used to make pottery and sell , he would do all sorts of services to Gora Kumbar right from bathing him, washing his clothes, helping him in worship, cooking and serving all three of them

A devotee who came to have darsanam in Pandirpur observed that there was no saanidhyam (presence of the Lord) in the temple.  Only the idol was there.  He contemplated on Lord to reveal HIS presence and learnt that the Lord was in Gora Kumbar’s house serving him.  He immediately rushed to Gora’s house for having darsanam of the Lord.  Through him, Gora learnt that the boy  who was serving him was none other than the “BHAKTA VATSALAN  PANDURANGAN”.  The boy had disappeared from the house.  Gora went in search of the Lord to Pandaripuram along with his family and pleaded the Lord to give him darshan.  With HIS cool benevolent grace, the Lord not only gave him darshan but also revived his dead son and Gora’s arms.  Such is the soulabhyam of Lord Pandurangan.  Gorakumbar stayed in Pandirpur composing abhangs and involving in devotional service and finally attained the Lotus feet of the Lord at Pandirpuram.  This Samadhi mandir is situated in a small lane and is easily accessible.GORA KUMBAR SANNIDHI IN PANDHARPUR

Contemplating on Gora’s bhakti , we proceeded to the next lane to have darsanam of Namdev, another foremost devotee.

NAAMDEV- LORD’S BEST FRIEND NAMDEV SANNIDHI AT PANDHARPUR

Namdev mandir is close to Gorakumbar’s mandir.  Namdev was a child prodigy.  Right from his birth, he was always immersed in Bhakti.  At the tender age of five, he invoked Lord Vittalaan to come personally and honour the food offerings made by him.  The Lord had a special liking for Namdev and used to spend entire time with Namdev.  All his family members were devotees of Vittalan.  While so many bhaktas used to visit HIM daily, the Lord preferred to go to Namdev’s house and mingle with everyone.  Janabai who was brought up by Namdev excelled in  prema bhakti towards the Lord.  In one of her abhangs, she sings “NAAMDEV KAREY KIRTAN, NAACHEY PANDURANGA…”

While Namdev does kirtan, Pandurangan used to dance.   Once when there was a heavy downpour in Pandirpur, Namdev’s old dilapidated roof was giving way.  To save HIS devotee from getting drenched, Pandurangan’s sudarshana chakram acted like an umbrella under the roof and the Lord HIMSELF  was holding the walls from giving way thereby getting drenched.  Jaana bai was perplexed and fortunate to see the Lord’s act.LORD PANDURANGAN SANNIDHI IN NAMDEV’S HOUSE,PANDHARPUR

Presently, Namdev’s house is a two storey building and in the ground floor, we can darsanam of Pandurangan. Every day, devotees assemble in the big hall and do kirtan.   The inmates informed us that Namdev invited Pandurangan to have lunch on a Diwali and the Lord had “sweet puris” in their house.  At the entrance, there is a separate sannidhi for Namdev holding Tambura.NAAMDEV HOLDING TAMBURA AT NAMDEV’S HOUSE, PANDHARPUR

TUKARAM MANDIR

We then proceeded to Tukaram mandir.  Sant Tukaram lived in Dehu and left for Vaikuntam from Dehu.  As mentioned earlier, we were lucky to have darsanam of Tukaram at Dehu on his disappearance day celebrated as “Tukaram Beej”.  Tukaram’s vigraham is being worshipped here .  The caretaker informed us that during AAshada Yatra, the pilgrims who carry Tukaram’s paalki  from Dehu reach this place and stay here to have darshan.  In the big hall in front of the sannidhi, devotees gather everyday to do kirtan and sing Tukaram’s abhangs.

The holy mantra “ JAI JAI RAMAKRISHNA HARI” which Tukaram  Maharaj always used to meditate upon was softly being played in music system.

Few devotees holding Tambura and standing in the hall were softly singing the abhangs.SANT TUKARAM SANNIDHI IN PANDHARPUR

After having darshan of the important places, we returned to ISKCON at about 1300 hours .The Lord once again graced us as we were fortunate to have “Rajbhog prashadam” of nearly 15 items -rice,rotis, 5 types of vegetables, sweets, payasam ,curd etc which is otherwise not given.

We learnt from the auto driver that Kurmadasar’s Samadhi at Laul and Sant Savantamaali’s Samadhi at Aaran were on the way to Kurduwadi. Kurduwadi is about 1 hour journey from Pandirpur  but to visit Laul and Aaran, we need to go by vehicle.

Initially, we had booked our return train ticket from Solapur to Secunderabad .  The tickets were waitlisted and we were not sure whether the train originating from Mumbai would have enough quota for the tickets to get confirmed.  Just 3 days ahead of our trip, a divine will from our Perumal sannidhi prevailed upon to check ticket availability  from Kurduwadi. And lo! Confirmed tickets were available.   Now we realized the divine plan of the Lord.  It may be noted that Pandirpur is about 80 kms from Solapur and about 41 kms from Kurduwadi.  As we were familiar with Solapur, we initially booked ticket from that place .  Who can understand Lord’s playing.  Lord wanted us to have darsanam of another two great bhaktas and enacted this plan.

WE checked out at 1430 hours. Thanking Praveen prabhu who made all arrangements for us during our stay and giving some donation for cow and ghat construction, we left by car arranged by Praveen prabhu for Rs.1600/-

Reached Aaran , the place where a gardener by name ,Sant Savanta Maali was granted darsanam by Vittalan.  This place is about 32 kms from Pandirpur on the way to Kurduwadi.  This incident is always referred along with Kurmadasar.

KURMADASAR”-

LORD VITTALAN SERVED THIS DEVOTEE DURING HIS YATRA TO PANDHARPUR     AND SAVANTA MAALI-THE GARDENER WHO DID PUSHPA KAINKARYAM TO THE LORD

Kurmadasar, another devotee of Pandurangan who lived in Paitan(Prathistanapuram) about 450 kms away from Pandirpur desired to have darsanam of the Lord on HIS appearance day-Aashada Ekadasi.  As he had tiny limbs, he couldn’t walk  and used to literally crawl.  One year before Aashada Ekadasi, he undertook the yatra. Many discouraged him and mocked at him for this tedious task.  But as he was firm in his devotion, he started off on Pandirpur yaatra.  Every day, he could crawl for about only 7-8 kms and take rest.  Lord Pandurangan was moved by his act and personally came to serve him.  The Lord used to accompany Kurmadasar and help him in his journey, cook food for him, wash clothes, make all necessary arrangements for rest and would leave him.  Next day, HE would again reach the place where Kurmadasar was halting and do all the services including pressing his legs. In this way, Kurmadasar took almost a year to come upto Laul.  He was now totally exhausted and couldn’t move even an inch.  He cried piteously watching the varkaaris go to Pandirpur for having darshan on the following day, Aashada Ekadasi.  The plight of Kurmadasar was too much for the Lord to bear.  The Lord alongwith Namdev and Jnaneswar set out of the temple to give darsanam. 

When the trio reached AAran, the Lord suddenly disappeared from Namdev and Jnaneswar and approached SavantA maali, the gardener who was making garland for Vittalan .

The Lord requested SAvanta Maali, who was a great devotee to protect HIM from two thieves-Namdev and Jnaneswar.  Savanta maali who understood that it was the Lord, put the garland on Vittan and requested HIM to occupy his heart which was the darkest place.  Lord entered Savant Maali’s heart .  Namdev and Jnaneswar entered the garden in search of the Lord.  Looking at Savanta Maali’s face which was glowing, Jnaneswar understood the Lord’s whereabouts and prayed.  Thus, Vittalan gave darsanam to this gardener.  Lord gave darshan to Savant Maali who attained the Lord’s lotus feet.  A beautiful temple has been constructed here which was once a garden.  In the sannidhi, we can find Savantamaali’s face on the Samadhi and Panduranga-Rakumayi’s vigraham behind.  Pictures of Savanta Maali with the Lord in his heart can be seen.

Drove to Laul which is about 5 kms from Kurduwadi and about  14 kms from AAran. The location of Aaran,Laul and Kurduwadi are in triangular shape.

We reached Kurmadasar’s sannidhi at about 4 P.M.  After giving darshan to Savant maali, the Lord along with Namdev and Jnaneswar proceeded to the place where Kurmadasar was suffering with pain. This place is at Laul.  The compassionate Lord took Kurmadasar on HIS lap (like how Lord Rama put Jatayu on HIS lap at Taket) and caressed him.  By having darsan of the Lord, Kurmadasar was relieved of all his bodily inflictions and prayed to  God to give him moksha at this place.

When we visited this place, a marriage party were just leaving the temple.  This Samadhi mandir is very different from what we had seen earlier.  On the walls of the big hall in front of the Samadhi, Krishna leelas and Vittalan leelas are painted.

  The Samadhi mandir is very dark inside.  There is a narrow,small entrance to the sannidhi and one has to completely bend down to get inside. We can find vigrahams of Pandurangan and Rakumayi and in front of them, we find the Samadhi.  Unlike other temples where  the face of the devotee is worshipped,here we do not find any such thing.  What we find is  a small bund covered with a green cloth like a tortoise shell similar to the ones which we see in Muslim dhargaas)  .

A devotee informed us that this place was like a forest and during Muslim rule, a sepoy who was passing by suddenly saw a light from this place.  He attained tranquility at this place and as a thanks-giving, covered the Samadhi with a cloth .

It is believed that Kurmadasar’s presence at this place can be felt by the devouts even today.  Later a temple was constructed and once again stands as a proof for Hindu-Muslim unity. A very small siva lingam and Hanuman are kept in the hall.

  Both Hindus and Muslims throng to have darsanam of Kurmadasar here. https://video.wordpress.com/embed/1wnRzaPM?hd=0&autoPlay=0&permalink=1&loop=0&preloadContent=metadata&muted=0&playsinline=0&controls=1&cover=1

This marks the end of our Bhajey Panduranga Bhaagavatha yaatra.

All glories to the Spiritual masters .

.All glories to the holy dhaam .

.All glories to the varkarees

All glories to the devotees who have read this post and got  blessed by HIS mercy

JAI JAI RAMAKRISHNA HARI

BRIEF ACCOUNT OF THE PLACES:

With Aurangabad as base, we can visit the following places in  one day

• Paitan (Prathisthanapuram) 60 kms from Aurangabad:- Bhanudasar’s and Eknath Maharaj’s residence which is about 2 kms from samadhi, Eknath’s Samadhi, Naag ghat where Jnaneswar made buffalo recite vedas, Godavari river
• Devagiri mountain in Dauladabad Fort –about 12 kms from Aurangabad:- Sri Janardhan Swami’s Samadhi popularly known as Janardhan Swamy’s charan paadhuka
• Grushneshwar:- about 4 kms from Ellora caves-one of the 12 jyotirlinga considered to be the last jyotirlinga
• Soolipanjan:- 10 kms beyond Grushneshwar- a small hillock which was Eknath’s meditation place, temple of Dattatareyar, Janardhana Swami and Eknath, the musical rock .
• Aape Gaon :- on the way to Nevasa from Aurangabad-Jnaneswar’s birth place- the wall which moved due to Jnaneswar’s mahima can be seen
• Nevasa:- known as “Nevasa Phata” is about 65 kms frim Aurangabad on Pune highway. The  Kalleshwar mandir  at Nevasa is about 7 kms from the bus stop.  Here the pillar which served Jnaneswar as support while he was giving commentary on Bhagavad Gita known as “Bhaavartha Deepika” is worshipped along with the Siva lingam. The commentaries given by Jnaneswar Maharaj popularly known as “Mouli” here was penned down by his disciple Sachidanandam and the buffalo which recited the Vedas in Paithan used to nod its head.

Triyambakeswar:- 30 kms from nasik-one of the 12 jyotir lingas.  About 2 kms from this Shiva temple on the way to Godavari origin, a small temple for Nivrutti where he attained Samadhi is there.  As we didn’t know the exact location, we skipped this.  This was informed by a devotee. (From Aurangabad, we can take a train to Nasik, visit Triyambakeswar and then proceed to Pune.

Dehu,Alandi,Saswad, Triyambakeswar, Sajjangad are all around Pune but in different directions. ISKCON’S new centre NVC which is about 18 kms from the city and Ahobila Mutt more popularly known as “Balaji Mandir,Pashaan can also be visited)

Or

(From Aurangabad via Nevasa,Ahmednagar(popularly known as Nagar) take bus to Pune which is  about 7 hours journey) (In case you are engaging a car from Aurangabad to Pune, the route would be:-

Aurangabad-Nevasa-Nagar-Alandi-Pune-Dehu-Pune-Sasvad-Sajjangad-Pandirpur

• Alandi:- samadhi mandir of the most renowned Maharashtrain saint ,Sant Jnaneswar Maharaj is about 22 kms north of In the huge temple complex, we can have darshan of the samadhis of Jnaneswar Maharaj, buffalo, the rare tree known as “Ajanavruksh” under which he took Samadhi, the banyan tree which Jnaneswar’s mother used to circumbulate 1008 times daily, the palanquin on which Jnaneswar’s padhukas are placed  which is used by the varkaris for going to Pandirpur for Aashada Ekadasi, the beautiful vigrahams of Rakumayi-Pandurangan, Muktabai sannidhi, Siddheshwar sannidhi. Devotees sit in the big hall outside the Samadhi mandir and keep on reciting Bhaavartha Deepika.
• Dehu:- about 30 kms north of Pune(slightly on the north-western side) . Through Dehu-Alandi road, we can commute to both the places which is about 25 kms .  However, this route is closed on busy days like Tukaram Beej.  All the places here are connected to Tukaram Maharaj.  We can have darshan of his house, the place from where he left for Vaikuntam, Bandaara Hills which is about 8 kms from this place where he used to often meditate.
• Saswad:- about 30 kms south of Pune on Pune-Pandharpur road. Muktabai attained Samadhi here.  This was informed by a devotee. As we didn’t know about this, we didn’t visit this place..
• 

Keeping Satara as base, we can visit Sajjan gad and Uttara Chidambaram temple.  ISKCON has its centre here (contact:- 08806619098/09881252581) for any information.  There are guest houses near Uttara Chidambaram temple.

• Sajjan gad :- about 130 kms south of Pune and about 20 kms from Satara. Nearest town is Satara.  It takes about 3 hours from Pune to reach SAtara because the vehicle has to travel through ghat roads.  In Sajjangad, we can find Samartha Ramdas Samadhi, Sriram mandir, the articles used by the great saint who was an incarnation of Hanuman.  The temple is situated on a hill and we need to ascend about 100+ steps .  Dolis are also available.

• Pandirpur:-In Pandirpur,Chandrabhaga river, Pundalikan’s and his parents Samadhi on the banks of Chandrabhaga, Pundalikans’ house which is the present Vittal mandir, at the entrance, we can find the samadhis of Chokamela, Namdev along with his 14 family members, Kaangopatra who assumed the form of a tree is in the temple premises, Namdev’s house which houses a beautiful vigraham of Pandurangam and a separate sannidhi for Namdev, Gora Kumbar’s Samadhi temple , Narahari Sona’s Samadhi on the way to temple, Mallikarjuneshwar Swamy’s temple opposite to Narahari sona’s Samadhi, Tukaram temple where there is a beautiful sannidhi for Tukaram. The varkaris from Dehu along with Tukaram’s palanquin stay here during Aashada Ekadasi, Jnaneswar mandir where the varkaris with Jnaneswar’s palanquin from Alandi reach Pandirpur and stay, Kabirdas’ house and his son Kamaal’s Samadhi,  Sakkubai and Janabai temples in Gopalpuri and of course, ISKCON Radha Pandirnath temple which has guest house accommodation.Decent  accomodation is also available at Gajanand Ashram near the temple. ISKCON is located on the other side of Chandrabhaga river .Autos charge about Rs.90/- to Vittal temple from ISKCON. ISKCON helps us in making vehicle arrangement even during odd hours.

• Aaran:- On the way to Kurduwadi from Pandirpur with a slight left turn after driving for about 9 kms from Pandharpur, we find the Samadhi mandir of Sant Savant Maali .this is about 32 kms from ISKCON Pandirpur.
• Laul:- 14 kms from Aaran , we find the Samadhi mandir of Kurmadasar. Kurduwadi is about 11 kms from Laul (pronounced as “LA VUL”)
• Mangalvedha:- about 25 kms from Pandharpur and 56 kms from Solapur- Kaangopatra lived here. There is the Samadhi mandir of Narasing Mehta

All glories to the great saints and the devotees

Adiyen offers countless dandaavats to the mahasants who were able to please the LORD to remain here in the wonderful dhaam .

The black and white pics have been borrowed from the paintings of the great Painter – Mr . Raghuveer Mulgaonkar ( Thank you very much Sir ) 

Lord Jagganath darshan at AlarnathTemple in Brahmagiri ,Puri

I_{t is said that Swamy Ramanujar visited the temple during his Orissa visit.  Swamy   was delighted to  have darshanam of chaturbhuja ( four armed) Lord  Sri Maha Vishnu, with conch, discus, mace and lotus flower. It is also believed  by the locals that he glorified  the deity  as ‘Sri Alwarnath’ or the ‘lord of the alwars’ giving the message of Sri Vaishnava Sampradaya. The place which housed Lord  Alwarnath hence also came to be known as Alwarpur. And today the words have been shortened with  passing time, the temple known as Sri ‘Alarnath’ or ‘Alalanath’ and the place called ‘Alarpur’ .Sri Ramanujar established the Embar Mutt at Puri.}

On reaching Puri, Swamy Ramanujar  began to interact with the local priests and scholars. His divya tejas attracted people and soon he found many devotees submitting to the legendary  sampradaya .

Swamy  decided to establish a monastery to be headed by Sri Govinda . Govinda was also fondly called Embar ,  hence the mutt came to be known as ‘Embar mutt’.. This Embar mutt is located right outside the Puri Jagannath temple.

Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu  used to stay  at Alarnath during anavasara period of Lord Jagannath.

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anavasara is the two weeks period when Lord Jagannatha take rest in isolation from the rest of the world ,  post the  annual bathing festival (Snana Yatra). ( another divine leela ) .

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After Snana Poornima, ritualistic bathing of the idols of Jagannath, there is a popular belief that the deities get fever. For a period of 15 day the deities do not appear before public. The deities remain in the Anasar house and appear a day before Puri Rath Yatra ……

On the day and post Snana Purnima in Jyeshta month (May – June), there is no darshan of Lord Jagannath and other deities at the Puri JagannathTemple for 15 days.

This 15-day period of Anavasara (no darshan) at Puri JagannathTemple happens before the Rath Yatra.
There is a popular belief that Lord Jagannath during this period manifests as Alarnath Dev at AlarnathTemple in Brahmagiri, which is about 23 km from Puri. During these 15 days, devotees visit the Alarnath temple at Brahmagiri in large numbers.

Legend has it that Lord Jagannath manifests into the Alarnath Dev during the fortnight.

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Sri Chaitanya maha prabhu visualised the appearance of Lord Jagannath in Alarnath and spent a long period in worshipping the lordships here.

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 It is believed that those who cannot worship Lord Jagannath during his stay in the sick chamber can get the blessings of Lord Alarnathjee if they visit this temple. During this period the temple servitors offered holy rice porridge, known as ‘Kheer’ ( Akkaraadisil ) in local language, to the lord. During the present anavasara period of every year thousands of devotees visit this temple to get the blessings of Lord Alarnath and to taste the mahaprasad ( famous holy ‘Kheer’).

Here one can have darshan of LORD with chaturbhuja .Lord holds chakra in his upper right hand, Lotus in his lower right hand, Conch in his upper left hand and club in his lower left hand. Garudazhwan , kneels at the feet of the deity with his hands folded in prayer position.

Lord Krishna’s queens Rukmini and Satyabhama also give darshan inside the temple. The Deity of Sri Chaitanya mahaprabhu also gives darshan to the devotees .

There is a stone slab before the LORD which bears impressions from Sri Chaitanya’s body.

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When Sri Chaitanya mahaprabhu first lay in full respect in front of Lord Alarnath, the stone below Sri Chaitanya maha prabhu melted from His blissful touch.

Photos : Courtesy : Google images
Srimathey Ramanujaya namah
JAI JAI JAI JAGGANATHA

Please check the travel details of Jagganath Puri dhaam  in this link

 https://kazhiyurvaradanblog.in/2015/01/01/jaya-jaya-jagannatha-sacira-nandan/

Nammazhwar’s Appearance day celebrations on June 2 nd 2023

In Srimad Bhagavatha Mahapurana as part of a discussion between King Nimi and sage Karabhajana  the advent of the  Srivaishnava Azhwars appearance in the Kali age is revealed . ” In the Kali age men devoted to Lord Sriman Narayana will be born in large numbers near  the Dravida territory where in the rivers Tamaraparni, Vaigai ,  Paalaar  the most sacred Kaaveri   flows .” True to the epic , both Swamy  Namaazhwar and Madhurakavi Azhwar  appeared on the banks of Tambaraparni river . It is said that just after 40 years of the disappearance of Lord Krishna , Nammazhwar appeared .  Periyazhwar and Sri Andal  appeared in a place close to river Vaigai , the Mudal Azhwars and Thirumazhisai Azhwar appeared  near Paalaar and Thodaradippodi Azhwar, Thiruppaanaazhwar and Thirumangai Azhwar  appeared near river Kaaveri.The most holy place Thirukurugur  “Alwar Tirunagari”  is about 30kms east of Tirunelveli on the Tirunelveli-Tiruchendur highway off the Southern banks of Tamaraparani   .

Check this post for more details  :

https://kmkvaradhan.wordpress.com/2015/06/14/the-glory-of-thirukkolur/Thirukurugur  Vaishnava  divyadesam  is located  on the banks of the river Tamaraparani  and is one of the 108 divya desams in Pandiya Nadu. This was later known as Alwar thirunagari after  the great Nammazhwar’s  appearance . Legends reveal there  lived a pious devotee  Kaariyaar    an advanced bhaktha who was  serving  the  devotees from his agriculture earnings . Udaiya Nankaiyar from Thiruvanparisaram was  his wife  who was equally pious and served the devotees with all dedication . They had no progeny  for a long time .Their prayers were answered by the mercy of Lord   of  Thirukurungudi  . Udaiya Nankai  gave birth to a male child on Vaikasi  month  in Visakam star( who is considered to be the incarnation of  Senai Mudaliyar the commander in chief of Lord Sriman Narayana) . His parents named him Maran  (  being different from others ) and he also had other names Parankusa and  Satakopan .

The boy was not an ordinary kid  nor did he have an ordinary life . He displayed none of the usual characteristics of a baby, neither would he cry nor attempt to drink milk. Looking at the strange behaviour of the divine child, the parents went to the temple for divine interference. All of a sudden the child crawled and went under a tamarind tree inside the temple  where he remained almost for sixteen years in yogic trance under the trunk . The divine incident became the talk of the town.

After many years one day a elder Vaishnava who was on a pilgrimage to Ayodhya observed a  shining light emanating from a far off place .He followed the light and reached Thurukurugoor.

As he enquired around the place , he was directed into the temple . He was surprised  looking at the divine aura  being emitted from the young boy  and attempted to go near him .

More details of  Madhurakavi Azhwar can be read in this appended  linked post

https://kmkvaradhan.wordpress.com/2015/08/04/tevu-marrariyen-i-do-not-know-of-any-lord-other-than-my-acharyan-swamy-nammazhwar/

 He approached  the divine boy  who  was meditating deeply with his legs crossed and hands in chin mudrai pose. Madhurakavi thought that the boy could be deaf and dumb.  To draw his attention ,he took a small stone and threw it in the lotus pond nearby.

Lo presto ! the boy opened his eyes  and Madhurakavi could see the divinity  in his eyes with golden hue.

Madhurakavi wanted to test the boy further  whether he could reply.

Thus  he asked a question

 “Seththathin vayitril siru kutti pirandhaal etrai thindru enge kidakum?

A divine voice was heard with a smile

“Atrai thindru ange kidakum”.

The answer to his question made the madhurakavi ponder about the divine presence of the boy and the esoteric reply.

The peripheral meaning of the question…

“If a small one  is born into a dead thing, what will it do ? and where will it be”?

The reply was “It will eat that and stay there”.

Nothing could be understood if not for our great achaaryas who had provided us with the inner meaning of this important quote

 The inner meaning of the question:

“Seththadhu” – body,

“siru kutti” – soul.

“vayiru” – stomach.

 The inner meaning mentions that  when a soul enters a body, the body gets life and the soul forgets its true nature  , thus  thinks that the body is everything  The soul  enjoys and suffers everything through the body.

 It eats and lives on whatever the body earns as  sin and virtues . Once the body is dead, the soul departs. Till the time the soul is present, it has to suffer and enjoy all the feelings of the body.

But once the soul realizes its true nature that it is the servant of  Lord Sriman Narayanan and  surrenders , the soul gets liberated from the cycle of births and deaths.

Swami Madhurakavi azhwar was amazed by azhwar’s knowledge and fell at his feet and pleaded him to accept him as his disciple. Azhwar  agreed and asked him to help him in composing his  divine works.  Thus came out the  fountain  of divine out pouring of Lord’s kalyanagunas . Madurakavi Azwar wrote  all of them in Palm leaves which were called ‘ pattolai. The divine out pourings were

1. Thiruviruttam (100 verses)
2. Thiruvasiriyam (7 verses)
3. Periya ThiruvandhAdhi (87 verses)
4. Thiruvamozhi  (1102 verses )

A  grand festival is celebrated for ten days marking the appearance day of Azhwar at this  holy  place every year ending  with a holy bath ( Abhishekam ) and ‘Theertha vari’ on Vaikasi Visakam day .

  The Vaikasi Visakam celebrations are being  held  past 500 years or more .

 The temple at Thirukkurugoor was under the direct administration of  our revered Acharyar Swamy Manavala Mamunigal.

Adiyen is recollecting the wonderful  darshan  we had few years back at Azhwar Thirunagari

The most important day for Srivaishnavas is  Swami Nammazhwars Thirunakshatram     ( Apperance day ) which happens to be on June 2nd ,2023 this year .

Nava Tirupathi is a cluster  of Nine  temples of Lord Sriman Narayana.

Nava Tirupathi is part of the 108 Divya Desam temples .

Located around the banks of the River Thamarap arani, the 9 temples of Nava Tirupathi are Thiruvaikundam,

Thiruvaragunamangai,

Thirupulinkudi,

North & South temples of Thirutholaivillimangalam,

Thirukkulanthai,

Thiruperai,

Thirukolur and

Thirugurukoor.

 This otherwise  a calm village is  overcrowded with devotees for the 10 day grand festival.

Almost all the  chathirams, Ramanujar koodams and houses were  packed with devotees who  come to witness the Nava garuda sevai from long distances .

 A  big mandapam in front of the main  temple known as ‘PANDAL MANDAPAM” is decorated for the grand festival to happen .  This pandal  was built by  an ardent  devotee Sri Pandala Ramaswamy Nayaakar  during 1807 .

He  took initiative in  starting this wonderful  Nava garuda Sevai utsavam and made arrangements for  the mandapam and other paraphernalia . In honour of his devotional service the mandapam  is named Pandal Mandapam.

  All the Perumals  ( Lordships ) of the Nava Tirupatis come to

Thirunagari to grace our  most beloved Nammazhwar .

Swamy Nammazhwar   had darshanam of all the 108 Divya

desam perumal staying in Azhwar Thirunagari itself .

In the pandal “ Abhishekam for Azhwar  is done with due honours by the recitation of vedic hymns being watched by a large groups of devotees .

 Meanwhile ,there was an alert by the bhagavathas that the Nava Tirupathigal Perumal have already started from their temples “ Thirukolams “and after crossing the beautiful Tambaraparani River are arriving at Pandal Mandapam.

 We rejoiced to see Perumals coming from different directions with a troupe of Nadaswaram goshti and the recitation of pasurams by Elders.

All  Perumal started arriving to Pandal Mandapam. Every Divyadesam  Perumal  arrive  in a well decorated palanquin with full  temple honours.

Here Azhwar receives the Perumal and does Pradakshinam to Perumal thrice. Azhwar is then blessed with satari, peedambaram and prasadam which were offered to the Perumal.

 After this, managala haarathi  is  given to Perumal and Azhwar and Perumal enter  the main temple. This procedure is  followed for all the Perumals. This function takes place for about 2 to 3 hours.

 All the Perumals alight  inside a huge  mandapam inside the temple. Parallel arrangements like decorating Peria Thiruvadi ( Garudazhwan ) for the evening function is done for the Garuda sevai.

The  villagers share a wonderful hospitality inquiring about the details of stay, food etc of all the visitors . Most of the Thirumalagais are eager to serve the devotees with Prasadam.

The same evening around 5 P.M., Thirumanjanam ( Abhishekam ) would start for all the Perumals. Several groups of devotees coming from far off places assemble and chant azhwar pasurams with music. At 5 P.M  the Vedic Pundits carrying silver kudams filled with holy water arrive  . The water for Neeratam is brought from the river Thamparaparani with full honours (an umbrella, Nadaswaram)

The holy abhishekam “ Thirumanjanam”  for all the Perumals are performed at the same time.  Thirumanjanam  is performed for all the Perumals inside the mandapam.   It takes about 2 to 3 hours for the alankaranam to get completed.

Around 8 P.M. the much awaited garuda sevai starts

In the Nava Garuda Sevai,  the  lordships ( Perumals )  are seated on Garuda vaahanam.  Azhwar is seated on a Hamsa vaahanam and his dearest devotee, Madurakavi Azhwar is seated on Pirangi Naarkaali (a chair)

Azhwar waits just outside the Maha dwaaram of the temple to receive the Perumals from all the Nine Divya desams .

The temple doors are closed and Azhwar along with his favourite devotee Madurakavi Alwar wait for the Garudaseva Utsavam to happen.The Mahadwaram doors are opened amidst the mangala Nadaswarams .

Azhwar is the first to have darsanam of Perumal. Perumal is given Mangala karpoora aarthi and  managalasaasanam done to the particular Perumal by the Azhwar . The recitation of the Mangalaasanams with the divyadesam pasurams by Elders drives one to spiritual ecstasy. Similar to  Srirangam, Araiyar sevai is followed  tradition here

 The sevai is a special treat to the eyes and fill LORDs grace unlimited . And  being among-st our Azhwars and the advanced srivaishnavas its sheer bliss

The order in which the Perumals appear in Garuda vaahanam along with the paasuram number is mentioned for devotees  sung by Azhwar is given below:

PERUMAL PASURAM NOS.

1)  Sri Adinatha Perumal of Thirukurugoor             3106,3116
2) Sri Vaikuntanatha Perumal of Srivaikuntam      3571,3575
3) Sri Vijayasanar Perumal of Natham (varagunamangai) 3571
4) Sri Kaichinavendan of Thirupulingudi                3473,3568-78
5) Sri Mayakoothan of Perungulam(Thiuukulandhai) 3561
6) Sri Devapiran of Irattai Tirupati }
7) Sri Aravinda Lochanan of Irattai Tirupati }     3271-3281
8) Sri Bhoomipalar of Then Thirupperai              3359-3369
9) Sri Vaithamanidhi of Thirukolur along with Madurakavi Azhwar 3293-3303,3473

After this, neivedyam is offered to Perumal, Azhwar and Madurakavi Azhwar and Perumal leaves the place . All the Perumals assemble at East Mada street and from here all the Nava tirupathi Perumal are taken in procession in the 4 mada streets of Thirunagari with the Nadaswaram troups for each perumal , Veda goshti .

The  devotees burst crackers and lit the roads with dazzling light. The local residents receive Perumal by sweeping the roads and decorating the roads with kollams etc.The zeal in their offering fruits and karpooram at the time of Perumal’s oorvalam is a  great blessing. Almost the entire village are well versed with Perumals arrival. This procedure of waiting near the entrance,  offering  karpoora aarthi and rendering mangalasaasanam on that particular Perumal is followed for all the Perumals.

 By the time the ninth Perumal Sri Vaithamanidhi of Thirukolur leaves the place, Adinatha Perumal of Thirukurugoor who left first comes back to the temple. After all the nine Perumals assemble, Azhwar pays his deep respects to all the Perumals and all the Perumals get inside the mandapam. Madurakavi Azhwar who has organized this function, payshis respects to Nammazwar who  is pleased with his disciple.

The function  concludes  around 4 A.M. The next day morning, all the Perumals leave to their respective  temples gracing all the devotees  and Nammazwar  accompanies  them  till the entrance of the temple as a Royal guest  . Nammazwar ‘s hamsa vaahanam is  placed in such a manner that he  looks at the proceedings until  Perumal  leaves the temple  street

Temple	Perumal	Thayar	Distance from SriVaikuntam
Srivaikundam	Vaikundanathan Kallapiran	Vaikundanaayani Sooranathanayagi	–
Srivaragunamangai Natham	Vijayasanar Emmiderkadivan	Varagunamangai Varagunavalli	2 KM
Thiruppuliyangudi Puthan	Boomipaalagar Kaaichinaventhar	Nilamagal Pulingudivalli	3 KM
Erattai Thirupathi	Srinivasan Thevarpiran	Alamelumangai	10 KM
Erattai Thirupathi	Aravinason Chenthamarai Kannan	Karunthdankanni	10 KM
Thirukuzhanthai Perungulam	Venkadavannan Maayakoothar	Kamalavathi Kulanthivalli	12 KM
Thenthiruperai	Maharenedun Kuzhaikaathar Niharilmukil vannan	Kuzhaikaathu valli Thiruperal Nachiyar	10 KM
Thirukkolloor	Vaithananidhi Nichopavithan	Kumuthavalli Kollor Valli	8 KM
Azhwarthirunagari Viyazhan	Aadinathan Polinthunintrapiran	Aadinatha Nayagi	5 KM

The Perumals leave the Mandapam around 7.00 –7.30 AM . Only after the sight of Perumal completely disappears, Nammazhwar  leaves  inside a bit sad due to the departure of the perumals to their respective divyadesams.

All glories to the devotees who are at Thirukurogoor seeking the grace of Azhwar and Perumal ….

Prostrating vaishnavas ,Azhwar and Lordships for their abundant grace  adiyen silently walk behind Azhwars Palanquin asking for forgiveness and his grace in attending many more Satsangs…

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pics courtesy :  Google images ,

 

ThiruKannapuram Lord Sowriraja perumal and Vibheeshana

Thirukannapuram  Divyadesam  Sowriraja Perumal Temple is located 30 KM from Kumbakonam on the way to Thiruvarur, Tanjore District, Tamilnadu which is one among the Five Krishraranya Kshetrams.

The Main Deity is glorified as  Thiru Neelamega perumal  along with  Sridevi and Bhoodevi Thayar . The Processional deity  is worshipped  as   Lord Sowriraja perumal. Lord Sowriraja perumal is seen with prayoga chakkra in his hands. The place is considered as Bhoolokha vaikundam. This Vaishnava Divya desam temple is located on the Kumbakonam / Mayavaram-Nannilam-Nagapattinam route.

One has to get down at Thiru Pugalur and take auto (2kms). The temple can also be reached directly from Thiruvarur.

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The temple has a 7-tier rajagopuram and a vast temple complex. 

The Nithya pushkarini just in front of the Temple is so vast that it looks more like a large lake

As we go around the main sanctum we can have darshanam of Thirumangai  Azhwar, Vibishanan, and  Lord Sri Raman sanctum.  sanctorium

There is a separate sanctum for  Swamy Ramanujar  to north side of Pushkarani.

There is an interesting pastime related to this wonderful Srivaishnava divyadesam  related  to the ‘savuri’ ( hair  grown to  the deity ).

 It so happened ,  once the temple priest presented a garland that was offered to the Lordships to  a women  who had come there to have darshan of Lord .

( This was a regular practice of the temple ). The  Chola king who  was passing  by  unexpectedly  visited the temple.  The Priest was worried and  somehow managed to get the garland given to the women for  presenting the same to the King  .

 The king who received the garland , to his surprise  noticed a strand of hair in the garland and became furious. To escape from his  anger and further wrath, the priest humbly submitted to the king that the Lord had a tuft of hair and that strand of hair was from the tuft.

 The King forced the priest to  prove his  innocence .

Terrified with the  Kings roar , the priest rushed into the sanctum and prayed LORD to rescue him from the Kings  temper  and save his life .

To save the priest, the Lord  out of abundant mercy ,   gave darshan with a black ‘savuri’ in to the king. From that day on, He has been known as ‘Sowriraja Perumal’.

As Tirupati is famous for  ‘laddu’  prasad  , Srirangam  for ‘payasam’, Thirukannapuram is famous for ‘muniyodharan pongal’.  

The origin of this prasad is also interesting which has the name Munayadarayan  .

There was  a chieftain, Munayadarayan by name,  who was ruling this Nagapattinam region .

He used to honor  his food only after praying to Lord Sowri Raja Perumal of Thirukannapuram and  due to his devotion  he spent all his wealth in the service of the Lord .

For defaulting tax payment to the king, he was arrested. The Lord appeared in the dream of the king and ordered him to release Munayadarayan immediately.

When the chieftain returned from the custody at night, his wife served him Pongal . As usual he offered it to the Lord at the temple .But the temple doors were closed .He became sad and so he offered the prasadam  through his manasika pooja and then honored  the  prasadam.

Next day, when the priest opened the temple, they  found  to their surprise the pudding was seen  on the lips of the Lord Sowri Raja Perumal. . The king also was surprised to see the Lord accepting the Pongal offered by the chieftain.

Since then , Pongal is offered to the Lord during the night puja and this is called Munayadarayan Pongal.  

Once a year, on the occasion of Maasi Magam, the Lord is taken on a procession to the sea shore near Karaikal, about 20 kms from here.

This is the temple where the Lord  graced   Vibheeshana, brother of demon king Ravana, his walking beauty.

After seeing the sleeping beauty of Vishnu as Lord Ranganatha at Srirangam, Vibheeshna wanted to see the walking beauty of the Lord, upon which he was directed by the Lord to his “Keezh(akku) Veedu’ (Eastern Gateway of the Lord).

It is believed that Lord Vishnu displayed his ‘walking beauty’ to Vibheeshana here on the new moon day.

To mark this event, on every Amavasya day at 12noon, Lord SowriRajan is carried out of the Sanctum and walks to the Vibheeshna Sannidhi.

There is no ‘Swarga Vasal’ for this temple as they say that one can reach ‘Vaikunta’ if they just step on this soil and worship the LORD here  .

It is believed that there is a ‘pulling power’ in the sanctum of this temple and even to this day, one can feel and experience this effect

t.

 One more legend speaks  about the greatness of this holy dhaam.  Once , Garuda was returning from the milky  ocean carrying the nectar for his mother as promised   With pride ,he  flew with the nectar  that was not available to all.

While flying over  this place  , he lost his power and fell in the  nearby ocean. Realizing that he had committed a sin, he performed penance here and begged   pardon of the Lord.

The Lord  out of compassion graced him and took him as his vehicle. As the reminder of this event  , every  Feb- March  ( tamil month ) Masi Magam, the lord  goes to the seashore and blesses all his devotees there.

Hence the devotees greet the Lord calling him as Mappillai – son-in-law. 

On the 7th day of  ( April- May ) Vaikasi, Lord   gives darshan in  (TriMoorthy Swaroopam)- Maha Vishnu in the day, Brahmaa in the night at around 11pm and Lord Shiva early next morning..

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Photos : Google images

Videos :   Thanks to  Sri Muniswamy ,  Sri Rangapadmanabhan &  Sri Ranganathan

Jwalaa ahobila malola krodhaa karanja bhargava yogananda kshatravata pavana nava murthayaha namo namah

Let us glorify our LORD  before we enter AHOBILAM  …

Ugram  Viram   Maha Vishnum    Jvalantam      Sarvato Mukham

Nirisimham     Bhishanam      Bhadram    Mrutyur Mrutyum       Namamy Aham..

Ugram – the ferocious one

Viram – The most courageous

Mahavishnum – The all-pervasive one (Lord Maha Vishnu)

Jvalantam – the effulgence of fire

Sarvato Mukham – Having his face everywhere (manifested throughout the universe)

Nrisimham – The Lion-man form

Bhishanam – The terrific

Bhadram – The auspicious

Mrutyur Mrutym – death of death

Namamy Aham – I bow down and revere

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TRAVEL DIARY IS IN THE BELOW MENTIONED BLOG :

AHOBILAM TRAVEL DIARY… “Aho Veeryam ahho sowryam aho bahu parakramaha Naarasimham param daivam Ahobalam Ahobalam”

AHOBILAM 

The holy place where LORD NARSINGHA BHAGAVAN incarnated for Prahlada Maharaj ..

Please read the vaibhavams of the Nava Narasingh bhagavan .

The  holy place is situated 25 Km from Arlagadda in Kurnool district can also be approached via Cuddapah district, Andhra Pradesh ,India.

The most sacred shrine of Lord Narasimhar  at Ahobilam is located in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh in the hills of the eastern ghat. 

The temple consists of nine shrines to Lord Narisimha located around a 5 KM circle.

The shtala Purana states that  PakshiRajar Garuda prayed  for a vision of Lord Narisimha .  Garuda commended his penance near to Srisaila Kshetra .

MORE ABOUT NAVA NARASIMHA KSHETRAM
————————————————————————–
There are 9 shrines dedicated to nine forms of Narasimhar

Out of this Prahalada varada Narasimhar is in Lower Ahobilam, Ugra Narasimhar, who is a swayambhu and is treated as the divya desa Perumal is seen in Upper Ahobilam. The other shrines are scattered all over the hills.

Apart from the nava Narasimha shrines, “Prahalada padi” where Prahalada studied and “Ugra Sthambam” from where Perumal emerged are usually visited by pilgrims.

There are number of Theerthas in this shrine.

A few like Lanjekonneru near Bhargava Narasimhar , Ramatheertha near Lower Ahobilam and Raktha Kundam near Jwala Narasimhar , Bhavanaasini near Ugra Narasimhar which flows through both the mountains are a few to name.

PRAHALADA VARADA NARASIMHA SWAMY

Situated at the foot of the hills known as Lower Ahobilam, this temple can be visited by one and all. Usually all homams and yagams are performed here.

Here Perumal is seen along with Thayar blessing Prahalada.

Hence, Perumal is known as “Prahalada Varadar”.The utsava vigrahams of all the Narasimhars except Malola Narasimhar areoffered nitya thiruvaadhanai here.

To the left of Perumal, utsava vigraham of Pavana Narasimhar can be seen majestically .

In front of the Lord, the utsava idols of Prahalada varada Narasimhar along with Sridevi and Bhoodevi grace us .

The processional deity of Jwala Narasimhar along with His consorts is also seen in the garbagriham . The deity  is superbly carved and on request , the archakar removes the alankaranam and performs Aaarathi to the idol. 

Lord  has 10 arms and Hiranya vadham (killing) is beautifully depicted.

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There is also a small  deity  of the first Ahobila Mutt Jeeyar facing south.

The temple is a huge one and many monkeys can be seen here.

The walls of the temple depict sthalasthala puranam briefly.

There is a Thayar Sannidhi to the right of the temple.

2) BHARGAVA NARASIMHA SWAMi:

This temple is situated two kilometres from Lower Ahobilam on a small hillock and can be approached by foot. As Bhargava(Parasurama) did penance here, the Lord is thus known. It is easily approachable.

3) YOGANANDA NARASIMHA SWAMI:

Situated at a distance of 3 kilometres from Lower Ahobilam, this can be approached by foot. It was here that Prahalada mastered the art of yoga from Perumal Himself.

The divya mangalaswaroopam of the Lord is eye captivating. Perumal is seen alone in Yogaasanam.

4) CHATRAVATA NARASIMHA SWAMI

This is situated at a distance of nearly 3kms from Ahobilam on a different route also reachable on foot . As Perumal is seated alone under a peepul tree which protects Perumal like an umbrella, He is known as Chatravata Narasimhar.

This Perumal is fond of music played by Gandharvas. It looks as if the Lord is deeply engrossed in music by clasping His hands. We were told that He is fond of Adi Thalam. Reptiles keep moving in this place but they don’t harm the devotees. One has to take care of these.

5) UGRA NARASIMHAR SANNIDHI:-

This is in Upper Ahobilam. There is a narrow bus route and it takes about 40 minutes to reach this place from Lower Ahobilam.

This is considered as the divya desa temple. Usually, pilgrims have bath in Bhavanaasini or Paavanaasini (a spring which flows from the top of the hill) and then have Perumal’s darsanam.

A dip in Paavanaasini absolves all the sins committed.

Though there are no proper bathing ghats, still we can see hundreds of devotees having holy dip unmindful of their surroundings. The sannidhi is located inside a cave .

Perumal along with Thayar is seen in Veetruirundha Thirukkolam .

Opposite to Perumal, there is an idol of Prahalada. There is a dark room on the other side of the cave which is believed to be the place where Chenchulakshmi resides .

Recently, under the supervision of Jeer, a bridge across Paavanasini river has been constructed which facilitates the pilgrims to go to Varahanarasimhar temple (Krodha Narasimhar)

KRODHA NARASIMHAR:

One kilometer further from Upppper Ahobilam leads to the shrine of Krodha Narasimhar. He is also known as Varaha Narasimhar as His Thirumukam resembles a varaham (a boar).

Any japam done here elevates one spirtually. Especially, Narayana Sadakshara Japam from Varaha Kanda bestows manifold benefits as told by Archakar Swamin..

KARANJA NARASIMHAR SHRINE :

This temple is situated between Upper Ahobilam and Lower Ahobilam..

As the divya mangala moorthi is installed under Karanja vruksham, the deity has been named so. Perumal is seen in Veetruirundha Kolam and is holding Sarngam (bow), dhanus (arrow) and chakram .

 Adisesha acts as “Kudai”(refer Irundhal Kudaiyam…) and is protecting. The theertham here is known as Bhairava kundam. Hanumar who visited this place was a staunch Rama bhakta .

Lord Narasimhar appeared to Hanumar, who was a staunch Ramabhakta, with bow and arrow thus showing that He is Lord Rama Himself. This Lord is in Padmasaanam pose. One can have darshan of Hanumar also. We are reminded of Sholangur .

6) MALOLA NARASIMHAR:

This shrine is situated two kilometres away from Upper Ahobilam. Perumal came in search of Mahalakshmi Thayar who was doing penance here and placed Her on His lap. Hence, Perumal seen along with Thayar has a somya (graceful) form. Due to Thayar’s presence, Perumal graces even the worst sinner .

Azhwar refers to this Perumal in pasuram no. 1016 (Peria Thirumozhi) when he says that bhaktas are always protected by Perumal and only the wicked have to fear .

This Lord gives abhayam to His devotees and Thayar bestows Asthaaiswaryam and grants the wishes of the devotees.

There is a vigraham of Thirumangai Azhwar in the sanctum . Outside the temple, there is a small pillar with murthis. Those who are not able to go to Ugra sthambam can prostrate this pillar.

7) JWALA NARASIMHAR:-

This temple is located at a higher altitude may be around 2800 feet. And can be approached from Malola Narasimhar shrine.

It takes about 2 hours to reach this temple from Upper Ahobilam. The path is slippery and as mentioned care has to be taken.

It was here that Perumal killed Hiranyakasipu by tearing his stomach with his spear like nails.

The idol with 10 hands which is approximately 3 feet high and is scaring to look at. Beside this shrine, there is a small pond known as “Raktha Kundam” where the Lord is believed to have washed His blood-stained hands .

The water is reddish in colour and this was the explanation given by the guide to us. Recently, a temple has been constructed for this Lord and a archakar is appointed to perform Nitya Thiruvaaradhanai.

Jai Jai Narasimha

8) PAVANA NARASIMHAR:

It is situated six kilometres away from Upper Ahobilam towards north east on the banks of River Pavana. It is difficult to approach this temple as wild animals keep roaming. If one wishes to visit this temple, he must do so during daytime with the help of a guide. The path is too narrow, the trek amidst cluster of rocks is strenuous .

It takes about 45 minutes for trekking. One can view Malola Narasimhar shrine and few water falls on the way on the other side of the mountain.

Forest fire is very common in this place and this helps in one way to ward off wild animals. It is believed that devas offer worship to this Lord. The Lord is seen along with Thayar .

The local tribals usually observe fast on Saturdays and offer flowers, honey, fruits, rice, jaggery etc. to the Lord.

The general notion that “bali” (sacrifice) is done here was rebuked by the priest. He said that the sacrifice would be done elsewhere in the jungles .

He also added that wild animals do not roam near the temple and only during severe summer, they come to the river bank to quench their thirst.

They usually do not hurt any one. Besides the above shrines, other place of interest are Prahalada Padi or Prahalada Mettu (Mettu in Telugu and Padi in Tamil means “step”) and Ukku sthambam.

PRAHALADA PADI

is the place where Prahalada had his vidyabhyaasam from Sukracharya’s sons. The way to Prahalada padi though tough is breathtakingly beautiful with river flowing on one side and with various water falls amidst a huge valley.

This reminds me of the route to Badrinath. The temple is in a small cave and one has to crawl to enter inside the cave. Only 4 persons can be accommodated inside at a time.

Mountain lizards and bats move freely here.

It was here that the child started propogating Lord’s qualities. Prahalada used to resort to this place for meditating upon the Lord. There is a vigraham of Narasimhar in centre . to its right, there is an idol of Chakaratazhwar and to the left , there is a vigraham of Lord Vishnu.

                                                                       UKKU STHAMBAM

which is situated at a distance of 8 kms from Upper Ahobilam is the pillar from which the Lord emerged . The pillar which is situated at the edge the cliff is split into two as a proof that Lord appeared from this pillar.

Pilgrim usually give their offerings here. It is very difficult to reach this place which is at a highest altitude .Doing pradakshinam around this pillar is even more difficult as it is in the cliff. Near the ukku sthambham (iron pillar) as the Telugus call, there is Perumal’s Thiruvadi.

The climb is very difficult . Only with His grace can one visit this place. One has to have a sharp vision and a flexible body to bend, crawl etc.

This can be approached from Prahalada padi on the way to Jwala Narasimhar shrine. While describing this pillar, Sri Mukkur Swamy says that the entire world is still pregnant with Narasimhar inside except this because Perumal has come out of it.

The symbols of Vishnu, namely, Sankhu, Chakram, Naamam are carved on the face of the hill. One can have a bird’s eyeview of the entire Ahobilam from this place.

The atmosphere is calm and serene . Various waterfalls all around looking like thin streams makes us wonder and appreciate the nature and Lord’s creation.

It’s a best place to meditate the cliff is split into two as a proof that Lord appeared from this pillar. Lets glorify our LORD singing HIS praises…..

namas te narasiḿhāya
prahlādāhlāda-dāyine
hiraṇyakaśipor vakṣaḥ-
śilā-ṭańka-nakhālaye
ito nṛsiḿhaḥ parato nṛsiḿho
yato yato yāmi tato nṛsiḿhaḥ
bahir nṛsiḿho hṛdaye nṛsiḿho
nṛsiḿham ādiḿ śaraṇaḿ prapadye
tava kara-kamala-vare nakham adbhuta-śṛńgaḿ
dalita-hiraṇyakaśipu-tanu-bhṛńgam
keśava dhṛta-narahari-rūpa jaya jagadīśa hare…

Jai Jai Lakshmee Narsinga bhagavan ..

All glories to the devotees who have been to Ahobilam reading this short description of the Temples https://video.wordpress.com/embed/u8ZlzB2l?hd=0&autoPlay=0&permalink=1&loop=0&preloadContent=metadata&muted=0&playsinline=0&controls=1&cover=1 https://video.wordpress.com/embed/r4iCTKyy?hd=0&autoPlay=0&permalink=1&loop=0&preloadContent=metadata&muted=0&playsinline=0&controls=1&cover=1

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

More info at this web link :
http://www.srivaishnavam.com/divyadesam108/ahobilam.pdf

Pics /videos credits : Google images and  all advanced devotees who shared it in social media..

Sri Nrisimha, Jaya Nrisimha, Jaya Jaya Nrisimha

prahladesha jaya padma-mukha-padma bringa

The most sacred shrine of Lord Narasimhar  at Ahobilam is located in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh in the hills of the eastern ghat. 

The temple consists of nine shrines to Lord Narisimha located around a 5 KM circle. The shtala Purana states that  PakshiRajar Garuda prayed  for a vision of Lord Narisimha .  Garuda commended his penance near to Srisaila Kshetra .

After long years of penance  Lord manifested Himself in the cave of a mountain. 

Few miles to the north east of the holy mountains where Garuda was performing penance  a vision of HIS manifestation was granted to Garuda………………..

who  after obtaining as sign of  location of the mountain cave gladly traveled to the holy spot and was blessed to be graced by Satswaroopa , Mahapurusha , Lord Jwala Narasimhar not easy accessible to common people those days

Garuda worshipped the Lord and glorified LORD as Ahobilam  is Mahabhalam .

The Lord was worshiped with glorious verses by Garuda …..

The mountain on which Garuda performed tapas became famous as Garudachala . In the days of yore when truth and dharma prevailed , great heat was observable near the mountain cave of Ahobilam , according to legend when green grass was put in the cave , it would catch fire and smoke would be emitted  .

There are nine Narasimha Kshetras  ..

Jwala ,

Ahobila ,

Malola 

Kroda ,

Karanja,

Bhargava

, Yogananda,

Kshatravata,

Paavana Nava Moorthayaha 

The uniqueness of Narasimhaavatara has been extolled by many  a devotee .

LORD appeared out of a Pillar neither man nor beast and yet both man and lion..

His very appearance bespeaks HIS supremacy and transcendence .

Among the distinguished disciples of Swamy Vedanta Desikar was brahmatantra Swantantra Jeeyar  Swamy  who had a illustrious disciple Ghatikastam Ammal .

He was grandson of the great Acharyar Swamy Nadaadooor Ammal  the chief disciple and successor of Engal Azhwar .    Sreenivasacharyar was his disciple and was studying under his holiness .

He was well versed in the ancient lore  and was very knowledgeable in  Swamy Ramanuja sampradaya right from his  boyhood.

One day the  Supreme  Lord Narasimha dev appeared in his dream and beckoned him to Ahobilam  located  in the Nallamallai Hills .

Could this vision be true ? he kept asking himself again and again ..

He hurried to meet his Acharyar  and told him  about his dream .

The old Acharyar was pleased with the direction of Lord .He asked him to obey the mandate.

Sreenivasacharya proceeded to Ahobilam as per Lord’s command .  

 He had to climb the hills amidst dense forests.  Recollecting the divine dream he passed on the deep jungles with ease …

He had a dip in the  Bhavanasini river ,  and took up abode in that wilderness .

As LORD always takes care of  HIS devotee ,  Mukundaraya, the local chieftain also reached the holy place to receive our Acharyar as per divine command.

On proceeding further  he could see the tribals worshipping Lord Narasimha .

They believed LORD had married their foster daughter of a  Chenchu Chief .

And since they became His votaries .

They called him Obelessuddu …

They used to celebrate Annual festival by presenting clothes , honey fruits and all the beautiful things .

Srinivasacharya  along with few locals  entered the forest . After he finished his many chores , a yati beckoned him and administered the Preshamantra  after ordaining him into the ascetic  order  .

Lord  addressed him as Sri Satakopa Yati and then revealed his real form of LORD NARASIMHA  

He directed the yati to be the Chief Aaaradhaka thus going to villages ministering to the spiritual well being of  all  his disciples .

Be their Acharya …..

purify them …

and

with the emblems of Conch and Discuss instruct them into the mysteries of the creed…….

He was the first Jeeyar who received the charter from LORD himself.

This happened on the fifth lunar day of of bright fortnight in the year 1320 the appearance day of Lord srinivas ( Purattasi sravanam ) 

As Lord disappeared the deity of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha had landed into his hands .

  Our dear  Lord Malola Murthy wears a paduka indicating he is ever ready to proceed to shower HIS mercy on devotees. 

A palanquin and other paraphernalia was offered to the Supreme LORD….. 

And thus  LORD has graced to accompany the Ahobilam Jeeyars   past 700 years .

It was during this time the great King  Prataapa Rudrudu was ruling Andhra pradesh.   Once  while returning from Srisailam after his worship to Paramasivan ,  Prataparudra stopped and camped at  Ahobilam .

He used to worship Paramasiva daily  . Everyday he used to mould a linga roopa in gold and worship .He used to offer the worshiped Linga to a brahmin before he partook food .It was a daily routine.

The next morning  he was eagerly waiting for his   goldsmith to bring the molded linga for worship. It was getting delayed and hence he himself approached the tent where the gold smith was molding the linga . To his surprise  he could see the molded gold was taking shape of Lakshmi Narasimha instead of Linga roopa  . 

Suddenly he  heard  vedic mantras .

He looked around  and was  attracted to  divine chants near by . He asked his ministers to find out the details . He approached the  vaishnavas who were radiating with opulence and requested them to introduce themselves .

The King was led into the Ashram where our First Jeeyar Sri Sri  Sri Adivan Satakopan was worshiping the great LORD .

The King was overjoyed to see the holy abode of Lord Narasimha .

He liked the pious  atmosphere around  with greenery everywhere .

His holiness Sri Adivan Satakopa Yatheendra Mahadesikar was radiating with divinity . The King fell at  the lotus feet of the Jeeyar and offered repeated obeisances . He explained the miracle of the molded gold turning into Lord Lakshmi Narasimhar deity instead of Linga roopa  .

The Jeeyar was pleased and blessed him .

The King offered the Suvarna Lakshmee Narasimhar to Jeeyar and asked for his benediction .He directed his ministers to provide all financial  and labor support for Jeeyar in propagating the path the Supreme  Lord had desired .

The King got converted to srivaishnavism and played a role in the Jeeyars journey of propagating the sampradaya.

Thus one would be very fortunate to have darshan of Jeeyar and the  Lordships who  accompany the Ahobilam Jeeyars . 

  The divine world  Jeeyar accompanies all compassionate our  Lord Maalola Narasimhar , Suvarna Narasimhar  Mangalagiri Panaka Narasimhar  who arrived and joined 42nd Jeeyar  Lord Krishna who enjoys Dolotsavam . Lord Ranganathar reclining on Adhishesha with Goddess Mahalakshmi ,Lord Athagiri Varadar worshipped by the great Acharyar Nadathur Ammal . Lord Sreenivasar with Alamelumanga thaayar  Sampath kumaran with Yadhugiri Nachiyar  Parimalarangan with  Goddess Sridevi and Bhudevi , Lakshmi varahan, Bhuvarahan , Adhikesavar with goddesses , Sudarshana Azhwar,  Sri Seetha Rama , Lakshmana perumal  Lord Aaravamudham , Hayagreevar Sri Andal ,Lord Rangamannar and  Saaligrama Moorthies  .

The divine world showers divinity all around .Great Acharyars Vishwaksenar Swamy Nammazhwar ,  Thirumangai Azhwar shower opulence on the lucky ones who have darshan …

Jai Jai Lakshmee Narasimha

All glories to His holiness Sri Sri  Sri Adivan Satakopa Yatheendra Mahadesikar

All glories to Lord Narasinga devotees

All glories to Ahobilam Kshetra

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pics Credits : Google images and various social media shared by several advanced devotees

“Any day your love is a million times better than mine, my Supreme Lord. Give me a billion births to be born as a worm to be crawling seeking your mercy under the feet of your loving devotees.

Swami Alavandar is universally considered to be the Acharyar of Sri Ramanujacharya, though he had never spoken once to Swami Ramanuja till he lived. Whatever he taught Ramanuja he did it only through his disciples. Alavandar’s disciples were priceless gems. Perianambi, Thirukoshtiyur Nambi, Thirumaalaiyaandan and Peria Thirumalai Nambi were the chief disciples.

Of these Perianambi personally taught swami Ramanuja and it was Thirukoshtiyur Nambi who made  swamy Ramanuja walk to his place 18 times to learn the meaning of LORD’S name.

Alavandar had another disciple by name Maraneri Nambi. The other disciples were all high-caste Brahmans whereas  Maraneri Nambi belonged to a caste which was in the lowest rung of the social ladder during those  period.Alavandar did not discriminate between his disciples and he loved Maraneri Nambi more than the other disciples.

Peria Nambi and Maraneri Nambi were of the same age. They became close friends. They would discuss their teacher’s words and each friend would contribute to the other’s learning. Once Alavandar was suffering from a painful disease called the carbuncle. Carbuncle, known as the King of Boils, Rajapilavai, in Tamil, is caused due to inflammation of tissues in the back and neck.

The shooting pain emanating from the fast-spreading boil would be unbearable. Antibiotics and painkillers were unknown in those days and it is difficult for us even to imagine the kind of pain the disease inflicted on its victims.

Swamy Alavandar was suffering silently. He did not even let his disciples know about the disease lest they should be worried. Perianambi and Thirukoshtiyur Nambi alone knew.

One day Maraneri Nambi went to Alavandar’s house. He insisted that he should see his Guru. Alavandar was hesitant. But Maraneri was adamant. So he was let in. Alavandar tried to cover his pain and welcomed him with a smile.

He thought that Maraneri had come there to clear his doubts in his lessons. The best way out was to dispose Maraneri as early as possible without letting him find out his disease. Maraneri came into the room and prostrated at his Acharya’s feet.

“May you be blessed, Maraneri Nambi.

Please get up. You see I have a lot of things to do today.

Please tell me your doubts fast. We don’t have much time.” “Gurudeva, I have been your disciple for decades. Have I asked anything from you?”

“No.”
“Today I have come to you with a desire. I have set my mind on that object.

And I can’t live without that. You have that with you. Can you give that to me?”

“It’s yours Maraneri. Whatever it is.”

“Thanks, Gurudeva.”

Maraneri ran out to fetch a silver vessel containing the holy water.

Alavandar was puzzled.

“Please Gurudeva show me your hands.”

“What for, Maraneri?”

“When you gift a piece of land you need to solemnize the gift with the holy water, right?”

“Yes, you are right. You want the mutt’s land near the river kaveri .Well, it’s yours.

Take it………………….

“No, Acharya.

”“Then..’

“Please repeat whatever I am going to say..

“I, Yamunaithuraivar alias Alavandar, do hereby gift to my disciple Maraneri Nambi, the Rajapilavai disease which I have now, along with the pain, the suffering and all the after-effects.”

“What the hell you are doing Nambee ?   This is not a game.

This water is holy. And if I repeat whatever you said, then you will have the disease, you moron. Don’t ever say the words again.

“You are one of the greatest Acharyas, the world has ever seen.

You have promised to give whatever I want…….

How can you go back on your word, Gurudeva?”

“But that’s ridiculous, Nambi.”“What is ridiculous, Acharya?

You are our Guru. You have a hundred disciples.

A thousand people come to you every day to listen to your words.

Even the Lord who sleeps forever in the temple is looking forward to see you every day.“How can you afford to be confined to your bed? And by your kind, wise words you are removing our pains. Pains which have been following us for millions of births. How can you suffer in pain, Acharya?

“I am a low-born worm, Gurudeva. By accepting me as your disciple you made a gift to me which is worth more than the whole universe.

“Now, Gurudeva, please.. I beg of you.. please allow me to do my part.

If you refuse to give your disease then I will have no option than to die at your feet. It’s your call.” Alavandar melted. He poured the water on his hand and chanted the appropriate mantra.

“Please bear with me, Gurudeva. I have one more request.”

Alavandar looked at his disciple through a screen of tears.

“Let this transaction be not known to anybody else in the world.”

Alavandar was happy and sad at the same time.

Happy that he had such a loving disciple and sad because he was forced to give so much of pain and suffering to such a nice man.

Maraneri Nambi went out as a happy man.

Peria Nambi met him outside the room.

“Why are you so happy, my friend?”

“After many decades of discipleship it was only today that our Guru was kind enough to give me a precious prasadam.

And that too only after I compelled him to do so.”

Perianambi did not understand a word of what his friend said. Alavandar’s recovery was quite dramatic after that day.

A week later Maraneri Nambi was down with carbuncle. It is said that he suffered for three months from shooting pain. Whenever he was in pain he would only chant the name of his Gurudeva.

Because his Guru’s blessings were fully on him and because the Lord was moved by his selfless love Maraneri Nambi recovered from the disease sooner than the usual time.

Years flew.

  Swamy Alavandar was more than a hundred years old.

One day he passed away.

Maraneri Nambi and Perianambi, who were in their eighties, cried a lot over the death of their loving Guru.

Swamy Ramanujacharya then came to Srirangam and took over the reins of the Ashram. Maraneri Nambi was now in his death bed.

 He called his friend Perianambi one day and insisted that he should be left alone with his dear friend.

“Perianambi, my dear friend, I have a fear.

When I  leave this body they would give  this body to my relatives.

I have quite a lot of them, no doubt.

But most of them are drunkards and cheats.

They would drink arrack, dance around my dead body and utter all profanities.

“I am Swamy  Alavandar’s disciple and I have been thinking only of my Guru and God all these years.

“Giving my body to my relatives would be like giving the sacred ghee offered in the yagas to a street dog.

My body in which my Guru and my Lord reside should not be humiliated by those crooks.

”Perianambi held his friend’s hands and assured him.

“I will take care of that. Our Lord, our Guru and the new head, the loving  Swamy Ramanuja will never let that happen.

Believe me, Maraneri. “

Maraneri Nambi was relieved.

He died peacefully in his sleep that very night.

When Perianambi heard of his friend’s death he came running to the Ashram. He supervised all the funeral arrangements himself.

And then he did the unthinkable.

Perianambi who was born in the highest caste of Brahmans did the last rites himself and lit the funeral pyre.

It was nothing short of a revolution in those days.

How could somebody born in the highest of castes, somebody like Perianambi, do the last rites for someone born in the lowest of castes?

It created a great furore.Many disciples of the mutt opposed Perianambi’s action.

Perianambi was banned from the temple. He was not allowed to mingle with the people.And somebody took up the matter with  Swamy Ramanuja.

Now Perianambi was Ramanuja’s teacher.

Ramanuja knew all about Perianambi’s love. He also knew about Maraneri Nambi’s devotion.

After all Ramanuja was the man who stood on the top of the temple wall and revealed the most sacred secret to those born in the lowest of castes, in spite of his Guru’s warnings.

Yet he wanted the other disciples to know about Peria Nambi and Maraneri Nambi.

He summoned Perianambi to his presence and held a court martial.

“Oh Worshipful Acharya, you have been charged with a very grave offense.

That you did the last rites for a man born in the lowest of castes. You are a learned Brahman. 

“You know it is forbidden by the sasthras. And the punishment prescribed for such an act is total ex-communication.

That is you can’t enter the temple, this mutt or any other Brahman’s house.

What’s your answer, Acharya?” 

Perianambi knew his disciple like the palm of his hand.

He knew that the show was only for the gallery.

He saw the disciples jeering at him.

Normally a soft-spoken person that eighty year old man now roared like a lion, no like the lion-faced Lord Narasimha.

“Ramanuja, I have not done anything wrong.

Do I have to remind you that in the great epic Ramayana our Lord Rama did the last rites for a bird, Jadayu?

“Neither am I superior to Rama nor my dear friend Maraneri Nambi inferior to that bird.” 

Measured words.

Not a single word wasted.

Pointed arguments.

The arrow hit the bull’s eye.

The lion-faced Lord had killed the demon called bigotry.

Or at least that was what he thought……

Ramanuja clapped his hands like a child.

He then turned to the other disciples. 

“Are you clear now?

Do you have any counter arguments?”

Nobody spoke.

But very few understood.

Well, they exactly did not have an argument against Perianambi’s powerful example.

At the same time they were not large-hearted enough to condone Perianambi’s excesses.
They started avoiding Perianambi.

If he went to the temple the priests would leave the place.

If any Brahman saw him on the road he would turn his face the other side and walk away…..

Swamy Ramanuja came to know of the ill-treatment meted out to Perianambi.

He was very sad.

After teaching love for years and years, these people still acted like fanatics.

‘What’s the big deal? Why should I waste my life teaching these bigots?’

Ramanuja ran to the temple. It was late in the night.

They were about to close the doors.

They were waiting for the Acharya to finish his darshan.

Ramanuja was sobbing before the sleeping Lord.

“I tried my best to make them understand Perianambi’s love.

I have failed in my mission.

Please, Lord, you will have to do something about it.

“Please don’t let Perianambi suffer for his greatest act of love.

Please my, Lord. Please…

”The Lord who is nothing but Love, the Lord who even while sleeping on the banks of Cauvery is constantly thinking about his devotees, the Lord who cannot tolerate any kind of bigotry, just smiled.

He had already made up his mind to teach a lesson to those fanatics.

It was festival time in Srirangam. The very next day was the famous car festival.

The huge Ther (car) of Srirangam was to pass through the house of Perianambi.

When the Lord’s Ther came into the street Perianambi was sitting in his pooja room with all the sadness in his face.

He had never missed the car festival in the past. Because he was a well-learned Brahman and one of Alavandar’s disciples, the car would stop at the gate of his house so that he could have dharshan.

But this time it was different. He was not allowed in the temple.

And nobody talked to him. He also knew that the Lord’s car would not stop in front of his house, this time.

His eyes were shedding tears of love…..

“My Lord, do you also think that what I did was wrong?

Maraneri Nambi is a much better person than I. And I am really proud that I had the blessing to light his funeral pyre.

“If you have also decided to let me down, Oh My, dear, dear Lord, so be it. If you let me down, I don’t want anybody else to save me.

Do whatever you wish, my Lord.” The Car had just approached the house of Perianambi.

When Azhagia Manavala Perumal seated in the car was right in front of Perianambi’s house-entrance the huge car suddenly came to a grinding halt.Actually the administrators had cunningly planned to make the car run at double the usual speed when they were crossing Perianambi’s house.

But those petty minds were but small pieces of cotton in that large fire of love whose name was AzhagiaManavala Perumal. He had his say.

And He always had his way.The gigantic Ther stopped before Perianambi’s house. It looked as if their roles had been reversed. For years and years Perianambi used to wait outside his house for the Lord.

Today the Lord was waiting for him. The administrators thought it was a mechanical problem and could be corrected only if they applied more oil on the axis. Pots of oil were poured on the humongous axis.

Yet the car would not move.They sent word to the nearby villages. Hundreds of people came to pull the car. The Lord did not even move a milli-metre.They sent word to the stable and six elephants were brought to pull the car. The Lord was adamant. They then went in search of mantrikas and astrologers.The Lord was waiting patiently at the gate of Perianambi’s house.

Four hours had passed. Perianambi was crying in the pooja room. Nothing moved.The best of mantrikas was summoned. He came there, closed his eyes and went into a state of trance.

After thirty minutes he woke up. “Idiots, you have hurt a good man, a noble soul. Unless you give Lord’s prasadam to him with due respects the Lord will not move an inch from this place. And fools, do remember this.

If he thinks ill of you even for a second you’ll all be burnt to ashes in no time. You can even play with this God. He won’t mind. But never try to play with his devotees.

You will be annihilated.Emboldened by their silence the mantrika delivered his punchline with aplomb.“You fools, if you have any sense still left in you, fall at Perianambi’s feet and beg his pardon.

Unless he forgives you even this loving Lord will not forgive you. Mind it.”He refused to accept any fees from them.

“I have a strong policy not to accept anything from sinners like you.” He ran away from the place. Then and only then they realized their mistake.

The Chief Priest went into Perianambi’s house and fell at his feet. “Perianambi, our Lord, Azhakia Manavalar is waiting to see you.

At your gate. Looks like He won’t move any further unless you come out and see him. ‘Please come with me and accept the Lord’s prasadam. And please forgive all of us. We are all petty-minded people.

 “We now know for sure that you are on our Lord’s side. No, no, our Lord is on your side. Please come, Peria Nambi. The Lord has been waiting for you for the past four hours.” Perianambi ran out of the house.

It was a sight to see almost the entire town falling at his feet.He ignored them all and fell before the huge car.

The Chief Priest lifted him up and honoured him with the Lord’s cloth and his sadari. A garland was taken from the Lord and was placed on Perianambi’s neck.

Azhagia Manavala Perumal was affectionately smiling at his devotee. Perianambi was respected like a King amongst his peers.

For did not the Lord Himself stop at his place? Seeing the bewitching smile on Azhakia Manavalar’s most beautiful face Peria Nambi folded his hands.

He did not even attempt to control his sobs. “Any day your love is a million times better than mine, my Lord. Give me a billion births to be born as a worm to be crushed by the feet of your loving devotees. I can’t even repay a small fraction of your love.

Oh My Lord, you stopped at my place! You stopped at the house of this worm! You waited for me! My Lord! My Lord!”

The Chief Priest came near Perianambi and gently reminded him.“Please let the Lord go, Perianambi. It’s getting late, you see. Please..”

Perianambi moved away.

The Lord took leave of his devotee and resumed his onward journey. The huge car now moved as if its wheels were on air.

The gigantic Chariot started moving when less than fifty people gently pulled its ropes.

Credits :  HG Shri  Varalotti Rengasamy

All glories to Peria nambee
All glories to Alavandar
Srimathey Ramanujaya namah:

Pics :  Thanks to Google images /and other websites shared by advance devotees

Jai Jai Ramanujaaa……

It was Namperumal’s divine plan to make Swamy Ramanujar leave Srirangam for a short time , and purify other places by placing his holy feet in Melnadu and retrieve Thirunarayanan who was worshipped by Sri Ramar and Sri Krishna during Tretha and Dwapara yugas .

Peria Perumal thus created a difficult situation by which Swamy Ramanujar had to leave Srirangam after taking Peria Perumal’s consent and thus proceeded towards north accompanied by Sri Mudaliandan Swamy.

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After many days of travel and undergoing various hardships following the course of Kaveri, Swamy Ramanuja finally arrived in Karnataka where the local tribals served them.

En route he met his disciple kongu piratti and graced her

.

Check the url below for kongu piratti divine pastime with Swamy Ramanuja

Kongil Piratti worships Swamy Ramanuja padukas……

Later he moved near Srirangapatinam. https://video.wordpress.com/embed/iUgKlN3R?hd=0&autoPlay=0&permalink=1&loop=0&preloadContent=metadata&muted=0&playsinline=0&controls=1&cover=1

The local people who were averse to Swamy Ramanujar conspired a plan to do away with him.

Swamy Ramanujar learning their evil intentions ordered Mudaliandan Swamy to place his feet in the drinking water pond in that area now called saligrama near Thondanur , which he politely obeyed.

At salagrama ,by partaking this Sripada theertham, the minds of the evildoers changed miraculously and they fell at Swamy Ramanujar lotus feet seeking forgiveness. Such was the greatness of Swamy Mudaliandan .

Ramanujar named this place as “Saligramam” which is near to Melkote.

Even today this pond is maintained by the archakar family .

There is a small temple opposite to this pond in which Swamy Ramanujar’s lotus feet are worshiped.

Swamy Ramanuja had a large number of disciples at Melnadu .

Vangipurathu Achi , Vangipurathu Nambi , Thondanur Nambi , Marudhur Nambi, Malur Nambi , Anathazhwan were some of them in the large group of disciples he had at Melnadu.

Thondanur Nambi was a great bhagavatha , a saint and most respected scholar as he was close to the Royal family .

Thondanur Nambi , during his pilgrimage to Srirangam was attracted to Swamy Ramanuja .

He loved his approach and the simple teachings which leads to self realisation that takes one to godhead. He was one among the 74 Simhadhipathees .

Thondanur was the summer capital of the Hoyasala kingdom ruled by King Vittala deva who was a staunch follower of Jainism .

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They were tolerant to other religions too . The King had a daughter who was possessed with an evil spirit .

No treatment could cure her illness . She was always under the possession of the evil spirit which made her do unnatural things .

She was almost dressed like a madwoman and was a big embarrassment to the Royal family . There was another tragedy , during a war the King lost his finger.

This earned him the name Bitti deva .

The King was very upset due to the deformity and the new worry of his daughter that took shape .

No treatment either medicines or tantric rituals could cure her .

The Jain monks also tried their best but nothing seemed possible to relieve her from the evil spirit .

Thondanur Nambi, the disciple of Swamy Ramanujar suggested to the queen that his spiritual master who arrived recently and staying at Saligrama was capable of restoring the princess to normalcy.

The Jain king pleaded Nambi to invite Swamy Ramanuja to his palace .

He even promises that If his daughter is cured he will adopt Srivaishnava faith and surrender to Swamy Ramanuja..

Thondanur Nambi goes to Saligrama and surrenders to the lotus feet of Swamy Ramanuja and briefs him about the Jain Kings intentions .

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It was a wonderful opportunity to grace the King and his people and induct them in the great srivaishnava sampradayam .

Swamy Ramanuja and Thondanur Nambi look for an auspicious time and leave to Thondanur to the Royal palace .

The Royal couple have the divya darshan of JagathAcharyar Swamy Ramanuja .

Both of them fall like uprooted trees looking at Swamy Ramanujas divine aura .

They welcome Swamy to their Royal chambers .

The whole Royal family pay their obeisance’s to Swamy Ramanuja .

The mad princess who was irritating the members few minutes back suddenly leaves into another room when Swamy enters the chambers . With some cajoling the princess who is shabbily dressed is brought before Swamy Ramanuja .

Looking at the pitiable state of the princess , Swamy gives the holy water that was offered to his Lordships and applies the holy turmeric paste offered to Lord on her forehead .

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The moment she sips the holy water and makes an eye contact with the great Acharya the evil spirit vanishes and she almost faints before him .

The princess is slowly brought back to senses by sprinkling some water on her .

To everybody’s surprise she gets up , looks at herself feels shy and runs away to her chambers . She dresses herself elegantly and offers obeisances to Swamy Ramanuja amongst all the people .

The Royal couple are amazed with the sudden happenings . They accept that the great seer who is with them is a very pious soul who has incarnated to uplift them . Instantly they surrender to his lotus feet and beg to be taken into his fold .

Swamy Ramanuja asks them to offer prayers at Nambi Narayana Temple and meet him there .

At Swamy Nambi Narayana temple , Swamy Ramanuja conducts a discourse attended by many people . The King along with his Royal family too attend the discourse which speaks about the ultimate purpose of life as a srivaisnava .

. Attracted to his simple teachings the entire crowd adopt srivaishnavism . Amongst the citizens the King , Queen and all his family members are given Panchasamskara initiation .

The King is given a name a Vishnu vardhana after due initiation by Swamy Ramanuja himself . The celebration among st the citizens is multi fold .

All the citizens hail Swamy Ramanujas discourse and accept him as their Jagath Acharya .

Somewhere down the lane the Jain monks are upset with the happenings .

All of them march to the Royal Palace and argue with the king for taking such a foolish step  

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They convince the King that their proposed debate with Swamy Ramanuja will prove Jainism superiority and he must agree to their command .

The King knew very well that such thing can never happen .

However he along with the Jain monks in huge numbers walk up to the Yoga narasimhar temple located on a hillock as Swamy Ramanuja was staying there .

The Jain monks along with the King meet Swamy Ramanuja and invite him to a debate on the esoteric truths . All the Jain monks assemble and start posing questions .

The euphoria around makes Swamy Ramanuja to command his disciples to surround him with a curtain . Almost 1000 jain monks shoot questions on him without any break .

                                              It is was ONE vs ONE THOUSAND 

The divine incident of Swamy Ramanuja taking over one thousand Jain monks was relished by the disciples . Inside , Swamy Ramanujar was covered by a curtain and with his original form as Adisesha with 1000 hoods, he answers every question of the monk with patience and clarity .

Thus he defeats all the 1000 Jains at a time. One monk was inquisitive to find out why the curtain was put .He slowly managed to peep inside the curtain .

To his shock he could see JagathAcharyar’s viswaroopam and fainted . The Jain monks had no reply and were forced to accept defeat and adopt to srivaishnavism .This incident happened at Lord Narasimha swamy temple in Bhakta nagari (presently known as Thondanur).

Swamy MudaliAndaan who gave us the nectarian sloka DHAATI PANCHAKA in praise of Swamy Ramanujar at this place. This place is on the way to Melkote(about 16 kms) from Srirangapatinam.

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The wonderful opportunity given by Swamy Ramanuja to Mudaliandaan is remembered even today . “Dhati Panchakam” speaks of the victory of Swamy Ramanuja over other philosophies – both those that accept Vedas and those that don’t – and his establishing the Visishtadvaita philosohpy that was built by Azhvars and Purvacharyas.

As the name suggests, it comprises of five slokas The word “DHATI” means “attacking” – as this work shows the attack that Ramanuja carried over the other philosophies that were widespread at that time, it is an appropriate name for it.

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Swamy out of his love composed a wonderful composition on Swamy Ramanuja called “DHATEE PANCHAKAM” which starts with the introductory sloka ..

Our  Varthamana swamy descendant of Swamy MudaliAndaan was kind to recite this sloka at our residence during his recent visit , a clip presented below and the sloka

Click to access SreeMudhaliandanThirumaligai-DhattiPanchakam%20-%20English.pdf

Our moksham is not guaranteed only with the sambandham of any other acharya – but Ramanuja”.

Our daily chant is ” RamanujArya divyAgya vardhatAm abhi vardhatAm. ”

It is only he who can command and all our acharyas and we follow his command .

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Swamy Ramanuja is the only acharya who was referred with respect and followed by all other schools in vaishnavism like chaitanya, vallabhacharya, Swamy narayan as the margadayee .

Uyya Ore Vazhi Udayavar Thiurvadi!

(only way for spiritual up liftment is to take refuge in Yathiraja Padhuka)

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Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pictures courtesy : Google images uploaded by several devotees

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The devotees who are won over by the Supreme Lords divine beauty experiencing transcendental bliss at “Adhee Kesavar” Temple in Kazhiyur …..

Kazhiyur temple

Kazhiyur village is located near Cheyyar in North Arcot district  about 81 km  towards east of Thiruvannamalai and about 103 KM from Chennai .

TEMPLE ENTRANCE

ADHIKESAVA PERUMAL UTSAVAR ” GLORIFIED AS VARADAR “

Almost  130 years ago  Sri vaishnavaite Aiyyangars  migrated from Mannargudi another holy place in Tanjavur and came to settle down in this village.

TEMPLE ENTRANCE

It is said that a plague like epidemic made people leave Mannargudi  long long back .

YATHIRAJAVALLI  THAYAR TEMPLE ENTRANCE

The  srivaishnavas were disciples of  His Holiness  Sri  Sri  Sri  Mudaliandaan swamigal who is the first and the dearest disciples of Swami Ramanuja.

Kazhiyur  temple

It is believed that the  srivaishnavas  , carried the deity  of  Lord Adhi Keshava Perumal  all the way from Mannargudi on their head to Kazhiyur  the present place and  worshipped the LORD by constructing a temple with the  locals  support .  Elders believe that the deity was sculpted from a meteorite that had fallen from the divine abode .

WAY TO TEMPLE KONERI ( TANK )

It is not a practice to abandon Perumal  even in adverse circumstances.

TEMPLE ENTRANCE

The  Lordship gives darashanam  in Nindra Thirukolam ( standing posture).

After their resettlement in Kazhiyur, the village became a cradle of Vedic scholars, purohits and astrologers.

TEMPLE GARDEN

The  devoted  families lived in the Agraharam (first row of houses built around the temple and occupied by the temple priests)

ROUTE TO TEMPLE

.

ROUTE TO TEMPLE

The Agraharam is located around the temple of ‘Sri Adhi Keshava Perumal Swamy’, which was also built and maintained with financial support from the  local Mudaliars and many devotees .  Kazhiyur has been a great centre of Vedic Astrology.

They  have been uniformly well versed in astrology and are keepers of the most ancient astrological knowledge in the world. https://video.wordpress.com/embed/7UzGVxNE?hd=0&autoPlay=0&permalink=1&loop=0&preloadContent=metadata&muted=0&playsinline=0&controls=1&cover=1

Almost all of them have been treated like the religious leaders and the astrological guides from time immemorial.

SREEMOORTHY IN TEMPLE

Many Kazhiyur  families have been practicing astrology for more than seven generations in an unbroken tradition since they first arrived in 1840.

ENTERING KAZHIYUR VILLAGE

It is believed that in ancient times there was a temple dedicated to Goddess Kali near to the main temple  and hence the village is called ‘Kazhiyur’ the home of Goddess Kali.

After moving to Kazhiyur the srivaishnavaites engaged  themselves in agriculture apart from performing the temple services .

Due to this reason they are also called the Mannar Mudumbai families a direct connection to Lokacharyar  Swamy Pillai Lokacharyar’s legacy . https://video.wordpress.com/embed/ndFIr3Vi?hd=0&autoPlay=0&permalink=1&loop=0&preloadContent=metadata&muted=0&playsinline=0&controls=1&cover=1

They were orthodox and are considered to be an authority on  Sri Vaishnavism.

THE ROUTE TO TEMPLE AT SUNSET

Unlike other South Indians who carry the name of village and the name of the father as their initials the Kazhiyur srivaishnavas  use the initials

K. M. meaning Kazhiyur Mannar.

It  was an attempt to retain the Mannargudi identity.

The priests from Kazhiyur have been  serving in  some seva or other  in almost all the 106 Sri Vaishnavite temples  and the majority of them  at  Tirumala , Sholingur ,  and  southern side vaishnava divya desams .

KAZHIYUR POND FROM WHERE WATER IS TAKEN TO TEMPLE AND HOUSES

The first Priest who served  even in the Temples at United states of America are from Kazhiyur . https://video.wordpress.com/embed/icSZSYkd?hd=0&autoPlay=0&permalink=1&loop=0&preloadContent=metadata&muted=0&playsinline=0&controls=1&cover=1

Kazhiyur is also closely connected with the Sri Ramar Sannadhi and the temple of Shree Govindaraja at the foothills of the Tirupati temple.

UTSAVAR VARADAR THIRUVADEE OF KAZHIYUR TEMPLE

 Srivaishnavas  from Kazhiyur were also  chosen to carry the offerings from the Lord of Seven Hills at Tirumalai to the temple of Govindaraja at foothills.

The priests walked bare-footed all the way down the hill carrying the offerings on their head.

Kazhiyur has been very closely linked to Kancheepuram from the very inception. Every year during the month of January, July and December, the utsavar  ( processional deity )  of Lord  Adi Keshava Perumal , shri Varadar is taken in a procession to the Iyengar Kulam, a lake at the outskirts of Kancheepuram.

Varthamaana  His holiness Sri Sri Sri Mudali Andaan swami

About forty people start the procession and many more join them en-route to Kancheepuram. The procession travels on foot for the entire stretch of 18 km. After arriving at Iyengar Kolam, the Lord is given a ceremonial bath in the kolam and then taken back to Kazhiyur with pomp and show .  

This custom has been  inspired from the grand festival ( Lord Varadharaja going to ‘Padai Seevaram’ on the day of Chithirai Poornima at Tirupati) . This ritual is also known as ‘Parvettam’ (forest hunting).

KALI AMMAN

 Today out of  few  houses in Kazhiyur Agraharaham , only few houses are occupied and the remaining are kept locked.

However, every year during the month of April, on the day of Chittirai Revathi, the birth star of Lord Adi Keshava which is tomorrow April 29 , 2022 ….

kEsavan thamar * kIzh mEl emar Ezh ezhu piRappum *
mA sadhir idhu peRRu * nammuDai vAzhvu vAykkinRavA! **
Isan en karumANikkam en sengkOlak kaNNan * viNNOr
nAyagan * empirAn emmAn * nArAyaNanAlE…….

Kazhiyur  srivaishnavas  from all over the world gather in the village to celebrate the annual festival.

ADIYENS GRUHAM AT SECUNDERABAD

Shri  Kodandan swamy  was serving the temple  past  two decades  leaving his lucrative job .

Shri Kodandan swami the chief Priest and Kazhiyur varadan

Adiyen is blessed to be born in this glorious village and feel honored to be among st the  illustrious and glorious elders . 

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pics : Courtesy Google images

Videos : Courtesy DD Podhigai

Kulasekshara Azhwar wonders at the propensity of people to pass their time in this world casually , when there are so many numbers of the Lord’s Holy names to chant … (Appearance day March 3rd 2023 )

The  revered  Azhwars and Acharyars  take up upon themselves the burden of saving men who LORD gives up hopelessly for the reluctance in seeking HIM .

Do Acharyars really possess these virtue ?

An example is quoted from scriptures

By a Rishi’s curse a saint was consigned to the nether region , the hellish planets   . The saint he was continued to follow his  devotional  practices with all sincerity .

The demons  noting that the person could be a  faction from devas , harassed him with their weapons . But as he was a devotee of LORD Sriman Narayana he proved invulnerable to them .

The worried demons approached their guru Shukra for a suggestion to wound the  arrived devotee .

Shukra suggested ,

My dears !!

Begin by abstracting his love for Sri Hari  and rest is assured for him to be in your grip …

The demons put on the disguise of devotees and making friendship  with the saint practically explained that Sri Hari had neglected him so far even down to his confinement in the nether regions  and hellish planets ,  and thus could certainly not be worthy of worship .

They spoke ill about Sri Hari relating to his  deep misfortune .

All the efforts to rob his love to Sri Hari  proved futile , but parallel y the saint exhibited a great compassion in his heart for the demons at sight  of the profundity of their sinfulness.

The saint  supplicated  LORD to exhibit his abundant mercy on these  sinful men  for their offenses . The saints prayers had instant effect .

The demons turned into friends and were anon taken to Lord’s abode of bliss .

Thus the power of salvation vested in LORD manifests itself with redoubled vigor in the members of HIS holy  abode …

 Kulasekshara Azhwar wonders at the propensity of people to live lives steeped in sin, when there is any number of the Lord’s names, which one could chant and think about, capable of instantly cleansing of them of all sins.

Why could one not say

“Ananta”,

“Vaikunta”,

“Mukunda”,

“Krishna”,

”Govinda”,

“Damodara”,

“Madhava”  and several holy names ……

which are incredibly sweet on the tongue and also act as purifiers, wonders Azhwar in the verses of ” Mukunda mala”

“ananta Vaikuntta Mukunda Krishna GOvinda DAmOdara MAdhava iti

vaktum samartthOpi na vakti kaschit ahO! JanAnAm vyasana abhimukhyam!”

We have seen how terrifying hell and  the demons  were in the episode ..

Azhwars speak of an occasion when the entire  hell was transformed into a heavenly abode.

How could this be possible ?

  Azhwar elaborates in the following  “TirumAlai ” pAsuram—

 

“namanum Murkalanum pEsa, narakil nindrArgaL kEtpa

narakamE Svargam Agum nAmangaL udaya nambi

 In a glowing tribute to the glory of the Lord’s holy names, Sri Tondarappodi Azhwar recounts the episode of a conversation between Mudgala and Yamadharma raja. Mudgala was a  wicked person, guilty of several sins.

On one occasion,  unknowingly , he gifted a cow to a brahmin , accompanying it with the words,

“Let this be for Krishna” (“KrishNAya nama:”) as he heard this verse many times from others .

When he  left his mortal coils , and reached YamalOka,   Yamadharmaraja   received him with all respects and  honour .

Mudgala was surprised and  sought the reason for the unusual reception given to him .  Yamadharmaraja  replied ,  the single word “Krishna” uttered by  you  during the “GodAnam”  , had got  rid him of all  the evil.

 The beneficial effects of the single utterance of the Krishna nAma did not stop with Mudgala.

Those residing in the hell  who listened to the conversation between Yama and Mudgala, and heard  Krishna nAmA, were instantly absolved of their sins. What is more, the entire hell was immediately transformed into heaven, lock, stock and barrel.

 Such indeed is the efficacy of the holy name of the Lord, which is capable of benefiting even those who utter or listen to it, by sheer accident, without any instinct of devotion or adulation.

For those who are unable even to utter the short and sweet names of the Lord, Azhwar has another prescription for saving them from the fires of hell.

A mere mention of the hallowed abodes of Emperuman would, by itself, ensure that none goes to  Hell , indeed, if everyone were to just say the name of a divyadesam once, it would render the hellish worlds uninhabited and desolate, says Azhwar in the following pasuram—

“arivilA manisar ellAm arangam endru azhaippar Agil

poriyil vAzh narakam ellAm pullezhundu ozhiyum andrE”

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pics : Credits Google images

Video Credits : manumithra and singer sri Udayalur kalyanaraman

Sri Vishnu sahasranama Sthothra, a garland of thousand divine nectarine nam

….Sri Vishnusahsranama ..………a divine gift from Bhishmacharya ………………..

After the great Mahabharata war, as per destiny , Bhismacharya was lying on the bed of arrows . He was letting the world know that he was waiting for the auspicious time [punya kala] for the sun orienting its direction northwards [Uttarayan] for leaving his mortal body.

Deep inside his heart he was praying Lord Krishna to bless him with his darshan during his last moments of his life .
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Bhismacharya was patiently bearing the pain and being a nice devotee had the firmness not to ask the lord for relief and instead waited for the Lord to grace him .The lord also acted in the same way as his devotee. Since Bhismacharya did not directly call upon Lord , the Lord also decided that he will not use that as a direct reason for giving him his darshan.

It is also revealed , before the onset of the war, Arjuna was perplexed and hence Lord Sri Krishna gave the Holy epic Srimad Bhagavat Gita to clarify all the doubts of Arjuna and indirectly to the humankind.

Meanwhile after the war , the whole of Dwaraka was eagerly waiting for the Lord’s arrival Lord Krishna was getting ready to depart to Dwaraka

. Yudishtira somehow wanted to delay the lord’s departure for some reason. He submits to Lord humbly and pleads , Oh Lord Krishna! I cannot sit on the throne which is stained by the blood of all my relatives and all my grandsir’s.

I am not sure about the righteous path and am confused over the path of dharma.” Please help me ..

Lord thought that probably he had to bestow Yudhistira with another sermon of Bhagavat Gita but decided not to do so. He thought of a better option. He told Yudistira that the best person to seek knowledge on dharma was none other than Bhismacharya . The lord said “When Arjuna was confused; I thought that my discourse would make his mind light and devoid of any doubts. But I later realized that he was all the more confused and worried.”

He advised , Yudishtira that he was going to lead him to a satsang which was a divine communion with a great devotee Bhismacharya. So the entire retinue now proceeded towards Bhismacharya in the war field .Bhishma was lying on a bed of arrows with no food, water and was sustaining his life only by uttering the Lords holy names silently and living with sheer divine grace.

The moment Bhisma looks at Lord Krishna along with Yudhistira, his face brightens up with a smile. He is overjoyed with Lord Krishna darshan. Lord walks near him and with a bewitching smile requests Bhisma to clarify Yudhishtira’s doubt’s . Lord thus created a situation and used this as a pretext to grace Bhisma.

(He wanted to show the greatness of Bhisma).

Lord looks at Yudishtira and says , Yudhishtra !!! when people are about to depart this world, they would disclose the supreme of all secrets which they have been guarding all their lives. This is akin to the father giving all his wealth to his son only during his last moments. The lord advises him to clarify all his questions related to the highest dharma from Bhisma who was considered the man for his strength, honesty , values and benevolence .

All the Pandavas and Draupathi arrive at the Kurukshetra battle field where Bhisma was lying on the bed of arrows. Bhisma looks at the them and becomes very emotional..

Bhisma recollects all the misfortune that happened one by one

. He concludes with tears even for wise people some things are apprehensive ..“Sarvam kala krutham manyae” It is all the play of time [kala] and none other than Lord Krishna can comprehend this.

Time is no different from Krishna as the lord appears as time outside. Yudishtira moves close to Bhishma to voice his concerns on dharma and requests to expound on Dharma.

Hearing his question, Bhisma replies ..

My child listen ….

Dharma can be classified as follows

Raja dharma – The dharma for politics

Moksha dharma – The dharma for different stages of one’s life as a student, as a house-holder

Varma Dharma – The dharma that one needs to adhere by someone who is ready for renunciation

Ashrama dharma – The dharma for a renunciant

Bhisma elucidates on the prayachitha dharma [pavana dharma ) set of guidelines that one needs to follow if one commits a mistake.

After patiently listening to the discourse on dharma , Yudishtira pleads Bhisma to expound on the supreme of all dharmas.

Bhishma smiles and says My child !!! Can any one compare between dharmas. Every dharma is unique in its own way.

However ..listen the supreme of all dharmas is verily chanting the divine names of Lord Vishnu.<!– /wp:paragraph –>

Jai Jai Ramanuja Jai Jai Ramanuja Jai ho Ramanuja

“Nachet Ramanujet desha, Cathurat Chathurakshari
Kamavasthan Prapadhyanthe Janthavo Hantha Madrusha:”

The above solka by our Poorvacharyas, brings out how our Acharyar Swamy Ramanujar appearance leads us to Sri vaikuntam, and he is called “Vishu Loka Mani Mandapa Marga Dhayee” (one who shows way to Sri Vainkuntum) in Dhaati Panchakam and he was the first revolutionist who called Harijan as “Thiru kulatthar”

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When he discovered that certain categories of people were barred from entering the temple, he bunched them all together as Thirukulathar and admitted them into the folds of the temple for serving the supreme LORD …He charted the work flow of a temple’s administration in a holistic manner. From the priest to the man who plays the mridangam, to the flower seller, everyone’s role in the running of the temple was factored in. To this day, the Vaishnavite temples adhere to his vision.

The gem of a work presented to us by Jagath Acharyar Swamy Ramanujar is        ” SRI BHASHYA”.  

The illustrious Sri Vaishnava preceptor  Swamy Alavandar  wanted  Swamy Ramanujacharya to take over spiritual leadership of the Sri Vaishnava community.

Swamy Ramanuja set off to meet Alavandar as per the instructions , but before the meeting could materialize,  Swamy Alavandar departed from this world.  Swamy Ramanuja  was sad  for the sudden turn of events .

He noticed that three of  Swamy Alavandar’s fingers remained folded.  Swamy Ramanuja asked the  Elders  assembled there why  was  it  so.   They  replied that Swamy Alavandar had three unfulfilled wishes. On inquiring further it was revealed that the great Acharyar  Alavandar wanted to write a commentary for Brahmasutra, but he could not get round to doing it because of his  busy occupations .

Hence the first folded finger indicated this unfulfilled desire. Secondly, he wanted to do something to honor the contributions of the revered  sages Vyasa and Parasara and thirdly, he wanted to write a commentary on Nammazhvar’s Thiruvaimozhi.

Swamy  Ramanuja instantaneously  promised to carry out all  the three wishes unfulfilled by Swamy  Alavandar.   Miraculously , all the  fingers  restored its normal course  .

Swamy  Ramanuja’s Brahmasutras   is glorified  as Sri Bhashyam.   Ramanuja named  his disciple Kooratazhvan’s sons Parasara Bhattar and Vedavyasa Bhattar, thus  the second wish of Alavandar was fulfilled. Upon the command of  Swamy Ramanuja, his disciple Sri Kurukesa (Pillan) wrote a commentary for Thiruvaimozhi. Thus  Swamy Ramanuja ensured that all of  Acharyar Alavandar’s   three wishes were fulfilled.

 The efforts made by Swamy Ramanuja to take up the important task of his Acharyar must be cherished by every vaishnava . The comprehensive commentary of this outstanding work was given the name Srutha Prakashika. 

The legendary Acharyas after our Jagath Acharyar who explained this beautiful commentary were    Kurukeshwaran disciple of Swamy Ramanuja  , Vishnuchittar disciple of Swamy  Kurukeshwaran  , Varadacharyar disciple of  Vishnuchittar and Sudarshana bhattar disciple of  Varadacharyar ( Nadaadhoor Ammal)

 The great devotee  of Lord Varadarajar of Kancheepuram ” Swamy Nadaadhoor Ammal wrote a book with all the understandings gained from the Elders in the form of arguments answers and counter arguments about the great work Sri Bhashya.

This work was called as PRAMEYAMALA .

He continued his writing with monumental works like Tatwa sara and Prapanna Parijata.  Swamy was respected as  the most authoritative commentator on Sri Bhashya and several disciples used to approach him for learning the esoteric truths .

A great devotee and an obedient disciple Sudarshana suri was keen to meet the Acharyar for the same . He traveled to Kancheepuram after taking permission from his  aged mother . Always attentive and serving his Acharyar Ammal he was learning the rich truths from the commentaries daily.  He was always  there  to attend the class , no matter even If he  had already attended the same .That was his interest . He was always in the mood of being near to his Acharyar serving him .

One day  it so happened all the disciples were awaiting for the class to begun . Acharyar also had come . But he was waiting for Sudarshana  arrival . The disciples were upset for the special care given to Sudarshana  The disciples expressed their unhappiness for the special care given to Sudarshana  as they found him to be a dull witted person attending  the  same classes repeatedly  without any knowledge.

The next day Ammal conducted the class as usual . He paused at a verse … and looked at Sudarshana  and said ……..

My Child !  Please repeat what was explained  about  this verse  . Sudarshana bhattar obediently  got up and with folded hands  replied ..

Acharya … Please command me !!!  Which adhikarna  ? This verse was given wonderful explanations in every discourse .Please tell me which explanation are you seeking ? The first class OR the last class ?

The disciples were dumb folded . Ammal continued . My child ! Please tell me both of them ..

Sudarshana   explanations was a continuous flawless flow of words that mesmerized all the disciples .He was simply excellent in reproducing the content as explained by his Master ..

Acharyar praised him for his comprehension  diction and dedication . All the disciples rushed towards Sudarshana and requested him to elucidate all the meanings .

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Sudarshana attempted to codify all the texts and bring together the various commentaries of  Elders  as the gem Sri Bhashya.. The disciples all together edited the various commentaries of the Acharyas and hence the name   …

                                                  SHRUTA PRAKASHIKA  ….…

                        THAT WHICH IS HEARD HE MOST AUTHORITATIVE

This treasure is considered as a full mail of diamonds for Sri Bhashya like a kavacham ( shield )  This great commentary has provided answers to various onslaughts made on it in the form of questions and the doubts raised by people with limited vision .Because of this lovely work Sri Bhashya withstood firmly the many arguments and counter arguments of mayavadis  .

Once this wonderful work was completed Sudarshana seeking blessings of Acharyar  returned to Srirangam . He was shocked to see the tyranny of Ulugh Khan  the Moslem rulers . There was chaos everywhere  .

The tyrants were pulling down the towers of the mandapams .The people were living in deep fear .The palm leaf manuscripts stored in the houses of advanced  srivaishnavas were being burnt .

Many elders lost their lives saving the treasures of commentaries .  Sudarshana  was sad . He carried the manuscripts to his aged mother and pleaded her to save this jewel  which was his life breath .   He approached the elders to contribute his services in protecting the LORD ..

 The young Swamy Desikar , Swamy Sudarshana  and other Acharyas assembled , and met Swamy Pillai Lokacharyar  inside the  Srirangam temple .They all  concluded it was  Ulugh Khan  the army commander sent by Tuglak who was creating this  tyranny to loot the temple   . They had to take a quick decision  .

All of them informed the  temple priests for staying beside the deities at all cost , and gave some important  tasks to be completed without any delay . 

.Swamy  Lokacharyar called the Chieftain and the Elders  of the temple and  advised them what could be the steps  that  may have to take facing the invader inside the temple .The   objective was not to confront the enemy but to focus their efforts to ensure that the moola virat  was not desecrated.

All of them decided that they shall form three groups . One group shall be headed by  the eldest  Swamy Pillai Lokachariya,   who shall carry the deities of Lord Ranganatha and His concerts in a covered palanquin and proceed southward with few disciples .

Sudarshana  who had just arrived  took up the task of erecting a stone wall in front of the  main sanctorum to  misguide the invaders . Thus a  stone wall was constructed with support of many disciples in a short time  .

The third team was to provide cover for the team lead by Swamy Pillai Lokachariya [the team with the deities  of our lord and his consorts so that swami had enough time to maintain safe distance from the enemy.

Swami Desika who was the youngest among the Acharyas was requested  by Shri Sudarsana  to go with the third party and somehow save himself so that he at least might be left to propound Sri Vaishnavism and the teachings of Jagatha Acharya Shri Ramanuja.

There was not much time left . Sudharsana  entrusted his two  young  sons and manuscript “Sruta prakaasikA” to  Swami Desika asking him to save this treasure for future generations    Swami Desika earnestly    prayed LORD that this great work  must at any cost  be saved . Swami  as instructed immediately took up the directions from Sudharsana Suri and was about to leave  towards northward with the little boys . 

At the temple town , all of them decided in one voice that  they will not oppose the army  , but behave as if nothing is so serious ..   There was a regular update about the Invaders  who were approaching . The people  were in two moods  whether they should remain in town or flee. 

Who was to decide and advise them? The people  were utterly confused .They decided to take counsel from Lord Ranganatha himself then decided to appeal to the LORD  Himself  . They all dropped chits (Tiru Ulla seettu) expressing their opinion and  with  devotion they drew up one chit which said that all could remain at Srirangam  itself.

They decided in was the Lord’s order and remained facing the situation bravely.The same evening, the  invaders marched inside the  Srirangam town from Samayavaram  . Thousands of the town’s  citizens were  harassed and injured .The terror in which  the enemy looted the prosperous town   speaks about the bravery of the srivaishnavas there  .

It was a very sad plight and the  bloodbath that followed who resisted will make one cry  for our great forefathers who sacrificed their lives . This had been recorded in the History of Srirangam Temple known as Koil-Ozhugu . The  sad  bloodshed of 12,000 Sri Vaishnavas at  Sri Varahaswamy Sannidhi makes it the worst day in the temple town .

Inside the Hall , Swamy Desikar  saw heaps of corpses lying around . He somehow braved the boys to lie down unnoticed to give an impression that no one survived . The little boys stretched underneath  along with some of them and our dear Swami also lay down next to them along with the holy book.

Swamy Desikar thus concealed the two boys and himself amidst a heap of corpses and passed the night with caution . The enemy troops assumed that they were corpses and did not bother to probe. Observing the enemy troops moving away , Swamy  Desikar slowly took the frightened boys before dawn unnoticed in North-Westerly direction .

He suddenly saw some gaurds chasing them. He managed to  hide near the mud rocks at the banks of river kaveri. With caution ,  hiding the young boys beneath the mud rocks he dug one yard deep pit in the sands of the river and buried the great work  giving mother kaveri a rare tribute .

He somehow managed to lay down covering himself with the kaveri sand escaping any detection . When the gaurds moved  he regained his position  and quickly moved away to Satyamangala  with  the treasure book and the small kids . He made few copies of the manuscripts and taught the contents to all his disciples .

 Our Poorvacharyas have struggled to give us this treasure and hence It is the bounden duty of every vaishnava to proudly say….. 

                                                      Adiyen Ramanuja dasan …..     https://video.wordpress.com/embed/pHcG4AIA?hd=0&autoPlay=0&permalink=1&loop=0&preloadContent=metadata&muted=0&playsinline=0&controls=1&cover=1

  I am Ramanuja dasan … and thus protect /propogate the works of our Poorvacharyars and our sampradaya ..saying .

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All glories to Swamy Pillai LokaAcharyar

All  glories to Swamy Sudarshan suri

All glories to Swamy Vedanta  Desikar…………

All glories to Poorvacharyas for their abundant mercy …

“shrImAn venkaTa-nAthAryaH kavitArkika-kesari |
vedAntAcharya-varyo me sannidhattAm sadA hridi |
kavithArkika simhAya kalyANa guNa Saline
Srimathe vEnkateSAya vEdhAntha guravE namaha

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan …..

Adapted from a discourse shared by an advanced devotee .

Pics Credits : Google images/sri varavara muni /All devotees of Lordships

When I have your divine darshan ! my body melts in the love and the separation from your divine self means am washed out with a torrent force of a flood far far away .

Once  , Thirumisai Azhwar came to have a darsanam  of Lord  Aaraamudha perumal   near Kumbakonam at Tamilnadu.    Azhwar  was very much impressed by  Lord’s  beauty .

He instantaneously recited ..

Nadanda kalgal nondhavo nadunga gnala menamai

Idanthamei kulungavo vilangumaal varaichuram

Kadanda kaal parandha kavirikarai kudanthaiul

Kidanthava yezhundirundu pesu vazhi kesane

Meaning O lord !  your lotus  feet must be  feeling the pain walking  the worlds  covered  with  mountains,   thorns etc  .

Your lotus feet are very soft that even Mother Lakshmee  feels her  service may hurt  LORD if she touches them. 

AzhwAr then realizes that  as LORD  went to the pAtALa lOka to rescue Mother during varAha avatAra, perhaps  due to this   LORD  should be relaxing in this pose .

While Azhwar was enquiring ,  Lord casually  lifted up His head to get up and reply to  AzhwAr  as he said said ‘pESu’ in his divine verse  ( speak my LORD ) ..

  Azhwar did not  want  to disturb his yoganidra  and hence  prayed LORD   to remain in the same posture so as to bless each devotee  coming  to HIM praying  .

The Azhwar  thus requested  LORD  to remain in the reclining position as this posture of  LORD looked very attractive .

 The  divine pose of  LORD Aara Amudhan is called as Uthra Sayanam and he is thus called as Uthanasai. 

Lord Aramudhan like Sonnavanam saitha Perumaal of Thiruvekha Divya Desam  at Kancheepuram has also received credit for obeying His dear devotee Thirumisai Azhwar.

 Due to the above reason  LORD  is  glorified  as Aramudha Azhwan  and the Azhwar as Thirumahizai Piran.

The word Piran means Lord.

As Thirumahizai Azhwar asked Perumaal to get up from His  serpent bed, Azhwar was given the title of “Piran” by  LORD .

Aramudhan took the title “Azhwan” to show us HIS  love  towards  Azhwar.  Lord’s sparkling  darshanam  of his cheeks (so chubby )  pulls our soul to  just be there for ever .

 Lord’s coral lips   invites HIS devotee which has a   half-smile (“Punmuruval”) indicating  HIS mercy and  pleasure  seeing us.  Lord’s  broad forehead is adorned by a sparkling green gem, triangular in shape .

 Lord’s long thighs and then  legs, resembles  the trunk of a magnificent tusker,  encased in soft and supple silk, while the broad and beautiful chest sports several strands of gold and pearl necklaces ,  with goddess  Mahalakshmi.

Mother Sri Devi and Bhoodevi  grace us  on either side of the Lord, in postures of devotion.   As noticed in Thiruvellarai Divyadesam , similar  feature of this beautiful temple is that the sanctum sanctorum has two entrances, each with nine steps-one used during Dakshinaayanam and the other during Uttaraaayanam.

 Everything about the Lord  here is elixir .

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None  of the devotees will exclaim  “I have had enough of this Lord”, the desire to see Him and be with Him increases  with every  darshan .

Among the Azhwars seven  out of twelve have immersed there divine thoughts and glorified the boundless beauty of  Lord Aaraavamudan and devoted around 51 nectarine verses  in the DivyaPrabhandam .

This nectarine Lord is sweet not only to our external senses like the eye, ear and the nose, but provides an incomparably pleasurable sensation all over, inside and out and in the soul too-

 “Aaraavamudaai adiyen aavi agame tittippaai”. 

When we relish  something very sweet  we become sick eating the same  recipe  repeatedly . This is true for all material  and  worldly enjoyment all through in our lifestyle.  But once we engage  our senses towards the omnipotent LORD  we find that we can  relish HIM   continuously without  any hindrances and  not getting  bored.

 Once we follow the Nava Vidhi Bhakthi  as advised by Elders viz:   Shravanam  , Kirtanam  Smaranam ,  Pada sevanam , Archanam , Vandanam  Dasyam ,  Sakhyam and finally   Atma Nivedhanam  the purpose of our Life is realised . The more we  start enjoying  the nectar that is LORD HIMSELF , the more we want to continue enjoying this nectar as our desire for this nectar becomes insatiable .

 Aaramudhan means  “the pure nectar which can never produce satiety”.  NammAzhwar glorifies LORD as  “Ara Amude” and  expresses Oh Lord !! ,

‘When I  have your divine darshan !  my body melts in the love  and the separation from your divineself  means  am washed out   with a  torrent force of a  flood away .  

Oh Lord!  such  overflowing emotions……..  grace me  because of your  abundant mercy you have for me.

Lord Aramuda Perumaal compassion on HIS devotees is unlimited .  

When all of us celebrate Diwali in our houses , LORD  performed last rites for one of His  ardent devotees.

 The divine pastime goes like this .

There lived a devotee  named ” Lakshmi Narayana ”  in this holy place . Narayana spent his entire life doing  services to Lord Aramudhan. He was  the one who built the Rajagopuram  which is app  44-m tall, 11-tiered tower by collecting  small small donations from devotees and strived hard to finish the task  . 

He had surrendered all his wealth and everything in the noble service .Narayana swamy  who became old   ,passed away, on  a  Deepavali Amavasya day .

The  devotees  were worried about performing his last rites as he had no progeny and neither he adopted any one .  His entire life was serving the LORDSHIPS  with total surrender .

When the  Priest  entered the sanctum   of Lord Aramudhan he noticed that  Lord  was wearing the yagnopavithram in the direction worn while performing last rites. The Priest  thought that he had made a mistake while decorating LORD  on the previous day.

Therefore he corrected the direction of the yagnopavithram but to his utter amazement found that the yagnopavithram switched direction again. The Priest  realized that it was  Lord’s  way of saying that He was going to perform the last rite for his devotee  Narayana .

 And ever mindful of His duties, He continues to perform the annual shraaddham for this sincere  devotee , to this day.  Narayana’s  sculpture with folded hands adorns one of the pillars in the pradikshina marga .

 Lord performed the last rite for Jatayu during Rama Avataram and as  Lord Aaramudhan performed the rites for  his devotee Narayanaswamy.

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pics : Credits  Google images ( Thanks to all the devotees who uploaded them )

When I  have your divine darshan !  my body melts in the love  and the separation from your divine self  means  am washed out   with a  torrent force of a  flood  far far away .

Swamy NAMPILLAI AND PILLAIATHAN ………. WHEN DEVOTION OVER RULED PRIDE …

Swamy Nampillai the great Acharyar appeared  in Krithikai Month on Krithikai Nakshatra

Swamy Nampillai was a disciple of  Swamy Nanjeeyar who in turn was the disciple of Parasarar bhattar , son of Koorathazhwar.  Swamy  wrote commentaries for the great  works Kanninunsirutthambu,  Thiruviruttam, and Thiruvoimozhi, all belonged to and included in the collection of works “Nalayira Divya Prabandam”. His commentary on Thiruvoimozhi is glorified  known as Edu.

Swamy Nampillai discoursed the lectures of Parasara Bhattar to his disciples Periyavachaan Pillai and Vadakku Thiruveedi Pillai who in turn employed them in their respective commentaries..

An interesting   incident happened  when Swamy Nampillai should have been 25 years old and his teacher, Nanjeeyar should have been in his early fifties. 

One sunny  day  Pillaiathan approached  Swamy Nanjeeyar  . He was about forty years old. He prostrated at the  lotus feet of  Swamy Nanjeeyar and  requested  him to teach any one padhikam (a set of eleven songs) of Thiruvaimozhi. The  Sacred hymns “Thiruvaimozhi “written by  a great Azwar Sri Nammazhwar  which consists of  100 padhikams.  

Swamy Nanjeeyar was busy in some service to the Supreme Lord
He told Pillaiathan,
“I am a little busy now. The best person to teach you Thiruvaimozhi is my disciple  Swamy Nampillai.  Please go to him.” I will advise him to teach you . Pillaithan was not interested as he was elder to Nampillai .. He said …
“But Swami, there is a delicate problem in that.”
“What’s the problem?”

“Our sasthras dictate that a student should prostrate at the feet of his master. You see I am a forty year old man. I can fall at your feet because you are a sanyasi and you are older than me. But Nampillai is much younger to me. And he is a householder. How do you expect somebody of my stature to fall at his feet?

Swamy ”Nanjeeyar now knew where exactly the problem was .Oh !!

 “That’s not an issue.

Our sasthras allow us to waive that condition in exceptional cases.

Any way Your case appears to be quite exceptional. I will advise Nampillai not to expect the usual formality of the disciple falling at his Guru’s feet.

You may start the classes from tomorrow.

”Pillaiathan went back happily. 

   Nanjeeyar called Nampillai and reported the conversation verbatim. 
“My dear boy, Nampillai,  we have a moral responsibility for the long-term welfare of our disciples. I have told you what is there in his mind. It is up to you to make him realize what is right and what is wrong. I am sure you will teach him the lessons in his expectations

Swamy Nampillai replied    “As you wish, Acharya.”
Next day Pillaiathan went to Nampillai’s house.

Nampillai had already made the seating arrangements for the classes.

A seat was placed two steps above the ground level. Another seat was placed at the ground level.

Pillaiathan now knew the trick. He thought: ‘This boy is offended because I won’t prostrate before him. That’s why he has made a high seat for himself.

What a pride! I should make it a point to tell this to Nanjeeyar.’

Mean time , to his surprise  , Nampillai came near Pillaiathan, took his hand in his and led him to the high seat over his . He made Pillaiathan sit there and he sat at the ground level.
That was probably the only one-to-one class in the whole world where the teacher sat at a lower level than his student. 

‘What a nice boy! He has given me the proper seat respecting my age, erudition and my position in the society.’
A teacher’s role is not just to fan the ego of his student.

  Nampillai remembered his Guru’s words.
I have told you what is there in his mind. It is up to you to make him realize what is right and what is wrong. I am sure you will teach him without hurting him.”

The lessons started. Nampillai had cleverly chosen the 27th prose in which Nammazhwar talks about his love for the devotees of the Supreme  Lord.
In the third  verse  in that paasuram ,  Nammazhwar melts;
The heaven and the earth always sing praises about the  Supreme  Lord, Sriman Narayana, the one who loves Tulsi leaves. The Lord has a shining golden disc about him and he is more than a father to me. 
Many fall at the feet of that kind Lord. Even greater are those who fall at the feet of those who worship that Great Lord.

And I am a slave to those who worship the devotees of our Lord.

I am a slave to them not only in this birth, but all my births to follow.
As Nampillai was quoting from the scriptures, from Ramayana, from many religious texts and emphasizing the importance of selfless love and the total absence of pride, Pillaiathan was transported to a different world. 

He now realized his mistake  of refusing to prostrate at the feet of this great man. He started crying for what he had done. 
He could not sit in the high chair any longer looking down on one of the greatest teachers of his time, of all times.

He stood up from his place.
Nampillai misunderstood the meaning of that gesture.
“I know Pillaiathan, that you are a true devotee of God.

Now come and stand here facing East.

Let me fall at your feet and get your blessings.”
As Nampillai prepared to prostrate at his feet, Pillaiathan prevented it with all his might.
“Swami, you are my Acharya.

You have made me realize the dangers of pride.

I had never known about this padhikam of Namazhwar. By deciding to teach me this, you have reformed me. Now please stand there. Let me fall at your feet. Please forgive me, Swami.”
Now it was Nampillai’s turn to block his move. 
“Pillaiathan, my Acharyar , Nanjeeyar has clearly told me that you will not prostrate at my feet. I am a householder and I am younger to you.”
“Oh, Swami, please do not kill me with my own words.”
“No, Pillaiathan I wont let you worship me. It’s against the orders of my  Acharyar

.” “Ok, Swami. Then grant me a favour. Please come with me.”
Pillaiathan did not even wait for Nampillai’s answer.

He grabbed him by his hand and walked out of the house.

He virtually dragged Nampillai to Nanjeeyar’s place. 
Nanjeeyar was taking classes at that time.

There were more than fifty students in the class.

Pillaiathan begged Nanjeeyar to stop teaching for a while.

He then told him what had happened.He fell at Nanjeeyar’s feet. He stood up and amidst tears begged him,
“Swami, please instruct your disciple Nampillai to accept me as his disciple.

Please tell him that I am going to fall at his feet in your presence and that he should accept and bless me.”
Nanjeeyar was very happy with his disciple.

He then nodded to Nampillai. 

Pillaiathan then fell at Nampillai’s feet in the presence of Nanjeeyar and all the students in his class. 

Nampillai lifted him up and hugged him.

Thereafter Pillaiathan learned the entire Thiruvaimozhi from Nampillai.

At the beginning and at the end of every class he would fall at his young teacher’s feet. 

All glories to our Swamy  Nampillai

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pictures/Videos : Courtesy Google images and uploaded by many devotees in social media

THIRUMANGAI AZHWAR APPEARANCE DAY 27-11-2023

All Merciful “Lord Sriman Narayana” appears in five different forms as para, vyuha, vibhava, archai and antaryAmi . To uplift the fallen souls Lord advises the Nityasurees to incarnate in the mortal world and spread the message of divine love and true knowledge for a common man to come back to God head .

Thus Azhwars were the incarnations of of Lord Sriman Narayana’s divine weapons and ornaments (“Azhwar” in Tamil means ‘one who is immersed’). Since the advanced saints were always immersed in the Lord and His qualities, they were glorified as Azhwars and the places which was glorified by Azhwars are earmarked as Divya desams . Out of the 12 azhwars, 4 Azhwars appeared towards the end of Dwapara yuga and Eight Azhwars appeared during Kali yuga.

• Poigai Azhwar – Panchajanya ( Lord Krishna’s conch)
• Bhootha Azhwar – Kaumodakee (Lord Maha Vishnu’s Mace/Club)
• Pey Azhwar – Nandaka ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s sword)
• Tirumazhisai Azhwar – Sudarshanam ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s discus)
• Nammazhwar – Vishvaksena ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s commander)
• Madhurakavi Azhwar – Vainatheya ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s , Garuda)
• Kulasekara Azhwar – Kaustubha ( Lord MahaVishnu’s necklace)
• PeriyaAzhwar – Garuda ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s eagle
• Andal – Bhoodevi
• Thondaradippodi Azhwar – Vanamaalai ( Lord Maha Vishnu’s garland)
• Tiruppaan Azhwar- Srivatsa (An auspicious mark on Lord Maha Vishnu’s chest)
• TirumangaiAzhwar – Sharanga ( Lord Rama’s bow)

The Srivaishnava Divyadesams are  the temples glorified by 12 azhwars. Among the 108 Divyadesams, 105 temples are located in India and one in Nepal. The remaining two temples are in the celestial world glorified as Sri Vaikuntam and ThiruParamapadham.  The 106 temples are classified into six divisions –

• Chozha Nadu divya desam – 40 temples situated in Central Tamilnadu around Trichy,Kumbakonam,Mayavaram, Srikazhi,Nagapatinam
• Pandya Nadu divya desams– 18 temples situated in southern part of Tamilnadu around Madurai,Tirunelveli, Ramnathapuram, Sivakasi
• Nadu nadu divya desams – 2 temples in the northern part of Tamilnadu located near Virudhunagar and Cuddalore
• Thondai nadu divya desams -22 temples in the northern part of Tamilnadu located in and around Chennai(4),Kanchipuram (15), Arakonam(3)
• Malai nadu divya desams – 13 temples out of which 2 are in Southern tip of tamilnadu and the rest 11 temples are in Kerala scattered around Trivandrum,Chenganoor, Ernakulam, Thrissur
• Vada nadu divya desams – 11 temples out of which 2 are in Andhra Pradesh, 1 in Gujarat, 4 in Uttar Pradesh, 3 in Uttaranchal and 1 in Muktinath.

The 4000 Divya Prabandham(Naalayira Divyaprabhandham) also known as “Dravida Vedas” are the out pouring of the Azhwars who  appeared in Southern India  few thousand year ago as per the divine commands of Lord Sriman Narayana to uplift the humankind and thus composed the divine pasurams which all the vaishnavas make it a law to recite . In Srimad Bhagavatam, Lord declares that HIS devotees would be born in Kaliyuga around the banks of Tambaraparani ,Cauvery rivers. As the recitation of vedas is restricted tto only few (women and low caste are not allowed to recite them), the compassionate Lord made azhwars appear on the earth for the upliftment of one and all and compose the pasurams in nectarian Tamil so that it could be relished by all.

Thirumangai Azhwar, the last among all the Azhwars was the only Azhwar who has glorified the maximum number of temples -86 divya desams and he alone has the credit of glorifying  47 divya desams exclusively. 

Azhwar appeared on the 397^th year after the advent of Kaliyuga as per “Guru Parampara prabhavam” composed by Sri.Pinbhagzhagiya Perumal Jeeyar a disciple of Swamy Nampillai,,,

Neelan as he was called appeared on a bright Thursday in Nala varushey(year name), Karthigai maasey (karthigai month as per tamil calender[Nov-Dec])on Krithikai star on Pournami in Kallar kulam at Thirukuraiyalur – a small village near Thirunangoor about one hour drive from Sirkazhi

.

His parents –Aaliaaduudaiyaar(father) and Vallithiru (mother) named him as “Neelan” as he was Neelavarnan . He had various other names which he himself mentions in the last verse of his works (pasuram) dedicated to Sirkazhi Perumal as “Aali naadan”, “Arulmaari”, “Aratamukki”, “mangai vendhan”, “parakaalan”, “kaliyan”,”thirumangai mannan”, “Naalukavi Perumal). Lord (Perumal) addressed him as “kaliyano??” .

As he was like kaalan for people who refuted “paran”(perumal), he came to be known as “Parakaalan” . He was an expert in composing different types of poems in different meters as per Tamil grammar which earned him the name “Naalu Kavi Perumal”.

In thanian ( Introductory verses ) for Peria Thirumozhi, Swamy Embaar says “Engal gathiye Ramanusa muniye…..mangaiyar kon eendha marai aayiram anaithum thangumanam enaku thaa” which means Swamy Embaar submits to Swamy Ramanuja grace for remembering the 1000 pasurams sung by the famous Thirumangai Azhwar and hence the Sattaree is “Ramanuja Padhuka” who in turn is considered as “Thirumangai Azhwar’s padhuka” at Tirunagari divya desam

.

Swamy Manavala Maamunigal in the ninth verse (pasuram) of the great work Upadesaratnamalai glorifies the appearance day of Thirumangai Azhwar as “VEERUDAYA KARTHIGAIYIL KAARTHIGAI NAAL”as this azhwar exhibited his veeram (valour) in getting Perumal’s anugraham. 

Its a great day as Azhwar , Acharyar Nampillai and Asmath acharyar-Sri Kumara Venkatacharyar( descendant of Swamy MudaliAndaan ) also appeared on the same dayThree important festivities are celebrated grandly in this village.(1) Thai Amavaasai for 3 days (Jan-Feb)(2)Thiruvedupari utsavam on Panguni-Pooram (March-April)(3)Thiru avataara utsavam-10 day utsavam during Karthigai month culminating on Karthigaiyil Karthigai

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Neelan was very valiant and brave which earned him a position as army chief in Chola kingdom . He was later elevated to the position of a king for a small territory named “Aalinaadu” . Thus we have “Thirumangai mannan” who had that power , fame , position which took him to material pleasures like any human . The possessions and power engulfed him . Blinded by daring heroism, Neelan was indulged in sensual pleasures

(Azhwar himself admits in his pasurams that he was behind dove-eyed beautiful women).

By Perumal’s nirukethu sankalpam, he happened to meet Kumudavalli daughter of a physician in Thiruvellakulam who played a vital role in transforming Neelan into Azhwar. Her appearance also was a divine plan to correct Neelan in the right path …

Kumudhavalli a damsel (apsaras) who was named Thirumaamagal/Sumangalai along with her friends descended on Himalayan forests mocked at a siddhar who was being imparted knowledge by Kapila maharishi. The infuriated rishi cursed her to descend to earth and get married to a human being .

When she repented for her mistake and asked for a means to go back to the heavenly planet, the sage advised her to transform Neelan(an amsam of Saarangam) and make him a great devotee and get married to him.

After accomplishing her mission, he blessed her that she would be able to get back to her heavenly abode. Thus , she appeared as a small girl on the banks of Swetha Pushkarini(Thiru vella kulam) in front of Srinivasar Kovil in Thirunangoor.

A physician who happened to pass by was attracted to the small kid. He learnt from her about the cause of her appearance and adopted her as his daughter. As he was childless for a long time, he considered to be Lord Srinivasar’s blessings .As she was seen holding Kumudha flower, he named her as Kumudavalli.

Once Neelan , the ruler of the province around Thirunangoor happened to come to Thiruvellakulam. He was mesmerized by Kumudavalli’s beauty and expressed his ardent desire to marry her. He approached her parents and expressed hos desire .

The Parents were overjoyed as the King was at their doorstep . However , Kumudavalli expressed her desire “to marry only to a person who sported Thiruman kaapu ( Tilak ) on his forehead and got pancha samskaaram ( initiation ) done”.

Immediately Neelan set out in search of an Acharya to get initiated (pancha samskaaram in srivaishnava sampradaya) done.

No one dared to initiate him considering his qualities.

The ever compassionate Lord Srinivasar of Thirunaraiyur appeared before him as a Priest and did panchasamskaaram to Neelan. Later, Thirukannapuram Lord Sowriraja Perumal imparted the intricate meanings of Ashtakshari to him. Hence, these two Lordships are considered as “Acharyar” for Azhwar.

Having fulfilled her condition, Neelan approached Kumudavalli . She replied

Oh Prince ! Am glad with your desire in entering a relationship with me .But please understand as your better half I have another condition . I wish you undertake to carry out the bhaagavatha dhadhiaaradanam to 1000 people for one year which gives me immense satisfaction.

Neelan accepts the condition with a smile as she would be his queen soon .

Now , the couple did dhadhiyaaradhanam for one year and continued with the kainkaryam later. The place where he did dhadhiyaaradhanai kainkaryam is known as “Mangai maadam”.

It was a grand feast every day . A vast area was covered with pandals .for devotees thronging daily . It became a sacred shrine with hundred of devotees gathering daily with vaishnava tilaks and glorifying Lordships with songs . Few were discussing the greatness of Neelan and kumudha .Filled with bhagavathas , the place became more vibrant with devotion.

Neelan loved the new role. He never questioned the spending even the coffers of Thirumangai was coming to a stock out position . The Ministers whispered about the coffers getting emptied , but he continued the services selling his jewellary and other precious things .

The news reached the chozha king. He summoned Neelan to return the entire money or face repercussion. As Neelan didn’t oblige, the king had to send an army . Neelan defeated the army with ease . Shocked , the king came in person to wage a war.

Knowing Neelan’s might, the king with the help of his minister, conspired a plan to trick Neelan and arrested him.

Neelan was locked up in a temple for 3 days without food and water.(very similar to bhakta Ramadasar). The ever compassionate Lord Varadarajar of Kanchipuram appeared in Neelan’s dream informing that he could use the wealth lying on the banks of Vegavati river in Kanchipuram to clear the king’s dues.

The next day , Neelan informed the king that he would return the entire money given a chance . The King sent Neelan along with his soldiers to the banks of Vegavati river.

The search could not find any wealth . The Soldiers were instructed to harm Neelan If the search was untrue.

Lord appeared in Neelan’s dream again and informed him the exact location of the wealth. Neelan , overjoyed once again marched to the river and thus found the wealth. He cleared the king’s dues and kept the balance with him for continuing the bhagavatha kainkaryam which he got infected to.

The greedy king along with few others who realized that Neelan had wealth , claimed that their dues were not fully settled and asked for more wealth.

Neelan prayed to Lordships to help him out . The Compassionate Lord asked him to measure the sand on the banks of Vegavati river using “marakkal”( a measure) and settle the dues.

Obediently , Neelan accordingly collected the sand and handed over the same in gunny bags. This infuriated the king that Neelan was giving them sand instead of wealth.

But as the soldier who was trying to put the same in treasury , it turned into gold dust. The king realized that Neelan was not an ordinary person. He begged forgivance and after rewarding him sumptuously , released him forever,

It was a home coming . Neelan resigned from the king’s service and dedicated his full time for bhaagavatha kainkaryam. To continue the kainkaryam, Neelan resorted to looting wealth from the rich peasants who were egoistic selfish and greedy .

He did that by waylaying with the help of his four friends -Neermel nadappan(one who could walk across water), nizhalil odhunguvaan(one who was an expert in following a person’s shadow), thaaaludhuvaan (one who could open any lock without key), tholavazhakkan(one who could not be defeated in any argument).

As the looting expedition was also getting a bad name to Neelan who was doing a great kainkaryam ( service ) Lordships of Thiruvaali divyadesam along with Thaayar had to intervene.

The Lordships appeared as a newly wed couple fully bedecked with costly jewels and set out on a closed palanquin to Thiruvaali .

Neelan’s friends who came to know of this, informed Neelan that if the bridal party is looted, they would have enough wealth to support lifelong bhagavatha kainkaryam. Neelan was very pleased . He immediately galloped on his horse(Aadalmaa) followed by his thief-friends and reached the place which is presently known as “Thirumanan kollai”.

On reaching the place, Neelan threatened the couple to part with their entire jewellery. Accordingly , the couple surrendered all their jewellery except the toe ring on the bride as it could not be removed.

Though Neelan had the entire loot , Lord veiled a maya on him which made him to lure for the toe ring too which was very attractive. Neelan himself bent down to remove the ring but as his efforts were futile, he tried to remove the ring with the help of his teeth by his mouth.

Unknowingly, he surrendered to Thayar’s lotus feet for the material wealth .But , by coming into contact with Goddess (Thayar’s) lotus feet, wisdom dawned on him. He was mesmerized and choked with no words . He attempted to move quickly and thus bundled the entire loot in a big cloth. Looking at the divine couple , he tried to lift the baggage but for its weight .

Shocked that the small booty could not be lifted , Neelan thought that the bridegroom must have cast a spell on the bundle . He wanted to frighten the bridegroom now . He threatened them with a dagger to reveal the secret which made that booty so heavy that he couldnt lift it .

The mischievous bridegroom smiled and agreed to share the secret with him . He advised him to purify himself in the nearby stream and wait under the banyan tree (arasa maram).

Neelan did as advised and the bride groom uttered the sacred Ashtakshari mantram on Neelan’s right ear.

Wisdom dawned on Neelan and there was an instant flash …. he repented for all his deeds. He understood his real purpose of his birth . The divine couple appeared as Lord Lakshmi-Narayanan on Garuda vahanam and blessed their child .

Lord addressed him as Thirumangai mannan as he had the blessing of Thiru (Thayar first).

Now the jeevatma “Thirumangai mannan” in ecstasy repenting for all his misdeeds outpours torrential verses instantaneously in presence of Divyadampathigal starting with the most beautiful verse ….

“vaadinen vaadi varundhinene manathaal……”

concluding each phrase glorifying “Narayana” naamam…..

The name N A R A Y A Y A N A itself can give stature and wealth. The name destroys miseries .This Holy name gives a seat in heaven a seat in Paramapadam .It will give you strength It will give you everything .This lovely name will give more that what a loving mother can give …And thus Azhwar reveals saying ..

.I have found such a good word in HIS holy name….

This wonderful incident is recapitulated every year in the holy place and is celebrated grandly as “Thiru vedupari utsavam” on the night preceding Panguni Uthiram in the month of March-April . As part of 10 day brahmotsava celebrations at Thiruvaali, on the sixth day, Lord (Perumal ) arrives to wed Goddess ( Thayar ) and set out on a “moodu pallaku”. The divine wedding (thirukalyanam) takes place in the afternoon and saatrumarai goshti gets over by 9 p.m .

Later the divine couple set out on a palanquin slowly and head toward Thirumangai maadam and rest in a mandapam. Azhwar sets out from Thirunagari temple at midnight and swiftly reaches the mantapam and goes round the couple thrice.

A screen is drawn and it is presumed that all the ornaments are removed. Lord gets ready to give darshan on Garuda vahanam along with Thayar. Meanwhile Thirumangai mannan is taken to a nearby mandapam where thousands of devotees throng to have the beautiful sight of Azhwar riding on the horse for about an hour.

Later Azhwar is taken towards Perumal who imparts the Eight syllable mantra “Ashtakshari. The bhog is offered to the Lordship. Azhwar circumblates around Lordships with benevolence.

Lord blesses Thirumangai Azhwar with prasadam, maalai, parivattam. The assembled goshti start reciting “Vaadinen vaadi….” slowly and after completing of the first 10 pasurams, mangalaaarthi is given to both Perumal and Azhwar.

This incident happens around early hours 2-3 a.m. The entire group return to Thiruvaali temple and on the way , the entire Peria Thirumozhi ( the compositions of Thirumangai Azhwar ) is recited by the goshti.

One devotee relished his experience that when the azhwar sets out from the temple to loot the Lord, his valour ,pride ,strength ,determination can be seen on Azhwar’s thirumugam and when he returns after having Perumal’s darsanam, Azhwar’s speed is reduced as he becomes submissive having shed away his pride and takes about 4 hours to reach the temple as the procession moves slowly.

Coming back to the divine incident , Neelan who becomes transformed to Thirumangai Azhwar decides to visit all the holy shrines and glorify the Lordships .

Lord captivated his attention by giving HIM beautiful darshan in all the temples. In his divine pasurams, he vividly describes the Lord, location of the holy place , surroundings and the opulence .

Azhwar , personally visits the divya desams beginning with the Northern side temples starting at Thirupiridhi ( JoshirMutt ) and submits his glorifications to the Lord . Every verse he puts before LORD moves the person with tears reciting them .

The struggle of a jiva in this material world seeking true knowledge with stiff opposition of maya draws comparision with all of us .

Thirumangai Azhwar composed six prabhandhams which are treasures .He stands second to Swamy Nammazhwar in the contributions to Divya Prabhandam.

Thirumangai Azhwar’s six prabhandhams are the six angams for Maaran’s four works (Nammazhwar’s four prabhandhams-

Thiruvaimozhi,

Thiruvirutham,

Thiruvaasiriyam ,

Peria Thiruvandhadhi)

Azhwar’s compositions are:

• Peria Thirumozhi comprising of 1084 pasurams
• Thirukurunthandakam comprising of 20 pasurams
• Thirunedunthandakam comprising of 30 pasurams
• Thiruvezhukootruirukai comprising of 1 pasuram
• Siriya Thirumadal consisting of 155 lines considered as 1 pasuram
• Peria Thirumadal consisting of 297 lines considered as 1 pasuram

Details of 86 temples glorified by Azhwar starting from Srirangam with PRABHANDHAM reference are given below:

Out of these, 70 temples are in Tamilnadu,

2 in Andhra,

4 in Kerala,

1 in Gujarat,

4 in Uttar Pradesh,

2 in Uttaranchal,

1 in Nepal and 2 out of reach.

(PT-Peria thirumozhi; TKD-thirukurundhandakam; TND-tirunedundandakam

STM-siria thirumadal; PTM-peria thirumadal; TVKT-thiruvezhukootruirukai)

1. CHOLA NADU DIVYA DESAMS (Trichy,Kumbakonam,Thanjavur,Mayavaram ,Sirkazhi)

• Srirangam                             – 73   (PT, TKD, TND, STM, PTM)
• Thirukozhi(Uraiyur) -Uraiyur near Trichy –  01   (PT)
• Thirukarambanur(Uttamar kovil) – 01    (PT)
• Thiruvellarai                                                   -13     (PT,STM, PTM)
• Thirupernagar                                -19     (PT,TKD,TND, STM,PTM)
• Thirukandiyur                                                 – 01    (TKD)
• Thirukoodalur                              -10     (PT)
• Thirupullamboothangudi                              -10     (PT)
• Thiruaadhanoor                                  -01     (PTM)
• Thirukudandhai                                 -25   (PT,TKD,TND,STM, PTM, TVKT)-only Perumal who was referred to in all the 6 prabhandams
• Thiruvinnagar                                 -34     (PT,TND,STM,PTM)
• Thirunaraiyur                               -110   (PT, TND,STM, PTM)
• Thirucherai                                 -13     (PT,STM, PTM)
• Thirukannamangai                                -14      (PT,STM,PTM)
• Thirukannapuram                           -104    (PT, TND, STM,PTM)
• Thirukannangudi                             -10      (PT)
• Tirunaagai                           – 10 (PT)
• Thiruthanjhaimaamanikovil    –  03 (PT)
• Thirunandipuravinnagaram                        –  10 (PT)
• Thiruvelliangudi                          – 10 (PT)
• Thiruvazhundur                          -45 (PT, TND,STM,PTM)
• Thirusirupuliyur                        – 10 (PT)
• Thiruthalaisanganaanmadiyam  – 02 (PT)
• Thiruindhalur                         -11 (PT,PTM)
• Thirukaavalampaadi                     – 10 (PT)
• Thirukaazhiseerama vinagaram  – 10(PT)
• Thiruarimeya vinnagaram                     – 10 (PT)
• Thiruvanpurudothamam                   – 10 (PT)
• Thirusemponseikovil                      -10 (PT)
• Thirumanimadakovil                         -12 (PT,PTM)
• Thiruvaikuntavinnagaram                      – 10 (PT)
• Thiruvaali Tirunagari                        –  41 (PT, TND,STM,PTM)
• Thirudevanaar thogai                     -10 (PT)
• Thiruthetriambalam                    -10 (PT)
• Thirumanikoodam                   -10 (PT)
• Thiruvellakulam                      -10 (PT)
• Thirupaarthanpalli                      – 10 (PT)
• Thiruchitrakoodam                      – 21(PT,PTM)

NADU NADU DIVYA DESAMS(near Cuddalore,Vizhupuram)

• Thiruvahindrapuram                         – 10(PT)
• Thirukovalur                       –  18 (PT, TND, STM,PTM)

THONDAI NADU DIVYA DESAMS(in and around Kanchi, Arakonam,Chennai)

• Thirukachi athigiri                     – 04 (PT,TKD, TND)
• Thiruashtabuyakaram                         – 11(PT, PTM)
• Thiruthankaa                          -02 (PT,TND)
• Thiruvellukai                           – 01 (PTM)
• Thiruneeragam                         – 01 (TND)
• Thirupaadagam                          -02  (PT, PTM)
• Thirunilathingalthundam                    – 01 (TND)
• Thiruooragam                    –  04 (TND, STM, PTM)
• Thiruvekka                     –  06 (PT,TND,STM,PTM)
• Thirukaaragam                                             –  01 (TND)
• Thirukaarvaanam                     – 01 (TND)
• Thirukalvanoor                      – 01 (TND)
• Thirupavazhavannam                   – 01 (TND)
• Thiruparameswara vinnagaram                    -10 (PT)
• Thiruputkuzhi                      – 02 (PT, PTM)
• Thirunindravoor                     -02 (PT)
• Thiruevvul                                   – 11 (PT, PTM)
• Thiruallikeni                    -10 (PT)
• Thiruneermalai                    -19 (PT, TND,STM,PTM)
• Thiruidavendhai                        -13 (PT,STM,PTM)
• Thirukadalmallai                      -26 (PT,TKD,STM,PTM)
• Thirukadigai                     -03 (PT,STM)

VADA NADU DIVYA DESAMS(Andhra,Gujarat,Uttar Pradesh,Uttaranchal,Nepal)

• Thiruayodhi               – 01(PT)
• Thirunaimisaranyam                -10 (PT)
• Thirupiridhi                  -10 (PT)
• Thiruvadhariasramam                     -21 (PT, STM)
• Thirusalagraamam                    -10 (PT)
• Thiruvadamadurai                   -04 (PT, STM)
• Thiruvaayarpaadi                                        -07 (PT, STM)
• Thirudwaarakai                     -02 (PT)
• Thirusingavelkundram                   -10 (PT)
• Thiruvenkatam                    -61 (PT, TKD,TND,STM,PTM)

MALAI NADU DIVYA DESAMS(Kerala)

• Thirunaavai                                                        – 02(PT)
• Thirumoozhikalam                      – 03(PT,TND,PTM)
• Thiruvallavaazh                                             -11 (PT,PTM)
• Thirupuliyur                -01 (STM)

PANDYA NADU DIVYA DESAMS(near Madurai,Tirunelveli,Sivakasi,Ramnad,Trichy)

• Thirukurungudi                    -25 (PT,TND, PTM)
• Thiruthankaal            -04 (PT,TND, STM, PTM)
• Thirukoodal            – 01 (PT)
• Thirumaliruncholai             – 33(PT, TKD,STM,PTM)
• Thirumoghur                -01 (STM)
• Thirugoshtiyur               – 13 (PT,PTM)
• Thirupullani        – 21 (PT, PTM)
• Thirumeyyam            – 09 (PT, TKD,PTM)

DIVYA DESAMS NOT IN THIS WORLD

• Thirupaarkadal         – 11 (PT, TND)
• Thiruparamapadam                     – 01 (TKD)

As per the great compositions of “Peria Thirumozhi” Azhwar started from north, has sung ranging from minimum 10 pasurams to 100 pasurams .  Azhwar’s pasurams details the geographical locations . Peria Thirumozhi is divided into 10 hundreds and in each of the 10 pasurams, Ahwar glorifies only that particular divya desa Perumal.  ONly in the 10th hundred pasurams, azhwar has sung pasurams on multiple divyadesams.  IN Peria Thirumozhi, azhwar eloborates about 50 divya desams and the remaining 36 divya desams(out of 86 glorified by him) have been referred to in other prabhandhams.

While one recites them, the ambience feeling and the quench to have darshan of the Divya dampathees draws us closer and gives the soul to rejoice in bliss knowing its identity in seeking our loving Lord….

Divya desams as per Peria Thirumozhi are given below:-

VADA NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thirupiridhi (10) – Joshirmutt in Uttaranchal
• Thiruvadhiri (20) — Badrikasramam in Uttaranchal
• Thirusaalagramam (10) — Muktinath in Nepal
• Naimisaaranyam (10) — near Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh
• Singavelkundram (10) — Ahobilam in Andhra Pradesh
• Thiruvengadam (61) — Tirumala Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh

THONDAI NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thiruevvul (11) — Thiruvallur near Arakonam in Tamil nadu
• Thiruvellikeni (10) — Triplicane in Chennai
• Thiruneermalai (19) –Pallavaram in Chennai
• Thirukadalmallai (26) –Mahabalipuram near Chennai
• Thiruvidandhai (13) — near Mahabalipuram
• Thiruvattabuyakaran (11) — Ashtabhuja perumal in Kanchipuram
• Thiruparameswara vinnagaram (10) — In Kanchipuram

NADU NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thirukovalur (18) – in Vizhupuram-Thiruvannamalai route
• Thiruvahindrapuram (10) – near Cuddalore

CHOLA NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thillai Chitrakoodam (11) – Chidambaram Natarajar temple
• Thirukaazhi seeraama vinnagaram (10) -1 km from Sirkazhi station

THIRUNANGOOR DIVYA DESAMS TOTAL 11(About 1 hour drive from Sirkazhi)

• Thiruvaali Thirunagari (41) – 8 kms south east of Sirkazhi
• Thirumanimadakovil (12) – Thirunangoor- 8 kms from Sirkazhi
• Thiruvaikunta Vinnagaram (10) – Thirunangoor
• Thiruarimeya vinnagaram (10) – Thirunangoor
• Thirudevanaar thogai (10) – 4 kms from Thirunangoor
• Thiruvanpurudothamam (10) -8 kms from Sirkazh
• Thirusemponseikovil (10) -Thirunangoor
• Thiruthetriambalam (10) -Thirunangoor
• Thirumanikoodam (10) -1 km from Thirunangoor
• Thirukaavalampadi (10) -10 kms south of Sirkazhi
• Thiruvellakulam (10) -10 kms from Sirkazhi enroute to Nagapatinam
• Thirupaarthaanpalli (10) -3 kms from Sirkazhi Venkadu
• Thiruindhaloor (11) -in Mayavaram
• Thiruvelliangudi (10) -Kumbakonam -near Aduthurai
• Thirupullamboothangudi (10) -Kumbakonam-near Swamimalai
• Thirukoodalur (10) -Kumbakonam –tanjavur route near thiruvaiyaaru
• Thiruvellarai (13) -20 kms from Trichy near Thuraiyur
• Thiruvarangam (73) -Srirangam -12 kms from Trichy
• Thirunandhipuravinnagaram ( 10) – Nathan kovil-4 kms south of Kumbakonam
• Thiruvinnagar (34) -Oppiliappan kovil -7 kms from Kumbakonam
• Thirunaraiyur (110) – 9 kms from Kumbakonam enroute to Thiruvaarur
• Thirucherai (13) – 24 kms in Kumbakonam-Thiruvaarur route
• Therazhundhur (45) -21 kms from mayavaram enroute to Komal
• Sirupuliyur (10) -3 kms from Kollumangudi station-

in Mayavaram-thirvarur route

• Thirukannamangai (14) – 7 kms from Thiruvaarur
• Thirukannapuram (104) – 2 kms from Thirupugalur on Nagapatinam-

Nannilam route

• Thirukannangudi (10) – 1 km from Aazhiyur on Nagapatinam route
• Thirunaagai (10) – Nagapatinam

PANDYA NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thirupullani (21) -near Ramnathapuram
• Thirukurungudi (25) -12 kms from Nanguneri near Tirunelveli
• Tirumaliruncholai (33) -20 kms from Madurai
• Thirugoshtiyur (13) – near Karaikudi

MALAI NADU DIVYA DESAMS

• Thiruvallavaazh (11) -Tiruvalla on Ernakulam-Kollam route

In most of the pasurams , Azhwar repents starting with “vaadinen vaadi….” and claims that he has got everything now with the great Narayana thirunaamam.

He confesses to Lord Srinivasar at Tirumala for all his misdeeds and praises his mind for having resorted to the Lord’s holy feet.He says that he was under the illusion that his parents,wife etc are everything -did many mistakes when he was in  youth,later he strived hard for serving his family and now with repentance approached the Lord like a dog and prays to Lord to accept him.  (Azhwar who is an amsam of Lord couldn’t have been so but just to uplift us, he demeans himself)

In pasurams dedicated to Lord Narasimhar of Ahobilam, the place is only accessible to devas.

IN the pasurams dedicated to Naimisaranyam, he surrenders to the Lord Devarajan for upliftment. He addresses the Lord as “mother-Naimisaaranyathul enthaai…” .

He addresses all the five forms of the Lord at Thiruvellikeni-Parthasarathy, Thelliya singam, Gajendra Varadar,Ramar,Ranganathar.

During his course of enlightened journey the Divya dampathees ( Lordships in the temples ) were eager to meet their child which can be authenticated by citing a divine incident. During his journey Azhwar by oversight skipped Thirunindravoor near chennai and after doing mangalasaasanam at Thiru-evvul, he directly proceeds to Thiruvellikeni and in due course reached Mahabalipuram.

Goddess Sudhavalli Thayar-the divine consort of Lord Bhaktavatsalan persuades Lord to invite Azhwar as he had missed them by oversight. . Lord appeared at his next destination Thirukadalmallai and while glorifying the Lordships at Thirukadalmallai, Lord Bhaktavatsalan gave a vision to azhwar which made him take HIS name.

In the course of his travel, Azhwar glorified (mangalasaasanam) at 86 divya desams and finally reached Srirangam and undertook various construction and renovation activities.

However, Lord commanded to continue his services as HE wanted to relish the nectarine outpourings of Azhwar. (Very similar to Annamacharyar’s life)

Later he composed Thirukurunthandakam comprising of 20 pasurams where he begs Lord (Perumal) expressing his craving to have HIS darshan (as Perumal wanted him to reach the highest transcendental bliss)

Thirunedunthandakam comprising of 30 pasurams(in the first set of 10 pasurams, Azhwar sings with his own identity , in the 2^nd set of 10 pasurams, azhwar assumes the role of a mother expressing her daughter’s plight and in the last set of 10 pasurams , donning the role of a girl expresses her desire to attain Perumal to her friend ) .

Our most revered Acharyar Swamy Parasara bhattar used to always contemplate on this prabhandham and thus invited Nanjeeyar into Srivaishnavism by a debate based on this lovely prabhandham. During Adhyayana utsavam , this is recited on the first day and the goshti is honoured with medicated oil to be smeared on the vaishnavas neck who would recite as a honrarium.

Thiruezhukootruirukkai comprising of one pasuram glorifies Lord Aaravamudhan of Thirukudandhai.

In Siriya Thirumadal Azhwar assumes the role of a lovelorn lady who suffers pangs of separation from her lover-. She holds his picture in her hand, longing for her lover’s association. She contemplates on how to defame the various archa murthis but faith prevails upon her which makes her restrain from doing so. She waits patiently and with confidence that her Lord would come to take her. The emotional outpourings takes us to transcendental heights.He composed both the madals at Thirunaraiyur as the Lord of Thirunariayur is considered as the acharyar for him.

In Peria thirumadal, Azhwar becomes restless for poor response from the Lordships. He starts lamenting how the Lord who had taken various forms and resides in various divyadesams didn’t concede her request even after repeated pleading . Realising that the Lord cannot be confronted in commanding , he decides by just surrendering to HIM he would be pleased and respond.

Thirumangai Azhwar personally visited all the above holy shrines on his courageous horse “aadalma”.

He has done mangalasaasanam (glorified) to 86 divyadesams and has the special honor of glorifying the Lord exclusively in 47 divya desams. The 47 divyadesams which was glorified by Thirumangai Azhwar alone are as follows ….

Thirukozhi, Thirukarambanur, Thirukandiyur, Thirukoodalur, Thirupullamboothangudi, Thiruaadhanoor, Thirucherai, Thirukannamangai, Thirukannangudi, Thirunaagai, Tirunandipuravinnagaram,Thiruvelliangudi, Thiruvazhundur, Tirusirupuliyur, Thiruthalaisanganaanmadhiyam, Tiruindalur, Tirukavalampadi, Thirukazhiseerama vinnagaram, Thiruarimeya vinnagaram, Thiruvanpurudothamam, Thirusemponseikovil, Thirumanimadakovil, Thiruvaikuntavinnagaram, Tirudevanarthogai, Thiruthetriambalam, Thirumanikoodam, Thiruvellakulam, Thirupaarthanpalli, Thiruvahindrapuram, Thirukovalur, Thiruthankaa, Thiruvellukai, Thiruneeragam, Thirunilathingal thundam, Thirukaaragam, Thirukaarvaanam, Thirukalvanoor, Thirupavazhavannam, Thiruparameswara vinnagaram, Thiruputkuzhi, Thirunindravoor, Thiruvidavendhai, Thirunaimisaranyam, Thirupiridhi, Thirusingavelkundram, Thiruthankaal, Thirupullani,Thirumeyyam.

He was more inclined to have darshan of Archa Moorthy at the holy shrines on the earth rather than the Lord in Paramapadam. Azhwar’s pasurams serve as a guide for visiting various divya desams.

Azhwar continued with his divine services in various divya desams especially at Srirangam.

His ardent desire to construct vimanam, mandapam, big walls around Srirangam, gopuram, kitchen etc. for Srirangam temple needed financial support .

Azhwar priorities was service to Perumal and HIS children for which he went to any extent of getting wealth by looting, robbery etc. Coming to know about the golden Buddha vigraham at Nagapatinam from a passerby , he decided to try his skills to possess it . He was informed that the vigraham was being protected by a revolving wheel.

He managed to pick the golden Buddha idol from Nagapatinam to construct the compound walls of Srirangam temple . On follow ups from them, he issued a promissory note to the Buddhists saying he would return even the little finger unscathed and after one year, he just gave them the little finger and won them by argument.

After the completion of the projects , he did not have sufficient money to pay them . Still he assured all of them that they would be paid for their divine deed . The laborers who were travelling by a boat got drowned due to some imbalance in the middle of the river.

Unknowingly , the kith and kin of the laborers approached the Azhwar. Azhwar cooly replied everything that has happened was with Lord’s will .To reveal their state he advised them to come the next day.

Lord Ranganathar with abundant mercy appeared in Azhwar’s dream and advised him to ask the relatives of the deceased to enter into Srirangam temple after taking a dip in Kaveri. On reaching the temple, Lord Ranganathar made them have a vision of not only their deceased ones but also their great ancestors.

The muktas applauded Azhwar’s contributions and felt fortunate to be associated with him. They advised their kith and kin that they would attain the highest position by serving Azhwar who was performing devotional service which would assure them salvation.

Extremely pleased with Azhwar’s services one day Lord Ranganathar called Azhwar and asked him to choose a boon.

Azhwar expressed his deep desire to have darshan of the dasa avataarams of Lord. Lord Ranganathar fulfilled his desire immediately .

Thanking Lord , Azhwar requested Lordships to honour Swamy Nammazhwar’s Thiruvaimozhi for 10 days starting from Vaikunta Ekadasi which was immediately accepted . The grand “Thiruvadhyayana utsavam” at Srirangam was started by Thirumangai Azhwar.  Azhwar arranged to get Nammazhwar’s idol from Azhwar Thirunagari and in the presence of Namperumal in the newly constructed mandapam, Azhwar arranged for recitation of Nammazhwar’s Thiruvaimozhi for 10 days.  Initially, Adhyayana utsavam was celebrated for 10 days during azhwar’s time.  Later Nathamunigal arranged for 21 day festival by including recitation of the entire divyaprabhandam by dividing it as “Pagal pathu” and “Raa pathu ” utsavams.

As per Lord’s instructions, Thirumangai Azhwar constructed a mandapam for Namperumal to listen to Nammazhwar’s nectarian Thiruvaimozhi.

Lord also blessed Azhwar that whoever reads the six prabhandams composed by Tirumangai Azhwar considered as the six angams for Swamy Nammazhwar’s works will be blessed with salvation.

As a mark of confirmation ,Lord commands Azhwar to throw his Vel ( spear) assuring that the entire place where the spear falls, if a person’s last rites are performed , he would be liberated .

This special place is on the northern banks of Kaveri. ( “Paadiya vaalan Padithurai” where last rites are performed for the departed even today).

As days passed one day Azhwar requested Lord to liberate him from this samsara . Lord out of abundant compassion advised Azhwar to go to Thirukurungudi a holy divya desam which is known as “Siriya Veedu”to serve MalaiNambee perumal .

Azhwar overjoyed leaves Srirangam. Like a newly wedded girl who before leaving for her inlaws place bids goodbye to her relatives, Azhwar recollects Lordships at various divya desams .

Thirumangai Azhwar reaches Thirukurungudi and continues his services at this temple On a Vaikunta Ekadasi day with Lord’s mercy he attained salvation . Even today we can have darshan of this holy place which is about 3 kms from Thirukurungudi temple

Azhwar doesn’t have a spear and is seen with folded hands along with Kumudavalli Naachiyar.

After few years , Swamy Manavala maamunigal visited Thirunagari to have darsanam of Azhwar. He was in ecstasy and composed “Vadivazhagu Choornikai “-a beautiful poem vividly describing the beauty of Azhwar.

This deity of Azhwar was installed by Tirumangai Azhwar’s brother in law as per Lord Ranganathar’s instructions in Thirunagari temple at Tirunangoor – a small village near Sirkazhi and is being worshipped since time immemorial.

Freely translated, Swamy describes Azhwar’s beauty as the one who is holding spear(vel), with folded hands, wearing thiruman, lips slightly opened in such a way as if he is uttering “Omkaram”, having a sharp nose, cool face, broad eyes, curly hair, ears slightly bent as if to listen to Ashtakshari ( Eight word syllable )being imparted by Lordships , long ear rings, body bent at 3 places (thribangam) near neck, hip and feet , standing benevolently to obtain Lord’s grace.

He glorifies further about Thirumannankollai-the place where Perumal ( Lord) imparted ashtakshari –how he threatened Lakshmi’s husband with a knife forcing him to reveal the spell and how Lord gave the precious mantra extolled by the vedas to him and having received the mantra how realisation dawned on him and he got transformed into a devotee and humbly stood in front of the Lord with folded hands .

Swamy concludes that his eyes are blessed to see the broad chest holding the spear, one who utters the eight lettered mantra , the beautiful face and the holy feet.

VAAZHI PARAKAALAN

VAAZHI KALIKANDRI

VAAZHI KURAIYALUR

VAAZH VENDHAN

VAAZHIYARO MAAYONAI

VAAL VALIYAAL MANDHIRANKOL MANGAIYARKONE THOOYONE CHUDARMAANA VEL.

All glories Thirumangai Azhwar

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pics Courtesy : Google images uploaded by several devotees

GARUDAALWAR … the eternal chariot of Lord Sriman Narayana

Garudalwar has been   affectionately  glorified as Peria Thiruvadi , Pakshiraja,  Vainateya, Suparna, Garuthman, Vinatasuta,  Vishnuvahana, Nagantaka and Kashyapeya by  devotees Garudalwar  is  always engaged in eternal service to Lord  Sriman Narayana .

As a result, of his SharaNagati to Lord Sriman Narayana (Narayana Sayujyam).  Garudalwar enjoys the benefit of  Sameepyam (constantly being beside the Lord), SarUpyam (Shuddha Satvam) and SalOkyam (residence in Vishnu Lokam).

Garudalwar  serves as the eternal chariot of Lord  Vishnu. Consequently, Garuda received the name Periya Tiruvadi as against the divine  role played by Hanumanjee as the Vahana for Lord Rama. Hence, Hanumanjee  received the title Siriya Tiruvadi.

Those who have  had the mercy  of the darsanam of the 11 Garuda seva at  ThirunAngUr dhivya desams  at ThirunAngUr are truly blessed . Their  fortune  is comparable to those who had  witnessed the  Garuda Sevai at Kanchi ( VaikAsi and Aadi ThiruvONam ), SrIrangam ( Thai , Maasi, Panguni and Chitthirai) , NaacchiyAr Koil , AzhwAr Thirunagari  and the famous  Nava Garuda seva ( “Nine Garuda  Sevais”) at  Thirukurungoor  with  Swamy NammAzhwAr vaibhavam enacted .

Garudaalwar  is  worshipped as Veda Moorthy . His  appearance star   is SvAthi , which is the same as for Lord Narasimhar. Garudalwar  incarnated as PeriyAzhwAr at SrI VilliputthUr and became the Father-in-Law of Lord RanganAthan and had the privilege of having his daughter and  son-in-law live at his home in SrI VilliputthUr, which is known today as NaacchiyAr ThirumALigai.

At TheruzhunDUr dhivya desam , Garudalwar  stands next to Aaamuruviyappan (GhOsakhan) awaiting His Lord’s  command .  At AhObilam, Garudalwar  performed penance for the darsanam of Lord Narasimhan as He appeared  before PrahlAdhan and the Lord responded to his tapas by giving darsanam to Garudalwart as “JwAlA Narasimhar”.  Hence one of the names for AhObilam is GarudAdhri.

At Vadanadu Divya desam ,  Badarikashramam  , Garudalwar  is blessing  the devotees  with his darsanam in the  assembly of  of Nara-NaarAyana.

At ThiruveLLiyangudi dhivya dEsam , Garudalwar  graces   in PerumAL Sannidhi with Sankham and Chakram as  a Nithya Soori.  At ThiruvallikkENi Garudalwar  gives the darsanam with  Lord  GajEndra Varadhan , in a separate Sannidhi.

 Nachiyar Koil is  a srivaishnava Divya desam is located in Tirunaraiyur en-route to Tanjavur from Kumbakonam. Since importance is given to Nachiyaar in this temple, it is called Nachiyaar Koyil.

The moola virat  Lord  Tirunaraiyur Nambi  worshipped  as Vasudevar graces us  in the Kalyana kolam with Vanchulavalli Thayar in the sanctum sanctorium . The Theertham is Manimuktha pushkarini and the Vimanam Srinivasa Hema Vimanam. Legend has it that Lakshmi appeared  as Vanchulavalli  and MahaVishnu  manifested himself in the Pancha Vyuha forms and married Vanchulavalli.

In the sanctum one finds the sculptures of the deities Sankarshana in the east, Pradyumna in the south, Anirudha in the west, Purushottaman in the north and Vasudeva in the center. There is no separate shrine for Thayar. There are shrines for Yoga Narasimhar, Ramar, Hanuman and Chakrapani.

Kal garudan  is of special significance at this temple.  The Garudalwar   gives darshan  with nine serpents and is believed to have the powers to remove the Navagraha dhosham. 

It is  understood from elders that a sculptor  was  making this  deity  of Garuda  with utmost devotion . On completion,  he suddenly found the  deity   flying after he had made  Garuda’s  wings.  

Excited and simultaneously  confused   at this sudden action, the sculptor prayed Garudalwar  for his mercy .

 Garudalwar   pleased with his dedication and  prayers  decided to settle here at this place and bless the devotees. ( Kal  in tamil means stone ).

 A huge and well built Garudalwar  gives darshan to all the devotees coming to this Srivaishnava Divya desam . During the Tamil month of Aadi,  the temple Lordships  Thiru Naraiyur Nambi makes a visit to  this Garuda’alwars Sannidhi.

A magical event happens during Garuda Sevai .  Garudalwar  increases  his  weight manifold .  Science has not been able to explain the mystery underlying the fact that when the Salagrama deity  of Garudalwan  is taken out for procession, he is  so light that he is carried  by just 4 persons.  

As the  palanquin bearers (Srimaan taangigaL) , cross the outer enclosures one by one,  Garudalwar  becomes progressively heavier and  needs 8, 16 and 32 men to carry the palanquin  after each enclosure. Finally, when the Lord is taken outside the temple, Garudalwar  increases in weight so much that 128  devotees assemble  to carry the Lordships .

Similarly, after the  outing  procession (PurappaaDu), when Garudalwan  enters the sanctum, he keeps loosing  weight so that it need progressively lesser number of men to hold it  from 32 to 16 to 8 and finally just 4 and in that order. 

Another unique feature of this grand festival  is that one can see  Garudalwar  sweating profusely as he makes his way out for the procession.

Thirumangai Azhwar, Periya Azhwar, Poigai Azhwar etc have done their Mangalasasanams to Garudalwar.

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan..

 Photos credits : google images

video credits  : ramyagiri , mighty garuda and advanced devotees

Lord Venkateshwara and Thondaman Chakravarthy .. Lord Vardarajar and Tirukachi Nambigal…. Lord Ranganathar and “Thiruvilakku pichan” and their conversation

To reaffirm the faith of HIS devotees,  LORD conversed with  HIS devotees  time to time .

There are three incidents which our Elders keep saying about the compassion of OUR Supreme LORD in temples .Srirangam Sri Ranganathaswamy Kovil and Tirumala

At  Tirumala – Tirupathi, Lord Venkateshwara  used to converse with the King Thondaman Chakravarthy .  In Kancheepuram, Lord Vardarajar used to converse with his  dear devotee  Swamy Tirukachi Nambigal who used to fan him daily .

Similarly at Srirangam  Lord Ranganathar used to converse with  “Tiruvilakku pichan”the temple servant who used to light the lamps in the temple .

It is a general practice all the devotees surrender to LORD and express their gratitude pain and love for the LORD in this material world.

  Few devotees develop extremely intimate relationship with the Lord conversing   freely  and interact almost daily  treating him as a  human friend.

At Srirangam ,  there lived a man who was serving at temple .    His job was to light all the lamps at the huge temple of Srirangam  .

He used to  keep the lamps topped with oil  and ensure they were maintained in perfect condition . Under constant vigilance he had to ensure the lamps are lighted effectively without any flaws.

He had free access to enter the temple and light all the temple lamps being the temple servant . He had a peculiar habit of addressing the LORD  daily about how his day was and was he treated well .

It was almost routine especially during  festivals when LORD had to be amongst HIS devotees . For his behaviour he earned a title Pichan ( mad person ) . Unmindful of whatever people spoke of him he continued to  greet the LORD and converse  with utmost sincerity and faith .

Lord  Ranganathar also got used to HIS devotee’s greeting .    Days became months .Months turned to years .Lord out of abundant mercy wanted to reply to HIS dear devotee .

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It so happened one day Lord spoke from his Archa thirumeni ,and this also happened regularly .Lord was answering his dear devotees queries .It was more of vatsalya bhavam inquiring the well being of each other . There was no  barrier in the divine exchange of speech .A lowly employee  of the temple speaking to the LORD who was replying too .To the devotees who were witnessing this man standing before the LORD  and apparently talking to himself appeared to be a mad person conversing with himself  and they called him  “Picchan” ( a mad man). Combining his job title and popularity  of remaining , he came to be known as “ThiruviLakku Picchan”. 

One day, while carrying out his daily  chores , Picchan  conversed  with  the Lord  about the  great people and the  huge crowd attending the festival in the temple . 

There is another pastime which installs absolute surrender to LORD in Archathirumeni . The great Acharyar Swamy  Nampillai was delivering  a lecture in the mandapam inside the temple and as usual our Thiruvilakku Picchan was standing in front of the sanctorum with a lamp in his hand. Lord  was so impressed hearing  Swamy Nampillai’s  divine discourse which made him get up and  wished to be among the august gathering hearing the divine discourse

Suddenly , Thiruvilakku Picchan saw a huge personality near him and realizing that it was LORD himself , he requested LORD to relax  and not do this and  remain  in his original Archa Swaroopam .  LORD politely obeyed his devotees concern……………

All glories to this great devotee  who had the  fortune to enjoy such intimate relationship with the Lord  himself  who listened to  Him .

Sri Venkatadri shikaralaya kalamegam

Sri Hasthisaila sikarojwala parijatham

Srisannamami sirasa Yadhusaila deepam

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Photos credits : Google

Video credits  :  Tamil gold channel

Godha devi ….the goddess who rules the Supreme Lord ..

Thiruaadipooram is the most important festival celebrated in Srivilliputtur lasting for 10 days. After several years , She left Her sanctum (Garbha graham ) and rushed to welcome Jagath Acharyar Swamy Ramanuja as Her elder brother for fulfilling Her pledge to offer 1000 vessels of akkAra-adisil to Lord SundararAjan of ThirumAlirum ChOlai. After that reception to AchArya RaamunjA , the ThiruppAvai Jeeyar , She never went inside Her sanctum and stays even today at the ardha manTapam . and later for Swami Desikan times She engineered to arrive in front of the house outside Her Thiru MaaLikai Veedhi , where Her parama bhakthan was staying during his visit to Her city. Moved by that extraordinary display of Vaathsalyam and daya of Mother ANDAL , the LOka MaathA , our Kavi Simham poured forth in rapture his eulogy of Her anantha KalyANa guNams .Thus originated the GodhA sthuthi and its 29 slOkams .

“Aashada Ekadasi ” darshan to Santh Kurmadasar

Millions of devotees all over the world gather at Pandharpur on the eleventh day of the waxing moon in June -July ( Aashaada Suddha Ekadasi) and in October -November ( Karthik Suddha Ekadasi ) . The lovely devotees mostly are Varkaris . Kari means one who undertakes .. Vari means periodical piligrimage ..

Varkaris are advance devotees of Lord Vittala . The devotees form society ( mandalies) for spreading the love of Lord among the people by story telling , singing devotional songs and preaching Holy name . Walking in groups accompany the palanquin in which are placed the silver paadukaas of the liberated saints on their Annual piligrimage . Trekking on foot for almost 41 days helping each other , singing together , Singing Kirtans and dancing together repeating ………………………….. Vithobaaa.. Rakhumai .. Jai Jai Rama Krishna Hari …. making the place Golokaa…

Fortunate souls get this oppurtunity to serve the Lordships amongst the advanced devotees .

The annual Pandharpur yatra to the famous Vithoba temple at Pandharpur in Maharashtra culminates on this auspicious Aashada Ekadasi day ( Apperance day of Lord Vittala) on July 20 , 2021 . A vast sea of humanity seeking the Supreme Lord is seen at this holy place . The saints have shown their merciful favor. Several devotees and several saints have given us a path for devotion and surrender which takes us out of the material world which is temporary .

Santh Gynandeva laid the foundation and erected the temple of devotion . Santh Namadeva built the wall surrounding . Santh Ekanath erected the pillar in the form of commentary on Srimad Bhagavatha Purana . Santh Tukaram became its pinnacle . Now the worship in this temple should be our goal .

Few hundred years back , there lived a devotee Kurmadas in a village called Paithan . about 450 kms away from Pandharpur . He desired to have darsanam of the Lord on HIS appearance day-Aashada Ekadasi.

  As he had tiny limbs, he couldn’t walk  . But the strong desire to have darshan was making him anxious . Whoever he met , he used to ask the form and beauty of Lord Vittala . He wished to join few devotees to have darshan . But was feeling shy to ask them as his trekking along with them would delay their yatra .His prayers was sincere . Repeatedly thinking of the beautiful form of the Supreme Lord the desire to have darshan became more and more serious . He decided he would make it If Lord wishes . He took leave of family and undertook his pilgrimage by literally crawling .

Many villagers discouraged him and mocked at him for this tedious task.  But he was firm in his devotion, he started off thinking of the Supreme Lord .  Every day, he could crawl for few kms and take rest. 

Every step was filled with the chant Jai Jai Ramakrishna Hari ….filled with unconditional love to Lord . Many watching him crawl laughed at his movements .

Lord appeared before him in the guise of a business man and asked, ‘

My dear friend , where are you going?

Isn’t it difficult for you to crawl thus without feet?’

When he heard about his mission, the business man said, ‘Oh! That’s fine. I too am proceeding to Pandharpur.

https://videopress.com/v/64ajpJCC?preloadContent=metadata

I am a business man there. My name is Vitobha. We make good company.’

Kurmadas laughed and said Sir How can we make good company?

You can walk very fast, while I cannot even walk.

Vitobha assured him, ‘Don’t you worry. I’ll take care of you.

So saying he provided him food, clothing and shelter for the night. Next morning Vitobha asked Kurmadas to proceed slowly. He said he would wait for him in the next village with food and shelter.’ I serve the poor pilgrims on their way to Pandharpur. That is my duty he added.

Kurmadas with great difficulty reached nearby village by evening.

Vitobha used to eagerly wait like a affectionate mother for her child . He used to make delicious food and served him food . Later he would make a nice bed for him sleep to comfortably for the night there. This practice continued for nearly four months. His food and accommodation was taken care of all throughout the journey. If there was no village en route by the evening Lord created one for him to make his stay comfortable.

Kurmadasa crawled like a lizard on the road continuously for four months … Finally , he reached a village called Laul which is 5 kms from a town kuruduwadi . By then, his body was totally scratched with blood oozing out everywhere. He couldn’t move an inch any more. Totally exhausted and understanding he cannot make it any more to Pandharpur , he mentally offered his prayers with tears saying he could not make it for Aashadaa Ekadasee.

He stayed back at the village Laul . He called few varkaris and sent a word to Lord Panduranga Vittala about his pitiable condition . They were touched by his pathetic story and offered to convey his message specially . Will Lord be unmindful of such staunch devotees?

When his devotee could not reach him, Lord reached him.

He went personally to Laul accompanied by three more devotees Jnanadev, Namadev and Savithamali.

Lord appeared in the same form he was meditating . Lord’s eyes were long like petals of a blooming lotus, and His charming lotus-like face made all the more charming by His extremely beautiful and sweet, nectarous smiles. His profuse curling hairs , the golden flute in his hand, and his blue-colored skin glowing with innumerable moons around ….

Can words describe the joy of Kurmadas on seeing his Lord Vittala with his close devotees, come down to personally bless him?

Tears gushed from his eyes like torrent ….

Oh My Lord !!!!! my life purpose is fulfilled. Your divine darsan liberates me from the cycle of life and death.

Oh Lord …Sorry for this trouble …Kurmadas was crying like a small child for disturbing the Lord Of Lords ..

Oh Lord !!! Instead of me reaching your lotus feet …You have walked down to see this sinner

He was uncontrollable .

Lord Vittala was moved by the Ananya Bhakti of his devotee. He embraced his devotee like a mother and behold the child regained his arms and limbs

Lord looked at him with bewitching smile and wanted to grace him further .. He asks him , my child I want to give you anything you wish …..

‘Oh My saviour ..Vittala..Vittala

! Why do you divert my attention? Why do you want to tempt me with desires?

You have imbibed in me that desires lead to sorrow.

Desires arise out of ignorance Do you want me to fall a prey to them once again ?

Oh My Lord , I do not seek any thing ,,anything

My mind has become blank. My senses have come to a stand still. My eyes which are blessed with the sight of your celestial divine beauty will not be compromised for any lesser beauty. My ears which were blessed with the nectar like sounds emanated from you are deaf to any other sound, however interesting it may be.

A honeybee, if it is dropped into a big vessel of honey, enjoys the honey to its maximum and remains there itself. Presently, I am like that. I am dead for the rest of the world. I have a new birth into your Kingdom my Supreme Lord . I don’t have any more desire! My life’s purpose is completed.

All the same, I can’t deny your grant of wish. It is not fair on my part to refuse a boon offered by you in the presence of my manasika gurus . Let me seek a small favor from you. There may be many more crippled and handicapped people like me who may not be able to have darshan of Pandharapur where you reside . Kindly stay back here in this village for many many souls to have your darshan

. As per his wish, Lord Vittala turned out to be an deity there and disappeared with his three saints .

Even today, this holy place where LORD personally visited is treated on par with Pandharpur. The devotees who go to Pandharpur in Ashad and Kartik months go for darshan at this place after the special festival at Pandharpur .

Jai Jai Bhaktha Kurmadasa

All glories to the great saints and the devotees

Your servant offers countless dandaavats pranaams to the mahasants who were able to please the LORD to remain here in the wonderful dhaam .and

All glories to the devotees who are in Pandharpur dhaam serving the Supreme Lord

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pics & Videos : Courtesy from afvance devotees who have uploaded in social web sites

Glory of Lord Banke Biharee jee

Few years ago , Meera was living a very happy married life with her family which included her husband, four sons, their wives and children. She had served the family with full devotion. Her husband was a wealthy jewel merchant and the sons had also joined the family business.

Everyone in the family was very respectful to their parents. It so happened one day Meera saw a small boil on her foot . She applied some turmeric to heal and continued with her daily house chores . However the boil eventually turned out into real shape. She had developed the germs of leprosy. There was no cure and she had to accept the reality .There was a sudden change of attitude among all the members of the family towards her. Everyone including her husband who loved her dearly tried to avoid sitting next to her. She was thus isolated and spent her days in a secluded room. Her utensils were kept separately which she washed herself.

She could understand that for the welfare of her family this was to be carried out . But one day she got a rude shock when all her sons came with their wives and wanted to say something to her. The eldest son on behalf of others came with the proposal and said

Amma ………You should go and stay in some place of pilgrimage away from all of us .

We will send money for your daily needs Amma please understand ..

.After all this is an infectious disease and even you will not like it if any of your grand child gets infected. We care for you Amma .Please accept our proposal .The choice of Old age home OR pilgrimage spot is yours .

Each son had a different proposal . Meera kept on listening and just nodded.

The sons went away leaving her to wonder if they were the same sons who would not eat before amma started eating her meal.

That night Meera skipped her dinner which, the maid servant had left for her in the room.

The whole night she was tossing and turning and could not have even a wink of sleep. She went on thinking what to do.

Should I jump in a well?

Should I leave home?

All types of thoughts came to her mind. At last in the early hours of morning she quietly packed a few clothes and took what ever meager money she had and left home without telling any one.

She had no one to share her plight.

One poor lady used to come to her previously and she used to give her many things in charity to help her. She knew her house . She landed at her doorstep and woke her up. On opening the door she saw a old slightly torn photograph of Lord Krishna hanging on the wall .

The poor lady was shocked to see her . She invited her , but she politely ignored her invitation . She expressed her inability to enter her house and shared her plight . Looking at the photograph she enquired which temple deity he was .The poor lady replied the pic is of Lord Bankey Bihaari and he is at Vrindavan.

She advised her to go to vrindavan where she could get help from one of her relative who had gone there and had become a Meera serving the Lord

The lady offered to go with her and leave her there with her relative and soon they reached vrindavan. For a few days the relative of that lady shared the food she used to get from temples as prasad . She was old and died in few months . Now Meera was again left alone to fight for her survival. She felt embarrassed to go to temples and ask for prasad in the beginning but soon got used to it. Vrindavan became her home . She started naming every temple in Vrindavan as her Uncles home , Aunts home and Parents , grand parents house . She made every temple deity as her family member and shared her daily experiences going close to them .

Immersed in Satsangh true to her name got Meera bhakthi .

One day Meera went to bathe in the yamuna river along with few devotees . It was a special day as Sri Sri Bankey biharee had arrived . Amongst the crowd , looking at the merciful eyes of the Supreme Lord , suddenly , her foot slipped and she fell in the river and was on the verge of drowning.

Suddenly , something strange happened .. The crowd gathered around She was in an unconscious state and all she could remember was that a very attractive blue eyed boy had dived into the river to save her. When she became conscious she was surrounded by some brajvasee . She looked every where to find the charming diver but he was no where to be seen. The people around her told her that she had a very lucky escape. She looked at her foot and was astonished. She found that there was not a single wound, her leprosy had disappeared.

One person from the crowd advised her to go to Sri Sri Bankey Bihariji’s temple and thank the Lordships for saving her life. She had never been here before so now that she was no longer infected by leprosy, she wanted to thank Lordships , she entered the temple and was looking at Lord Bihariji spell bound because it was this charming boy only who has dived in the Yamuna river and saved her life. With tears in her eyes and a shiver of excitement going through her entire body she vowed that she will depend only on Sri Sri Bankey Bihariji who had brought her to vrindavan. Leprosy was just a temporary excuse to detach her from her family. Now she does sewa of the Supreme Lord Bihariji in her small way by helping many devotees who are in need near the temple

Swami sri haridas ji says in one of his padas roughly translated in English …

 Oh My dear brother!If you want to love, then love only Bihariji or love his bhaktas who are always engrossed in Bihariji’s bhajans only.The worldly love is temporary made out of faded colours of flowers which is finished the moment you are of no use to your so called loved ones, but Bihariji’s love is permanent which is made out of the scent of flowers. It is Lord alone who will by your side when you are in pain or trouble, your relatives and friends will run away the moment they see approaching for help. Bihariji will wash away all your sins and take you in his arms. Such is the love of our Sri Sri Bankey bihariji.

Shri Shri Banke Bihari Mandir is located at Vrindavan. The Lordship presented themselves for the ardent devotion of Sri Haridas

Elders believe Swami Haridas was the reincarnation of Lalita ‘sakhi’ , of the close companion of Lord Krishna. Haridas left his village for Vrindavan, which was a dense forest at that time and choose a secluded spot, which is now known as Nidhivan, to practice his service to Supreme Lord with music and to enjoy eternal bliss . He constantly and continuously meditated on Nitya Ras and Nitya Bihar of Lord at Nitya Vrindavan. His way of Saadhna was to compose and sing songs in the praise of Lord. While on earth, living in a mortal state, he facilitated his regular unobstructed entry in the Nitya Bihar and always enjoyed the pleasure of closeness of Lord always in the ocean of eternal bliss.

• 

His disciples were curious about this place and one day with permission of Swamiji, they all entered the kunj. But instead of seeing anything they were almost blinded by bright, intense light, which seemed to fill the whole place. On knowing of their plight Swamiji himself went there, and then after his requests, lord appeared in person with his divine consort, pleasantly smiling and in a playful mood and casting a spell of charm on every living being present there. Those who witnessed this, were so spell bounded by the beauty of the Lord and his consort, that they couldn’t even blink their eyes, it seemed that all of them had turned into stone statues.

• 

The legend as handed down to the generations of Goswamis, says that the beauty of the divine couple was such that no one wanted to loose the sight and proximity of divinity, but then what kind of divinity is it, which cannot make a mere mortal swoon and charmed enough to forget and give up the world and its luxuries? The beauty of the divine couple was so much that lesser mortal would not be able to bear such a heavenly beauty. Sensing this Swami Haridas ji prayed the Lordships both of them to take a single form, as the world won’t be able to bear their image. He submitted to them to take a single form like Ghan (cloud) and Damini(lightning) thus giving a perfect metaphor to the combined beauty of dark Lord and his fair consort, Radhaji. Also he wanted his beloved lord to be in front of his eyes always. Granting him his both wishes, the couple turned itself into one single black charming deity , the same one can have darshan in the temple today. The charm and beauty of Shri Banke Bihariji is the only reason why the ‘darshan’ in the temple is never continuous but is broken by the curtain drawn on him regularly. It is also said that if one stares long enough into the merciful eyes of Shri Banke Bihariji, the person would lose his self consciousness. Thus came into existence the physical form of Lord Banke Bihari, popularly know as Bihariji.

The sewa of the Bihariji is unique in its own way. Three parts of Seva is done every day ie Shringar, Rajbhog and Shayan. While shringar (which includes bath, dressing and adornment with jewellery like crown and necklaces) and Rajbhog(feast) is offered in the forenoon, Shayan Sewa (shayan means sleep) is offered in the evening. The temple doesn’t have a tradition of Mangala (early morning) sewa. Swami Haridas did not favour Mangla Sewa as he wanted his child like Lord to take complete rest and did not want to disturb him out of deep slumber so early in the morning.

So, the temple today stands with its full glory, inside which the Lord himself resides. It is thronged by thousands of visitors everyday.

This real incident was shared by a Goswamee in the temple

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pic & Videos : Courtesy ..Uploaded in social media by several advanced devotees

“Ananyas cintayanto mam ye janah paryupasate tesamnityabhiyuktanam yoga khsemam vahamya aham ” Those who worship Me with devotion, meditating on My transcendental form–to them I carry what they lack and preserve what they have.

  Santh Narsingh Mehta was very much engrossed always in singing Lord Holy names . The neighborhood did not like his behavior . His own siblings avoided him . Narsingh Mehta was very simple and did not take their criticisms seriously , instead prayed Lord for their upliftment .

As a customary ritual to perform the shraaddha ceremony of his father , he used to go to his brothers house as he did not have anything to perform the same . 

Once ,when Narsingh Mehta’s wife and his brother’s wife one day came together, his elder brother’s wife cursed her, “You don’t have anything. Your husband just goes on singing kirtans and every year we have to spend money for shraaddha.”

Narsingh Mehta’s wife felt sad .

She replied ..Sister , “This year we shall perform the shraaddha, ceremony ….. much to her surprise .

..Oh really . replied her sister in law …… let me see how you perform”. 

Santh Narsingh Mehta’s wife told her husband about her determination to perform shraaddha ceremony .

Santh Narsingh Mehta was very pleased as he wanted to serve the devotees who attend the ceremony .

Mehta did not have anything to eat . But as soon as he imagined they are going to perform the shraaddha ceremony he was elated.

He started inviting the whole village for the shraaddha ceremony as Hari Naam along with Hari Bhaktaas was the only motto in this life …

The Shraaddha ceremony date was approaching and his wife was worried.

She said . ….

My dear …. It was my strong feeling to perform the Annual rites this time at our place as your Sister in law insulted us . But dear ……

Am afraid as “You have invited the whole village little knowing we do not have anything to eat for the evening …

Santh Narsi Mehta smiled and replied

Did we ever plan for the next minute ,,, …

.Lord knows …. “Don’t worry, Just relaxxx .. It is HIS plan .something will come out.” 
His wife was worried as the entire village folk was eagerly waiting for the ceremony date .

The date arrived .. It was gloomy … She overheard her neighbors discussing about the big feast at Nasi Mehtas house and there participation …

His wife rushed to Santh Narsi Mehta and said I can know understand .. We must do something ..She said ..

My dear

You do one thing. I have golden bangles given by my father during marriage which I kept in safe custody . . Please sell them and bring all the groceries so that we can cook for everyone. Forget about dakshina, as they must have at least some plate of prasad offered.

She prepared the list of the groceries to purchase and requested him to bring the same soon..

Santh Narsingh Mehta went to the market, sold the bangles, and bought all the groceries . But he forgot to buy ghee.

Santh Narsi Mehta’s wife started to cook , however was searching for the ghee which was the main ingredient for the dishes .

She immediately asked her husband to please buy ghee as the preparations cannot be started without ghee.

 
Narsingh Mehta did not have any money left with him to buy ghee . He once again went to market. Approaching the ghee shops he pleaded to give him ghee for his immediate sevas to bhagavathas . He assured he would repay once he had some money . The merchants ignored his pleas by giving false reasons . Being a simple man , he was prepared for any service in lieu of the ghee ….

As many of the shop keepers avoided his entry .. slightly upset he walked down towards Lord Dwarakadeesh temple side . He was taken back when he saw a lustrous boy in the shop with blinking eyes . Rushing to the shop he said ..Jai Dwarakadeesh

My son … Can you please give me some quantity of ghee for my fathers ceremony … I do not have any money to pay you but believe me …On name of Dwarakadeesh I promise to repay you …

The boy was smiling and said . Who ? … Dwarakadeesh …..Will he pay ?

Santh replied …. Yes !!! He will pay ..and please be assured ….HE only can pay

The boy mischievously said I dont know who will pay but on one condition I can spare the ghee to you …. I am told you sing wonderful kirtans …. If you can sing Kirtans I will give this ghee ..free of cost ….

Santh was overjoyed …. Looking at the temple gopuram … Praying the Supreme Lord …. he began …. his soothing and heart melting kirtans ….Fully immersed in the satsangh and kirtan he completely forgot his wife and the feast at home and his wife who was waiting for his arrival to begin cooking …..

In the mean time, Lord Krishna went to Narsing Mehtas home exactly like Narsingh Mehta
His wife asked …so late …. Where is the ghee ? Krishna replied ..why do you need ghee ?

She said, Are you mad ? “We have to cook, as you have called many people …

Krishna said ..Don’t worry . Come with me …..

He took her to the kitchen .. To her surprise all the bhogas was already cooked and was ready to serve. 

She couldn’t believe …
He said, “Today, everybody will come and eat in golden plates.” 

She asked, “How many golden plates you have got?” He replied, “As many as you want!” 

So the golden plates were there. She was completely elated and surprised, “I gave you only 2 bangles, from where have you brought all these gold?” 

He said, “Don’t talk now, let them eat.” 

Then He said, My dear Can we honor “those who come for eating, they eat in the golden plate and take away the golden plate as a dakshina.”

. 

The whole village was very happy. Immediately the word went out that Narsingh Mehta is giving out golden plates. Everybody in the village came over

And then He said My dear for “Ladies who come, they get new sarees.” 

So all the ladies came with torn sarees and got new sarees. 

Whole village was very happy. Narsingh Mehta (Krishna) finished the whole thing and went away.

And after the kirtan , Narsingh Mehta came home a bit scared.

Looking at the crowd coming out from his hut , he was shy and feeling low for not attending them …

Each guest thanked him profusely for the hospitality and blessed him .. en route …

All of a sudden the pawn broker rushed to Mehta returned the gold bangles and fell at his feet asking forgiveness for taking the those golden bangles in exchange of cash not knowing his devotion and sath sanghat

As he stepped in his wife offered obeisance’s and said, My dear “This time you proved it ..

By the by tell me from where did you buy the gold plates ? I just gave you two golden bangles

 

He was surprised to know what all happened .. With tears he submitted

Hey Dwarakaseesh .. I have really troubled you ..Please forgive me …

True … Lord answers ..

Those who worship Me with devotion, meditating on My transcendental form–to them I carry what they lack and preserve what they have.

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pictures& Videos Courtesy : Thanking all the advanced devotees who had shared in the social media

LORD VITTALA ARRIVES TO REPAY HIS DEVOTEES LOAN

No one can be able to know about Life of Eknath without receiving an inspiration for a higher and better life that delivers us from this repeated births in samsara as per a scholars words ….

Few hundreds years ago , Pandharpur was plagued in gloom when neighboring countrymen carried away the deity of Lord Vithoba to Vijayanagar and Bhanudasa the great devotee risked back his very life to bring back to Pandharpur . Lord pleased with his devotion , assured to appear in his family lineage.

Accordingly Lord appeared as Eknath great grand son of Bhanudasa . Maha Santh Eknath’s grandparents went to Sri Janardhan Swamy and requested to shower his mercy on the lad . We are glad Lord has bestowed abundant mercy on him . We are getting old and anytime we may leave this world. We are worried that our lineage will not continue if he remains single. We request you to kindly advise him to get married .” As per his Guru’s advice, Eknath got married. His wife Girija Bai also a nice dvotee . The couple spent almost 40 years serving Lord Vittala Bhajans.

Eknath had a nice disciple named Udhava . Eknath wanted to celebrate a grand Hari Naam sankirtana on Janmashtami which was approaching . He wished to invite all the village members and celebrate the festival with HARI NAAM SANKIRTAN and later serve prasad sumptuously to every devotee . However, as usual he did not have money for the same . He expressed his desire to his disciple. Uddhava wanted to fullfill his Masters wish .He also did not have money .He decided to go and raise the required money for celebrating Janmashtami and feed the devotees . Uddhava approached a pawn-broker who used to lend money to people with interest.

He approached him and said … Maharaj ..Kindly lend us some money for the feast to be conducted at Eknath Maharajs place . Initially , he refuses .However as he referred Santh Eknaths name he agrees to hand over cash but with a condition the amount must be returned in a weeks time with interest .

The Janmaashtami feast went off very grandly . All the devotees who attended felt so elated .Few villagers who could not attend requested Santh Eknath to re do one more HARI NAAM SANKIRTAN as they were not blessed to attend the first event .

Eknath was overwhelmed . The next day he arranged for a AKHANDA HARI NAAM SANKIRTAN The villagers came in large numbers .The HARI name reached every corner of the village ..It was VITTAL …VITTAL …VITTAL … everywhere …

Meanwile , the pawn broker waited for one week and finally went to Eknath’s house. The VITTAL NAMA SHOWER was repeated by all .The mood of the devotees was in elixir as LORD VITTAL had already reached them

The hari bhaktas were asked to partake the prasad and they were enjoying the feast Eknath and his wife personally were serving the food items to them and as usual, they planned to eat the left overs after feeding the devotees .

The pawn broker entered the house and looked at Uddhava and started abusing him in presence of all the devotees for not returning the money .

Uddhava requested him to wait till the function was over and not to disturb Eknath but the pawn broker approached Eknath.

Eknath was unaware of all the happenings . Assuming that the pawn broker too was a devotee, he gives him prasad . After finishing eating his food, the pawn broker meets Eknath with folded hands and says “Swamiji ! You look like a very pious and honest person. Since you have not returned money on time, I have suffered a loss. I also have to survive.

And If you are a true devotee of LORD VITTALA , without returning my money, you should not eat”.

Eknath was confused but he agreed to check what was the matter with Udhdhav and promised ” Sure! My dear ..I will not partake any thing without repaying the loan ….

I give you my word on Vittal. I will do as you say. I shall eat only after returning your money”. From then on Eknath fasting started.

Where would he go for money. He surrendered to Vittal and said LORD this is your divine leela .

You decide what is in store …May all my senses surrender to your HOLY NAME ….. Will hunger , thirst scare a HARI BHAKTA ..

.When VITTAL the real treasure for me .. Why must I be worried …More HARI NAAM ..is my motto now …

Meanwhile ,all efforts to raise money failed.

Eknath did not have water or food till then. It was just HARI VITTALA …HARI VITTALA …HARI VITTALA …

Lord couldn’t see his devotee starving . It was raining heavily and in midnight someone knocked at the front door of the pawn brokers house. The pawn broker was sleeping . He suddenly woke up and shocked as at this dark night who was disturbing him . He opened the door with a lamp in his hand. He saw Uddhava standing in the front yard. But there was something special in Uddhava . He had a benevolent smile and his voice could make any one fall.. His eyes was glowing with compassion … Any one would have been drawn into those eyes …He couldn’t move his eyes

Am sorry Sir !!! Couldn’t wait seeing my Master starving hence had to disturb you in this night .Please take this money with cumulative interest and kindly give me a receipt that you have received the money for my master to partake food .Please make it fast before I get drenched completely .

The Pawn broker was spell bound . He continued , My master is fasting since the day you asked them not to partake food till money is returned . I had to collect the same for this

The pawn broker completely forgot what he said momentarily and regretted. He quickly ran in and brought the receipt book and gave a receipt saying that the debt had been settled.

Uddhava returned thanking him … The pawn broker was in trance watching him ….

The pawn broker felt very bad that he was the cause for the elderly couple to starve . He felt offended that the ones who fed him nicely that day were still starving .

He wanted to appreciate Eknath for his honesty and apologise for the inconvenience. He also wanted to know whether Uddhava was a realised soul .

He quickly got up the next day and rushed to Eknath’s house and fell at his feet.

He said Maharaj ….“Please forgive me. I was very rude to you “.

Ekanath replied …Hey “Vittal! What is this? Sir! You have not done anything wrong. I told you I would return the money but have not done so. So I am the one who did not keep up my promise to you. I shall try my best to settle the debt as soon as possible. I assure you that I will not eat until then as you instructed sir.”

” Maharaj What are you saying? Your disciple Uddhava came to my house last night and returned the money. He took a receipt also. Didn’t he tell you? Have you not eaten yet?”

Udhdhava who was there with his guru Eknath was startled.

He pleaded immediately that he doesnt know any thing .

He replied “Sir! I did not come to your house. I am still trying to get money”

The money lender raised his voice in emotion

Maharaj …. this man Udhdhava is lying before you.

He came to my house last night at midnight and handed me the money due with huge interest and took my written receipt for same in full settlement of the dues”

He took the receipt and said he will show it to you as you were not partaking food.

Eknath silently prayed to Vittal and went in to check his account note book where all receipts and bills were usually preserved.

There he saw the receipt given by the moneylender on the previous night.

”Is this the receipt you gave Udhdava? last night asked Eknath to the money lender

“Yes Sir”. Yes …the same receipt

“

Eknath was in tears. He said “Who else can do such a thing other than my Vittala”.

The money lender and Udhdhava too were shocked.

The money lender cursed himself for scolding VITTALA the previous night for disturbing his sleep. He begged Santh Eknath to forgive him.

Jai Jai Ramakrishna hari

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pictures & videos : Courtesy From devotees who uploaded in social media

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The most qualified sweeper ….

Few hundred years ago the King of Puri, Purusottama Deva, was to marry the princess who was the daughter of a king, Maharaja Salluva Narasingha, from the southern state .

That was the period the Annual Ratha-Yatra festival was to take place . The King of Puri invited the father of the princess for the great festival . However , the King sent his minister Chinnu bhatta Godaranga instead.

The Minister carefully observed the kingdom to give the inputs to his King . The Rath Yatra date arrived . The King of Puri along with his ministerial staff went to the temple performed pooja and with the permission of the Supreme Lord the tradition of sweeping the road in front of the carts was done by the King .

The visiting minister was shocked to see the King hold the broom , Rather , being impressed with the devotion of the King for Lord Jagannatha, he did not agree of him sweeping the road, even if it was for the Supreme Lord.

He took leave and reported this incident to King Salluva Narasingha. The king too was unhappy and objected to the idea of his daughter marrying the King of Puri as he was merely a street sweeper. He informed through his counsel about his ejection for the alliance .

Purusottama Dev was extremely angry that he, as the servant of Lord Jagannatha, would be insulted for his service to the Supreme Lord . He gathered his army troupes and went to the southern state to teach King a lesson.

Unfortunately, King Purusottama Dev was badly defeated.

Upset , with a downcast mood, he approached “Saikatacharya”, who was a great ascetic, and a householder devotee of Lord Jagannatha.

The Sadhu said , My dear King You had forgotten to ask permission from Lord Jagannatha before you went to Southern state . It was your mistake . You are King but Lord Jagganath is Emperor. Please take his permision before waging a battle

https://videopress.com/v/3FNaChdJ?preloadContent=metadata

With this realization, the King returned to Puri and rushed to the temple of the Lord, crying over his defeat, asking why the Lord had let this happen. He spent the entire night in the temple, and with doors closed, before the night came to an end, the King heard a voice asking why he was so distraught over such a simple thing.

The divine voice said … my dear Purusottama Please go and gather our troupes again, and we two brothers, Jagannatha and Balarama, would go along to fight on the your behalf.

The King was astonished . He did all that as Lord commanded . As the news spread, many people, both old and young, joined the King’s forces to fight along with their Lordships. However, as they proceeded , the King was filled with some doubts whether their Lordships were really coming along with him.

While the King along with his army went onward, far ahead were two soldiers who rode , one on black horse and one white horse.

They were looking majestic from behind . They stopped to quench their thirst at a small village near Chilika Lake by buying some yogurt from a devotee named “Manika”.

Manika offered them yogurt looking at their beauty . She was awe stuck and just could not move her eyes away from them . The soldiers looked at Manika and smiled . They said they did not have any money to give her . She just kept looking without uttering any word . The dark soldier shook her and said , Manika ..we don’t have money but I have my ring that will be your payment for the sweet yoghurt . Please give this to your King and collect the gift he gives . Both of them smiled and proceeded

The King was fast approaching behind them . Curious he was , he caught up to the lady, who flagged him down to give him the ring and asked for payment for the soldiers’ drink.

The king was shocked to see the ratnamudrika ring of Lord Jagannatha and then regained his confidence that, indeed, their Lordships had certainly come along with him.

Overjoyed , In payment for the ring, the king gave her the whole village, which is still named “Manikapatna”.

The king and his troupes effortlessly won the battle and as planned he also took King Sallowo’s daughter back to Puri.

The King did not marry her after the insult her father had given him.

He instructed his minister to see that she get married to a most qualified sweeper.

Exactly after one year, Ratha-Yatra date was announced . As per traditional guidance , the King again took blessings from Supreme Lord and performed his sweeping of the ground before the Rath .

The king’s minister felt pity for the princess and announced that the king was the most qualified sweeper, since he swept for Lord Jagannatha, and that the princess, Padmavati, should marry him.

Amongst the crowds Maharaja Purusottama Dev married the princess and she later gave birth to “King Prataparudra” the great devotee of Lord Chaitanya Maha Prabhu .

Adiyen Ramanuja dasan

Pictures& Videos : Courtesy from advanced devotees who uploaded in social media