Adikesava Perumal Temple in Mylapore: Worshiping the Goddess Who Blessed Peyalvar for Liberation from Sins
The Adikesava Perumal Temple, located in Mylapore, Chennai, is one of the most ancient and significant holy sites of Thondainadu. Known for its deep spiritual and historical significance, this temple is the birthplace of Peyalvar, one of the earliest Alvars in Vaishnavism. Mylapore, which was once called “Mayurapuri” or “Mayuranagari,” holds rich mythological and historical heritage.
Temple Structure and Features
The temple features an impressive five-tiered Rajagopuram (tower) with seven kalasams (pinnacles). As you enter, you are greeted by intricately carved pillars showcasing beautiful sculptures, including depictions of the Alvars and the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu (Dasavatara). These carvings highlight the temple’s ancient heritage.
The sanctum sanctorum houses the deity Adikesava Perumal in a standing posture, facing east, radiating divine grace. The shrines of the goddess Mayuravalli Thayar, Chakrathazhwar, and Andal are also east-facing. There are also separate shrines for Lord Rama, facing south, and Hanuman, facing west. The shrines of Peyalvar and Manavala Mamunigal face south, with Thirumazhisai Alvar’s shrine directly opposite Peyalvar’s.
Adikesava Perumal and Mayuravalli Thayar
Adikesava Perumal stands majestically in the sanctum, blessing devotees with compassion. The presiding goddess, Mayuravalli Thayar, is seated in a lotus position, holding a lotus flower in two hands while her other two hands display the gestures of granting boons (Varada Mudra) and protection (Abhaya Mudra).
The Divine Instruction to Peyalvar
The legend says that Mayuravalli Thayar appeared in Mylapore to give divine teachings to Peyalvar, as instructed by Lord Adikesava Perumal. On the day of the Panguni Uttiram festival, Thayar is said to have emerged from a water lily and provided Peyalvar with divine knowledge. Worshiping this Thayar is believed to remove sins and bring prosperity and spiritual progress to devotees.
Peyalvar’s Legacy
Peyalvar is regarded as an incarnation of the divine sword, Nandaka, of Lord Vishnu. He spent his days in deep devotion, detached from worldly affairs, constantly immersed in thoughts of the Lord. Due to his extreme devotion, people began referring to him as “Peyan,” meaning madman, which later became Peyalvar. Interestingly, the word “Pey” can also mean “great one,” reflecting his stature.
Peyalvar’s hymns are part of the “Divya Prabandham,” which is a collection of devotional hymns sung by the Alvars. His works speak deeply about surrendering to the divine.
Peyalvar and His Disciple, Thirumazhisai Alvar
Thirumazhisai Alvar, one of Peyalvar’s most notable disciples, came to Mylapore after exploring various faiths and deities. Following the instructions of Adikesava Perumal, Thirumazhisai Alvar approached Peyalvar to receive spiritual guidance.
Upon meeting Peyalvar, Thirumazhisai witnessed an unusual sight—Peyalvar was planting a Tulasi plant upside down and watering it. When asked if it would grow that way, Peyalvar replied, “If other gods can grant salvation, then even this is possible.” This profound statement left a lasting impression on Thirumazhisai, who eventually became Peyalvar’s disciple and learned the deeper truths of devotion.
Temple Festivals and Rituals
The Adikesava Perumal Temple hosts numerous festivals and rituals throughout the year, with some notable celebrations including:
- Brahmotsavam: A 10-day festival held in the Tamil month of Panguni.
- Panguni Uttiram: Celebrated as the appearance day of Mayuravalli Thayar.
- Navaratri Utsavam: A grand festival dedicated to Thayar.
- Aippasi Satayam: A 10-day festival in honor of Peyalvar’s birth.
- Theppotsavam (Float Festival): Held for five days during the Tamil month of Thai.
- Adi Pooram: Celebrated for Andal.
- Margazhi Utsavam: Known for the recitation of Thiruppavai and special rituals.
The Sacred Tank and the Legend of Chandra
According to the Garuda Purana, Chandra (the moon god) was cursed by his teacher and sought refuge in Mylapore, where he worshipped Adikesava Perumal. Lord Vishnu, moved by Chandra’s devotion, summoned all the sacred rivers to this place. Chandra bathed in the holy tank and was relieved of his curse. This tank is known as “Chandra Pushkarini” or “Sarva Theertham,” later referred to as “Chitrakulam.”
Connection Between Mylapore and Triplicane
Historically, a water canal called “Kairavani” flowed from Mylapore to Triplicane, filled with lotus and lily flowers. Peyalvar is said to have emerged from a lily flower in this stream. Today, part of this stream exists as a well in Arundale Street, Mylapore, while another part remains as a tank in Triplicane.
Significance of Alvars
The Alvars, deeply immersed in devotion to Lord Vishnu, composed hymns that reflect their complete surrender to the divine. Among the twelve Alvars, Poigai Alvar, Bhoothathalvar, and Peyalvar are known as the “Mudhal Alvars” (first Alvars), and their hymns emphasize the different stages of devotion.
- Poigai Alvar: Imagined the world as a lamp and sang of the Lord’s grace.
- Bhoothathalvar: Envisioned devotion as oil to light the lamp.
- Peyalvar: Symbolized the mind as the wick, fully immersed in the divine flame.
Peyalvar’s Hymns
Peyalvar’s hymns highlight the supreme joy of experiencing the divine and are a part of the revered Nalayira Divya Prabandham. His verses express the beauty of surrender and the bliss of divine union, serving as a spiritual guide for devotees.
Temple’s Rich History
The Adikesava Perumal Temple dates back to ancient times, with rulers from the Pallava, Chola, Pandya, and Vijayanagara dynasties contributing to its development. The temple’s architectural beauty and spiritual significance reflect its long-standing heritage.
Worship Timings and Offerings
- Puja Timings: The temple is open daily for devotees during morning and evening hours.
- Special Rituals: Various special rituals are conducted on auspicious days.
- Annadhanam (Free Meals): The temple also provides free meals to devotees as part of its community services.
Conclusion
The Adikesava Perumal Temple in Mylapore is a significant spiritual and cultural landmark. As the birthplace of Peyalvar, this temple holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. Worshiping the compassionate Mayuravalli Thayar and reflecting on the teachings of Peyalvar offers a path to liberation from the burdens of sins and brings divine blessings to devotees.
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