Thiruvattaru Adikesava Perumal Temple: A Renowned Vaishnavite Shrine in Tamil Nadu
Thiruvattaru Adikesava Perumal Temple is a famous Vaishnavite shrine located in the southern part of Tamil Nadu, near Nagercoil in Kanyakumari district. This ancient temple, situated in the village of Thiruvattaru, is known for its traditional Tamil architecture and holds great reverence among devotees for the presiding deity, Adikesava Perumal. The temple’s entrance faces south, and it extends northwards towards Thiruvananthapuram.
History and Significance
The history of Thiruvatar Adikesavan Temple dates back to the beginning of the Kali Yuga. The name “Thiruvattaru” means “the place where it bends,” referring to the river Vattaru (Thiruvattaru), which flows around the temple. This sacred river is considered a holy theertham (sacred water) for the deity. The grand sanctum of the temple houses the reclining figure of Adikesava Perumal, which is 19 feet in length, showcasing a unique and rare form of the deity. Devotees can view the deity’s face, left side, and right side through three separate doors, offering a complete darshan experience.
Tiruvattaru Adikesava Perumal Temple is an ancient Vaishnava temple located in Tiruvattaru, Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, India. It is considered to be the 76th out of 108 Vaishnava temples. It is also one of the 13 hill country shrines.
Tamil Architecture of the Temple
The temple’s architectural style is deeply rooted in traditional Tamil craftsmanship. It has three concentric courtyards, a large Garuda Mandapam, a beautifully carved front hall, and a grand sanctum sanctorum. The temple is adorned with exquisite stone carvings, intricately sculpted pillars, and paintings depicting historical events, enhancing its grandeur. Surrounded by lush natural beauty, the temple features stunning arches, waterfalls, ponds, and rivers. Its towering gopuram (temple tower) contains 16 vimanas, with carvings that narrate stories and mythological themes.
Moolavar Adikesava Shrine
The main highlight of this temple is Adikesava, the deity here. In this sanctum, the idol of Moolavar is made up of twenty-six thousand salakrams. Salakrama is considered an important part of the worship of Lord Vishnu, and a collection of these is believed to have powerful spiritual powers.
Adikesavan, the main idol, is in a reclining arrangement on top of the five-headed Adisesha. It is a rare form of Sri Vishnu with school.
Moolavar Adikesavan gives darshan in the form of Pashura with his right hand resting on his head as Perumal leans to the side. Here he holds abhayahastam (hand of giving abhaya), lotus flower, conch and chakra in his hands. It is considered to be a very auspicious and peaceful darshan for the devotees.
The temple is famous for its sculpture and heritage and is considered one of the Astha Vaikundas. The interior of the temple and the statue of Moolavar are very special and devotees come here in large numbers to worship.
Legend of the Temple
According to legends, Thiruvattaru Adikesava Temple is a sacred site blessed by Lord Vishnu’s grace. The name “Adikesava” refers to the deity’s form as the supreme protector. It is believed to be a place where all obstacles in life are removed, granting devotees a fulfilling experience and spiritual upliftment.
Poojas and Worship
The temple conducts three daily poojas and rituals, including offerings and aradhanas to the main deities. Pradosha pooja is particularly significant. It is also a common practice for devotees, especially those on their pilgrimage to Sabarimala, to stay at Thiruvattaru and have darshan of the deities here.
Festivals
Various festivals are celebrated throughout the year at the temple, notably the Thayar festival in the Tamil month of Margazhi and the Karthigai Deepam. These festivals bring joy and spiritual fulfillment to devotees, who participate in processions, music performances, and traditional dances to receive the blessings of Adikesava Perumal.
Temple Structure
The temple’s unique architectural design is considered one of its rare features. The main entrance is topped with a silver-covered section, and the sanctum is regarded as the holiest area. Devotees experience a profound sense of peace and joy upon entering. The temple is adorned with sculptures, holy shrines, and sacred theerthams carved from stone.
Devotees traditionally first worship Tulasi Madhava Perumal before having darshan of Adikesava Perumal. This approach emphasizes the temple’s uniqueness and spiritual significance. With its rich spiritual history and diverse rituals, Thiruvattaru Adikesava Perumal Temple stands as a significant spiritual destination, offering peace and bliss to all devotees.
This sacred site is not just a temple but a place of spiritual solace that brings tranquility, love, and strength to devotees, elevating their lives through the divine grace of Adikesava Perumal.
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