Unveiling centuries of devotion at Srivilliputhur Andal Temple
Srivilliputhur's history centres on its Andal Temple. Though the Vatapatrasayi Temple's origin might date back to the 8th century, confirmed evidence surfaces only in the 10th. The Andal Temple's construction, particularly its towering Rajagopuram, is debated, with some placing it in the 14th century and others attributing it to a Vijayanagar king.
Rulers like Thirumalai Nayak (1623-1659) and Rani Mangammal (1689-1706) left their mark through renovations and embellishments. The temple's management shifted over time, from the king of Travancore (until 1850) to the British, before finally coming under Indian administration post-independence. The temple is now maintained and administered by Government of Tamil Nadu.
A city divided, yet united
Srivilliputtur Andal Temple unfolds in two distinct parts. The southwestern section enshrines Andal, while the northeastern side houses Vatapatrasayi, the reclining form of Lord Vishnu. A granite wall encircles the entire complex, embracing not just these sacred spaces but also the verdant garden where Andal is believed to have been discovered and two of the temple's three water bodies.
Towering over the temple is the majestic 192-foot Rajagopuram, the gateway tower. Legend attributes its construction to Periyalvar, Andal's foster father, using prize money from religious debates.
Within the Andal shrine, devotees find not only Andal's image but also Rangamannar, her divine bridegroom from Srirangam. Garuda, the celestial carrier who brought Rangamannar, resides here as well. The walls surrounding this shrine are adorned with vibrant paintings depicting Andal's life story.
The Kalyana Mandapa, the second hall leading towards the sanctum, houses magnificent life-size sculptures of various deities, including Mohini, Rama, and Kamadeva.
The Vatapatrasayi division is further divided into two precincts. The reclining Vishnu, Vatapatrasayi, resides in the sanctum on the second level. Flanking him are his consorts, Sridevi and Bhudevi. Sages Bhrigu and Markandeya stand near his head and feet, respectively. Notably, a banyan tree, said to be the one Vishnu rested upon as a baby during the deluge, stands near his head.
The sanctum boasts three doorways, allowing devotees multiple views of the presiding deity. The Bhopala villam, the hall leading to the sanctum, is adorned with intricate teak carvings depicting scenes from the Puranas and Vishnu's ten avatars.
The temple complex also houses rare Vijayanagara sculptures reminiscent of those found in other South Indian temples. Notably, the distinctive composite columns featuring Virabhadra, the fierce form of Shiva, were additions made by the Vijayanagara kings during the 16th century.
Srivilliputtur: A Vaishnavite gem
Srivilliputtur's significance in Vaishnavism is unparalleled. Ancient texts like Varaha Purana and Brahmakaivatsa Purana mention the town and the Vatapatrasayi temple. It's the birthplace of two Alvars – Periyalvar, Andal's foster father who became Ranganatha's father-in-law, and Andal, the only female Alvar saint.
Andal's devoutness to Vishnu transcended societal norms. She's revered as an incarnation of Bhudevi and believed to have attained union with Ranganatha of Srirangam. Today, she's revered as more than a saint, often seen as a manifestation of the divine herself. Her Tamil works, Thiruppavai and Nachiar Tirumoli, are recited during the Margazhi festival, their melodies filling the town with a sacred atmosphere. Shrines dedicated to Andal grace most Vishnu temples in Tamil Nadu, solidifying Srivilliputtur's place as a cornerstone of Vaishnava faith.
Daily devotion and grand festivals
Following Thenkalai Vaishnava traditions, Srivilliputtur Andal Temple hums with daily rituals. Six pujas (worship ceremonies) punctuate the day, each dedicated to both Andal and Vatapatrasayi. These elaborate rituals involve alangaram (decoration) of the deities, neivethanam (offerings of food), and deepa aradanai (waving of lamps). The rhythmic sounds of nadaswaram (a pipe instrument) and tavil (a percussion instrument) fill the air during the final step, accompanied by Vedic chants and the prostration of devotees. Weekly, monthly, and fortnightly rituals further enrich the temple's serene atmosphere.
The grandest celebration is the Aadi Pooram festival, drawing thousands of devotees. This joyous event commemorates the day Andal, as a child, was found by Periyalvar near a sacred Tulsi plant within the temple complex. The deities, Sri Ranganatha and Andal, are taken in vibrantly decorated palanquins, a spectacle that embodies the town's deep dedication.
The once-massive temple car (40 meters!), a marvel of engineering, now awaits a revival. Modified with hydraulic wheels, its ceremonial pulling might return in future festivals. In 2016, a grand consecration (Kumb-abishekam) and the addition of golden filials for Andal further enriched the temple's spiritual significance. Fridays and Saturdays are particularly auspicious for visits, offering a glimpse into the vibrant traditions of the Temple.
Seek serenity amidst artistry: Let Srivilliputtur enrich your spirit
The Srivilliputhur Andal Temple beckons you to explore the wonders of devotion and artistry nestled within Tamil Nadu's rich cultural landscape. This temple, a harmonious blend of historical grandeur and spiritual tranquility, invites you to walk through its gates and experience the vibrant traditions and serene ambiance. Whether you’re drawn by the intricate carvings that tell tales of divine love or the peaceful gardens where legends come to life, Srivilliputhur Andal Temple promises a journey that captivates the soul and inspires the heart. Come, be part of a timeless narrative and let the sacred walls of this magnificent temple enrich your spirit.
