Tiruvegka – Sonnavannam Seida Perumal Temple
Divya Desam 51 of 108 | Region: Tondai Nadu
Tiruvegka, also known as Yathotkaari Perumal Temple, is a revered Divya Desam located in Kanchipuram, near the famed Varadaraja Perumal temple. This sacred site is celebrated not only for its unique reclining deity but also for its deep connections with Azhwars, Saraswati, and rich Vaishnavite lore.
Divine Highlights
- Moolavar (Presiding Deity): Yathotkaari Perumal (also known as Sonnavannam Seida Perumal), seen in a reclining posture with the head placed to the devotees’ right, a rare depiction.
- Thayar: Komalavalli Thayar
- Theertham: Poigai Pushkarini
- Vimanam: Veda Saara Vimanam
Also present in the sanctum is Saraswati Devi, emphasizing the temple’s philosophical and spiritual significance.
Sacred Legends
The Sthala Purana narrates that the Vegavathi River (Saraswati) was manipulated by demons to flood and destroy a yagna being performed by Brahma. In response, Lord Vishnu lay across the river’s path, acting as a dam (anai) to protect the sacrifice. Thus, the place came to be known as Vegavati Anai, which later evolved into Vegka.
This shrine is also associated with Poigai Azhwar, who was discovered as a divine child on a lotus in the Poigai Pushkarini. Another powerful episode features Tirumazhisai Azhwar and his disciple Kanikannan, who were forced to leave the city by a ruler. As the Lord chose to follow them, the city was thrown into darkness. When the king repented and invited them back, the Lord returned with them, thus earning the title “Sonnavannam Seida Perumal”—the Lord who did as His devotee requested.
Azhwar Mangalaasaasanam
- Tirumangai Azhwar: 1854, 2059, 2064, 2065, 2673 (70), 2674 (127)
- Tirumazhisai Azhwar: 814, 815, 2417
- Poigai Azhwar: 2158
- Peya Azhwar: 2307, 2343, 2345, 2357
- Nammazhwar: 2503
These verses highlight the compassion and divine intimacy exhibited by Yathotkaari Perumal toward His devotees.
Architectural & Literary Significance
The temple’s layout reflects its antiquity, with references found in Sangam literature like Tolkappiyam and Silappadikaram. The reclining deity’s unusual orientation draws attention to the personal bond between the Lord and His bhaktas.
Festivals
- Vaikunta Ekadasi (Margazhi)
- Poigai Azhwar Tirunakshatram (Aippasi)
These are celebrated with grandeur, drawing thousands of devotees annually.
Visit with SouthGuru Holidays
Experience the intimate grace of Sonnavannam Seida Perumal and the sacred waters of Poigai Pushkarini on your Kanchipuram Divya Desam Yatra with SouthGuru Holidays.
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