Tirukkottiyur (Tirukoshtiyur) – The Badri of the South
Divya Desam 104 of 108 | Region: Pandiyanadu
Nestled between Karaikudi and Siva Gangai, the sacred Divya Desam Tirukkottiyur, also called Tirukoshtiyur, stands as a revered temple of Lord Vishnu in the southern region. Known as the “Badri of the South,” this temple is an important spiritual hub, rich with legend, architecture, and devotional significance.
Divine Highlights
- Moolavar: Uragamellanayan (also known as Sowmya Narayana Perumal) in a reclining posture
- Thayar: Tirumaamagal Nachiyar
- Theertham: Deva Pushkarini
- Vimanam: Ashtanga Vimanam
Sacred Legends
According to legend, the celestial beings or Devas congregated here to worship the Lord to vanquish the demon Hiranyakasipu, restoring cosmic balance. The temple’s reclining deity appeared in response to the prayers of the sage Kadamba Maharishi.
This temple is famously known as the site where Sri Ramanuja, the great Vaishnavite acharya, delivered the sacred Tirumanthiram (philosophical teachings) from the temple tower, guiding mankind towards liberation and freedom from the cycle of rebirth.
Architectural and Spiritual Features
Tirukkottiyur temple is architecturally unique, built across four levels. Apart from the main reclining deity, the temple houses shrines for Narasimha in five distinct postures—Nindra, Irunda, Kidanda, Nadanda, and Kootradiya kolams—each depicting different aspects of the fierce avatar.
Azhwar Mangalaasaasanam
This temple is glorified extensively in the Naalaayira Divya Prabandham by:
- Periyaazhwar: Pasurams 13-22, 173, 360-370
- Tirumangai Azhwar: Pasurams 1550, 1838-1847, 1856, 2674 (125)
- Bhootathazhwar: Pasurams 2227, 2268
- Peyaazhwar: Pasuram 2343
- Tirumazhisai Azhwar: Pasuram 2415
Festivals and Celebrations
The Annual Floating Festival during the Tamil month of Maasi is a highlight event, drawing devotees for grand celebrations on the temple’s sacred waters. The temple’s rituals and festivals reverberate with deep Vaishnavite traditions and devotional fervor.
Plan Your Pilgrimage with SouthGuru Holidays
Explore the sacredness of Tirukkottiyur and the Nava Tirupathi temples with SouthGuru Holidays. We offer customized pilgrimage tours that cover all the revered Divya Desams in Pandiyanadu, ensuring a spiritually enriching experience.
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