Tirumaaliruncholai (Azhagar Koyil) – The Divine Abode at the Foot of Vrishabadri Hills
Divya Desam 102 of 108 | Region: Pandiyanadu
Nestled in the serene suburbs of Madurai, Tirumaaliruncholai, famously known as Azhagar Koyil, is a sacred Divya Desam located approximately 15 kilometers from the city. Situated at the foothills of the Vrishabadri Hills, this temple is a divine retreat dedicated to Lord Kallazhagar (also called Sundararajan) in a majestic standing posture, accompanied by his consort Sundaravalli Thayar.
Divine Highlights
- Moolavar: Kallazhagar (Sundararajan, standing posture)
- Thayar: Sundaravalli
- Theertham: Noopura Gangai
- Vimanam: Somachanda Vimanam
- Guardian Deity: Karuppannaswami, believed to manifest as the 18 steps leading to the temple entrance
Sacred Legends
According to legend, Yama, the lord of death, once undertook a pilgrimage visiting various holy shrines. Upon beholding the tranquil beauty of Azhagar Malai, he meditated on Lord Vishnu, praying that the Lord reside there for the benefit of humanity. Responding to Yama’s devotion, Lord Vishnu instructed Viswakarma, the celestial architect, to construct a temple here, where He would take permanent abode with Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi.
An intriguing myth relates to the Trivikrama Avatara, where the water used by Brahma to wash the Lord’s feet flowed through the Silambu (leg ornament) and fell at this site, giving rise to the nearby river named Silambaru. This river’s sacred waters are still used for the ritual Tirumanjanam (holy bath) of the deity.
Azhwar Mangalaasaasanam
The temple enjoys rich devotional praise in the Naalaayira Divya Prabandham, with significant pasurams by many Azhwars:
- Periyaazhwar: 71, 258, 338-59, 453-62
- Andal: 534, 587-96
- Tirumangai Azhwar: 1022, 1114, 1329, 1573, 1634, 1760, 1765, 1818-37, 1855, 1969, 2020, 2034, 2673 (74), 2674 (125)
- Bhootathazhwar: 2227, 2229, 2235
- Nammaazhwar: 2886-2918, 3733-44, 3748
- Peyaazhwar: 2342
Festivals and Rituals
The Chittirai Tiruvizha is the grand festival celebrated here, attracting thousands of devotees who come to witness the vibrant rituals and processions honoring Lord Azhagar.
Plan Your Divine Visit with SouthGuru Holidays
Experience the spiritual charm of Tirumaaliruncholai and the scenic beauty of Madurai with SouthGuru Holidays. Our customized pilgrimage tours cover all the important Divya Desams, including special arrangements for temple darshan and festival visits.
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