Tiruvilliputtur (Srivilliputhur) – The Birthplace of Periyaazhwar and Andal
Divya Desam 99 of 108 | Region: Pandiyanadu
Situated on the Tenkasi–Virudhunagar road, near Tenkasi, Tiruvilliputtur, also known as Srivilliputhur, is one of the most celebrated Divya Desams in Tamil Nadu. This temple is not only a sacred Vaishnavite pilgrimage spot but also the birthplace of two legendary Azhwars — Periyaazhwar and Sri Andal.
Divine Highlights
- Moolavar: Vatapatrasayee in a reclining posture (Ananta Sayee)
- Thayar: Kothai Nachiyar (Andal)
- Theertham: Tirumukkulam
- Vimanam: Samsana Vimanam
- Unique feature: The standing posture of Garuda alongside Lord Vishnu
Sacred Legends
The temple is steeped in beautiful lore. Periyaazhwar, known for his intense devotion, used to tend to the temple garden and offer fresh flower garlands to the Lord. One day, while plucking flowers, he discovered a divine child on a flower and lovingly raised her as his own — this child was Andal.
In a memorable episode, Andal wore the garland meant for the deity. Periyaazhwar initially discarded it and prepared a fresh garland. However, the Lord chose to accept only Andal’s garland, thus earning her the epithet “Choodi Kudutha Nachiyar” (the one who offered the garland). According to tradition, Andal was given in marriage to Lord Ranganathar and merged with Him upon entering the sanctum.
The name Srivilliputhur originates from two hunters named Villi and Puthan, who are believed to have founded the town.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
Andal’s famous 30 verses, the Tiruppavai, are sung every morning during the Tamil month of Margazhi in Vaishnavite temples worldwide. These devotional hymns are a hallmark of Tamil Bhakti literature.
The temple complex comprises two major sections:
- The Vatapatrasayee temple (northeastern side) housing the reclining Lord.
- The Andal shrine (southwestern side), which stands on the very site where Periyaazhwar’s house once stood. Visitors can also see the Nandavanam (garden) of Periyaazhwar as they enter the temple.
Architectural Marvel
Srivilliputhur temple boasts one of the tallest Rajagopurams in Tamil Nadu—a majestic 12-tiered tower rising 192 feet high, adorned with intricate carvings that depict rich mythological scenes. This iconic tower is so significant that it has been adopted as the official emblem of the Government of Tamil Nadu.
The gold-plated Vimanam of Andal sannidhi features inscriptions of the revered Tiruppavai verses, adding to the temple’s sanctity.
Azhwar Mangalaasaasanam
- Periyaazhwar: Pasuram 133
- Andal: Pasuram 549 (as found in Naalaayira Divya Prabandham)
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Embark on a spiritual journey to Tiruvilliputtur and experience the divine grace of Periyaazhwar and Andal. SouthGuru Holidays offers personalized tours covering all 108 Divya Desams with comfortable travel and expert guidance.
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