Thiruvaragunamangai Perumal Temple (Varagunamangai)
Overview: Thiruvaragunamangai Perumal Temple, also known as Vijayasana Perumal Temple, is one of the Nava Tirupati temples, which are a group of nine sacred temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located on the banks of the Thamirabarani River in Tamil Nadu. This temple is situated in the village of Varagunamangai (also called Natham), close to Tirunelveli. It holds significant religious importance as one of the 108 Divya Desams, the holy shrines glorified by the Alvar saints in the Tamil Vaishnavite tradition.
Historical Significance:
- The temple is believed to have been built during the early medieval period, with contributions from various South Indian dynasties, including the Pandyas and the Vijayanagara Empire.
- Thiruvaragunamangai is mentioned in the hymns of Nammazhvar, one of the twelve Alvars, which further elevates its status as a Divya Desam.
- The temple is part of the Nava Tirupati pilgrimage circuit, which is visited by devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
Architecture:
- The temple showcases traditional Dravidian architecture, with a beautiful Vimanam (tower) and a well-maintained prakaram (courtyard).
- The main sanctum houses the deity Vijayasana Perumal, who is depicted in a seated posture facing east.
- The temple complex includes smaller shrines dedicated to various deities, including Lakshmi (known here as Varagunavalli Thayar) and the Alvars.
- The temple pond, known as Varuna Pushkarini, is located within the premises and is considered sacred by devotees.
Deity:
- The presiding deity is Vijayasana Perumal, a form of Lord Vishnu seated in a majestic posture, symbolizing victory.
- The goddess worshipped here is Varagunavalli Thayar, the consort of Vijayasana Perumal.
- The temple is also home to other deities and shrines, including those dedicated to the Alvars, who are revered Tamil saint-poets.
Festivals:
- Vaikunta Ekadasi: This is one of the most important festivals celebrated at the temple, with special rituals, processions, and the opening of the “Sorgavasal” (Heaven’s Gate).
- Brahmotsavam: The annual Brahmotsavam festival, typically celebrated in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May-June), includes a series of religious events, including chariot processions and cultural performances.
- Garuda Sevai: As part of the Nava Tirupati Garuda Sevai festival, the deities from the nine temples are brought together at a common venue, where special prayers and rituals are conducted.
Legends and Beliefs:
- According to legend, Lord Vishnu appeared here to grant salvation to a sage named Suprabha, who performed penance at this site.
- The temple is believed to bestow victory and success on devotees, which is reflected in the name “Vijayasana” (Vijaya meaning victory).
- The temple is also associated with the planetary deity Sukran (Venus) in the Nava Tirupati series, and devotees often visit this temple to seek relief from the adverse effects of Sukran in their horoscope.
Visiting the Temple:
- Location: Thiruvaragunamangai Perumal Temple is located in the village of Varagunamangai, around 30 kilometers from Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu.
- Timings: The temple is open from 6:30 AM to 12:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
- Dress Code: Traditional attire is recommended, with men advised to wear dhotis and women to wear sarees or salwar kameez.
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is during the festival seasons or the cooler months from November to February.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Tuticorin Airport, about 50 kilometers away, while Madurai Airport is around 150 kilometers away.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Tirunelveli Junction, approximately 30 kilometers from the temple.
- By Road: The temple is well-connected by road, with buses and taxis available from nearby towns like Tirunelveli and Tuticorin.
Nearby Attractions:
- Nava Tirupati Temples: Thiruvaragunamangai is part of the Nava Tirupati circuit, which includes eight other temples dedicated to different forms of Vishnu.
- Tirunelveli: A nearby city known for its rich cultural heritage, temples, and scenic locations like Courtallam Waterfalls.
- Srivaikuntam Temple: Another prominent Divya Desam in the Nava Tirupati series, located close to Thiruvaragunamangai.
Significance for Devotees: The Thiruvaragunamangai Perumal Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Vishnu devotees, particularly those who follow the Alvar tradition. It is a place of worship, reflection, and spiritual growth, where devotees seek blessings for victory, success, and relief from planetary afflictions.