Thirukolur Perumal Temple (Thirukolur)
Overview: Thirukolur Perumal Temple, also known as the Vaitha Maanidhi Perumal Temple, is one of the 108 Divya Desams, the sacred temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu that are revered in the early medieval Tamil literature by the Alvar saints. Located in Thirukolur, a village near Tirunelveli in Tamil Nadu, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here as Vaitha Maanidhi Perumal, and his consort Lakshmi as Kumudavalli Thayar.
Historical Significance:
- The temple is believed to have been built during the Pandya dynasty, with later contributions from the Chola and Vijayanagara empires.
- The temple is praised in the hymns of Nammalvar, one of the 12 Alvars, which adds to its significance as a Divya Desam.
- Thirukolur is also associated with the great Tamil poet-saint Nammalvar, who is said to have performed penance here.
Architecture:
- The temple showcases typical Dravidian architecture, with a prominent Rajagopuram (main gateway tower) at the entrance.
- The main sanctum houses the deity Vaitha Maanidhi Perumal in a reclining posture, similar to that of Ranganatha in Srirangam, facing east.
- The temple complex includes several mandapams (halls), smaller shrines, and a sacred tank known as the Amrita Pushkarini.
- The temple also features beautiful sculptures and intricate carvings that depict various scenes from Hindu mythology.
Deity:
- The presiding deity is Vaitha Maanidhi Perumal, a form of Lord Vishnu, depicted in a reclining posture on the serpent Adisesha.
- The goddess worshipped here is Kumudavalli Thayar, the consort of Lord Vishnu.
- The temple is also home to deities such as Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, and several Alvars.
Festivals:
- Vaikunta Ekadasi: Celebrated with great fervor, this festival marks the opening of the “Sorgavasal” (Heaven’s Gate) and is considered an auspicious day for Vishnu devotees.
- Brahmotsavam: The annual Brahmotsavam festival involves a series of rituals, processions, and cultural events, attracting a large number of devotees.
- Panguni Uthiram: Another important festival celebrated in the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April), marking the celestial wedding of the deity.
Legends and Beliefs:
- The temple is linked to the legend of a devotee who lost his wealth and came to Thirukolur to pray for its recovery. Lord Vishnu, as Vaitha Maanidhi Perumal, is believed to have answered his prayers, earning the deity the name “Vaitha Maanidhi,” meaning “the Lord who safeguards wealth.”
- Another legend involves the penance of Nammalvar, who attained spiritual enlightenment at this site.
Visiting the Temple:
- Location: Thirukolur is located around 4 kilometers from Alwarthirunagari and approximately 36 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 when visiting the temple. Men are advised to wear dhotis, and women should 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 47 kilometers away. Madurai Airport, around 160 kilometers away, offers more flight options.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Alwarthirunagari, about 4 kilometers from the temple. Tirunelveli Junction is another major station, located 36 kilometers away.
- By Road: Thirukolur is well-connected by road, with regular bus services and taxis available from nearby towns like Tirunelveli and Tuticorin.
Nearby Attractions:
- Alwarthirunagari Temple: Another Divya Desam located nearby, dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Adinathar.
- Nava Tirupati Temples: Thirukolur is part of the Nava Tirupati circuit, a group of nine temples along the banks of the Thamirabarani River, all dedicated to different forms of Vishnu.
- Tirunelveli: A historic city known for its temples, waterfalls, and cultural heritage, located about 36 kilometers from Thirukolur.
Significance for Devotees: The Thirukolur Perumal Temple is a vital part of the spiritual journey for Vishnu devotees, especially those following the Alvar tradition. It is a place of worship, reflection, and deep spiritual significance, offering devotees a serene environment to connect with the divine.