Thirupuliyangudi Perumal Temple (Puliyangudi)
Overview: Thirupuliyangudi Perumal Temple, also known as Bhoomipalagar Perumal Temple, is one of the Nava Tirupati temples located along the banks of the Thamirabarani River in Tamil Nadu. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is a revered site among Vaishnavites, being one of the 108 Divya Desams mentioned in the hymns of the Alvars, the saint-poets of Tamil Nadu.
Historical Significance:
- The temple has a rich history and is believed to have been constructed during the early medieval period, with contributions from the Pandyas and other South Indian dynasties.
- The temple is praised in the hymns of Nammazhvar, one of the twelve Alvars, making it a significant Divya Desam.
- Thirupuliyangudi is one of the Nava Tirupati temples, a group of nine temples that are visited by devotees as part of a pilgrimage circuit.
Architecture:
- The temple is a classic example of Dravidian architecture, featuring a beautifully crafted Vimanam (tower) and a spacious courtyard.
- The sanctum houses the deity Bhoomipalagar Perumal, who is depicted in a reclining posture on the serpent Adisesha, facing east.
- The temple complex includes shrines for other deities, including Goddess Lakshmi, worshipped here as Bhoomi Devi and Sridevi, and the Alvars.
- A sacred tank, known as Brighu Theertham, is located within the temple premises and is considered holy by the devotees.
Deity:
- The presiding deity is Bhoomipalagar Perumal, a form of Lord Vishnu depicted in a reclining posture (Bhujanga Sayanam).
- The goddess worshipped here is Bhoomi Devi, representing the Earth, who is considered a consort of Lord Vishnu.
- The temple also has shrines dedicated to the Alvars, who are revered for their contributions to Tamil devotional literature.
Festivals:
- Vaikunta Ekadasi: One of the most important festivals celebrated in the temple, with special prayers and the opening of the “Sorgavasal” (Heaven’s Gate) for devotees.
- Brahmotsavam: The annual festival, typically held in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May-June), includes a series of religious rituals, processions, and cultural events.
- Garuda Sevai: Part of the Nava Tirupati Garuda Sevai festival, where the deities from the nine temples are brought together for a grand procession.
Legends and Beliefs:
- According to legend, Lord Vishnu appeared here to grant salvation to Sage Pulastya, who performed penance at this site. The name “Thirupuliyangudi” is derived from this sage’s name.
- The temple is associated with the planet Guru (Jupiter) in the Nava Tirupati series, and devotees visit this temple to seek relief from the adverse effects of Guru in their horoscope.
Visiting the Temple:
- Location: Thirupuliyangudi Perumal Temple is located in the village of Puliyangudi, 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: Thirupuliyangudi 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 Thirupuliyangudi.
Significance for Devotees: Thirupuliyangudi Perumal Temple is a revered pilgrimage site for Vishnu devotees, particularly those who follow the Alvar tradition. It is a place of spiritual significance, where devotees seek the blessings of Bhoomipalagar Perumal for prosperity, success, and relief from planetary afflictions.