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 Thirunagai
or Nagapattinam is one of the 108 Divya Desas in Vaishnavite
tradition. We have read about its genesis in the previous article<Thirunagai 1> . Let us catch a glimpse of its special features.
Naga Devatha did Thirupani to this temple followed by Cholas,
Marathas and Nayak rulers. Long ago ,in order to guide the ships
that were sailing in the Bay of Bengal near this spot a powerful
light was installed on the 7th tier of the Gopuram. It also acted as
a light house. But at present there is only one tier as the natural
calamities have affected the structure.
The presiding deity Neela Mega
Perumal-Moolavar is in the standing posture ,Veetreruntha Perumal as
the name suggests is in the sitting posture and Ranganatha Perumal
blesses his devotees in the reclined posture. It is believed that
Nagaraja was blessed by all the deities. The ten incarnations of
Mahavishnu –Dasavatharam is depicted in the copper plates which
adorns the deity as a garland.
A unique brass statue signifying Narasimha Avatar is preserved as a
treasure in this temple.
Brahmotsavam to the Gods was performed by Sali Sukhan a Chola king
and his wife.
There is an interesting story behind the celebration of the Utsavam.
The chola king after worshipping the lord was passing through a
tunnel . There he met a damsel with three hands. Her third hand
disappeared just when the king glanced at the damsel. They fell in
love with each other and entered into a wedlock. They were blessed
with health,wealth and progeny. Thus in order to thank the almighty
they started performing Brahmotsavam annually.
Moolavar- Neelamega Perumal facing east in a standing posture.
Utsavar- Soundararajan
Thayar-Soundaravalli
Thayar-Utsavar- Gajalaklshmi
Holy waters- Sara Pushkarini
Vimanam- Soundarya Temple timings - 6am-11am,
5pm -8.30pm
(concluded)
Thirunagai 1
Usha Raja
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