Thanjai Mamani koil consists of three temples on the banks of Vennar in Thanjavur. The temples are considered as one single temple which are part of the108 Divya Desams in Vaishnavite tradition. Let us catch a glimpse of its genesis. We shall also read as to how Thanjavur derived its name. Reference about this hallowed spot is found in Brahmanda Puranam. In Treta Yuga, three demons who were brothers - Thanjakan, Thandakan and Gajamukan did severe penance propitiating lord Shiva. Happy with their penance Shiva appeared before them and asked them what they wanted . Promptly they asked for immortality which Shiva could not grant them as only Mahavishnu the protector could fulfill their wishes. Thus Shiva declared that he will not harm them or kill them Drunk with power and seized with vanity the went around harming the Rishis and the Savants. They even threatened Indran. At one spot sage Parasarar was doing penance which resembled an oasis. The other places were struck with famine and water strayed. But sage Parasarar was meditating in a place which was lush and green. The demons wanted to vanquish the sage and assaulted him. Parasarar at once chanted the lord's name - Hari loudly. Mahavishnu sent his mode of transport Garuda who killed the army of demons. But the three brothers stood there sturdy and unperturbed. The lord appeared himself, beheaded the demons with his Chakrayudham. Thanjakan realized his follies and begged god to pardon him. He requested that the place should be named after him as Thanjakanoor. The Almighty known for his benevolence at once granted his wishes. As years passed by it became Thanjakoor and it is called Thanjavur. The other demon Gajamukan took the form of an elephant and assaulted the lord. The lord took the form of Narasimha and went to kill him. At this juncture the demon pleaded salvation which granted by the lord promptly. Since the lord took the fom of Narasimha yali this place is called Thanjai yali. Let us read about the fate of Thandakan in the next article. Presiding deities in the three temples. Neelamega Perumal Thayar-Sengamalavalli Manikundram Manikundram Perumal Thayar-Ambujavalli Thanjayali Nagar Narasimhan Thanjai Nayaki
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Usha Raja