Temple history :
The deity here is made of a blend called “Kaduchakkarai Yogam,” incorporating 16,008 Shaligrama stones (a sacred stone form of Narayana). The deity can be worshipped only through three entrances. The Utsavar (processional deity) in the central entrance blesses devotees in a standing posture, accompanied by Sridevi and Bhoodevi. The deity’s navel lacks both a lotus and Brahma, which is believed to signify liberation from the cycle of rebirth upon worship. The sanctum sanctorum also houses Garuda, Surya, Panchayudha Purushas, and the demons Madhu and Kaitabha. Near the head, Sage Hathaleya is seen seated in meditation.
Every year, between the 3rd and 9th of the Tamil months of Panguni and Purattasi, the setting sun’s rays fall on the presiding deity, a sight considered highly auspicious. This is the 77th Divya Desam (sacred shrine) among the 108 Divya Desams glorified through the Mangala Sasanam
The Reclining Deity :
Among the 108 Divya Desams of Perumal, the deity in this temple is the largest in a reclining posture. He blesses devotees lying in a west-facing position, similar to Ananthapadmanabha Swamy in Thiruvananthapuram. Worshipping a west-facing deity is considered highly special. He reclines with his head towards the south and his divine feet towards the north, showing a rare posture. His left hand is stretched downward, and his right hand displays a gesture (mudra). This unique reclining form is extremely rare to witness.
Thayar Maragathavalli Nachiyar:
During a yagna conducted by Brahma, a mistake occurred, leading to the emergence of two demons, Kesan and Kesi, from the sacrificial fire. These demons caused trouble for the gods and sages, who then appealed to Lord Vishnu for help. Lord Vishnu destroyed Kesan and reclined upon Kesi.
Kesi’s wife, seeking revenge, sought the assistance of the rivers Ganga and Tamiraparani. Both rivers rushed towards the Lord to attack him. Learning of this, Bhoomadevi (Mother Earth) raised the land where the Lord was reclining, forming an elevated platform. The rivers, unable to reach the Lord, circled around him in reverence and began to flow in two circular patterns resembling garlands. Thus, this place came to be known as “Vattaaru” (Circle-shaped Place). Observing the rivers encircling the Lord like garlands, Nammazhwar sang, “Maalai Maadathu Aravanai Mel Vattaar Annan.”
Since Lord Vishnu destroyed Kesan, he is worshipped here as Kesava Perumal. While reclining on Kesi, the demon attempted to escape using his 12 hands. However, the Lord placed a Rudraksha bead on each of Kesi’s 12 hands, preventing his escape. These 12 Rudrakshas later manifested as Shiva temples surrounding Thiruvattaru.
Temple Highlights
- The temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams and is revered in the hymns of Nammazhwar.
- The deity is Adikesava Perumal, reclining on the serpent Anantha, facing west—a rare posture in Vaishnavite temples.
- The temple is famous for its intricate wood carvings, traditional Kerala-style architecture, and beautiful gopurams (tower gates).
Mythological Significance
- The temple is connected with the destruction of the demon Kesan and is named after the circular path (“Vattaaru”) taken by the rivers Ganga and Tamiraparani.
- Lord Vishnu, as Adikesava Perumal, is believed to have subdued the demon and reclined on his body.
Unique Features
- The presiding deity’s form is massive, measuring about 22 feet in length.
- The sanctum features intricate carvings and a roof made of wood, with depictions of various deities and mythological scenes.
- The temple has a sacred tank, and the rivers Ganga and Tamiraparani are believed to have flowed in circular paths around the deity.
Religious Practices
- The temple observes Maha Shivaratri, where devotees visit the 12 Shiva temples surrounding Thiruvattaru and conclude with darshan at Adikesava Perumal Temple.
- Annual festivals in Panguni (March–April) and Purattasi (September–October) are celebrated with grandeur.
Architectural Marvel
- The temple is built in the traditional Kerala Dravidian architectural style, featuring exquisite wooden doors, pillared halls, and granite sculptures.
- The garbhagriha (sanctum) has a unique structure with murals and carvings depicting stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Nearby Attractions
- Padmanabhapuram Palace: Located about 10 km away, this palace is an architectural masterpiece.
- Kanyakumari: The southernmost tip of India, about 45 km away, where you can visit Vivekananda Rock and the Thiruvalluvar Statue.
Location and Accessibility
- Address: Thiruvattaru, Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, PIN: 629 177.
- Nearest City: The temple is around 30 km from Nagercoil and about 45 km from Kanyakumari.
- Transport: It is well-connected by roads and can be accessed via buses and private vehicles from Nagercoil and Kanyakumari. The nearest railway station is at Nagercoil.