Introduction
The Thirukkurungudi Temple, located in Thirukkurungudi, Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu, is an ancient and revered shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped here as Azhagia Nambirayar or Vaishnava Nambi, and his consort Goddess Kurungudivalli Nachiar. This temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams, the holy abodes of Vishnu praised in the hymns of the Azhwars (saint poets). The temple’s rich history, architectural grandeur, and spiritual significance make it a prominent pilgrimage site for devotees.
Temple History and Legends
Thala Perumai (Temple’s Unique Significance)
Thirukkurungudi holds a special place in Vaishnavism due to its association with several legends and saints:
- Azhwar Hymns: The temple is glorified in the Mangalasasanam hymns of celebrated Vaishnavite saints like Tirumazhisai Azhwar, Nammazhwar, Periazhwar, and Tirumangai Azhwar, highlighting its spiritual prominence.
- Nambaduvan’s Devotion: A devotee named Nambaduvan, belonging to a marginalized community, was a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu. Due to societal restrictions, he couldn’t have darshan (sight) of the Lord from inside the temple. Moved by his devotion, it’s believed that the Lord instructed the temple’s flag post (Kodimaram) to move slightly, allowing Nambaduvan to have His darshan from outside. To this day, the flag post remains slightly tilted, symbolizing this legend.
- Saiva-Vaishnava Harmony: The temple complex uniquely houses shrines for both Lord Shiva and Lord Bhairava, exemplifying the harmonious coexistence of Saivism and Vaishnavism. During rituals, there’s a traditional exchange between priests to ensure that both deities receive due offerings, reflecting mutual respect between the two sects.
Temple Architecture
The temple showcases classic Dravidian architecture with intricate carvings and towering structures:
- Vimana: The sanctum sanctorum of Lord Vaishnava Nambi is crowned with the Panchaketa Vimana, a distinctive architectural feature.
- Shrines: Apart from the main deity, the temple houses shrines for Goddess Kurungudivalli Nachiar and other deities, each reflecting detailed craftsmanship.
- Flag Post: The slightly tilted Kodi Maram (flag post) stands as a testament to the legend of Nambaduvan’s devotion.
Major Festivals and Rituals
The temple celebrates numerous festivals with grandeur:
- Chithirai Vasanth Utsav (April-May): A spring festival marking the onset of the Tamil New Year.
- Vaikasi Jeshtabishekam (May-June): A special abhishekam (ritual bathing) performed during the Tamil month of Vaikasi.
- Aavani Pavithra Utsav (August-September): A purification festival observed in the Tamil month of Aavani.
- Purattasi Navarathri (September-October): Nine nights of festivities dedicated to the divine feminine energy.
- Aipasi Swing Festival (October-November): A unique festival where the deity is placed on a swing, symbolizing cosmic rhythm.
- Thai Float Festival (January-February): A vibrant festival where the deity is taken on a float in the temple tank.
- Panguni Brahmmotsavam (March-April): The grand annual festival attracting thousands of devotees.
Temple Timings
The temple is open for devotees during the following hours:
- Morning: 6:30 AM – 12:00 PM
- Evening: 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM
How to Reach Thirukkurungudi Temple
- By Air: The nearest airport is Tuticorin Airport, approximately 70 km away.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Valliyur, about 15 km from the temple.
- By Road: Thirukkurungudi is well-connected by roads. Regular buses and taxis are available from nearby cities like Tirunelveli and Nagercoil.
Contact Information
- Address: Sri Azhagia Nambirayar (Vaishnava Nambi) Temple, Thirukkurungudi – 627 115, Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu, India.