Presiding Deity: Thiruvaazhmaarbar
The main deity of Arulmigu Thiruvazhmārpan Temple is Thiruvaazhmaarbar, a divine form of Lord Vishnu. This idol, which stands a majestic nine feet tall, is depicted with four hands holding a conch, a discus, and making the Abhaya Mudra (gesture of protection) in a seated posture. The idol is crafted using a unique technique called Kadu Sarkarai Yogam, which blends stone and lime to form the idol. It is then coated with a special paste made from mustard seeds and sugar. Due to this sacred creation method, the temple’s main idol does not undergo the traditional abhishekam (ritual bathing). Instead, only the festival idol is bathed during the temple rituals.
Temple History: The Birthplace of Nammazhwar
Thirupathisaram is renowned as the birthplace of Nammazhwar, one of the 12 Alvars and a revered incarnation of Lord Vishnu. According to temple legends, Kurunadu Kari Maran, a small ruler, and his wife Udaya Nangkai prayed to Lord Vishnu for a child after many years of childlessness. Their heartfelt devotion was answered when Lord Vishnu blessed them, promising to incarnate as their son.
The divine child, Nammazhwar, was born on the full moon day of the Visaka star in the Tamil month of Vaikasi. Following divine instructions, the newborn was placed under a fig tree at Thirunagari, where he crawled and seated himself in a meditative Padmasana posture, holding the Jnana Mudra. This miraculous event was witnessed by many, who praised the divine spectacle.
For the next sixteen years, Nammazhwar remained immersed in profound meditation and spiritual enlightenment. This temple is, therefore, revered as the birthplace of Nammazhwar, while Thirunagari is honored as the place where he attained divine wisdom.
Festivals at Thiruvazhmārpan Temple
The Arulmigu Thiruvazhmārpan Temple celebrates several important festivals:
- Aadi Swathi: This day marks the event when Lord Vishnu took Kulasekara Azhwar to Vaikuntha. This is a significant day in the temple’s calendar.
- Ten-Day Festival in Chithirai: A vibrant festival celebrated annually, drawing many devotees.
- Purattasi Saturdays: Special observances held on the Saturdays during the month of Purattasi.
- Avani Thiruvonam: A major celebration in the temple.
- Kulasekara Azhwar Swing Service: A unique swing service performed only for Kulasekara Azhwar in the Kanyakumari district.
Location: Arulmigu Thiruvazhmārpan Temple
Address:
Arulmigu Thiruvazhmārpan Temple
Thirupathi Sāram – 629 901
Nagarkovil, Kanyakumari District