The Nava Tirupathi Temples are a group of nine ancient Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located along the banks of the Thamirabarani River in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, India. These temples are part of the 108 Divya Desams, which are sacred abodes of Vishnu revered in the Vaishnavite tradition.
Temples Included in Nava Tirupathi:
- Srivaikuntam (Sri Vaikuntanatha Perumal Temple)
- Thiruvaragunamangai (Vijayasana Perumal Temple)
- Thirupuliyangudi (Kaaisinavendhan Perumal Temple)
- Natham (Mayakoothar Perumal Temple)
- Thirukulanthai (Athinathan Perumal Temple)
- Thiruperai (Magara Nedung Kuzhai Kaathar Perumal Temple)
- Thirukolur (Vaithamanidhi Perumal Temple)
- ThirukkuRungudi (Azhagiya Nambi Perumal Temple)
- Alwarthirunagari (Aadinarayana Perumal Temple)
Key Features and Importance:
1. Srivaikuntam (Sri Vaikuntanatha Perumal Temple)
- Deity: Vaikuntanatha Perumal
- Significance: Believed to be a place where sins are absolved. The deity is known for his majestic form and is said to be very powerful.
2. Thiruvaragunamangai (Vijayasana Perumal Temple)
- Deity: Vijayasana Perumal
- Significance: The deity is in a seated posture, and the temple is associated with relief from planetary afflictions, particularly those caused by Saturn (Shani).
3. Thirupuliyangudi (Kaaisinavendhan Perumal Temple)
- Deity: Bhoomipalar Perumal
- Significance: Known for the unique posture of the deity resting his head on a raised hand. It is believed to grant relief from various doshas.
4. Natham (Mayakoothar Perumal Temple)
- Deity: Mayakoothar Perumal
- Significance: Known for the deity’s beautiful dance posture. The temple is believed to protect devotees from evil forces and enemies.
5. Thirukulanthai (Athinathan Perumal Temple)
- Deity: Athinathan Perumal
- Significance: It is said to bestow progeny and fulfill the wishes of childless couples.
6. Thiruperai (Magara Nedung Kuzhai Kaathar Perumal Temple)
- Deity: Magara Nedung Kuzhai Kaathar Perumal
- Significance: Associated with the legend of Goddess Lakshmi emerging from a lotus. The temple is believed to bring prosperity and wealth.
7. Thirukolur (Vaithamanidhi Perumal Temple)
- Deity: Vaithamanidhi Perumal
- Significance: Known for the deity’s reclining posture. It is believed to bring financial stability and eliminate debts.
8. ThirukkuRungudi (Azhagiya Nambi Perumal Temple)
- Deity: Azhagiya Nambi Perumal
- Significance: Known for the beauty of the deity. The temple is associated with granting boons and fulfilling desires.
9. Alwarthirunagari (Aadinarayana Perumal Temple)
- Deity: Aadinarayana Perumal
- Significance: The temple is closely associated with the Alwars, particularly Nammalvar. It is believed to bestow knowledge and spiritual enlightenment.
Unique Aspects:
- Architecture: Each temple showcases the Dravidian style of architecture, with intricate carvings and beautiful sculptures.
- Festivals: The temples host several festivals, including the Vaikunta Ekadasi, Garuda Sevai, and Panguni Uthiram, drawing numerous devotees.
- Pilgrimage: A visit to the Nava Tirupathi temples is considered highly auspicious and is often undertaken to seek divine blessings for various aspects of life, including health, wealth, and spiritual progress.
Accessibility:
- Location: The temples are spread along the banks of the Thamirabarani River and are accessible from Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi.
- Transportation: Local buses, taxis, and autos are available for pilgrims. The nearest railway station is in Tirunelveli, and the nearest airport is in Thoothukudi.
Tips for Visitors:
- Dress Code: Traditional attire is recommended. Men should wear dhotis and remove their shirts, while women should wear sarees or salwar kameez.
- Timings: The temples generally open early in the morning and close by evening, with a break in the afternoon. It is advisable to check the specific timings for each temple.
- Accommodation: Options range from budget lodges to more comfortable hotels in nearby towns like Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi.
The Nava Tirupathi Temples offer a spiritually enriching experience, with each temple providing a unique aspect of Lord Vishnu’s divine presence. The pilgrimage is not just a journey through sacred spaces but also a deep dive into the rich cultural and religious heritage of Tamil Nadu.
