Ulagalantha Perumal Temple, Tirukoyilur
The Ulagalantha Perumal Temple in Tirukoyilur, Tamil Nadu, is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, revered as Ulagalantha Perumal. Constructed in the Dravidian architectural style, it is celebrated in the early Tamil Vaishnava canon and is recognized as one of the 108 Divya Desams. The temple is historically significant, with contributions from Medieval Cholas, Vijayanagara kings, and Madurai Nayaks, and is particularly known for its legends involving Vishnu's Vamana avatar.
Key Facts
- ›The temple is dedicated to Vishnu, worshipped as Ulagalantha Perumal, and his consort Lakshmi, known as Poongothai.
- ›It is one of the 108 Divya Desams, sacred abodes of Vishnu revered in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham.
- ›The temple is believed to have been built by the Medieval Cholas, with later patronage from Vijayanagara kings and Madurai Nayaks.
- ›It covers an area of 5 acres and features the third tallest temple tower in Tamil Nadu, measuring 192 ft (59 m).
- ›Legend states that Vishnu appeared here as Vamana to quell the pride of asura King Bali.
- ›It is considered the place where the first three Alvar saints attained salvation.
Vishnu, Lakshmi
- Revered In the Naalayira Divya Prabandham
- One of the 108 Divya Desams
- Site Where the First Three Alvars Attained Salvation
- One of the Panchakanna Kshetrams
Medieval Cholas, Vijayanagara Empire, Madurai Nayaks
Panguni Brahmmotsavam, Masi Magam, Purattasi Pavithra Utsavavm, Navaratri, Srirama Navami, Sri Ramanuja Jayanthi, Vasanth Utsavam, Vaikasi Visaka Garuda Seva, Nammalvar Sattrumurai, Aani Perialvar Sattrumurai, Aadi Thiruvadipooram, Andal Utsavam, Avani Sri Jayanthi, Uriyadi Utsavam, Aipasi Mudalazwar Sattrumurai, Sri Manavala Mamunigal Utsav, Karthikai Kaisika Ekadasi, Tirukarthikai, Margali Rapathu, Pagal Pathu, Vaikunta Ekadashi
Granite, Brick, Tharu Wood
Medieval Cholas, Vijayanagara Kings, Madurai Nayaks, Ranakesari Raman
- Imposing Image of Ulagalantha Perumal Made of Tharu Wood With Foot Raised
Pennar River
About Ulagalantha Perumal Temple, Tirukoyilur
The Ulagalantha Perumal Temple, also known as the Trivikrama Temple, is a significant Hindu temple located in Tirukkoyilur, Tamil Nadu, India. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it is celebrated for its association with the Vamana avatar and is one of the 108 Divya Desams, sacred abodes of Vishnu revered in the early medieval Tamil canon of the Alvar saints. The temple's architecture follows the Dravidian style, and it is adorned with an eleven-tiered rajagopuram that stands as the third tallest temple tower in Tamil Nadu.
Legend and Significance
According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Vishnu appeared at this site as Vamana, a Brahmin dwarf, to measure the three worlds with his divine steps, thereby subduing the pride of the asura king Mahabali. This event is central to the temple's legend. Furthermore, the Ulagalantha Perumal Temple holds profound religious significance as it is believed to be the place where the first three Alvar saints—Poigai Alvar, Bhoothathalvar, and Peyalvar—attained salvation. The temple also features prominently in the Panchakanna (Krishnaranya) Kshetrams, a group of five holy temples associated with Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu.
History and Architecture
The temple's construction is attributed to the Medieval Cholas, with subsequent expansions and contributions made by Vijayanagara kings and Madurai Nayaks, as evidenced by inscriptions found within the complex. Originally built with bricks, the sanctum was later reconstructed with granite by a chieftain named Ranakesari Raman, who also added pinnacles and a veranda. The temple complex spans five acres and houses residential buildings within its precincts. A notable architectural feature is the imposing wooden image of Ulagalantha Perumal with his foot raised, and the presence of Vishnudurga in the sanctum sanctorum is considered a unique aspect.
Religious Practices and Festivals
Daily rituals are performed six times a day, including decoration, food offerings, and lamp waving for both Ulagalantha Perumal and Poongothai. The temple observes a dozen annual festivals, with the 15-day Panguni Brahmmotsavam in March–April being the most prominent. During the Masi Magam festival, the festive deity is paraded to Cuddalore. The temple is maintained by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu, ensuring the continuation of its rituals and traditions.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main deity worshipped at Ulagalantha Perumal Temple?
The principal deity worshipped at the Ulagalantha Perumal Temple is Vishnu, who is venerated in his form as Ulagalantha Perumal. His consort, Lakshmi, is worshipped as Poongothai.
What is the architectural style of the Ulagalantha Perumal Temple?
The Ulagalantha Perumal Temple is constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture. This style is characterized by towering gopurams (gateway towers) and intricately carved structures.
What is the historical significance of the Ulagalantha Perumal Temple?
The temple is historically significant as it is believed to have been built by the Medieval Cholas, with later contributions from Vijayanagara kings and Madurai Nayaks. It also holds importance as the site where the first three Alvar saints attained salvation.
What is the legend associated with Ulagalantha Perumal Temple?
According to Hindu scriptures, Vishnu appeared as the Vamana avatar, a Brahmin dwarf, at this site to measure the three worlds with his steps, quelling the pride of the asura king Mahabali. The temple is also associated with the sage Mrikandu's penance to witness this divine appearance.
What are the major festivals celebrated at the temple?
The temple observes twelve yearly festivals, with the most prominent being the 15-day Panguni Brahmmotsavam in March-April, which includes Sri Pushpavalli Thayar Oonjal. The Masi Magam festival in February-March also sees the festive deity carried to Cuddalore.
Is the Ulagalantha Perumal Temple a pilgrimage site?
Yes, the Ulagalantha Perumal Temple is a significant pilgrimage site. It is revered in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham and classified as one of the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Vishnu.
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