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Sri Aravindalochanar Temple

The Irattai Tirupati Aravindalochanar Perumal Temple, located in Thirutholavallimangalam, is one of the twin temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It holds the distinction of being one of the 108 Divya Desams and is also recognized as a Navagraha temple, where the planetary deity is Rahu. In Tamil, "Irattai" means "twin," reflecting the presence of these two significant temples. In this shrine, Lord Vishnu is worshipped as Aravindalochanar, and Lakshmi Mata is revered as Karunthadankanni. The temple is specifically noted as a Rahu Sthalam.

Timings

The temple will be kept open between 07.00 hrs to 18.00hrs with a break of 1 hour for lunch.

Entry Fee

Free of cost

Origin/History :-


The Devapiran Temple, covering an area of 5 acres (2.0 ha), is enclosed by a granite wall measuring 580 feet (180 m) in length and 396 feet (121 m) in width. The temple complex features five precincts. The sanctum enshrines the deity Devapiran, depicted standing and facing east. In the hall before the sanctum, the festival image of Kallapiran, crafted from panchaloha, is housed. Legend has it that the sculptor, captivated by the image, caressed its cheeks, a feature still visible on the statue. The Ardha Mandapa is flanked by two dvarapalas (guardian figures). The temple includes separate shrines for Vishnu's consorts Vaikuntha Nayaki and Chorantha Nayaki, as well as for Senai Mudaliyar, Garuda, Venugopala, Manavalamamunigal, and Yoga Narasimha. Another shrine displays the Dashavatara, depicting Vishnu’s ten avatars. The Mahamandapa and Svarga Mandapa are considered later additions, and the Dwajastamba Mandapa boasts intricately designed pillars. The temple also houses an elephant in a nearby hall.

The Aravindalochanar Perumal Temple, situated on 1 acre (0.40 ha), is surrounded by a granite wall. The sanctum features the image of Aravindalocha facing east, sculpted from shaligrama stone. The hall preceding the sanctum contains the festival image of Aravindalocahanar, flanked by images of Sridevi and Bhudevi. The Mahamandapa includes shrines dedicated to Senai Mudaliyar, Garuda, Venugopala, Manavalamamunigal, and the Alvars.

Historical inscriptions reveal significant contributions to the temple, including land grants and offerings from various rulers, such as Konerimaikondan, Pandya rulers Jatavarman Kulasekaran I and Maravarman Sundara Pandyan, and Vira Pandyan IV. In 1801, the temple served as a fort during the conflict with Veerapandiya Kattabomman. During the Madurai Nayak rule, Vadamalayappa Pillai facilitated the installation of Dasavathara images and the Thiruvenkamudayan hall, along with various offerings. Contributions were also made by individuals like Pillai Perumal, Ellarukum Nallan, and Chockalingam. The wooden chariot with detailed sculptures was installed by Paramasivan Pillai in modern times.


Puranic Significance :-



In this sacred site, a rishi named Athreya Suprabha established and maintained a yaaga saali (ritual site for yagam). While cleaning the yaaga saali, he discovered a bright Tarasu (an equilibrium measuring instrument) and a bow. Upon touching these objects, they transformed into a beautiful man and woman. They revealed to the rishi that they had been cursed by Kubera and had turned into the Tarasu and the bow as a result. The curse would be lifted only if they were touched by Suprabha Rishi. After this revelation, they were freed from their curse and attained moksha (liberation).

Since the Tarasu (also known as Thulaam) and the bow (Vil) were freed and reached paramapadham (the highest spiritual realm), the place was named "Thulam Vil Mangalam." Over time, the name evolved to "Tholai Villi Mangalam."

The presiding deity of this temple emphasises that all living beings should lead their lives happily. Thus, the deity provides blessings in both the Nindra (standing) and Veetrirundha (reclining) forms. The bow (Vil) symbolises the ideal character of a devoted spouse, akin to Sri Rama, who is renowned for his unwavering love for Sita. His exemplary character enabled him to lift the Shiva dhanush (bow) and vanquish enemies like Kakkasuran, Vaali, and Ravanan.

The Tarasu, with its two equal plates, represents the balance of good and bad deeds, determining one's destiny. The temple is also significant because the deity granted darshan (divine presence) to Indra, Vayu (the wind god), and Varuna (the water god), highlighting their essential roles in sustaining life.

The temple’s vimana (tower) is called "Kumudha Vimaanam," named after the Dharbai grass used in the yagam. The sacred water tank, Varuna Theertham, symbolises the rain essential for vegetation.

For the bow (Vil) to function, two elements are required: the arrow and the archer. The deity Sri Srinivasa, representing ideal virtues, is depicted in the standing posture along with his two consorts.

The temple also highlights the significance of love, kindness, and devotion, represented through the eyes of the deity. The deity manifests as "Senthamarai Kannan" and "Aravindha Lochana," with his consort Karuthandangi Naachiyaar. The Dharma Tarasu, with its two equal plates, reflects the equality between the deity and his consort.

Despite the physical separation of the two temples along the Thamirabarani River, they are considered one Divya Desam, symbolising unity despite differences.

The nine Nava Tirupathis each have unique stories of divine intervention and liberation:

  1. Thirukkurugoor - Indra’s lack of respect for his parents.
  2. Thirukkolur - Kubera’s curse.
  3. Thirupperai - Varuna’s respect for his guru.
  4. ThiruVaikundam - A thief’s offering of stolen goods.
  5. Thiru Varaguna Mangai - Savithri’s fight for her husband’s life.
  6. Thirupulingudi - Yagna Sharma’s curse by Vashista Muni’s sons.
  7. Thiru Tholai Villi Mangalam - The liberation of the man and woman from their curse.

In all these sites, Sriman Narayanan provided Sabha Vimochana (liberation from curses) and facilitated their ascent to paramapadham.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Do bathe and wear clean clothes before you enter the temple.
  2. Do respect ancient customs and co-pilgrims while at temple.


  1. Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the temple premises.

Dress Code

  1. For men the dress code is Shirt & Trouser, Dhoti or Pyjamas with upper cloth.
  2. For women the preferred dress code is saree or half-saree with blouse or chudidhar with pyjama and upper cloth.
  3. These rules are applicable for foreigners also. Shorts, mini-skirts, middies, sleeveless tops, low-waist jeans and short-length T-shirts are not allowed.
  4. Pilgrims/visitors will not be allowed inside the temple if dress code is not followed.


How to reach

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  1. By Air: Tuticorin Airport (TCR), located approximately 50 km from the temple. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Thirutholaivillimangalam.
  2. By Train: Tirunelveli Junction, located about 30 km from the temple. From Tirunelveli, you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach Thirutholaivillimangalam. 

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers Near the Temple:

  1. Thamirabarani River: The most significant river near the Aravindalochanar Temple is the Thamirabarani River. This sacred river flows through the Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi districts and is central to the region's religious and cultural practices. Many temples, including the Nava Tirupati temples, are situated along its banks.


Cities Near the Temple:

  1. Tirunelveli: Located about 30 kilometers from the temple, Tirunelveli is a major city in the region. It is known for its historical significance, temples, and vibrant culture. The city is also an important hub for pilgrims visiting the Nava Tirupati temples.
  2. Thoothukudi (Tuticorin): Approximately 50 kilometers from the temple, Thoothukudi is a prominent port city known for its rich history, coastal beauty, and industrial significance. It serves as a gateway for pilgrims travelling to various temples in the region.
  3. Srivaikuntam: Situated about 20 kilometres away, Srivaikuntam is another town known for its temple, the Sri vaikuntanathan Perumal Temple, which is one of the Nava Tirupati temples. It is a popular stop for pilgrims visiting the area.
  4. Alwarthirunagari: Located around 15 kilometres from the temple, this town is significant for being the birthplace of the revered Vaishnavite saint Nammalwar. It is also home to one of the Nava Tirupati temples.