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Sri Deiva Nayaga Perumal Temple

Thiru Devanar Thogai (Sri Deiva Nayaga Perumal), also known as the Madhava Perumal Temple, is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located in Thirunangur, a village on the outskirts of Sirkazhi in Tamil Nadu, South India. Constructed in the traditional Dravidian architectural style, this temple is celebrated in the Divya Prabandha, an ancient Tamil canon composed by the Azhwar saints during the 6th to 9th centuries AD. The temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Vishnu, who is worshipped here as Madhavaperumal, with his consort Lakshmi revered as Kadalmagal. Thiru devanar thogai is one of the eleven Divya Desams in Thirunangur and holds a special place in the devotional literature of Thirumangai Alvar.

Timings

Morning : 8.00 AM to 11.30 AM & Evening : 5.30 PM to 7.30 PM

Entry Fee

No entry fee is charged

The Madhava Perumal Temple, also known as Thiru devanar thogai, holds significant historical and spiritual importance in the Vaishnava tradition. It is glorified in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham, the Tamil canon composed by the Alvar saints, including Periyalvar, Thirumalisai Alvar, and Thirumangai Alvar, between the 7th and 9th centuries AD. The temple is recognized as a Divya Desam, one of the 108 sacred Vishnu temples mentioned in this revered text.

Throughout history, the temple has been mentioned in various publications from the 18th and 19th centuries, including "108 Tirupathi Anthathi" by Divya Kavi Pillai Perumal Aiyangar. Thirumangai Alvar, one of the prominent Alvars, is believed to visit the temple annually to consecrate the eleven deities during the temple’s festival, further emphasising its spiritual significance.


Legend of Madhava Perumal Temple :



The legend associated with the Madhava Perumal Temple underscores Vishnu's role as the supreme protector and sustainer of the universe. According to the story, Sati, the consort of Shiva, sacrificed herself at a grand yajna (sacrifice) organised by her father, Daksha, unable to bear the humiliation directed at her husband. Overcome with grief and rage, Shiva began his Tandava, the cosmic dance of destruction, with Sati's body on his shoulders. As Shiva’s frenzied dance continued, his dishevelled hair touched the ground, and each time it did, eleven new incarnations of Shiva emerged.

Since Shiva is associated with destruction, the emergence of these forms threatened the existence of all living beings. Fearing the imminent destruction of the universe, the Devas and sages prayed to Vishnu to restore balance. Responding to their pleas, Vishnu descended to earth and calmed Shiva’s fury. To honour Shiva’s request, Vishnu also took on eleven forms, which are believed to be enshrined in the eleven Thirunangur Tirupathi temples, including the Madhava Perumal Temple. This temple is thus one of the 108 Divya Desams.

Do's and Don'ts

  1. Cultural Heritage: Temples are an integral part of our cultural and historical heritage. They are living testimonies of ancient architectural, artistic, and spiritual traditions, reflecting the rich history and cultural diversity of the region.
  2. Spiritual Significance: Temples are sacred spaces for worship and spiritual practices. Preserving them maintains the sanctity and continuity of religious rituals, providing a place for devotees to connect with the divine.
  3. Architectural Marvels: Many temples are architectural masterpieces, showcasing advanced engineering, artistic sculptures, and intricate designs. Preserving them helps protect these irreplaceable works of art.
  4. Community Identity: Temples often serve as the heart of a community, fostering a sense of identity, unity, and continuity among the people. They are centres of social and cultural gatherings, festivals, and traditions.
  5. Tourism and Economy: Temples attract pilgrims and tourists, contributing to the local economy. Preservation ensures that these sites continue to be accessible and attractive to visitors, boosting tourism and related economic activities.
  1. Regular Maintenance: Carry out routine inspections and maintenance of the temple structure, including the roof, walls, sculptures, and paintings. Address any damage, wear, or deterioration promptly to prevent further decay.
  2. Conservation Techniques: Employ traditional and modern conservation techniques to restore and protect the architectural and artistic elements of the temple. This includes using appropriate materials and methods that align with the original construction.
  3. Environmental Protection: Ensure that the surrounding environment is protected and preserved. Control pollution, manage vegetation, and maintain the temple tank or river to prevent damage from environmental factors.
  4. Community Involvement: Engage the local community in preservation efforts. Educate them about the importance of the temple, encourage volunteerism, and involve them in the maintenance and protection activities.
  5. Government and NGO Support: Seek assistance from government bodies, heritage conservation organisations, and NGOs that specialise in the preservation of historical and cultural sites. Funding, expertise, and resources from these entities can significantly aid in preservation efforts.
  6. Documentation and Research: Document the temple’s history, architecture, and rituals through research and publications. This helps in preserving knowledge for future generations and provides valuable information for restoration projects.
  7. Legal Protection: Advocate for legal protection of the temple as a heritage site. Ensure that laws and regulations are in place to prevent unauthorised alterations, encroachments, or any activities that could harm the temple.

Dress Code

For Men : Men are expected to wear traditional attire such as a dhoti or veshti, with or without an angavastram (upper cloth). Western clothing like pants and shirts are typically discouraged inside the temple premises.

For Women : Women should wear sarees, or salwar kameez with a dupatta, ensuring their attire is modest and covers the body appropriately. Avoid wearing Western outfits like skirts, jeans, or short dresses.

How to reach

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By Air : The temple is located approximately 150 km from Trichy International Airport. Travellers can take road transport from the airport to reach the temple.

By Railway : The nearest railway station is in Sirkazhi town, which is about 7 km from the temple.

By Road : The temple can be reached by bus or private vehicle from nearby towns such as Sirkazhi and Mayiladuthurai. Sirkazhi New bus terminal is the nearest to the temple.

Nearby Cities and Rivers

Rivers:

  1. River Kaveri: One of the major rivers of South India, it flows near the temple, and its branch, the River Manni, is closer to the temple.


Cities:

  1. Sirkazhi: A town close to Thirunangur, Sirkazhi is known for its historical significance and proximity to several temples, including the Madhava Perumal Temple.
  2. Mayiladuthurai: A larger town near Thirunangur, Mayiladuthurai is an important cultural and religious centre in Tamil Nadu and serves as a gateway to many temples in the region.