Mannargudi is administered by a municipality established in 1866. As of 2011, the municipality covered an area of 11.55 km2 (4.46 sq mi) and had a population of 66,999. Mannargudi comes under the Mannargudi assembly constituency which elects a member to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly once every five years and it is a part of the Nagappattinam constituency which elects its Member of Parliament (MP) once in five years. Roadways are the major mode of transportation to the town and it also has rail connectivity. The nearest seaport, Nagapattinam Port, is located 52 km (32 mi) from Mannargudi, while the nearest airport,Tiruchirappalli International Airport, is located 97 km (60 mi) from the town.
Etymology:
The word Mannargudi is derived from the Tamil word Mannar referring to Vishnu and gudi referring to a place, meaning the “Place of Vishnu”. The town was also called “Mannarkovil” or “Rajamannarkoil” after the Rajagopalaswamy temple.[1] The town is locally referred as “Mannai”. Hindus refer the place as “Dakshina Dwarka”, meaning Southern Dwarka.[2] The town was known during the period of Nayaks for the 25 ft (7.6 m) tall compound wall around the Rajagopalaswamy temple, leading to the adage Mannargudi Mathil Azhagu, (meaning “the walls of Mannargudi are beautiful”).[3] The town is also called “Koil mattrum Madil Nagaram” referring to the compound wall around the temple.[4]
History:
Mannargudi was founded as an agraharam village as Rajadhiraja Chaturvedimangalam by the Medieval Chola king Rajadhiraja Chola (1018–1054 CE),[1][6] who constructed the Jayam Kondanathar temple and the Rajathirajeswara temple. The Rajagopalaswami temple is believed to have been constructed by Kulothunga Chola I (1070–1125 CE), with bricks and mortar, indicated by various stone inscriptions found at the site.[1][3]The town started to grow around the temple.[7] Successive kings of the Chola empire, Rajaraja Chola III(1216–56 CE) and Rajendra Chola III (1246–79 CE), and Thanjavur Nayak king Achyuta Deva Raya(1529–1542 CE) expanded the temple.[8] The temple contains inscriptions of the Hoysala kings and information about grants by Vijayanagara kings, and many records of the later Nayaks and Marathas. A fort was constructed under the rule of the Hoysala kings, and Hindu temples were built under the leadership of both Hoysala and Pandya rulers.[1]
Mannargudi was conquered by the Delhi Sultanate in 1311 CE. Following brief occupations by the Madurai Sultanate and the Hoysalas, it became a part of the Vijayanagar Empire. After the decline of Vijayanagar Empire, Mannargudi was ruled by the Thanjavur Nayaks. The Thanjavur Nayaks made the temple as their dynastic and primary shrine and made significant additions.[9] The current temple structure, hall of thousand pillars, main gopuram (temple gateway tower) and the big compound wall around the temple were built by the king Vijaya Raghava Nayak (1532–1575 CE).[3] Raghunathabhyudayam, a doctrine by Nayaksexplains the donation of an armour studded with precious stones to the main deity of the temple by the king.[8] It is believed Vijaya Raghava Nayak erected the large tower in front of the temple so that he could view the Srirangam Ranganathaswamy temple.[10] He was also called “Mannarudasan” as he carried out extensive renovations of the Rajagopalaswami temple complex and is credited by some to have reclaimed the land from the surrounding forest.[6]
The Thanjavur Marathas gained control during the later part of 18th century until its annexation by theBritish East India Company in 1799.[3] It was constituted as a municipality during 1866 and was a part of the erstwhile Tanjore district. The town was the headquarters and the only town in Mannargudi taluk.[11] The town emerged as one of the chief centres of inland trade in the district during the British rule. Rice, betel leaves, groundnut, oil, metal articles and clothes were the major exports.[12] A Methodist mission was established in the town during the third decade of the 19th century.[13] During 1944, Chinese copper coins were unearthed from Thaliketti village in the region, dated to Sui period (585 CE) to the end of Song period (1275 CE). The coins indicate a possible Buddhist influence in the region.[14] Mannargudi continued to be part of Tanjore district until India’s independence in 1947 and Thanjavur district until 1991 and subsequently a part of the newly formedTiruvarur district.
Econamy:
Agriculture is the principal occupation of the people of Mannargudi. Mannargudi is also known for cloth weaving and metal industries.[16] Being an agricultural town, Mannargudi’s economy largely depends on the income from agriculture.[17] The crops cultivated include paddy, cotton, sugarcane, and pulses like urad and mung bean. The agriculture around the town mainly depends on the rivers Koraiyaru, Mullaiyar and Pamaniyar, while the other sources of irrigation are bore-wells. There are no big industries around the town, while there are a few small scale industries like a sugarcane factory, a fertilizer industry, a beer factory and a chemical factory in and around the town. There is a gas treatment and filling plant in Edayarnatham, a village in the outskirts of Mannargudi.[18] A 107.8 MW Combined Cycle Power plant of Tamil Nadu Electricity Board (TNEB) functions at Thirumakkottai, a village 18 km (11 mi) away from Mannargudi.[19]
Mannargudi town has one of the largest coal reserves in the country. The total quantity of lignite reserves identified in the area is around 19,500 million tonnes.[20] Exploration of coal bed methane in the area was not started until 2008.[17] The commercial exploration of the coal bed methane reserves located under built up and agricultural areas became difficult with the protest of farmers in the region.[2
Culture:
Mannargudi has three prominent Hindu temples, namely, Jayamgondanatha temple, Rajathi Rajeswara temple and Raja Gopalaswamy temple. Rajagopalaswamy temple is the most prominent landmark in the town. During the Tamil months ofPanguni (March–April), the most prominent festival of the temple, namely, Pangunith Thirivuzha, is celebrated. Theppothsavam, the float festival, celebrated during the Tamil month of Aani (June–July) and Adipooram, the chariot festival, celebrated during the Tamil month of Aadi (July-Aug) are other prominent festivals of the temple that attract visitors from nearby villages and towns to Mannargudi.[18] The Nayak kings of the 15th century promoted music in the temples. Instruments like Mukhavina, Dande, Kombu, Chandravalaya, Bheri and Nagaswaram were commonly used in the temple service.[10] Haridra Nadhi, the temple tank associated with the Rajagopalaswamy temple, is one of the largest temple tanks in the state. Hindu pilgrims take a holy dip in the tank during festive occasions.[31]
Mannargudi has four mosques, located at Theradi, Keela Raja Veethi, Big Bazar Street and Thamari Kuzlam Vada Karai.
Mallinatha Swamy temple is a Jain temple located in the town. Mallinathar is the 19th Tirthankara of the Jainism. It is an ancient temple built during the reign of the Chola dynasty in the twelfth century and is one of the prominent ancient Jain temples in the state. Apart from the idol of Mallinathar, there are idols of Dharma Devi, Saraswathi Devi, Padmavathy Devi, Jawalamalini Amman among others.[1]
The Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary, located 12 km (7.5 mi) is a prominent visitor attraction for the people of Mannargudi.[18] Muthupet Lagoon, a mangrove forest located 29 km (18 mi) away from the town, is another tourist attraction for the citizens of the town
Education:
There are 17 schools and three arts colleges in Mannargudi.[45] The Findlay Higher Secondary School (formerly Findlay College), founded by the Wesleyan Mission in 1845, is the oldest educational institution in the town.[1][46] Originally started as a secondary school, the college was upgraded to a high school and a college in 1883.[46] It was affiliated to the Madras University in 1898.[1] There are two engineering colleges and two polytechnic colleges in the town. The Mannai Rajagopalaswami Government Arts College, founded in 1971,[47] and the Sengamala Thayar Educational Trust Women’s College are the two colleges in the town
Transportation:
The State Highway SH-63 connecting Thanjavur with Kodikkarai, SH-66 connecting Kumbakonam with Adirampattinam, SH-202 connecting the district headquarters Tiruvarur with Muthupet and SH-146 connecting Mannargudi with Sethubavachatram, are the major highways connecting Mannargudi with other towns. There are two bus stands in the town, with the major bus stand having 19 bus bays and a TNSTC ticket reservation counter.[54][58] The Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation operates daily services connecting cities to Mannargudi. The corporation operates a computerised reservation centre in the bus stand.[59] The State Express Transport Corporation operates long distance buses connecting the town to cities like Chennai and Bengaluru. The major inter-city bus routes are to towns like Kumbakonam,Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Karaikal, Muthupet, and Pattukottai.[60]
Mannargudi is connected to Nidamangalam rail line by a branch line covering a distance of 18 km (11 mi).[62] The expansion of the line to broad gauge was completed and opened to passenger traffic on 27 September 2011, with an express train to Chennai.[63] The nearest railway junction is Needamangalam Junction. There are daily passenger trains to Thanjavur and Mayiladuthurai and an express train each to Coimbatore and Chennai from Mannargudi.[64]
The nearest seaport is Nagapattinam Port, 52 km (32 mi) away, while the nearest airport is the Tiruchirappalli International Airport, 97 km (60 mi) from the town.[61]
About temple:
Rajagopalaswami Temple is a Vaishnavite shrine located in the town of mannargudi,situated in Thiruvarur district tamilnadu,The presiding deity is rajagopalaswami a form of Lord Krishna. The temple spread over an area of 23acres (93,000m) and is one of the important vaishnavite shrine in india.The Temple is called Dakshina Dwaraka .The temple is 1000years old, there is a biggest sacred tank Haridranadhi near the temple,1,158 feet long and 837 feet broad making it one of the largest temple tank in india, The image of presiding deity is 07feet tall that resembles balaji of tirupati and here he is flanked by his consorts Boodevi and Sreedevi (thayar sri Rukmini, Sathyabhama, senkamalvalli) The sthala vriksham of the temple is Punnai. Thayar and Anjaneyar sannidhi are in the outer prakaram,Thayar is.Thayar is known as SengamalaThayar and Her idol is never taken out of the temple hence she is known as PadiThaandaaPatni (One, who never crosses the threshold of the house) Thayarsannidhi has beautifully carved pillars and a Tulsimaadam. The flag post is in front of the Rajagopalaswamysannidhi and near to it is the PatalaAnjaneyar, The Anjaneyar idol half concealed in the earth.There are 16 Gopurams,7 Prakarams with 24 shrines, 7 beautyful mandapams adorning the inside and 9 sacred theerthams. There is a Garuda Sthamba, a monolithic pillar 50ft tall in the forefront with a miniature Garuda shrine on the top.
The temple was first constructed by Kulothunga Chola I(1070-1125 A.D.), with bricks and mortar, indicated by various stone inscription found in the site. The innermost sanctum here about a thousand years old although the first stone structure here was built only during the reign of Kulottunga Chola I (1113 AD); this temple is also referred to as Kulottunga Chola Vinnagaram. Most of the outer structures date back to the later Vijayanagara period marked by a spate of temple construction projects in Tamilnadu. The place Mannargudi is termed Sri Rajathi Raja Chathurvedhi Mangalam and the town started to grow around the temple. Successive kings of the Chola empire, Rajaraja Chola III, Rajendra Chola III and kings of Thanjavur Nayaks, Achyuta Deva Raya expanded the temple. The temple contains inscriptions of the Hoysala kings and some Vijayanagara grants, and many records of the later Nayaks and Marathas.The Thanjavur Nayaks made the temple as their dynastic and primary shrine and made significant additions.The current temple structure, hall of 1000 pillars, main gopuram(temple gateway tower) and the big compound wall around the temple was built by the king Vijayaraghava Nayak(1532-1575 A.D.).Raghunathabhyudayam, a doctrine by Nayaks explains the donation of an armour studded with precious stones to the main deity by the king.He erected the big tower in the temple so that he can view theSrirangam Ranganathaswamy temple from the top of Mannargudi. The Nayaks were specially interested in music and it was promoted in both the temples. Instruments
like Mukhavina, Dande, Kombu, Chandravalaya,Bheri and Nadhaswaram were commonly used in the temple service.
This temple is located facing east direction. But, there is also a saying that the temple might have been facing west direction and because of this the gopuram which is called as “MelaVaasal” (Merku – west), there is a Mandapam by named “MaaligaiMedu”, where the Tanjore kings used to come and stay to worship Sri Rajagopalaswamy. And also the Sangu and Chakkaramtheerthams are interchanged. But anyway, at present the temple is located facing the east direction
A proverb, which explains the greatness of Mannargudi, is
“KovilPaadhi, KulamPaadhi”
This proverb explains that half (Paadhi) of this MannargudiKshetram is surrounded by temple (Kovil) and rest by Kulam (Pond).
Mannargudi is found on the Southeast part of Tanjore and there are lots of bus facilities are available from Tanjore, Kumbakonam etc. In this Mannargudi, other saivam temples are also found which are also said to be greatest.
In Telugu, “Gudi” means temple. Since, Sri Rajagopalaswamy who is also called with the name “Rajamannar”, this sthalam is popularly called as “RajamannarGudi”.
The Moolavar of this sthalam is Para Vasudevar. He is found in NindraThirukkolam along with Sri Devi and Bhoomadevi. The Moolavar is also called with other names as “Sri VidhyaRajagopalan”. He is found in a gigantic posture wearing silver kavacham along with Sanghu, Chakkaram and Gadhai in Standing position.
The Utsavar of this sthalam is Sri Rajagopalaswamy, whose posture and beauty is unexplainable. He is giving his seva in standing position and his legs slightly bent alongside of the cow. He is found along with the Sengkol (an instrument which is found in the hands of the Kings). The shape of the sengkol also needs to be explained. We can see a long, straight golden sengkol in which the edge is 3 times coiled. This golden sengkol is found on the right hand of Sri Rajagopalaswamy and his left hand is placed over the shoulder of Sri SathyaBhama who is found on the left side of the Perumal.
Towards the Perumal, we can find other four types of Perumals such as:
- YagaMoorthy
- BhalaMoorthy
- SnanaMoorthy
- SayanaMoorthy
We can also find a small golden Navaneedha Krishnan idol on Garuda Vaghanam close to the Perumal and a small idol of SanthanaGopalan is also found. It is believed that if any person who doesn’t have children, are blessed with the worship of this Perumal.
None of the Alwars have sung of the glory of this shrine, as this temple came into existence only at a later date. However, Manavala Maamuni has sung praises of this temple; so has Muthuswamy Deekshitar (18th century)- one of the revered composers in the Karnatic Music idiom.
Oothukkaadu Venkatasubbaier, (who preceded the Karnatic Music trinity), another composer in the Karnatic Music idiom made Rajagopala (Krishna) of Mannargudi the center of the multitude of his compositions (as did Jayadeva with Jagannath of Puri, in his Geetagovindam). Labeled Krishna Gaanam, several of Oothukkadu Venkatasubbaiyer’s compositions in Tamil and in Sanskrit have attained popularity during this century.
Muthuswamy Deekshitar’s kriti Santhaana Gopala Krishnam in the Raga Khamaas, eulogizes this shrine at Mannargudi, as do his kritis Sree Rajagopala in the Raga Saveri, the kriti Sree Venugopala in the Raga Kurinji and the kriti Sree Vidya Rajagopalam in the Raga Jaganmohini. Deekshitar refers to the annual float festival in the Haridranadhi tank, and to the Mohini Alankaram in the annual Iraappattu Utsavam in his kritis, and also describes Krishna as an embodiment of the Sree Vidya Mantram.
Sthalapuranam
It is said that all the temples, which are found along the shore of Cauvery, are said to be greatest. On the banks of Cauvery, a Pushkarani by named “Hemapushkarani” is found, where Thirukkudanthaisthalam is found. To the southeast direction of this sthalam, a small vanam (forest) called “SenbagaVanam” is found where 1008 Muni did severe penance (Tapas) towards the Perumal. One among these 1008 Munis was “Vahni Muni” who has lots of greatness amongst those Muni. He had two children by named “Gopilar” and “Gopilayar”. They both had a great Bhakti towards Sriman Narayanan gave his seva and asked for the Varam what they wanted. Both asked that they should get the Moksham the final destiny. For this Sri Vishnu said that if they worship Sri Kannapiran in Dwaraka, they would attain Moksham and Vanished from that place.
Getting the varam and knowing through which way they’ll attain the Moksham they started to travel along Dwaraka to worship Sri Kannan. While they were traveling, they took bath in lots of Pushkaranis and worshipped the Perumal in Various sthalams. As they were traveling both the brothers saw Deva Rishi, Naradar and asked him where can they get the Dharshan of Sri Kannan and where is he and where is Dwaraka?
For this Narada explained then that Sri Krishnar incarnated in this world to protect the Dharman against the evil things and during which he killed lots of Asuras and finally went to Vinnulagam. On hearing this, both the brother fell down in panic and after a few minutes, Narada woke them up by explaining the greatness of the Ashtaksharamantram. He also added that they should worship the Sri Kannan in Dwaraka after which they have to worship the Perumal who will be found in Senbakarayan. By doing tapas for here having a bath in the HarithraTheertham, they will get the seva of the Perumal and also will attain the Moksham.
Both of the brothers on hearing the words of Sri Narada felt happy and went towards Senbakarayan after worshipping Sri Krishnar in Dwaraka. They took bath in the HarithraTheertham daily and did a severe penance towards the Perumal. After being satisfied by the tapas of these two brothers, Sriman Narayanan came in front of them and the brothers asked that they want to see the leelas what he performed during his birth as Sri Krishnar. Sri Krishnar shows all his leelas towards them and finally showed all his seva along with Rukmani and Sathyabama along with the Sengkol. This is the Thirukkolam of the Perumal we can find in this temple. Both the Munis that were very happy to see all the leelas of Sri Krishnar and their eyes started to swell tears. Finally they both requested that he should reside in this sthalam and give his beautiful seva to this entire world. And asked by them, the Perumal resides in this sthalam and giving his seva as “Sri VidhyaRajagopalan”.
It is quite a mystery actually that the Azhvaars who visited and sang praise of the Lord(and performed Mangalasaasanam) at ThiruKannapuram [50kms North Eas], ThiruKannangudi[50kms East], Thirucherrai, Nachiyar Koil, Thiruvinnagar-Oppiliappan, Kumbakonam Sarangapani(around 35kms North) and Thanjai Maa Mani [35kms West] missed the towering presence of RajaGopalan.
The Deities:
The sanctum of this vast temple enshrines a 7 feet high image of Vaasudeva with his consorts Sri Devi and Bhoodevi on either side. Sri Rajagopalaswami is the processional deity with a commanding appearance standing in front of the cow, with Rukmini and Satyabhama. This idol is considered to be the most handsome and attractive among the images of Vishnu.There is another idol of Lord Krishna as a boy lying on the serpent Adisesha, with his right toe in the mouth, known as “Santana Rajagopalan”. This image is made of bronze and the workmanship is super-excellent. The worship of Santana Rajagopalan has got a special significance. Popular belief has it that cradling the image of Santanagopalakrishna in ones lap, would bless barren couple with progeny.There is a shrine of Goddess Senbagavalli Tayar and on her sides are the shrines of Rajanayaki on the right and Dwaranayaki on the left. She has four arms. This shrine has separate Prakarams.There are small shrines in the temple dedicated to Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Garudalwar, etc. The Garuda Stambha placed in front of the Lord’s shrine is 54 feet high and is made of a -single stone.
Architecture
This is a massive temple with as many as seven Prakarams or circumambulatory paths surrounding the central sanctum. A 154 feet high RajaGopuram adorns the entrance to the outermost Prakaram. There are several beautiful pillared halls in the temple – such as the Thousand-pillared hall, the Vallala Maharaja Mandapam, the Yaanai Vaahana Mandapam, Garudavaahana Mandapam, Vennaithaazhi Mandapam and Punnai Vaahana Mandapam. The Shrine to Garuda on top of a 50 feet high monolithic pillar in front of the temple deserves mention. The saying ‘Mannaargudi Madhil Azhagu’ (the walls of the temple of Mannargudi are of great beauty) in Tamil, There are many Vahanams in the temple of which Panchamukha Hanuman (Hanuman with five faces) is worth mentioning. Garuda Vahanam and Horse Vahanam are plated with gold and are said to have been donated by a European officer who was cured of his colic on offering worship to the Lord. testifies to the grandeur of this temple.Several teerthas (temple tanks) adorn this shrine. The Haridra Nadhi tank is located located near the temple, and popular belief has it, that a river was transformed into a big tank, and that Rajagopala performed the famed Rasa Leela in the tank.
Till a few centuries ago this was called mannarkoil is all that a vaishnavite temple should be Exept that the Azhvaars did not perform Mangalasaasanam here, something that one find difficult to come to terms with. Hence this is not a divyadesam and remains only an Abhimaana Sthalam.
Temple Tower – 154 ft high
The huge temple tower, at a height of 154 ft. is fourth tallest among vishnu temples and can be seen from 5-10 kms away as one drives into Mannargudi. This place is also called DakshinaDwaraka (South Dwaraka).
As one enters the temple, a vast open garden in the outer most prakaram with greenery all around serves as a warm welcome for the devotees. With nice benches, this makes it a nice evening sit out for one to admire this remarkable temple.
And then one walks through a long path alongside huge pillars and mandapams to reach the RajaGopalanSannidhi.
Temple History
The temple is believed to have been built by the Chola rulers, KulathungaChola I and II, during the period 1072 – 1150AD. And later developed and improved by the Nayak kings in the 16th and 17th century AD. This place is also known as ChampakaaranyaKshetram.
It is said that the Lord here gave darshan to Brahmma in KrithaYugam, to Brugu Rishi and Goddess Mahalakshmi in TrethaYugam, to Agni, Gopila and GopralayaRishi(children of Rishi Vahnimugar) in DwaaparaYugam and to King Rajasekhar in Kali Yugam.
Remarkable Temple
7 prakarams, 16 temple towers, 18 Vimaanams, 24 Sannidhis, temple housed in 33 acre area with an equal area(33 acres) for the temple tank, festivals throughout the year just like Srirangam, a most handsome and majestic looking Vasudevan and a beautiful and alluring RajaGopalaswamy, with dangling Kundalam in one ear and an earring(Gopiyar’s) in the other ear- a sight to behold make it a terrific Vaishnavite temple. With such a towering presence, one has to wonder as to how the Azhvaars did not fall in love with this Lord. What is it that they saw (or did not see) that made the Azhvaars stay away from this temple.
It is said that ThiruMangaiAzhvaar did visit this place. He came up to the entrance of the temple, lifted the DwajasThambam(Flag Post) at the entrance of the temple that was lying on the floor and went away.
All poojas in traditional Vaishnavite way
The daily temple poojas are performed in a very systematic and traditional manner right from Vishroopam at 5am, with the temple elephant and the cow showing their devotion to the Lord. One is a witness to the temple elephant going down on its knees to pray before Lord RajaGopalan and then lifting its trunk to shower water on the Lord- a beautiful sight to watch so early in the morning. And this is possibly the only Vaishnavite temple in Tamil Nadu that opens at 5am and has the VishwaroopaDarshan in a formal way like it once used to be in all the temples.
Significance of the place- Staying here for a Night
In the Mahabharata, Pulastya tells Bheeshma that anyone staying for a night at MannarKoil earns the merit of having gifted a 1000 cows, such is the significance of this place.
South Dwaraka
Gopila and Gopralaya Rishi (children of Rishi Vahnimugar) wanted Moksham and prayed to Lord Narayana, who asked them to go to Dwaraka to seek the blessings of Lord Krishna(Kannan). By the time they reached Dwaraka, Krishna Avataaram had ended. Narada asked these two rishis to go to ‘South Dwaraka’ and they came here to Mannarkoil.
Here they asked Lord Narayana to give them darshan as Krishna and to show them all the playful things that Krishna had done at Dwaraka. Answering their prayers, Lord Narayana appeared before them as Krishna and enacted, on the banks of Harithrariver, all that Kannan had played on the banks of Yamuna river in Dwaraka.
The Lord and his beautiful posture
The Lord here is seen in a single vastram(garment) just like a cowboy, with his right hand yielding a golden rod with a whip that has 3 dents and his left hand slightly leaning on the cow just behind him. One can also see 2 beautiful calves (in silver) in front of him on either side. The Lord is also called RajaMannar and Gopalan.
The moolavar Para Vasudevan can be seen with a conch, maze and discus in a majestic standing posture facing the East with a complete set of silver ornaments all over his body.
The story of two different ear rings
Once, Krishna and Gopiyars had an argument/bet as to who would bathe the quickest. In his eagerness to win, Krishna ran back and in a hurry, wore his kundalam in one ear and Gopiyar’s ear ring in the other.
To this day, we can see this rather unusual display of RajaGopalan at this temple- that of two different ear rings- one ear with his Kundalam and the other where he adorns Gopiyar’s ear ring.
32 Photographs around the Main Sannidhi
It is believed that the Lord gave darshan in 32 different forms to the 2 Rishis here. The first of that was ParaVasudevan(Moolavar here) and the last was RajaGopalan(Utsavar). These 32 forms are displayed in a colourful form around the main Sannidhi at this temple.
Temple Elephant and the 10km walk every morning
The temple elephant Shengamalam takes a 10km walk every day to keep herself fit. With 32 villages around this temple, the elephant walks to one village every day. Interestingly, Shenbagammal does not eat plantains like other temple elephants. She has a special liking for biscuits.
SanthaanaGopalan
Near the UtsavaMoorthy, one also finds SanthaanaGopalan. It is believed that those who pray to the SanthaanaGopalan will be blessed with a child, a case in point is a SriLankan couple who prayed to the Lord here and were blessed with a child immediately.
Priests with Audible impairements
There are a couple of men with audible impairements (from birth) at this temple. Thanks to the initiative of the temple authorities, these men have been given rights to perform pooja at a couple of sannidhis, thus boosting their confidence. These priests are enthusiastic, perform their duty with sincerity and take extra efforts in serving the devotees- quite a moving experience.
Location
Thanjavur district is famous as ‘Koil Paathi, Kulam Paathi’ and this axiomatic saying applied into Mannargudi. Situated southeast of Thanjavur it has bus transport facilities connecting Thanjavur and Kumbhakonam. Mannargudi is the repository of all the accumulated trends of copiousness, of fertility of soil, water resources, educational facilities and cultural advancement. Gudi in Telugu means temple. As Raja mannar, viz. Rajagopalan abides in this temple, it is well known as Rajamannargudi. It is indeed unique that in several cases in Tamil Nadu, why, in the entire country, we can come across with the name of the temple forming part of the nomenclature of the town. Sri Rajagopalaswamy is pre-eminent among the Vaishnavite temples of Tanjavur district. Mannargudi ‘the soil super’ is also another famous adage. Mannargudi, which is 4.6 sq.miles in area, abides in many temples. There are also temples of people following other religions and faiths. Many Sanskrit and Tamil scholars and expert musicians lived here and still do so.
some of the eminent personages who brought about embellishment to this vibrant town were Srimad Ahobhila Matam Sri Azhagia Sringer, the traditional exponents and Acharyas of Vadakalai and Thenkalai ceremonial observances, Thyagarajamakhi also known as Raju Sastrigal, the great expert is music Mulavur Sabhapati Iyer, Chinna Packiria Pillai, Konnakkol Pichaiya Pillai, Sahityakarta Rajagopala Iyer and Sabhesa Iyer.
History
Much of the historical glimpses are easily perceivable when we look at the other names of this place, Champakaranya, Vanduvarapathy, Kulothunga Chola Vinnagaram. Rajadhi Raja Chaturvedimangalam. The antiquity of the historical details is rendered explicit by the inscriptions of Kulottunga I 1072 – 1122 AD. This great Chola king also known as Tiruneetru chola gave away gifts to several Vaishnavite, Buddist and Jain temples.
The Sanctum Sanctorum of Sri Rajagopalaswamy temple was constructed during his period and so it was widely known as Kulottunga Chola Vinnagaram. There is nothing surprising in this ruler in having built Vishnu temples because he as the crown prince has to his credit the title as Saptama Vishnu Vardhana. Kulottunga I was also famous as Raja Narayana. He was also responsible for the construction of the Sanctum Sanctorum, Ardhamandapam and the third gopuram also. Now let us see how some other temples by the name Kulottunga Chola Virinagaram were also famous in Tamil Nadu.
During the period of Kulottunga II 1133 – 1150 AD. There are inscriptions depicting gifts created by Madurantaka Pottappichola, chieftain to Kulottunga Chola Vinnagara at Nandalur, Cudappa district. Kulottunga Chola III-1178-1218 AD. named the Vaishnavite temple at Vellore South Arcot district as Kulottunga Chola Vinnagaram and gifted away a village Kulatunga Chola Nallur – 1181. Hence the sanctum sanctorum initiated by Kulottunga Chola and periodically expanded and renovated by successive kings to such as an extent that it attracted and captivated the minds of the kings that it came to be praised as Mannargudi.
The Nayak dynasty which ruled over Thanjavur – 1540 – 1675AD. saw the Golden Age of the growth of the establishment of temples in Thanjavur district and Sri Rajagopalaswamy temple is a proof of such dynamic activity. The Tuluva dynasty came to rule over the Vijaya Nagar Empire as the third dynasty. Achyuta Deva Raya of the dynasty appointed his wife’s sister’s husband Sevappa Nayak as the ruler of Thanjavur. Sevappa Nayak – 1540 – 1580 AD. was the founder of Thanjavur Nayak dynasty. This dynasty ruler over Thanjavur for about 150 years and reached the highest watermark of supreme grace and glory in Art, literature, Architecture and Sculpture. Achuthappa Nayak who hailed in this dynasty 1580 – 1600 made so many renovations and expansions to several temples with the able and masterly guidance of Govinda Dikshita. The doyan of the Nayak dynasty Raghunatha Nayak – 1600 – 1634 AD. established and renovated many temples. Some of the mandapas of Sri Rajagopalaswamy temple were raised during this period. Vijaya Raghava Nayak 1633 – 1673, also hailed as Mannar Dasa had this temples as the ancestral shrine.
The Gazetter of Thanjavur 1906 has some glorious remarks about him in that he arranged to bring granites from Trichy and established five mighty towers to this temple with plenty of profusely ornamental sculputures. The sculputural representations of Achyutappa Nayak, Vijayaraghava Nayak and his spouse Champakalakshmi are to be found with palms raised and joined at the base of the pillars just in front of the chamber of rest and repose of the Lord and the Divine Mother. During festivals when the Lord is taken around this place there will be a chorus of voice of thunder and grace on all side – Hail! Achyutha Vijayaraghava Mannardasa who reigned the entire world! The circumambulatory paths of the temple, flower gardens, the granite stepping-stones of the bathing ghats all along the Haridranadi were all established during the reign of Vijayaraghava Nayak. He worshipped the Lord by endowing Navaratna Kavacha and Diamond head-crest. Sri Rajagopalaswamy temple at Thanjavur was established during his period. He got the insignia of Sarasvati embossed on his flag and fulfilled several works involving arts and crafts. Laksha Vipra Anna Data, Sahitya Bhojan, Virakamataipundan, Sangita Jyoti are some of the encomiums and titles with which he was glorified. Great poets, versifiers and dramatists often embellished his court and the most prominent among them were Kamaraju Venkatapati Samayaji of Vijaayaraghava Chandrika fame, Koneti Dikshita of Vijayaraghava Kalyana’, Kalakavi who wrote Rajagopala Vilasam; Purushottama Dikshita the author of Annadana Natakam and Kshetrajna of Padangal fame. Kshetrajana also wrote a padam on Sri Rajagopalswamy. Apart from these there were poetesses like Arangajamma, Champakavalli, Kasturi Sasirekha, Mohana Sundari and Kirshnaji decorating his court.It is noteworthy that Arangajamma was the royal spouse of Vijaya Raghava Nayak.
Sculpture
Much of the historical glimpses are Established in an area of six square acres with gigantic, sprawling seven circumambulatory paths with sixteen majestic towers and the typical grandeur of the stately Rajagopuram towering higher up the ethereal regions up 154 feet; the captivating marvel of a temples abides as a rare symbol of excellence.
Some of the circumambulatory path like Tiruvunnazhi Prakaram, Garuda prakaram, Champaka prakaram, Kasi prakaram, Nacchiyar prakaram are enormously spacious and extensive and unique in their appearance. The seven vast splendid halls like Vallala Maharaja Mandapam, Thousand-pillared mandapam, Garuda Vahana mandapam, Yanai vahana mandapam, Lattice-window mandapa (Palakani mandapa) Butter and pot mandapa-(Vennai thazhi mandapa) Mast – Wood vehicle mandapa (Punnai vahana mandap) add the to the captivating pervasive expance of the temple prakaras.
There are twenty-four shrines including Perumal and Thayar shrines in the temple. The mast – wood tree Punnai is the sacred tree of the temple adored with special devotion as it is dedicated especially to the Lord. It is located in the Champaka Prakaram. This kshetra glorified as Champakaranayam, in yonder days, abounded in Champaka plants.
The temple is established facing east. There is conjective among experts that the temple must have been originally facing west, for the mound of mansions over the western entrance was perhaps the remnants of the palaces used by the members of the royal family for stay and rest during their visit to the temple for worship. Also the Sangu Tirtham and Chakra Tirtham are seen interchanged in their left and right positions; that is obviously due to the fact that the temple once faced west. The temple is said to possess seven circumambulatory paths; if so which is the seventh Prakara? It was customary in those days to recognize the car streets called Pralaya Kala Veedhi circumscribing the present four Gopala Samudram Car Streets. Due to ravages of time those streets had disappeared. They were, perhaps, the seventh circumambulatory path. The four car streets of Gopala Samudram are the sixth circumambulatory path.These grand streets should have been once the locations of protective and fortified moats filled with water. That is perhaps why the nomenclature-Samudram-is still sticking to this location. It is also possible to determine from the erstwhile Revenue Settlement Records that excepting the pathway leading to the main shrine all the other surrounding areas of the temple are measured and compiled as the mote.
Along the Gopala Samudram car street just opposite to the temple there is erected a magnificent granite monolithic Garuda pillar which extends a happy welcome to the devotees. At the crest of the column there is a small shrine dedicated to Garuda who stands facing west with folded hands. It is indeed the grace of the deity that sustains this column unimpaired and unimpeded unrestrained and unassailded from the ravages of nature for several centuries now. By using a mountain of cotton bales Tirumangai Alwar contrived to sustain the vertically of this immense magic column of granite. But it is strange and disconcerting that we have to reconcile to the fact that the pasurams of such a magnificent and benevolent Tirumangai Alwar is not available to us yet. On the northern side of this pillar there is a mandapa which houses the big chariot of this temple, which is next only to the chariot of Tiruvarur in its display of pomp and majesty. This is the East Gopalasamudram car street that beckons un on to Rajagopuram of the temple. There is the shrine of Sri Anjeneya at the northwest end of the car street. At the east car street there is an Agama school.
Advancing past the Garuda column we arrive at the sixteen-pillared mandapa abiding at the alluringly magnificent main entrance of the temple and extending an illustrious welcome to the vataries. During the festivities the Lord would be stationed here and numerous avowed ceremonial worships would be performed. On the southern side of the Sannidhi Street there abides the Ahobhila Mutt buildings where in we shall have the darsan of Sri Narasimha and Sri Adivan Sadagopa Yatinadra Mahadesikan. On the northern row of the Sannidhi street there is the Vanamamalai Mutt. When we move past the sixteen-pillared mandap the towering Rajagopura extending higher up the pervasive ethereal regions seems to behold us and swiftly sweeps down, as it were, to welcome us with an added vigour of joy and excitement. Just at the entrance in the southern side there abides Vira Anjeneya who is said to be proficient in extending merits to devotees.
Now we reach the fifth circumambulatory path.This is also called Nachiyar Prakaram. This is also the thoroughfare for the chariot procession of Sri Sengamala Thayar. For Sri Thayar, the Sumangali noted for refinement and moderation and gentleness of style would seldom betake herself beyond the gates of Her abode and this kind of festival of chariot procession is unique in the history of temple administration. Nowhere else is seen such a kind of festival to the deity. On the Southeastern part of the circumambulatory path there is an entrance and a tower but the gateway has been shut now. In former days it was customary to fetch water from the Gopralaya Tirtha for the anointing of the deities. At the centre of the southern Prakara there is a huge gateway and tower. Just opposite to the enclosure wall there is also a tower. It is said that there was a Thyagaraja mandapa where in the Lord Thyagesa of Tiruvarur used to visit this mandapa and participate in festivals once every year. At the western Prakara there is a granite tower and western gopuram. There are numerous delicate works of arts and sculpture belonging to the Nayak period. The kings of Thanjavur used to visit this temple through this gopuram and perform ceremonial worship to the deities. At the northwest and there is a tank for the use of Sri Thayar.At the northern Prakara there is the northern gateway, the granite gopura and gopura built of bricks. In the north eastern portion there is the elephant mandapa and the cowshed. The gate of Tirumanjanam street and a small gopuram are established in the Prakaram. Near the elephant mandapa at the eastern Prakara the mandapa for Sri Thayar chariot is located. Westward to this mandapa abides the sixteen-pillared mandapa and western to this, the shrine of Yoga Narasimha. At this sixteen pillared mandapa the Tiruvandikkappu of Sri Thayar is performed. At this entrance there is a new mandapa from where we can have the sight of the Krishna gopura.
Now we have arrived at the fourth circumambulatory path, which is also famous as Kasi Prakara. The path leading to the main shrine from Krishna gopura is famous as sabha. In the upper reaches of the Sabha mandapa we can witness beautiful sketches and drawings depicting skilled artistic acumen. Southern to the Sabha abides the thousand-pillared mandapam.Wes wards to thousand – pillared mandapa there abides the Administrative Office of the temple.At the south Eastern end there is mandapa from where the devotees enjoy the darsan of the Lord for Pakal Pattu and Era Pattu festival. At the Southern Prakara there is the sacred flower garden. From out of the jackfruit procured from the garden during the month of Vaikasi and coupled with Visakam constellation, the luscious delicacy of a delightful cuisine called Sahakara is prepared for the ceremonial offerings to the Lord. There is a sixteen-pillared mandapa at the northern Prakara famous as Tirumamani mandapa. During the Vaikuntha Ekadasi festivals the Lord would have prolonged, avowed ceremonial worships by the devotees throughout the day.Now we have arrived at the fourth circumambulatory path, which is also famous as Kasi Prakara. The path leading to the main shrine from Krishna gopura is famous as sabha. In the upper reaches of the Sabha mandapa we can witness beautiful sketches and drawings depicting skilled artistic acumen. Southern to the Sabha abides the thousand-pillared mandapam.Wes wards to thousand – pillared mandapa there abides the Administrative Office of the temple.At the south Eastern end there is mandapa from where the devotees enjoy the darsan of the Lord for Pakal Pattu and Era Pattu festival. At the Southern Prakara there is the sacred flower garden. From out of the jackfruit procured from the garden during the month of Vaikasi and coupled with Visakam constellation, the luscious delicacy of a delightful cuisine called Sahakara is prepared for the ceremonial offerings to the Lord. There is a sixteen-pillared mandapa at the northern Prakara famous as
Just opposite to this there is four-pillared mandapa where religious discourses would be held by the learned. At the eastern end of this prakara there are shrines for Kurattalwar, Udayavar and Vahana mandapa. The well abiding just opposite to the shrine of Karuttalwar is allowed open for the use of the general public for drinking purpose.Just opposite to the well by the Southern side there is the shrine for Sri Nigamata Maha Desikan.
Now we reach the third circumambulatory path, which is also famous as Champaka Prakara. There is Mohini Gopuram at the entrance of this Prakara through the Sabha.At the fore part of this Prakara in the southern side, Perialwar and Kulasekhara Alwar are seen on a pedestal. Just opposite there are Flag Mast and Sacrificial Altar.Then there are the Primary Alwars shrines.At the south there is the kitchen where in there abides the Madaipalli Nachiyar. The kitchen is also called Nachiyar Parigraham.At the southern Prakara there is the Store Room-Ugrana and near by there are Andal, Nammalwar, Manavaala maa munigal shrines. Nearby Tirumangai Mannan and Kumudavalli icons are displayed. Adjacent to tit are Anjaneya and Tondaradipodi Alwar propitiating Sri Rama padukas. Just opposite to Sri Thayar Shrine in this Prakaram there is a four-pillared mandapa in the open space and the Lord has the special ceremonial worships conducted here during Vasantha Utsava and Panguni Utsava. The shrine of Sri Sengamala Thayar abides at the southern Prakara.Entering the shrine we see the Flag Mast and the Sacrificial Altar attended by Garuda along with his consort Suparni.
When we reach the Thayar shrines and the adjacent South Prakara there is the niche for the sacred Basil Plant and opposite to it there is the glass mandapa. At the northeastern end there is the Vaikunda sabha also called Rohini mandapa at the projected stairs. Rohini Utsavam of Sri Perumal is performed in this mandapam. In the Nrithya Mandapa opposite to Sri Thayar shrine the grand Adhyayan Utsava and Ekasimhana Utsava for ten days for Sri Thayar are celebrated. In the Mattaiyadi Utsava when the Lord and Sri Thayar are seated at the same seat is called Ekasimhasanam. It is just like Sri Rangam Panguni Uttara consecrated worship. Here the famous Gadya Traya (Vaikuntha Gadyam Sri Ranga Gadyam-Saranaagata Gadyam) Chorus-cum-group recitals will be done by the learned. During Fridays in the month of Thai Thiruvolakkam for Sri Thayar will be done in this mandapa. The top of the mandapa has been fixed with brass plates. Sri Thayar is anointed every Friday in this mandapam. Next to this there is the Ardha mandapa and the shrine of Sri Thayar. Sri Sengamala Thayar and Hemabja Nayaki as the Utasvar and the Mulavar extend immense grace and benediction to the devotees. From the western Prakara and Sri Thayar Shrine junctin a diversion branches as Champaka Prakaram of Sri Perumal. Northwest to this Prakara there is Sri Rams’s shrine with the Nrityamandapa, Mahamandapa and Arthamandap. The sixteen – pillared mandapa otherwise called Sri Paduka mandapa abides there in the Prakara. Nearby there is Praamapada entrance and Pancha Parva Utsava mandapa. At the eastern prakara the sacred tree –the Punnai tree (the mast wood tree) and the yagasala are there.
May I contemplate on Sri Sengamala Thayar, the incarnation of Sri Mahalakhmi with four arms and two efflorescent eyes like Neelotpala, adorned with Kundalas at the ears, decked with Keyura haras and golden necklaces, decorated with white floral garland, with a countenance dazzling with the lightning of a smile amidst the coral-like red lips, with the bright tilaka on the fore head, with the locks of curling hair dense dark in hue, with the lustrous complexion flawless white in hue like pearls originated from bamboos, with form akin to Mahalakshmi abiding on the lotus and the face charming and attractive.
May I meditate on Sri Sengamala Thayar the manifesting Viralakshmi, effulgent like the golden lotus, worshipped by all the celestials, resplendent with an ornament studded with gems at the tip of the nose, skilled in fulfilling all the aspirations on the votaries, the able and efficient consort of the manifestation of Vishnu, as Sri Vidya Rajagopala, the most indescribable and unparalleled in beauty and charm, the beloved daughter of Samudra Raja and the defender and protector of all the worlds.
Just in front of Sri Perumal Sannidhi there is a grand Vadya mandapa and norther to it the Uttaramandapa of Vallala Maharaja and the shrine of Perarulalan. In this Mahamandapa Sri Perumal extends darsan during Pakal Pathru and so does Sri Thayar during Brahmotsava. Western to the shrine of Sri Perumal there is the chamber of rest and respite. On the pillars of Vadya mandapam, Achyutappa Nayak, Vijaya Raghava Nayak Rani Champakalakshmi is seen with folded hands. Southern to this mandapa there are steps to pass by. Higher above the saligrama Anjaneya as consecrated at Haridranadi is also to be seen here.
We have arrived at the Garuda Prakara at the entrance of the second circumambulatory path. The bronze sentinels, Jaya and Vijaya are seen to be absorbed in vigilance. Nritya mandapa of Sri Perumal abides at the Garuda Prakara and Garuda along with Ulsavamurthy has the shrines here. It is said there is a subterranean path here. From the southern part of the western prakara there are shrines for Venugopala, Lakshmi Narasimha, Ananta Padmanabha, Lakshmi Narayana and Gajendra Varada. At the northeastern end there is the shrine for Vishvaksena and Sutravati Devi. Northern to this there is the mandapa for the silver, gold vehicles to be deposited in safe custody.
Now we reach the first circumambulatory path, Thiruvunnazhi. Just in front of the Perumal shrine there is the Mahamandapa, the Sabha. All the pillars there in are set with brass plates. Right to the Thiruvunnazhi Prakara and under the ceiling of the sanctum sanctorum there is Vinayaka shrines and in the northern Prakara the shrine of Durga, just as we have in Sri Rangam. Then we reach the Arthamandapa of Sri Perumal shrine. Inside the sanctum sanctorum the Supreme Deva Deva along with Sri Devi and Bhudevi, surcharged with the form of Mulavar Paravasudeva and Utsavar Sri Vidya Rajagopala consorted by Sri Rukmini and Sri Satyabhama endows the perennial wavelength of beauty and grace and at the same time dispelling all our taints and blemishes and conferring captivatingly ceremonial and fascinating darsan to the votaries.
“May I ake refuge in Sri Rajagopala decorated with the feathers of peacock at the locks of hair dressed as a coil, with the lustrous tilaka of musk illumining at the forehead, with single ear-ring in one ear and a kundala at the other, dazzling with the moon light of a smile amidst the bud like pink lips embellished with numerous ornamentsw, adorned with fragrant sandal paste, holding the golden rod of the whip, enjoying the beloved company of Gopis, holding the lotus in the left hand, seated on the throne studded with Navaratna gems and having Champakaranya as the permanent abode.”
Features
Annathana Thittam
In this temple free meal scheme is followed regularly. In order to make this scheme effective, a plan known as Annathana Thittam is implemented in this temple. Per day Rs.2000 for Annathanam.If the devotees pay Rs.25, 000/-, this will be invested in fixed deposit, and Annathanam will be given to 100 devotees from the interest received from the investment every year on a day of the devotee’s choice. Devotees who are willing to donate can give the money as cheque or demand draft. The Government of India has also kindly granted exemption under section 80-G of Income-tax Act.
Nithya Pooja Endowment Scheme
To enable devotees to associate themselves with the performance of daily poojas on a regular basis, the Devasthanam has launched a “Nithiya Pooja Endowment Schme” and may have enrolled themselves already. The scheme is open and one may contribute Rs.5000/-, which will be invested as Permanent Fixed Deposit at the I.O.B. Mannargudi. The daily Poojas will be performed with the accrued interest. Archanas will be performed every year on the dates specified by the Donor and Prasadams sent to him/her.
Glory Of Temple
Brahma
Once Brahma lost his sense of serenity and balance, equity and harmony. He became proud and haughty thinking there was none superior to him. The Lord decided to wean away his arrogance and pride. But Brahma lost all his sense of proportion and wisdom . He was completely deluded and submerged in ignorance. Finally wisdomprevailed over him with the timely intervention of Sanaka and other sages. With their sound advice, he reached this Kshetra, chanted the Dvadasa-kshara mantra of the Lord and engaged himself in severe penance. Satisfied with the unalloyed bhakti of Brahma, the Lord appeared before him and brought about a thorough rejeuvenation of his ideas with adequate reawakening of chastened outlook of values. Brahma was refurbished; he regained clarity of thought and vision. He got a big temple established for the Lord with the help of the celestial artisan, Visvakarama. He himself set up the idols with all the ceremonial observances o a Panguni Rohini constellation and initiated the historic Rathotsava for about eighteen days.
Lakshmi
In one of the internecine wars between the Devas and the Asuras the spouse of the sage Brghu came forward to take up the cause in favour of the Asuras and hurried an imprecation on the Devas. When the Devas brought the news to Vishnu, he with his discus caused the head of the spouse of Brghu severed. Brghu became enraged and cursed that he who had killed his wife should lose his kingdom and wife and wander in the forest. The curse did not thrive and interfere with Vishnu but retaliated on Brghu threatening him in a ruthless manner. Brghu became remosrseful with repentance and consulted Brahma and other sages in Satyaloka. The unanimously advised him to go to Champakaranya and do rigorous penance to Sri Lakshmi and get a boon that Lakshmi be born to him as his daughter and ultimately marry her to Vishnu and there by he could get redemption and atonement. Accordingly Brghu engaged himself in unrestrained austerities. Sri Lakshmi was satisfied with the rigorous penance of Brghu and manifested at the Lotus tank in the northeast of this Kshetra. He tendered Sri Lakshmi as his daughter with immense care and affection. Sri Lakshmi engaged herself in austere penance determined to wed Lord Vishnu. When the Lord appeared satisfied with the penance of Sri Lakshmi, the sage Brghu gave her in marriage to Lord Vishnu and took refuge in Him entreating expiration of all his transgressions. As Sri Lakshmi who earlier manifested at the ocean of milk manifested as the daughter of Brghu at Champakaranya in a tank and the same tank in which she manifested is known as Tirupparkadal.
Agni
Once Garuda, the golden eagle was on his way to heaven to bring ambrosia mainly with view to liberating his mother who was in servile bendage under her own sister. Agni intercepted Garuda and the enraged eagle hurdled a despicable imprecation on him and as a result of that Agni lost his heat and light. It was pitiable in deed and the celestials were utterly discomfited. When salt itself loses it s savour whither shall it be salted? Brahma suggested to Agni to do penance in Champakaranya. Accordingly Agni came to this Kshetra and performed rigorous penance at the banks of the Gopralaya tank and finally with the grace of the Lord of this Kshetra he regained his heat and light.
Rajasekhara
In Saurashtra there reigned a monarch famed as Vasuman. His son was Rajasekhara. Once Rajasekhara went to the forest for hunting. Utterly exasperated and fatigued adventitiously during his sports Rajasekhara had to accept the timely help of food and shelter from a Brahmin, Yajnaseela. While departing to his kingdom Rajasekhara assured Yajnaseela that he would extend a lot of wealth if the Brahmin visited his kingdom. Years rolled by; Yajnaseela decided to perform a yaga. He went to Rajasekhara to get some assistance to the religious sacrifice. But the king not only censured him but also put him unceremoninously to disdainful opprobrium. Laughable indeed are the vagaries of distorted mind reveling in ignorance!. Because of the sin perpetrated against a brahmin user the influence of blatent ingratitude Rajasekhara straight away lapsed into mental aberration verging on insanity. He wandered over the hills and dales and quite inadvertently came across Yajnaseela himself and prayed for the atonement of the sin committed against him. Yajna seela took pity on the hapless and unenviable position of the kind and asked him to go to Champakaranya, have a ceremonial bath at Haridranadi and worship the Lord at this Kshetra; Rajasekhara did likewise and got deliverance from his obsession. So he established the Gopuram at the Thayar shrine, the adjoining mandapams and the circumambulatory paths thereon. Svarnasikamani, son of Rajasekhara visited the temple and worshipped the Lord and the Thayar. The Lord manifested as Santhanagopalan at his lap and bosom and endowed the boon of progeny-son. That is why so many people worship Santhanagopala and fondle the idol at the lap sustaining the bounty of a progeny. Mannargudithe grandeur of the enclosure walls – Koil paathi, Kulam paathi-Mannargudi the repository of all Vedavids, are some of the paneyrics pertaining to this Kshetra from time immemorial.
Glory Of Moorthy
How to recount the beauty of the Lord at the Sanctum sanctorum slightly leaning towards the cow, with a single garment, an earring and a dangling kundala, holding in he right hand the golden rod with a whip having three corrugated dents, with the left hand fixed and resting on the shoulder of Sri Satya Bhama, standing enchantingly in a Tribhanga posture and most handsome to behold, Sri Vidya Rajagopala is captivatingly alluring, and the Mulavar Para Vasudeva consorted by Sri Devi and Bhudevi is majestic to look at. In the standing posture, Mulavar, holding conch, discus and mace, decorated with a complete set of silver Kavacha all over, dispels all our taints as also extends grace and benediction. Not only does He confer grace and merit to those who make a beeline to the shrine but anxious to bestow benefits to those who keep aside or could not otherwise visit the temple, He goes about the ceremonial procession along the streets. The beauty and bounty of Sri Vidya Rajagopala is unparalleled.
Oh the charm of the left hand fixed and folded along the shoulder of Sri Satyabhama. Oh the spell of the right hand holding the golden rod with a whip having three distints curling dents! Oh the feast to the eyes (of the view of the Lord) in being attended by Rukmini on the right and Satyabhama on the left representing the pleasures and fortunes of this, as also the next birth! While recollected in tranquil moments Sri Sengamala Thayar and Hemabja Nayaki Thayar with bouquets in hands become the sweet mango, the revivifying force of energy of humanity, for they confer bliss and grace with their ambrosial form of compassionate eyes and fulfill the fruition of the ever-cherished aspirations of mankind!
Holy Water
01.Haridranadi
The Lord extended to the two sages Gopila and Gopralayar the supreme bliss of witnessing, the reenactment of the youthful sports indulged by Kannan. Srikrishna’s water sports along with the Gopis were also seen and enjoyed by the sages. The perfumery articles like turmeric, lac dye and the substances of sweet fragrance have deposited in this tank since ages past. So the temple tank is called Haridranadi – Haridra = turmeric.
People use to glorify this tank as the daughter of the Cauvery. Sixty-six crores of holy waters merge here in this tank. The tank is laid in about 23 acres. The area of the temple is equivalent to the area of the tank. The shrine of Sri Venugopala at the center of the tank is well laid out and maintained properly. The ceremonial baths taken at this tank on the Rohini and Thiruvonam constellations, the New Moon Day, the Full Moon day, the Solar and the Lunar Eclipse days, as also those taken during the months of Vaikasi, Aippasi, Masi and Panguni are said to be surpremely efficacious to mankind in gaining grace and benediction.
02.Durvasatirtha
Western to the temple at a distance of a stone’s throw there is a tank going variously by the names of Gajendra Moksham, Anaivizhundankulam, Anaithan Kulam. In yonder days as the sage Durvasa got boons from the Lord in this place, it came to be called Durvasa Tirtha. Taking a ceremonial dip here during the month of Ani is effective; more so during Saturdays. Those who take bath here are easily relived of the grievous sin of censure to the Preceptors. To chant the Bhagavad-Gita on the banks of this tank is said to be efficacious.
03.Thirupparkadal
Sri Lakshmi Narayana temple on the banks of this tank bears testimony to the fact that the sage Brighu in yonder days performed rigorous penance to have Sri Lakshmi born as his daughter; and how Sri Lakshmi herself after severe austerities got the Lord himself as her consort. As Sri Lakshmi performed tapascharya on the banks of this tank, it came to be called Tirupparkadal. Taking ceremonial bath on Fridays during the month of Thai is considered most efficacious, more so when one makes a gift of a cow to the learned.
04.Gopikathirtha
This tank is widely famous as Gopralayar tirtha and Omakkulam. For Gopralayar in ancient time performed rigorous penance here on the banks of the tank. Also the sage Gopila performed yagas on the banks of this tank and hence the name Omakkulam. Once Agni made severe tapascharya and regained his heat and light. On the southeast corner Sri Vasudevamurthy abides along with the Ubayanachiyar. Sri Kannan performed the famous water sports in this tank along with the Gopika womenfolk and so it is called Gopika tirtha. Situated on the Pattukottai High Road, southern to Tirupparkadal, Gopika Tirtha is considered to be efficacious to take ceremonial baths on Wednesdays during the month of Purattasi, chanting the six-lettered mantra of the Lord.
05.Rukminithirtha
Norther to Gopralayar tirtha and situated at a fair distance to the temple, Rukmini tirtha is said to be sacred to take a holy dip on Adi puram and on Mondays, for it is believed to gain enormous favours from Sri Lakshmi. Taking bath here and making gifts of vermillion, turmeric and other articles to women folk-Sumangalis would fetch enormous benefits.
06.Agnikunda Thirtha
It is situated southern to the Rukmini tirtha. Taking bath on Sundays during the month of Kartigai and making gifts of lamps and pieces of eagle wood – akil – containing fragrant incense to the learned, it considered being supremely meritorious. Ceremonial sacrifices, performed on the banks of this tank will fetch merit equal to Aptoryama sacrifice so goes the Stala Purana.
07.Krishna Thirtha
By the southeastern corner to the temple there is a tank with a well-accomplished sprawling mandapa at the centre where during the Brahmotsava in the month of Panguni the Lord extends grace and benediction at the Float Festival. The water that washes the temple and the sanctum sanctorum finds its way to this tank. This is in consonance to the ancient adage that the tank and its appearance Vis a Vis the temple, is alluringly captivating. Taking a ceremonial bath in the month of Margazhi followed by a choice conferring of the sixteen varieties of gifts are said to be highly effective. “namo brahmanaaya devaaya gobraahmana hitaaya cha jagad hitaaya krishnaaya govindaaya nomo namah”. Those who take bath in the tank chanting this couplet shall be absolved of all sins and they would also be terminated form the chain of transmigration.
08.Sankuthirtha
As the tank has the structural features like a Valampuri conch the conch curling to the right, it goes by the name Sangu tirtha. Situated southern to the temple it is widely famous and considered meritorious to take a ceremonial bath here chanting the Ashtakshara mantra of the Lord and gift away rubies to learned pandits.
09.Chakrathirtha
This tank is situated northern to the temple. The Sanga and Chakra Thirthams have interchanged their positions. Considering this interchange of location of the tanks some may even doubt whether the temple would have once been located facing west. It is highly beneficial to have a bath at this tank during the month of Chitrai and give away liberal gifts to the needy. Quite in accordance to the Lord adorning himself with a single dhoti, a single ear-ring and a single suspending stud after having participated in the water sports at the Haridranadi, the inter changed location of conch and discus after the ceremonial bath at the tank, some experts would express in added dignity and charm of euphemism whether the locations of the tanks also were changed. For all these nine tanks the corresponding trees the Rishis and godheads are pointed out. For all these tanks the Lord of Dvaraka is the protective Deity.
10.Pambani River
It is the tenth sacred thirtha of the temple. It is northern to Haridranadi and drains the whole area of the town from the northeast to the northwest like a floral garland.
Gopolar Gopralayar
The Kshetras abiding on the banks of the Cauvery are all holy and glorious. Kumbhakon Kshetra is situated on the banks of the tank Hema Pushkarani beside the Cauvery. Southeast to this was called Chanpakavanam and in yonder days thousand and eight sages used to do penance there. Of them Vahnimuni was pre-eminent. He had tow sons Gopilar and Gopralayar. They were astute scholars even devoutly disposed and engaged in austerities. They would stand single-footed amidst the pervading Panchagni and execute penance extrolling Narayana chanting incessantly the holy Ashtakshara Mantra. The Lord who was satisfied with the penance of the sages appeared before them and enquired what boons they wanted. They said that they wanted release from the shackles of the worldly life. The Lord said that they could attain liberation if they had the darsan of Kannan at Dvaraka. Immediately they repaired to Dvaraka taking holy baths in several places enroute and worshipping deities at various centers.
On the way they met Narada the great sage and asked him where they could meet Kannan as also the way leading to Dvaraka. Narada replied that Kannan who descended to the earth in order mitigate the burden of the Mother Earth, exterminated Kamsa and other evil mongers, protected Bhishma and other nobles souls and had already departed to Vaikunta. Upon hearing this they lost consciousness and fell down tormented by disappointment and dejection. Narada appreciated their sense of devotion and initiated them to the Dvadasakshara Mantra. He also urged them to worship at Dvaraka and Nanda Gokulam and after wards proceed to Champakaranya near Kumbhakonam in the Chola Nada. He asked them to bathe at Haridranadi and prosecute penance there for about a year when the Lord would extend darsan to them. Accordingly Gopilar and Gopralayar were to a great extent excited, fulfilled the pilgrimage to Dvaraka and Nanda Gokulam and reached Haridranadi. They set up a temporary shelter by the side of Haridranadi and began their austere penance to the Lord. Greatly moved by the penance performed by the two sages the Lord appeared before them and asked them what they wanted. Highly excited and captivated by the beauty and grace of the Lord they said,” O Lord! we are eager to witness and enjoy the sporting you did at Brindavan.” The Lord fulfilled their wish by granting the reenactment of the incarnation as Kannan especially for them. The sages had the unique fortune of witnessing the 30 phases of the incarnation of the Lord as Kannan.
- The advent of Sri Krishna
- Deliverance of Putana
- Yasoda fondling and suckling Kannan
- Crawling in sports with hair coiled as a knot on the head
- Dancing for butter
6.Rearing the cattle
- Stealing of butter
- Kannan at the Punnai tree
- Venugopalan
- Kannan tied to the mortor
- Standing with head resting on the staff while grazing the cattle
- Milking the cow with pot and rope
- Slaying of Kapitta Vatsasura
- Dance on Kailya
- Showing the range of turmeric coat of the women folk reflected on his body
- Holding discus, conch, mace and bow in hands
- Kuravai Koothu
- Showing his incarnations to the cowherds
- Partaking of the food in the company of cowherds
- Holding up the Govardhana mount
- The state of being plundered by Brahma
- Gopika Leela
- Carrying away of Parijata
- Krishna Tulabara
- Slaying of Kuvalaya peetha
- Slaying of Mushika and Chanura
- Krishna along with Rukmini and Satyabhama
- As the emissary to solve the dispute
- Gitopadesa as Parthasarathy
- Abiding in the standing posture betwixt Rukmini and Satyabhama like a honeybee in between two charming flowers – holding in the right hand the golden rod of whip with rope swirling about in three corrugated bends and having the left hand hovering around the shoulder of Satyabhama. This is the form of the Utsavamurthy of the temple even today.
Shedding tears of joy and wonder, with horripilations all over all the over the body the sages prostrated repeatedly saying that the same alluringly captivating Lord should remain in that place even and on to endow benign benediction, grace and darsan to all. With their entreaties accepted in toto we are still enjoying the darsan and grace of Sri Vidya Rajagopala.
Worship Services And Festivals
Seven worship services are offered during the course of a day, and this temple attracts pilgrims throughout the year. The annual festival (Bhramotsavam) is celebrated in the month of Pankuni (March 15-April 15) for a period of 18 days, when the deities are taken out in procession on decorated mounts. The float festival occurs in the month of Aani (June 15 – July 15). Aadi Pooram celebrated between July 15 and August 15 is another of the important festivals here.
There are great 7 Mandapams found in this sthalam and they are :
- Vallala Maharaja Mandapam
- AayiramKaal (Thousand Beams) Mandapam
- Garuda VaghanaMandapam
- YaanaiMandapam (Elephant)
- PalakaniMandapam
- VennaiThaazhiMandapam
- PunnaiVaghanaMandapam
The temple has seven ceremonial worships daily as laid down here under
In this sthalam, all the 7 times (Ezhukala) pooja is done in a proper way.
| Period | Time | Seva | Neivedhyam |
| 1. | 7.00 a.m. | VishwaroopaDharshan | Milk |
| 2. | 8.00 a.m. | Thiruvananthal | Curd rice |
| 3. | 9.30 a.m. | KaalaiSandhi | Pongal |
| 4. | 11.30 (noon) | UtchiSandhi | Paayasam, Vadai, Thenkuzhal etc. |
| 5. | 5.00 p.m. | Nithyanushtanam | Dosai |
| 6. | 8.00 p.m. | Raakukalam | SambhaAdisal |
| 7. | 9.00 p.m. | ArthaJamam | Sweet Pongal, Modhagam, Milk and Beetle leaf etc. |
Archanai on Special occasions
Poosam -Thirumanjanam for ShengamalaThaayar
Sravanam- Thirumanjanam for PerumalUtsavar
Every Friday-Thirumanjanam for UtsavarThaayar
Every month- PanchaParvatham- PerumalUtsavar and ShengamalaThaayarPurapadu
ThiruvadiThirumanjanam for PerumalUtsavar is done on special request.
For bookings, call : 94423 99820 or 04367 225738
Quick Facts
Moolavar :ParaVasudevan (Moolavar)– East Facing, Standing Posture
Utsavar : Rajagopalan
Goddess : ShengamalaThaayar
Temple timing : 5am –12.30pm and 430pm-9pm
Also contact :Mahalingam, Manager on 94423 99820 /04367 222276
Timings for Darshan
Morning 5.30 a.m. to 12.30 noonEvening 4.00 p.m. to 9.30 p.m.
That the most of Temples in Tamil Nadu are closed between 12noon_04pm. This temple also follows the same time.
Festival
Thanjavur district is famous as ‘Koil Paathi, Kulam Paathi’ and this axiomatic saying applied into Mannargudi. Situated southeast of Thanjavur it has bus transport facilities connecting Thanjavur and Kumbhakonam. Mannargudi is the repository of all the accumulated trends of copiousness, of fertility of soil, water resources, educational facilities and cultural advancement. Gudi in Telugu means temple. As Raja mannar, viz. Rajagopalan abides in this temple, it is well known as Rajamannargudi. It is indeed unique that in several cases in Tamil Nadu, why, in the entire country, we can come across with the name of the temple forming part of the nomenclature of the town. Sri Rajagopalaswamy is pre-eminent among the Vaishnavite temples of Tanjavur district. Mannargudi ‘the soil super’ is also another famous adage. Mannargudi, which is 4.6 sq.miles in area, abides in many temples. There are also temples of people following other religions and faiths. Many Sanskrit and Tamil scholars and expert musicians lived here and still do so.
Some of the eminent personages who brought about embellishment to this vibrant town were Srimad Ahobhila Matam Sri Azhagia Sringer, the traditional exponents and Acharyas of Vadakalai and Thenkalai ceremonial observances, Thyagarajamakhi also known as Raju Sastrigal, the great expert is music Mulavur Sabhapati Iyer, Chinna Packiria Pillai, Konnakkol Pichaiya Pillai, Sahityakarta Rajagopala Iyer and Sabhesa Iyer.
In chittirai month, a special Utsavam called “KodaiUtsavam” is done for the Perumal for 10 days.
In Vaikasi month, VasanthaUtsavam is done for 10 days and on the 10th day (pournami) the Perumal comes on Garudan and the Garuda Seva is said to be special in this sthalam.
Thepotsavam, which falls in Aani month is said to be yet another great Utsavam carried have and this Utsavam also proceeds for 10 days. During these 10 days, the Perumal comes on various vaghanams (vehicle) like Surya prabhai, SeshaVaghanam, Garuda seva, Hanumanthavaghanam, Yaanai (elephant) vaghanam etc.
In Aadi month, AadipooramUtsavam is done for 10 days in a very grand manner. This AadipooramUtsavam is mainly dedicated for Thaayar. Jeshtabhishekam is also done for 1 day during this Aadi month.
In Aavani month, one of the great Utsavam, the Pavithrotsavam is done for 10 days.
NavarathiriUtsavam is done in Puratasi month for 10 days.
In Iyppasi, DeepavaliUtsavam is done for a day. KollattaUtsavam is also done in this month.
ThiruKaarthigaiUtsavam is done for one day in Kaarthigai month. During which chikkabanam is performed.
In Margazhi month, AthyayanaUtsavam is done for 20 days. In this month, RaaPatthu and PagalPatthuUtsavam are done.
In this month, PongalUtsavam is said to be a famous one. In this Thai month, 10 days Utsavam for Thaayar is also done.
In Maasi month, Dolotsavam is done for 10 days.
In Panguni, month the biggest Utsavam, the Brahmotsavam is celebrated in a very grand manner for 18 days.
The temple is found spreaded over a very big and erect gopuram. Overall there are 11 gopurams found and the Raja Gopuram is said to found with lots of artistic works and sculptures carved in it.
Thirunnazhipragharam,Garudanpragharam,Senbagapragharam,Kasipragharam and Naachiyaarpragaharams are found in this temple.
Bhramotsavam in Pankuni (March -April), Float Festival in Aani (June-July) And Aadi Pooram During July-August Mannargudi is a place of religious antiquity and legendary importance. In ancient times, Mannargudi was known by many names namely, Senbagaranyam, Vasudevapuri, Dakshina Dwaraka, Vanduvarapati and Swayambhu Sthalam, each name having a religious significance
The Jayamkonda Naathar (Shiva) temple built by Jayamkonda Cholan is also located in the town of Mannargudi. The Tirattuppaal prasadam made at this temple used to be sent to the Rajagopala temple, on the asterism of Rohini in the month of Vaikasi amidst festivities in both temples (Tirattuppaal Aradhanai). The huge vessel used for boiling the milk required for the event is all that is left of this ceremony.
How To Reach:
Mannargudi can be reached from Thanjavur 30km,Kumbakonam 30km,Thiruvarur 27km,Thirukarkavur 40km,Pillayarpatti 127km, Nagapattinam 56km
Rail: The nearest railway station of Nidamangalam is at a distance of 12km and Thanjavur is at a distance of 34km
Road: Mannargudi is well connected by road to thanjavur, kumbhakonam,Thiruvarur ets
Air: The nearest airport is Trichy
Where To Stay:
Accomadation is available at the dharmashalas in Mannargudi or at the Econamy class Hotels and Lodges in Thanjavur