Manamadurai Veera Azhagar Perumal Temple, Sivaganga

Address

Manamadurai,

Sivaganga District,

Tamil Nadu – 630606

Mobile: +91 – 96596 66223/ 92451 99132

Moolavar

Veera Azhagar Perumal

Introduction

The Veera Azhagar Perumal Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is a historically significant temple located near Manamadurai in the Sivaganga District of Tamil Nadu, India.

Presiding Deities:

The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Sundararaja Perumal, who is depicted in an East-facing standing posture.
The goddess of the temple is Soundara Valli Thaayar, and there is a separate shrine for her.
The Utsavar (procession deity) of the temple is Veera Azhagar.

Puranic Significance

Historical Significance:

The temple is believed to have been built during the rule of Ugra Kumara Pandya, Jatavarman Pandya, and Maavali Vaanathi Raya.
It is thought to be approximately 1,800 years old.
There are several inscriptions on the outer prakara of the temple that date back to the rule of various kings, including Jatavarman Pandya, Parakrama Pandya, Somadeva Nayak, Maaravarman Pandya, and Sundara Pandya.

Legend and Unique Features:

The name “Vanara Veera Madura Puri” refers to the legend of Hanuman and the Vanara army being energized here during their search for Sita.
The temple is also known as Stula Karana Puri, Somanatha Puram, and Vilva Vanam.
The temple is linked to a story involving Maavali Vaanathi Raya, a king who used to visit the Azhagar Koil in Thiru Maliruncholai daily for darshan of Lord Azhagar. When he was unable to make consecutive visits, the Lord directed him to build a temple on a specific site.
Four kilometers from the temple is Alankara Kulam, the sacred temple tank, where Perumal comes once a year for Theerthavari Utsavam.
Hanuman, who is believed to have come here after the war and enjoyed the surroundings, faced south in an ever-watchful posture. It is said that Hanuman was crowned here by Vibheeshana before leaving for Lanka.
The temple also has an unusual feature of a crowned Hanuman idol enshrined near the entrance, reflecting the local belief that Hanuman was crowned in this place.

Special Features

The Veera Azhagar Perumal Temple is not only a place of worship but also a site rich in history and legends. The various festivals celebrated here attract devotees and visitors alike, making it a significant pilgrimage destination in Tamil Nadu.

Festivals

The temple hosts various festivals, including a grand 10-day Chithirai Thiruvizha celebrated in April-May.
The Ethir Sevai (welcoming festival) is celebrated on the fourth day of the festival, and on the fifth day, Azhagar steps into the river.
Other significant festivals include the Brahmotsavam, Kalyana Utsavam in Aadi month (July-August), Vaikunda Ekadasi in December-January, Hanuman Jayanthi in Margazhi, and Rapathu and Pagal Pathu (festivals celebrated during days and nights).