Karuvalli Sri Prasanna Venkataramanar Temple (Chinna Tirupati), Salem

Address

Karuvalli Sri Prasanna Venkataramanar Temple (Chinna Tirupati), Omalur, Karuvalli, Salem district – 636305. Phone: +91- 4290 – 246 344 Mobile: 94422 20607

Diety

Sri Prasanna Venkataramanar Amman: Alamelu mangai

Introduction

The Sri Prasanna Venkataramana Swamy Temple, also known as Chinna Tirupati, is a sacred place of worship located on a beautiful hill near Karuvalli in Marakottai village, Omalur town, Salem district, Tamil Nadu. It is perched on a small hill in Karuvalli, near Omalur.

Puranic Significance

Historical Significance:

The Sri Prasanna Venkataramana Swamy Temple is believed to be approximately 1500 years old.
It is said to be constructed during the Pallava period and later renovated during the Pandya dynasty.

Legend of Lord Venkatesa’s Visit:

According to a local legend, Lord Venkatesa (Lord Venkateswara) from Tirupati once came to this place for a bath but couldn’t find the necessary Arappu powder (soap nut powder) for his bath.
Goddess Alamelu Manga was also unavailable to help Him. So, Lord Venkatesa went in search of her but couldn’t find her.
Lord Venkatesa then encountered the beauty of the hilly area of Karuvalli, where He discovered Arappu plants, had a relaxing bath, and decided to stay there.
The people of the region later found the Swayambu Perumal (self-manifested idol) inside an anthill and built this temple.

Beliefs

Devotees pray to Lord with special dressings – Alankarams for wedding, child, prosperity and promotion and education boons. To cure their cattle from disease, devotees pray to Flute Krishna in the prakara with butter covering. Devotees perform Thirumanjanam to Lord offering vastras.

Special Features

The Fight Between Vayu and Adiseshan:

Another legend associated with this temple tells the story of a dispute between Vayu, the God of Wind, and Adiseshan, the divine serpent on whom Lord Vishnu rests.
With Adiseshan preventing Vayu’s passage to meet Lord Vishnu, a conflict arose to determine who was mightier.
Adiseshan wrapped himself around the Anantha Mountain, and when Vayu blew with full force, a piece of the mountain was dislodged and fell at Karuvalli.
This piece of the mountain gave rise to the formation of the hill where the temple now stands.

Swayambu Idol Discovery:

Malai Kandaan, a shepherd in the region, found that one of his cows was pouring milk onto an anthill. Upon investigation, people found the Swayambu idol of Lord Venkatachalapathi inside the anthill.
They constructed the temple in honor of this discovery.

Contribution of Mysore Kings:

The Mysore Kings played a significant role in the development of the temple. They constructed the huge temple tank at the foot of the hill.

Float Festival and Rituals:

The temple celebrates a grand Float Festival during the month of Puratasi.
A small idol of Lord Venkataramana is placed outside the temple, and devotees traditionally seek the Lord’s approval before commencing any new work.
They place a Tulsi leaf on Perumal’s shoulders, and if the leaf falls, it is considered as a sign of Lord’s approval.

Temple Structure and Deities:

The temple is known for its beautiful paintings of Lord Vishnu and His various avatars.
The main deity, Lord Prasanna Venkataramana Swamy, is seen in His standing posture.
Sweet pudding, known as Sarkarai Pongal, is offered as nivedhana (prasad) to the Lord

Festivals

• Brahmotsavam in Puratasi • Sri Jayanthi Utsavam • Street Procession on the full moon day in Chitrai • Chitra Pournami & Tamil New year • VaikasiVasantotsavam • Aani Thirumanjanam • Aadi Perukku • Avani Avittam Festival • Puratasi Navarathri Festival • Deepavali • Karthigai Deepam • Ekadashi • Thai Ulavar Thirunal