Tirupatthur Ninra Narayana Perumal Temple, Sivaganga

Address

Tirupatthur, Sivaganga district,

Tamil Nadu -635653

Phone: +91 – 94874 55910

Moolavar

Ninra Narayana Perumal

Introduction

The Ninra Narayana Perumal Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is situated in Tirupatthur, Sivaganga District, Tamil Nadu. This ancient temple, which is believed to be around 1500 years old, holds religious and historical significance.

It is approximately 27 kilometers from Sivaganga and 22 kilometers from Karaikudi.
Tirupatthur served as the entry point from the east into the Pandya Kingdom during the historical period.

Puranic Significance

Deities and Sanctums:

The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Vishnu, who is seen in a grand standing posture. He is referred to as Ninra Narayana Perumal.
Lord Vishnu is flanked by the goddesses Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi Thaayar.
There is a separate shrine for Thiru Maa Magal Thaayar within the temple complex.

Historical Significance:

Tirupatthur has a rich historical background. It was the second capital of the Pandya Kingdom and served as the eastern gateway to the kingdom.
The temple has inscriptions from the time of King Varaguna Pandiyan II, and Lord Perumal is referred to as Jalasayanathupadarar in these inscriptions.
During the rule of the Pandya dynasty, a separate temple was constructed south of the Tiruthalinathar temple for Lord Perumal in a standing posture. The temple features inscriptions from the 13th century, including one by King Maravarman Sundara Pandiyan.
The temple experienced disruptions during the rule of the Lankan ruler Lankapura Thanda Nayakaav and the Muslim invasion.

Special Features

Anjaneya in the Temple:

A unique feature of the temple is the statue of Anjaneya (Lord Hanuman). Anjaneya is depicted in a posture similar to that during the Ramayana war, where he is plucking a tree to destroy the opposition forces.
In this form, Anjaneya does not hold his traditional mace, and he does not wear a crown. His hair is unkempt.

The Ninra Narayana Perumal Temple in Tirupatthur is not only a place of worship but also a testament to the rich historical and cultural heritage of the region. The unique form of Anjaneya and the temple’s ancient inscriptions add to its significance, making it an important pilgrimage site for devotees.

Festivals

The temple hosts various special events and festivals. On Saturdays in the Puratasi month (September), there is a Vahana procession of Lord Ninra Narayana Perumal around the streets of Tirupatthur.
Abhishekam for Goddess Mahalakshmi Thaayar is performed on Sundays.
A street procession of Lord Vishnu takes place during Sri Jayanthi utsavam, celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna.