Thottiyam Veda Narayana Perumal Temple, Trichy

Address

Thirunarayanapuram,

Balasamudram via, Thottiyam taluk,

Trichy district, Tamilnadu – 621203

Phone: +91 9976611898/ 98948061631

Moolavar

Veda Narayana Perumal

Amman

Vedanayaki

Introduction

The Veda Narayana Perumal Temple is a revered ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, situated at Tirunarayanapuram Village near Thottiyam in the Trichy District of Tamil Nadu, India. This historical temple, often known as Aadi Rangam due to its Vedic origins, underwent significant renovations during the 15th century Nayakar period.

Puranic Significance:

Mahabali’s Vision: The temple’s origins are linked to a divine vision experienced by Emperor Mahabali during his military campaign towards Mysore. After resting on a sand dune, he dreamt of Lord Perumal instructing him to excavate an idol buried beneath the earth. Following this divine guidance, Mahabali discovered the idol, constructed a temple, and named the village Tirunarayanapuram. He attributed his victory in war to the blessings of Lord Vishnu and dedicated the lands and village to the temple.

Pillai Thiru Naraiyur Abhimana Kshetram: The temple is also associated with the story of Thiru Naraiyur Araiyar, who sought Moksha (liberation) for himself and his family. When a fire broke out at the temple, Araiyar protected the deity by throwing his children and himself into the flames, eventually receiving divine grace and Moksha for his family. This act of devotion led to the temple being named Pillai Thiru Naraiyur Abhimana Kshetram.

Significance of Worship: The temple is noted for its historical significance as it is believed that Brahma, Prahaladha, Sugreeva, Hanuman, Garuda, and various others worshipped here and received divine sanction. It is also considered an auspicious place for educational success due to Lord Vishnu’s association with Vedic education.

Special Features:

Location and Architecture: Located on the northern banks of the River Cauvery, the temple features additions from the Nayakar period. It consists of two prakaram (enclosures) and two main shrines dedicated to Perumal and Thayar. The main deity, Vedanarayana Perumal, is depicted reclining on a ten-headed Adhisesha (serpent), with the unique feature of the Lord using the Four Vedas as his pillow.
Unique Aspects:
- Prahaladha’s Idol: A rare feature of the temple is a standing statue of the young Prahaladha at the feet of the reclining Lord.
- Adhisesha: The serpent Adhisesha is shown with ten heads, five of which are named Vasuki, Dakshaka, Kuliga, Karkotaka, and Kalinga, making it a distinctive element in Vishnu temples.
- Goddess and Other Shrines: Vedanayaki Thaayar, the consort, is housed in a separate shrine. The temple also features shrines for Goddess Saraswathi, Andal, Ramanuja Acharya, and several Alwars.
Theerthams and Sacred Trees: The temple’s sacred water sources include Vedha Pushkarini and the River Cauvery. The Vilva Tree, revered by Lord Shiva, is the sthala vriksham (sacred tree) of the temple.

Belief:

Marital and Educational Remedies: Devotees visit the temple for remedies related to marital issues, educational pursuits, and planetary afflictions. Special rituals are performed on Tiruvonam star days, Ekadasi, and new moon days.

Festivals:

The temple hosts several significant festivals, including:

11-day Vaikasi Festival: Featuring a 9-day chariot procession.
21-day Adyana Utsavam in Margazhi.
Puratasi Navarathri.
Vaikunda Ekadasi (December-January).
Hanuman Jayanthi.
Panguni Uthiram: Where Lord Vedanarayana Perumal visits the shrine of Mother-Goddess Vedavalli Thayar for a joint darshan.