Thiruvilandur
In continuation of the previous post about Mayiladuthurai, here is the next post on Thiruvilandhur, another famous neighborhood within the town limits of Mayiladuthurai, where the Parimala Ranganathar Temple is situated.
Thiruvilandur, also known as Thiruindhalur, is a Diyva Desam (Temple/Holy Places, glorified in the works of Alwars) Lord Vishnu resides, in the form of Parimala Ranganathar.
Lofty Gopuram (Temple Entrance Tower) of Parimala Ranganathar Temple
Gently resting on the five hooded serpent Adisesha, flanked by Sridevi and Sri Boodevi, worshiped by Lord Brahma, with Surya and Chandra, Kaveri and Ganga, the Lord smiles calmly, within the rectangular sanctum, illuminated by the ghee lamps, besieged in the aroma of fresh Tulasi leaves!
As per the legends, the moon is said to have been cursed to lose his shine, and was relieved of the curse and regained his splendor, by performing penance and worshiping the Lord at Thiruvilandur.
The uniqueness of this temple, is the presence of Kaveri and Ganga, personified as Goddesses, present within the sanctum, worshiping Lord Parimala Ranganathar.
The temple is quite spacious, with several beautifully carved stone pillars. The temple pond, abounded by fishes, is situated right opposite to the temple.
The temple pond
This temple is said to be the Antya or Tail end of the Ranganathar Temples situated along the banks of the river Kaveri, over its course. The Adi or beginning being Ranganatha Temple at Srirangapatna near Mysore, followed by Ranganatha Temple at Shivasamudra, then the humongous Ranganathar Temple at Srirangam, the Sarangapani Temple at Kumbakonam being other four Ranganatha Temples, in order.
The temple has a calm atmosphere, intercepted by the occasional chants of the devotees and recitals of the priests. Several festivals are celebrated in the temple, throughout the year. It is no exaggeration, to mention this little neighborhood as a fragment of Vaikunta on earth!
Cheers. God Bless.
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