Thiru Thiruputkuzhi Temple - A Sacred Vishnu Temple in 108 Divya Desams

Thiru Thiruputkuzhi Temple, located in Tamil Nadu, is one of the revered 108 Divya Desams, the holiest abodes of Lord Vishnu. This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Vijaya Raghava Perumal, has significant historical, mythological, and spiritual importance. It is a must-visit pilgrimage destination for devotees seeking divine blessings.

Overview of Thiru Thiruputkuzhi Temple

  • Location: Near Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu

  • Deity: Lord Vijaya Raghava Perumal (Lord Vishnu)

  • Goddess: Maragathavalli Thayar

  • Significance: One of the 108 Divya Desams

  • Temple Timings:

    • Morning: 6:30 AM - 12:00 PM

    • Evening: 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM

  • Festivals: Brahmotsavam, Vaikunta Ekadasi, Panguni Utsavam

  • Architecture: Dravidian style with intricate carvings and sculptures

History and Legend of Thiru Thiruputkuzhi Temple

Thiru Thiruputkuzhi Temple has a rich history associated with Hindu epics. According to legend, this is the place where Lord Rama performed last rites for Jatayu, the divine eagle who sacrificed his life trying to save Sita from Ravana.

Connection with Ramayana

Jatayu, the vulture king and a devotee of Lord Rama, fought valiantly against Ravana while he was abducting Sita. Mortally wounded, Jatayu fell at this location. Lord Rama, moved by Jatayu’s devotion, performed his last rites here, granting him moksha (liberation). The name ‘Thiruputkuzhi’ means ‘Sacred Bird’s Pit’ in Tamil, referring to Jatayu’s burial site.

Temple Built by Pallavas and Cholas

The temple is believed to have been constructed during the reign of the Pallavas and later renovated by the Cholas. The inscriptions on the temple walls provide insights into donations, endowments, and royal patronage from different dynasties.

Architectural Marvel of Thiru Thiruputkuzhi Temple

The temple showcases the Dravidian style of architecture, featuring:

  • Majestic Gopuram (tower): The towering entrance is adorned with intricate carvings.

  • Vimanam (Temple Tower): Known as Vijayakoti Vimanam.

  • Sacred Water Tank: Chakra Theertham, believed to purify devotees of sins.

  • Sanctum Sanctorum: The main deity, Vijaya Raghava Perumal, is seen with an arrow and bow, depicting Lord Rama.

  • Thayar Sannidhi: The shrine of Maragathavalli Thayar (Goddess Lakshmi) holds special significance for devotees.

Significance of Thiru Thiruputkuzhi Temple

One of the 108 Divya Desams

The temple is praised in the Divya Prabandham, the hymns of Azhwars (Vaishnavite saints), emphasizing its importance among Vishnu temples.

Spiritual Benefits

Devotees believe visiting this temple grants moksha, removes obstacles in marriage, and brings peace and prosperity. The temple is also known for rituals that honor departed souls.

Temple Timings and Rituals

  • Morning Pooja: 6:30 AM – 12:00 PM

  • Evening Pooja: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

  • Special Abhishekam: Conducted on Saturdays and Ekadasi days.

Festivals Celebrated at Thiru Thiruputkuzhi Temple

  1. Brahmotsavam (March-April): A grand festival with processions and Vedic rituals.

  2. Vaikunta Ekadasi (December-January): Celebrated with special poojas and devotees observing fasts.

  3. Panguni Utsavam: Devotees from across Tamil Nadu participate in this festival.

  4. Sri Rama Navami: Dedicated to Lord Rama’s birth, celebrated with grandeur.

How to Reach Thiru Thiruputkuzhi Temple

  • By Air: Nearest airport is Chennai International Airport (80 km away).

  • By Train: Kanchipuram railway station is the nearest railhead.

  • By Road: The temple is well-connected by road, with buses and taxis available from Chennai and Kanchipuram.

Conclusion

Thiru Thiruputkuzhi Temple is a spiritually significant 108 Divya Desam Vishnu temple, deeply rooted in the Ramayana legend. Its rich history, magnificent architecture, and divine aura make it a must-visit pilgrimage site. Devotees visiting this temple experience a sense of peace, devotion, and spiritual upliftment.

If you seek divine blessings from Lord Vijaya Raghava Perumal, make sure to plan your visit to this sacred temple and immerse yourself in its spiritual energy.