Thondaradipodi Alwar – The Divine Garland of Sri Ranganatha

Birth and Background

Thondaradipodi Alwar, one of the revered 12 Alwars, was born in Thirumandangudi near Kumbakonam in the Chola region. His birth occurred in the month of Margali, under the Kettai (Jyesta) star, 289 years after the beginning of Kaliyuga.

His father Veda Visaradhar named him Vipranarayana, meaning “one who knows Sriman Narayana as He resides in Sri Vaikuntam.” From a young age, Vipranarayana displayed deep devotion and extraordinary spiritual wisdom.

Amsa of Vanamali – The Divine Garland

Thondaradipodi Alwar is considered an amsa (incarnation) of Vanamali or Vaijayanthi, the divine garland adorning Lord Vishnu. True to this form, he dedicated his life to adorning Lord Ranganatha with flowers, cultivating a sacred garden near the Sri Rangam temple and offering floral service daily.

His name, Thondaradipodi, translates to “dust at the feet of all Sri Vaishnavas,” reflecting his humility and reverence for fellow devotees.

The Divine Play – Vipranarayana and Deva Devi

One day, two devadasis from the Sri Rangam temple passed by his garden. The younger, Deva Devi, was captivated by Vipranarayana’s radiance and challenged her sister that she could make him fall for her.

Disguised as a sanyasini, she requested to serve in his garden. Moved by her apparent devotion, Vipranarayana allowed her to help. During a storm, she stayed in his ashram and gradually drew him into worldly attachment.

When Deva Devi returned to her home in Uttamarkovil, Vipranarayana, unable to bear the separation, followed her. Her mother demanded money to allow him inside. Distraught, Vipranarayana returned to the temple and begged Lord Ranganatha for forgiveness.

Moved by his devotee’s plight, Lord Ranganatha Himself disguised as a servant, visited Deva Devi’s house and gifted a golden goblet (Pon Vattil). This led to a misunderstanding, and Vipranarayana was arrested.

That night, Lord Ranganatha appeared in the King’s dream, revealed the truth, and ordered Vipranarayana’s release. Thus, the Alwar was restored to grace and resumed his service to the Lord.

Even today, his idol is depicted holding the Pon Vattil, symbolizing this divine episode.

Literary Contributions

Thondaradipodi Alwar composed two timeless Tamil works:

Thirumaalai (45 Pasurams): A garland of praise for Lord Ranganatha, rich in Vishnu Dharma.
Thirupallieluchi (10 Pasurams): A Suprabhatam-style hymn to awaken Lord Ranganatha, recited daily in Vishnu temples.

These verses echo the spirit of “Kausalya Supraja Rama…” from the Ramayana, invoking the Lord with vivid imagery—rising sun, blooming lotuses, chirping birds, and divine beings gathering for darshan.

Swami Desikan later incorporated the essence of these hymns in the 19th Sargam of Sri Yadavabhudayam.

Celebrations at Sri Rangam

Margali Utsavam (Dec–Jan): Celebrates Alwar’s birth star Kettai.
Vasantha Utsavam (Vaikasi – May–June): Lord Ranganatha visits the Alwar’s garden, honoring his floral devotion.

During temple renovations, Thirumangai Alwar preserved Thondaradipodi’s garden out of respect for his bhakti. Even today, the garden on the banks of the River Kaveri supplies flowers for Lord Ranganatha’s worship.

Legacy

Thondaradipodi Alwar lived for 105 years, singing only of Lord Ranganatha. His life is a testament to devotion, humility, and divine grace, reminding us that even a momentary lapse can be redeemed through sincere repentance and the Lord’s compassion.

His works continue to awaken the Lord and the hearts of devotees, every Margali morning in Tirumala and Sri Rangam.