Tirumazhisai Alwar – The Sudarsana Incarnation Who Commanded the Lord

Birthplace and Divine Origins

Born in Tirumazhisai, near Poonamallee, Chennai.
The region was once called Maheesaara Kshetram, sanctified by Sage Bhargava’s penance.
His birth was miraculous: born formless to Kanakangi (apsara) and Sage Bhargava, abandoned in a bamboo grove.
Nourished by Lord Jagannatha and Lakshmi, later raised by a farmer.
Grew up without food or water until blessed by an old couple, who later gave birth to Kanikannan, his lifelong companion.

Spiritual Journey

Initially explored multiple philosophies, became a Saivite named Sivakya.
Transformed by Pey Alwar, who revealed Sriman Narayana as the Supreme Soul.
Renamed Bhaktisara, later known as Tirumazhisai Alwar.
Authored two profound prabandhams:

Devotion and Miracles

Kanikannan, his disciple, followed him everywhere.
In Kanchipuram, Alwar rejuvenated an old devotee with yogic powers. She married the king.
The king, jealous of her youth, sought Alwar’s blessings. When denied, he exiled Kanikannan.
Alwar left with Kanikannan and requested the deity to follow them. The deity Yathoktakari (Sonna Vannam Seitha Perumal) obeyed.
The city plunged into darkness. The king repented and invited them back.

Tirukkudanthai Episode

At Kumbakonam, Alwar was enchanted by Sri Aravamudhan’s reclining pose.
Requested the Lord to rise and speak. The Lord began to rise.
Alwar asked Him to remain in that Utthanasayee (rising) form, which He did.
The Lord became known as Aravamudha Alvan, and Alwar as Tirumazhisai Piran.

Divine Identity and Worship

Believed to be the amsa of Sudarsana Chakra, symbolizing spiritual power and clarity.
A separate shrine for Tirumazhisai Piran exists in Kumbakonam, alongside Lord Varadharaja Swami.