Introduction
The Azhagiya Manavala
Perumal Temple, also known as Thirukozhi or Nachiyar Koil, is
a revered Divya Desam located in Uraiyur, a historic suburb of Tiruchirappalli,
Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Azhagiya Manavalan and
Goddess Lakshmi as Kamalavalli Nachiyar, this temple is unique for its
emphasis on the goddess and its rich cultural traditions.
Quick Facts Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Uraiyur, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu |
| Significance | One of the 108 Divya Desams |
| Built By | Medieval Cholas (8th century CE) |
| Main Deity | Azhagiya Manavalan Perumal (Vishnu) |
| Consort | Kamalavalli Nachiyar (Lakshmi) |
| Temple Timings | 6:00 AM – 12:00 Noon, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Major Festivals | Serthi Sevai, Chariot Festival, Vaikunta Ekadashi |
History
The temple dates back to
the 8th century CE, built by the Medieval Cholas, with later
contributions from the Pandyas, Vijayanagara kings, and Nayaks. It is
glorified in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham by the Alvars, making it one
of the 108 Divya Desams.
Sthala Puranam (Legend)
King Nanda Chola,
childless and devoted to Vishnu, was blessed with a divine daughter—Kamalavalli,
an incarnation of Lakshmi. She later married Vishnu, who appeared as Azhagiya
Manavalan (the Handsome Groom). This divine wedding is central to the
temple’s identity.
Unique customs include
offering pepper instead of chilies and sandal paste instead of kumkum,
reflecting the temple’s emphasis on the goddess.
Presiding Deity
- Main Deity:
Azhagiya Manavalan Perumal, seated in a majestic posture.
- Consort:
Kamalavalli Nachiyar, enshrined in a north-facing sanctum—a rare
feature among Divya Desams.
Temple Architecture
The temple showcases Chola
architecture, with later Vijayanagara and Nayak influences. Murals depict
Vishnu’s avatars and Vaishnava lore, while shrines dedicated to saints like Ramanuja
and Nammalvar enrich its spiritual heritage.
Sub Shrines
Shrines for Alvars and
Acharyas, along with murals of Vishnu’s incarnations, highlight the temple’s
devotional depth.
Daily Rituals
Six daily pujas are
performed:
- Ushathkalam (7:00 AM)
- Kalasanthi (8:00 AM)
- Uchikalam (12:00 PM)
- Sayarakshai (6:00 PM)
- Irandamkalam (7:00 PM)
- Ardha Jamam (8:00 PM)
Major Festivals
- Serthi Sevai (Panguni):
Re-enacts the divine wedding of Perumal and Nachiyar.
- Chariot Festival (Chithirai):
A grand procession of the deities.
- Vaikunta Ekadashi, Vasanthotsavam,
Navaratri: Celebrated with devotion and
grandeur.
Darshan Timings
- Morning:
6:00 AM – 12:00 Noon
- Evening:
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
How to Reach
- By Air:
Nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ), 10
km away. Taxis and app-based cabs take 20–30 minutes.
- By Train:
Nearest station is Tiruchirappalli Junction (TPJ), 8 km away.
Auto-rickshaws and buses connect to Uraiyur.
- By Road:
Located near NH38, accessible from Chennai (330 km), Madurai (135
km), and Bangalore (335 km). Local buses from Trichy Central Bus Stand
or Chatram Bus Stand head toward Woraiyur.
Spiritual Significance
Devotees believe the
temple grants marital harmony, prosperity, and liberation. Its rare
emphasis on the goddess reflects a matriarchal reverence in Vaishnavite
tradition. Daily Annadhanam (free meals) further enhances its spiritual
service.
Frequently Asked
Questions
Q1. Why is Kamalavalli
Nachiyar’s shrine unique? It faces north, a rare feature among
Divya Desams.
Q2. What is the highlight
festival of the temple? The Serthi Sevai festival,
re-enacting the divine wedding.
Q3. How far is the temple
from Trichy Airport? Approximately 10 km, about a 20–30 minute
drive.
Conclusion
The Azhagiya Manavala Perumal Temple in Uraiyur is a timeless Divya Desam blending Chola heritage, divine legends, and unique goddess-centered traditions. Whether seeking blessings for harmony, prosperity, or spiritual liberation, this temple offers a deeply fulfilling experience for devotees and travelers alike.