Thirunandipura Vinnagaram

108 Divya Desams, Thanjavur District

God

Vinnagara Perumal (also Jaganadar), facing east with Sree Devi and Bhoodevi

Goddess

Shenbagavalli Thaayar, facing east

Other Deities

Utsavar Jaganatha Perumal, Nandi in a human form

Thirunandipura Vinnagaram is an ancient temple dating back to the Chola period. This nicely renovated and neatly maintained temple is east facing with a small 3 tier Rajagopuram at the entrance. The ancient names of the temple are Nathankoil, Dakshina Jaganatham, and Shenbagaranyam. The idol of Nandi (see legend section) is installed in the South.

Holy Water (Theertham) – Nandi Pushkarini

Sacred Tree (Sthala Vriksham) – Shenbagam (Michelia champaka)

Vimaanam – Mandhara Vimaanam

History

Thirumangai Azhwar (one of the 12 Azhwars, c. 7-10th Century CE) has rendered Mangalasasanam for the lord here at Thirunandipura Vinnagaram. Raja Raja Chola (985 – 1014 CE) is said to have rendered services to the Thirunandipura Vinnagaram temple.

Legend

The lord is believed to have to have appeared here at Thirunandipura Vinnagaram to witness the legend of Emperor Sibi giving his flesh equal to the weight of a pigeon to the eagle that was chasing her. Lord Shiva’s mount Nandi in his attempt to worship Lord Vishnu in his heavenly abode is said to have angered the Dwarapalakas who cursed him to suffer from a disease. Lord Shiva is said to have advised Nandi to go to Thirunandipura Vinnagaram temple and get relieved of the curse. Goddess Mahalakshmi is believed to have done severe penance here at Thirunandipura Vinnagaram under a Champaka tree to gain the attention of Lord Vishnu.

Directions

Thirunandipura Vinnagaram is 5 kilometers south of Kumbakonam in the Patteeswaram to Thippirajapuram road.

Stay and Food

None locally. Closest is Kumbakonam.

108 Divya Desam Temples