One of Tamil Nadu’s most well-known Vishnu temples is Nachiyar Temple. The divine consort of the Lord is called ‘Nachiyar’. As she gains more attention in this place, the temple is called ‘Nachiyar Koil,’ the temple of the Goddess. Since the area is also known as Thirunarayur, the shrine is known as Thirunarayur Nambi Temple, and the Lord is known as Thirunarayur Nambi. Nestled on the outskirts of Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, this is a well-known Divydesam, the holy abode of Lord Vishnu, praised by the Azhwar saints in their sacred hymns.
The deities Srinivasa Perumal and his spouse Vanchulavalli Nachiyar are honored in this temple. The ‘Kal Garudan,’ the powerful stone bird mount of the Lord, is the reason this temple is well known. Here, the saint Thirumangai Azhwar is said to have received the religious initiation of Pancha Samskara from Vishnu himself. Throughout the year, a large number of people come to this temple from all over the state and nation to pray to the Lord and the Goddess.
Nachiyar Koil’s History and Architecture:
It is thought that Kochengat Cholan constructed the temple in the third century CE, and later it was favored by the Cholas of the Middle Ages and the Vijayanagara kings. This temple features a five-tiered Rajagopuram, the main tower, and is surrounded by a granite wall. In the sanctum sanctorum, one can worship Lord Srinivasa Perumal, also known as Narayur Nambi, and his consort, Vanchulavalli Nachiyar.
The Goddess appears to be a little ahead of the Lord even in her standing position, as if to establish her superiority! Beside the main shrine is a special shrine dedicated to Lord Garuda. Chakrathazhwar and Yoga Narasimha, the Utsava deities, and Rama, Lakshmana, Sita, and Hanuman all have their own shrines. This is a Mada Koil, where the main shrines are situated in an elevated building that requires 21 steps to access.
Festivals at Temples:
The most significant festival here is still Garuda Sevai, which is celebrated during Panguni (March-April), even though the 10-day Brahmotsavam is celebrated during Margazhi (December-January). The processional deities are carried in elaborate processions on the Kal Garudan on these special occasions. In addition, the union of the celestial couple is commemorated in Aavani (August–September) within the temple’s 100-pillared hall during Kalyana Utsavam.
The advantages of worshiping Nachiyar Koil’s Lord and Goddess:
It is thought that anyone who worships the divine couple in this temple with piety will receive their many blessings, which will enable them to overcome challenges, maintain good health, and achieve success in their careers and finances. Worship is also paid to Lord Garuda, particularly on Thursdays. This is thought to resolve marriage delays, protect children’s welfare, and alleviate the negative effects of the snake planets Rahu and Ketu.
Nachiyar kovil Location:
Nachiyar Temple, Nachiyar Kovil, Near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
Everyday Schedule:
8:00 AM Doshai Thaligai
Kalasanthi at 9:00 A.M.
Uchikalam at 12:30 P.M.
6:00 PM Thirumal Vadai
Sayarakshai at 7:30p.m.
Arthajamam at 9:00 p.m.
Pooja Details:
It is believed that performing archana to Kal Garudar every Thursday for seven weeks in a row will grant devotees a marriage boon as well as relief from Navagraha and Navasarpa doshas. If they so choose, devotees may pay the full amount of Rs. 360 in person at the temple office. If you are unable to visit the temple, you can send a money order for Rs. 360 to the address listed below. After the archana is finished, devotees will receive the prasadam from the temple via postal service.
Nachiyar Temple Timings & Distance:
Temple Timing: 6:30 AM to0 12.30 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM
By Air: The temple is located roughly ninety kilometers from Trichy International Airport. From there, people can travel by road to get to the temple.
By Rail: The temple is only roughly 7 kilometers from the railway station, which connects the town of Kumbakonam with multiple trains.
By Road: Excellent transportation options from Kumbakonam and other locations to the temple include buses, private taxis, and autos.
For more details visit the official site of liturgical temples. You can also get more information about different temples and its special days.
Nearby Temples: Ramaswamy Temple, Brihadeshwara Temple, Thirumanancheri Temple, Swamimalai Murugan Temple, Kizhvelur Temple, Oppiliappan Temple.