బ్లాగులు — Goddess Andal

Andal (also called Goda or Kothai) is a celebrated Tamil Alvar saint, renowned as the only female poet-saint in the Sri Vaishnava tradition. In tradition, she is regarded as an incarnation of Bhumi (the Earth Goddess) and Lakshmi (Vishnu’s consort). From her earliest days, Andal’s life was infused with love and devotion. Raised by the great devotee Periyalvar in Srivilliputtur, she grew up absorbed in Vishnu devotion, and her story exemplifies pure, unwavering bhakti (devotion) to the Lord. Andal’s life is a testament to the power of love and devotion – her journey from an ordinary village girl to a divine bride is a timeless...

A month wrapped in winter’s gentle chill, when the air resonates with sacred hymns and devotional music from every home at dawn — that’s the divine beginning of Margazhi, also known as Agrahayana or Margashirsha. Falling between mid-December and mid-January, this ninth month of the Hindu calendar is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and holds immense spiritual significance. It is believed that during Margazhi, the universe overflows with divine energy, making it the perfect time for devotion, meditation, and spiritual awakening. This year, the Tamil month of Margazhi begins on Tuesday, December 16, and ends on Wednesday, January 14.  Why is...

The Srivilliputhur Andal Temple, located in the Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu, is one of the most sacred and culturally rich temples in South India. Dedicated to Goddess Andal and Lord Vishnu (in the form of Vatapatrasayi), this ancient temple is not just a spiritual destination but also a symbol of Tamil heritage, devotion, and poetry. The temple is revered as the birthplace of Andal, the only female Alvar saint among the twelve Alvars of the Vaishnava tradition.  Historical Background  Srivilliputhur is believed to be over 2000 years old. The temple's history is deeply intertwined with the legend of Andal, who...

Aadi Pooram is one of the most significant festivals in the Tamil calendar. It is also known as Andal Jayanthi. Aadi Pooram marks the birth of Goddess Aandal, an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi and one of the twelve alvars. The festival also coincides with Goddess Parvati's Valaikappu, or bangle ceremony (baby shower).  Significance of Aadi Pooram  Aadi, the fourth month of the Tamil calendar, is coupled with 'Pooram,' one of the 27 Nakshatras (stars) in Vedic astrology, to form the auspicious festival of Aadi Pooram.  On this auspicious day, it is believed by devotees that Goddess Parvati descends to earth to...

Margazhi, the month that holds immense spiritual and cultural significance, is a time when the air fills with divine energy through early morning prayers, vibrant kolams (rangolis), and the soulful recitations of Thiruppavai and Thiruvempavai. Thiruppavai, composed by Andal, one of the twelve Azhwars (devotee poets of Lord Vishnu), is a cherished collection of 30 Tamil hymns dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Andal, also known as Goda Devi, is celebrated as the only female Alvar, renowned for her deep devotion and divine love for Lord Vishnu.  The Story Behind Andal and Thiruppavai  Andal was born in Srivilliputhur, Tamil Nadu, in the...