Natham Vijayasana Perumal Temple

Sri Vaikuntham, a picturesque village nestled near Tirunelveli in the Tamil Nadu region of India, boasts a hidden treasure within its vicinity. A short distance of approximately 3 kilometers leads to the quaint hamlet known as Natham, although its original name is Varagunamangai.

Here, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu graces the landscape, bearing the name Vijayasana Perumal Temple. This sacred site is recognized as the 92nd Divya Desam, nestled in the heart of the Pandya region. Along the banks of the revered Tamraparni River, a collection of nine Vishnu temples is celebrated as the Nava Tirupatis. Among them, this temple stands as the Second 'Nava Tirupati,' a cherished gem on the pilgrimage route from Tirunelveli to Tiruchendur. Join me in this exploration of the temple's rich history and significance.

Highlights:

• Nammalwar has composed Pasuram about this site in his verses.
• It is considered as the 92nd Divya Desam temple. It is located in Pandya region.
• It is considered as the Second Nava Tirupati temple.
• God - Vijayasana Perumal
• Goddess - Varaguna Valli 
• Utsav - Emmidar Kadivan
• Teerth (holy water) - Agni Teerth and Deva Pushkarani
• Vimana - Vijayakoti Vimana

Legend:

According to the revered legends, a devout Brahman named Vedavit undertook intense penance and recited the Asana Mantra within these sacred grounds. Touched by his unwavering devotion, Lord Vishnu bestowed His divine darshan upon him. Hence, the deity is affectionately known as Vijayasana Perumal, and the site also bears the name Mokshapuri, signifying a place of salvation.

Furthermore, it is believed that one's soul attains liberation if they meet their earthly end within these hallowed precincts. A poignant tale recounts the demise of a fisherman who, bitten by a snake while casting his net in the holy tank, instantly attained moksha. Intriguingly, in his previous life, he was a malevolent king.

The lore also narrates that Lord Vishnu granted His divine vision to Agni, Romasa Rishi, and Satyavan at this sacred locale.

History:

This temple is a relic from the Pandya era, bearing the imprints of later dynasties' contributions and renovations.

Temple Layout:

The east-facing temple features an elegant five-tiered gopura, characterized by its simplicity. Within the sanctum, Lord Vijayasana Perumal, seated majestically, commands attention. His divine presence is accentuated by the protective hood of Sesha unfurled behind Him.

Flanking the presiding deity are His consorts: Sri Devi, affectionately known as Varaguna Mangai, and Bhoo Devi. Varaguna Mangai, with her captivating name, finds her abode within the sanctum alongside Lord Vijayasana Perumal.

Notably, this village derives its name from Varaguna Mangai, hinting at a potential link to Varaguna Pandya, although historical certainty remains elusive.

The temple also houses the festival deity, Emmidar Kadivan, aptly named to signify the remover of troubles. Emmidar Kadivan, along with his two consorts, shares the sanctum with Lord Vijayasana Perumal.

Facing the sanctum, one encounters the stately presence of Garuda, flanked by the flagstaff and bali peetha.

Happy travelling.