Azhagiya Mannaar Raja Gopala Swami Temple - Palayankottai

Tirunelveli boasts the magnificent Kantimati Sameta Nellaiyappar temple, a true source of pride for Nellai. But does Palayankottai, the sister town of Tirunelveli, have something equally captivating to offer? Indeed, it does. The Azhagiya Mannaar Rajagopala Swami temple is a sight to behold, and words alone cannot capture the sheer beauty of this exquisite temple. If it had been constructed centuries ago, there is no doubt that the revered Alwars would have celebrated this temple with their divine hymns. This temple is a vibrant, awe-inspiring, colossal, historically rich, and culturally significant marvel in the Nellai region. 

Apsaras, renowned for their enchanting beauty, grace the sanctum with their presence. Two of these elegant Apsaras stand on either side of the Devis, waving chamaras. However, the Devis themselves outshine even the Apsaras with their divine allure. Vedadavalli, who cradles a lotus in her left arm, and Kumudavalli, gently holding a lily with her right, both sit in a serene posture, radiating an unparalleled beauty. Yet, behold the splendor of Veda Narayana, who sits at the center, presiding over the site as the Supreme Deity of the Universe. He is seated majestically with four arms, grasping a conch and a discus in his upper limbs, while his lower right arm extends in an abhaya mudra, signifying fearlessness, and his left lower arm cradles the sacred Veda. As the Lord of the Vedas, he is Veda Narayana, and his colossal image exudes an extraordinary and incomparable beauty. Bhrigu and Markandeya Rishis are also found along with the divine icons in the same shrine.

Upon marveling at the unmatched beauty of Veda Narayana and exiting the sanctum, one encounters an equally, if not more, resplendent bronze icon of Raja Mannaar in Maha mandapa. Referred to by various names such as Raja Mannar or Raja Gopala Swami, it is fascinating to note that the temple is named after him, rather than the stone image of the presiding deity.

Raja Mannaar stands in regal grandeur, flanked by his cherished consorts, Rukmini and Satyabhama, who delicately cradle blossoms in their graceful arms. This iconic representation depicts Rajagopala as a benevolent shepherd, his right hand wielding a whip, while his left rests stylishly on a symbolic representation of cattle, even though the cattle itself is not explicitly portrayed. This evocative image bears a striking resemblance to the beloved Mannargudi Rajagopala Swami.

After being awestruck by the unparalleled beauty of Veda Narayana in the sanctum and the equally enchanting Raja Mannaar in the Maha mandapa, the temple continues to astound us. Another form of Lord Vishnu eagerly awaits to bestow blessings upon us. Adorning the first tier of the inner gopura, the shrine accommodates the stucco image of Azhagiya Mannaar. He stands with four arms in a majestic posture, accompanied by Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi, and attended by Bhrigu and Markandeya. It is worth noting that the temple is named after both the metal image of Raja Mannaar and this stucco image of Azhagiya Mannaar.

The narrative of this temple's architectural and sculptural marvels seems endless. The expansive Maha mandapa, in addition to housing the exquisite bronze image of Raja Mannaar, boasts an array of vibrant miniature stucco images that vividly portray various scenes from the Ramayana, Krishna Leela, and Puranic tales featuring Narasimha and Ranganatha. Admiring each of these intricate art forms would require more than an hour of one's time.

Among the captivating carvings, there is a depiction of Hanuman massaging Lord Sri Rama's leg while conveying Sita's whereabouts. This scene is elegantly carved on a pillar. Another fascinating carving showcases four wrestlers, leaving the viewer to discern whose head and body belong to whom, creating an illusionary and intellectually engaging representation.

Throughout the Maha Mandapa and Mani Mandapa, a smaller pavilion located to the east, you will find many such intriguing carvings on pillars, including depictions of Yoga Narasimha, Lord Krishna, and more. Notably, Mani Mandapa features a pair of musical pillars akin to those in the Nellaiyappar temple.

Yet, there are more remarkable features to extol within this temple's premises. The sanctum houses snapana metal images of Vedanarayana, Lakshmi, and a couple of Krishna figures, adding to the temple's allure. Mani Mandapa is graced by a pair of exquisite yazhi pillars, enhancing its visual appeal. Additionally, there is an external pavilion that shelters the sub-shrines of Garuda and Hanuman, providing visitors with further points of interest.

The temple's outer Raja Gopuram, rising five tiers high, is adorned with numerous vibrant and captivating stucco images, mostly related to the war scenes from Ramayana. Its base showcases intriguing architectural elements and finely detailed carvings. Furthermore, an inner Gopura, previously mentioned, graces the site, and the entrance to the Ardha Mandapa is guarded by imposing sculptures of Dwarapalas, adding to the temple's grandeur.

The pathway leading beyond the Raja Gopuram is adorned with exquisite sloping wooden roofs, serving as the ceiling. This architectural feature likely dates back to the 1700s when the Tirunelveli region was under the rule of the Kerala kings.

Within the Maha Mandapa, we can find both stone and metal images of Visvaksena, along with metal icons of all the Alwars. These are prominently enshrined, adding to the temple's charm.

Moving to the inner prakara, we will discover two substantial shrines dedicated to Sree Devi and Bhoo Devi, each accompanied by their own frontside mandapa. Notably, Sree Devi's mandapa is relatively elongated.

Within the inner prakara, we can also encounter the Dasavataras, with representations of Matsya and Kurma Avatars appearing in their full animal forms. Adi Varaha and Yoga Narasimha are found in close proximity. Flanked by Sree Devi and Bhoo Devi, Paramapadanathar is seen. Additionally, the pillars in the mandapa, situated between the Dasavatara and Bhoo Devi shrines, are adorned with exquisite bas-relief carvings, featuring Nataraja, Ganesha, scenes from the Ramayana, Krishna Lila and other captivating relief images.

In a dedicated shrine within the inner prakara, we can pay respects to the stone icons of the Alwars, Ramanuja, and Manavala Mamuni. The outer prakara, surrounded by towering fortress walls, is open to the sky, completing the temple's overall layout.

It's unusual to come across a shrine dedicated to Ganesha within a Vishnu temple, but this temple boasts a beautifully crafted and significant shrine for Lord Ganesha known as Shenpaka Vinayaka. The primary deity here is Veda Narayana, hence the place is referred to as Vedanarayanapuri. Additionally, the temple is associated with the Chenpaka tree as its sacred tree, earning it the name Shenbakaranya Kshetra, and it's also known as Tirumangai Nagar.

As per the legend, Indra, who was a devoted worshipper of Lord Vishnu, implored Arjuna to defeat the Asuras, which Arjuna successfully accomplished. In gratitude for Arjuna's valor, Indra presented him with the sacred icon. Subsequently, the metal icon, known as Raja Gopala, is believed to have found its way to this temple when the Pandya king Sripathy acquired it while bathing in the Ganga.

Historically, the temple's initial construction is attributed to the Pandyas, with later renovations by the Cholas. Numerous inscriptions from the era of Rajaraja Chola I can be found within the temple. In the 13th century, the Pandyas constructed additional shrines and expanded the temple complex. Subsequently, various extensions and additions were made to the temple during the reigns of the Travancore Kings and Vijayanagara Kings.

Several inscriptions officially identify the village as Sri Vallabha Mangalam, revealing the original name of Palayankottai. This temple was originally known as Veera Narayana Vinnagaram and Vallabha Mangala Vinnagara Alwar. The Tamraparani River was also referred to as "Tann Poruntam."

Inscription # 1

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 16 of 2005

Period - 9th century CE

Commissioned by - King Rajaraja Chola I

Language - Inscribed in Tamil Vattezhuthu

This inscription details a land endowment specifically designated for the daily recitation of the Ramayana and Mahabharata. 

Inscription # 2

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 19 of 2005

Location - Situated on the southern Adhisthana Tripatta Kumudam of the main shrine

Period - Dated back to 995 CE

Commissioned by - King Rajaraja Chola I

Language - Inscribed in Tamil 

This inscription pertains to the land donation made by the Karumanickka Brahmadeya Sabha.

Inscription # 3

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 27 of 2005

Location - Situated on the western Adhisthana jagati of the main shrine

Period - Dated back to the 10th century CE

Commissioned by - Possibly Cholas (details are not found)

Language - Inscribed in Tamil Vattezhuthu

This inscription records the arrangements made to light lamps in Tiruppar Malai Sree Temple.

Inscription # 4

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 28 of 2005

Location - Situated on the western Adhisthana of the main shrine

Period - Possibly dated back to the 10th century CE

Commissioned by - Possibly Cholas (details are not found)

Language - Inscribed in Tamil Vattezhuthu

This fragmentary inscription probably records the gift of land.

Inscription # 5

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 37 of 2005

Location - Situated on a pillar in the western prakara

Period - 10th century CE

Language - Inscribed in Tamil Vattezhuthu

It provides the name of the donor of this pillar as Vama Aniththi Adigal Nambi. 

Inscription # 6

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 51 of 2005

Location - Situated on the northern wall of the main shrine

Period - 10th century CE

Commissioned by - Possibly Cholas (details are not found)

Language - Inscribed in Tamil Vattezhuthu

This incomplete inscriptions provides the details of land donation.

Inscription # 7

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 15 of 2005

Location - Situated on the southern Adhisthana of Maha Mandapa

Period - Dated back to 1000 CE

Commissioned by - King Rajaraja Chola I

Language - Inscribed in Tamil Vattezhuthu

This incomplete inscription details a land endowment specifically designated for the daily recitation of the Ramayana and Mahabharata. It also officially designates the village as Sri Vallabhamangalam, shedding light on the original name of Palayankottai.

Inscription # 8

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 17 of 2005

Period - Dated back to 1007 CE

Commissioned by - King Rajaraja Chola I

Language - Inscribed in Tamil 

This inscription pertains to the land endowment made for specific rituals at the Veera Narayana Perumal temple in Sri VallabhaMangalam. As there is no other equally ancient temple for Vishnu found in Palayankottai, I presume this temple was called Veera Narayana Vinnagar in the olden days.

Inscription # 9

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 18 of 2005

Location - Situated on the southern Adhisthana Tripatta Kumudam of the main shrine

Period - Dated back to 1007 CE

Commissioned by - King Rajaraja Chola I

Language - Inscribed in Tamil 

This incomplete inscription references the gathering of the Mahasabha at Veera Narayana Vinnagar.

Inscription # 10

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 31 of 2005

Location - Situated on the northern Adhisthana of the main shrine

Period - Dated back to 1008 CE

Commissioned by - King Rajaraja Chola I

Language - Inscribed in Tamil 

This incomplete inscription has no information besides the meikeerti portion.

Inscription # 11

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 34 of 2005

Location - Situated on the tripatta kumudam of the northern Adhisthana of the main shrine

Period - Dated back to 1010 CE

Commissioned by - King Rajaraja Chola I

Language - Inscribed in Tamil 

This inscription records the land donated by Sri Vallabhamangalam Mahasabha.

Inscription # 12

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 32 of 2005

Location - Situated on the northern Adhisthana of the main shrine

Period - Dated back to the 11th century CE

Commissioned by - Possibly Cholas

Language - Inscribed in Tamil 

This inscription discusses the land border. It calls the river Tamraparani as "Tann Poruntam". 

Inscription # 13

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 33 of 2005

Location - Situated on the jagati of the northern Adhisthana of the main shrine

Period - Dated back to the 11th century CE

Commissioned by - Possibly Cholas

Language - Inscribed in Tamil 

This inscription discusses the donations given for lighting the lamps at the shrine of Veera Narayana.

Inscription # 14

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 26 of 2005

Location - Situated on the western Adhisthana Tripatta Kumudam of the main shrine

Period - Dated back to 1009 CE

Commissioned by - King Rajaraja Chola I

Language - Inscribed in Tamil Vattezhuthu

This incomplete inscription records the arrangements made for the lighting of Nanda lamp regularly. It refers to Palayankottai as Sri Vallabha Mangalam.

Inscription # 15

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 48 of 2005

Location - Situated on the Jagati of the southern wall of the main shrine

Period - 1224 CE

Commissioned by - Maravarma Sundara Pandya I

Language - Inscribed in Tamil

This incomplete inscription just provides the name of the village and temple as the Brahmadesam of Keezhkala Kootram alias Sri Vallabha Mangalam and Sri Vallabha Mangala Vinnagara Perumal respectively. 

Inscription # 16

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 40 of 2005

Location - Situated on the phalagai of the northern side outer wall of the main shrine

Period - 13th century CE

Commissioned by - Vikrama Pandya

Language - Inscribed in Tamil

This inscription documents the donation of 12 goats provided by an individual towards the expenses to light Sandhya deepam in the temple of Sri Vallabha Vinnagar Alwar. 

Inscription # 17

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 29 of 2005

Location - Situated on the adhisthana of western wall of the main shrine

Period - 13th century CE

Commissioned by - Possibly Pandyas

Language - Inscribed in Tamil

This incomplete and damaged inscription discusses the land border.

Inscription # 18

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 30 of 2005

Location - Situated on the adhisthana of western wall of the main shrine

Period - 13th century CE

Commissioned by - Possibly Pandyas

Language - Inscribed in Tamil

This incomplete inscription possibly talks about some land donation.

Inscription # 19

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 36 of 2005

Location - Situated on the eastern jagati of northern wall of the main shrine

Period - 13th century CE

Commissioned by - Possibly Pandyas

Language - Inscribed in Tamil

This inscription records the sale of land.

Inscription # 20

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 44 of 2005

Location - Situated on the southern wall of the Raappatthu Mandapa

Period - 13th century CE

Commissioned by - Possibly Pandyas

Language - Inscribed in Tamil

This inscription records the donation of land to the Vallabha Vinnagara Perumal temple of Sri Vallabha Mangalam.

Inscription # 21

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 39 of 2005

Location - Situated on the tripatta kumudam of northern wall of the Ardha mandapa

Period - 13th century CE

Commissioned by - Maravarman Kulasekhara Pandya I

Language - Inscribed in Tamil

This inscription records the sale of land. It calls Palayankottai as Sri Vallabha Mangalam.

Inscription # 22

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 45 of 2005

Location - Situated on the Raappatthu Mandapa

Period - End of the 13th century CE

Commissioned by - Vira Pandya IV

Language - Inscribed in Tamil

This incomplete inscription records the details of land donated to meet the expenses of certain rituals to be performed in the temple.

Inscription # 23

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 45 of 2005

Location - Situated on the Raappatthu Mandapa

Period - End of the 13th century CE

Commissioned by - Vira Pandya IV

Language - Inscribed in Tamil

This inscription records the donation of land given by the Vallabha Mangalam Maha Sabha to Sri Vallabha Vinnagara Perumal.

Inscription # 24

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 24 of 2005

Location - Situated on the Tripatta Kumudam of adhisthana of western wall of the main shrine

Period - Early 1400s CE

Commissioned by - Vikrama Pandya

Language - Inscribed in Tamil

This inscription documents the directive issued by the Pandya king from the Madurai palace regarding a land donation. It was carried out by an official named Kalingaraya.

Inscription # 25

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 25 of 2005

Location - Situated on the Jagati of western wall of the main shrine

Period - Early 1400s CE

Commissioned by - Vikrama Pandya

Language - Inscribed in Tamil

This inscription documents the land donation. It was carried out by an official named Kalingaraya.

Inscription # 26

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 21 of 2005

Location - Situated on the southern wall of Maha mandapa

Period - Dated back to 1526 CE

Commissioned by - The Kingdom of Travancore

Language - Inscribed in Tamil

This inscription pertains to the donation provided to a person named Kumaran Iswaran for his role as an accountant.

Inscription # 27

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 42 of 2005

Period - Dated back to 1531 CE

Commissioned by - The Kingdom of Travancore

Language - Inscribed in Tamil

This inscription pertains to the donation provided by an individual towards providing meals to twelve Brahmins

Inscription # 28

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 20 of 2005

Location - Situated on the southern wall of Maha mandapa

Period - Dated back to 1535 CE

Commissioned by - The Kingdom of Travancore

Language - Inscribed in Grantha and Tamil

This inscription concerns the donation of land allocated to support Vaidya Siromani Veera Keralan in providing medical treatment to patients.

Inscription # 29

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 41 of 2005

Location - Situated on the base of the gopuram

Period - Dated back to 1540 CE

Commissioned by - Not known

Language - Inscribed in Grantha and Tamil

This inscription is incomplete.

Inscription # 30

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 38 of 2005

Location - Situated on the southern wall of outer prakara

Period - Dated back to 1541 CE

Commissioned by - The Kingdom of Travancore

Language - Inscribed in Grantha and Tamil

This inscription concerns the donation of 300 Kaliyuga Raman Fanam by the king towards providing daily meals to Brahmins.

Inscription # 31

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 35 of 2005

Location - Situated on the southern wall of Maha mandapa

Period - Dated back to 1550 CE

Commissioned by - The Kingdom of Travancore

Language - Inscribed in Tamil

This inscription concerns the donation allocated to support the accountant named Perumal Udaiyavan Nayanan.

Inscription # 32

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 49 of 2005

Location - Situated on the northern wall of the outer prakara

Period - Dated back to 1550 CE

Commissioned by - Sadasivadeva Maharaya, Vijayanagara

Language - Inscribed in Grantha and Tamil

This inscription concerns the donation allocated to support certain rituals in the temple by Ramappa Nayaka, who served under the King.

Inscription # 33

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 43 of 2005

Location - Situated on the northern base of the temple tower

Period - Not known

Commissioned by - Not known

Language - Inscribed in Tamil

This inscription is incomplete.

Inscription # 34

Reference - T.N.A.R. No. 47 of 2005

Location - Situated on the northern wall of the Ardha mandapa

Period - Not known

Commissioned by - Not known

Language - Inscribed in Tamil

This inscription records the donation of a Nanda lamp for the temple of Vinnagara Alwar of Sri Vallabha Mangalam.

Happy travelling.