THIRU ANBIL DIVYA DESAM THROUGH THE EYES OF THIRUMALISAI ALVAR

Abstract

Thiru Anbil Divya Desam, located near Trichy, is celebrated as one of the 108 sacred abodes Divya Desams of Lord Vishnu. Dedicated to Sundararaja Perumal Temple (Vishnu) and Sundaravalli Thayar, this temple holds immense spiritual significance, immortalised through the hymns of Thirumalisai Alvar. In his compositions from the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, Thirumalisai Alvar vividly praises the Lord's divine beauty, grace, and role as the protector of devotees. His verses reflect themes of surrender (Saranagathi), cosmic love, and the sanctity of the temple as a refuge for the faithful. The article explores Alvar’s poetic descriptions of the deity, his connection to the temple's serene atmosphere, and his portrayal of the Lord as the liberator of souls. Additionally, it examines how his hymns influenced the temple’s rituals, festivals, and cultural legacy. Thirumalisai Alvar’s works continue to resonate with devotees, offering timeless spiritual insights and reaffirming Thiru Anbil’s prominence in the Vaishnavite tradition.