THIRUPPARANKUNRAM

When Lord Subrahmanya was staying at Kanda Verpu, the two daughters of Lord Mahavishnu, Amritavalli and Sundaravalli, who cherished the desire of becoming the consorts of Subrahmanya, went to Sanavana Poigai and commenced austere penance to fulfil their desires Pleased with their prayer and worship, Lord Subrah- manya appeared before them and told Amritavalli: "You will be brought up by Indra as his daughter and I shall marry you in due course.

" Her younger sister  Sundaravalli was also graced with a similar blessing. She was born to Sage Sivamuni and brought up by Nambi, the head-man of hunters.Amritavalli took the form of a female child and went to Mount Meru the abode of Indra, and told him: "I am the daughter of Mahavishnu and the responsibility of looking after me has been entrusted to you.' On hearing this, Indra became very happy and directed Airavatam, his white elephant, to take care of the child.

The elephant with all love brought her up and affection and she attained the age of marriage in course of time. Hence she came to be known as Devayanai, one who was brought up by the heavenly elephant of Indra (Yanai means elephant). The marriage took place at Tirupparankunram, after the victory of Subrahmanya over Surapadma.

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