Tirumanikoodam - Varadaraja Perumal Temple

Agasthya Maharshi narrated the glory of this Divya desa to Uparisravasu. It is connected with Moon-god's miserable plight and Mahavishnu's infinite anugrah that restored former glory to Soma - one of the nine planets. According to mythology, Dakshaprajapathi realising the eminent position of Moon-god, gave away all his 27 daughters in marriage to him. Although he bestowed attention on all his spouses, he had a preference for Rohini, the buxom beauty among the bevy of 27 wives, which ended in hopeless infatuation to the extent of abandoning the rest. The afflicted narrated their woeful tale to their father. He chastised Soma and asked to have undivided attention. The latter agreed then only to break it, the next moment.

Learning his impudence, Dakshaprajapathi cursed him to suffer from Rajyakshma - tuberculosis. It worked on him. With a view to atone, he undertook a pilgrimage and came at last to Rathnakooda sthalam in Palasaranyam. With the blessings of Somavartha Maharshi, he built an asram here and propitiating Lord Vishnu observed several austerities, like standing amidst Panchagnis in the height of summer and neck deep water in winter. Mahavishnu appearing before him passed his hand all over the body. The disease disappeared like snow before the Balabhaskara. And he once again appeared in his original splendour. Then the Moon-god for the benefit of manavaali requested the Lord to remain eternally, which was sealed with instant approval. Hence the existence of Varadaraja Perumal here, and later a beautiful temple was built by devout kings. The Moolavar is called variously as Varadaraja Perumal and Manikoodanayakan. He is giving darsan in standing posture facing east. The Mother is called Tirumagal Natchiar. Kartaka Vimana adorns the garbha griha. And the temple Pushkarini, Soma I'ushkarini. Agamic puja is offered with great devotion. Tirumangai Alwar offered floral verses numbering ten to this Lord on his visit.

It lies about 1 km off Sirkali, the famous temple town of Tamilnadu, accessible by bus.

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