Description
Tiruvottiyur Vavudai Amman Devi Temple is known as Thyagaraja Temple as well. This historical temple is not just a religious place, but the center of knowledge, and wisdom. Many Tamil saint poets praised the temple in their poems. Beautiful architecture and attractive carving add a special value to it. The main entrance door is huge and majestic. The seven-tiered door stands with great grace underlining the heritage of art, music, and knowledge of India.
History
According to sources, the temple was considered as the center of learning during ancient times. People used to learn Philosophy, translation, Grammar, and mathematics from learned scholars. There were discussions, debates and discourses from great people of that time. Nearby lands were occupied by various generous scholars and hundreds of students used to learn there. The current temple is said to be built in the 8th century when Pallavas were ruling the place. Even Adi Sankaracharya also visited the temple. There have been various changes in the temple in the history.The temple has been associated with Thiruvottiyur Thyagayyar, the famous music composer and poet of South India.
Importance/Significance
The temple has been mentioned in a number of poems, and it has been regarded as the place that spreads rays of knowledge to rest of the world. The main deity is in the form of a mound of mud. It is always covered and on special occasions it is visible to all. There are various deities in the temple complex like Ganesha, Durga, etc. The idol of Somskanda reveals its association with Thyagaraja cult of Tamil Nadu.
Facts/Mythology
Legend of this temple is associated with two demons Madhu and Kaitabha who took the sacred book of Vedas from gods and cut into pieces. They dropped the pieces in the sea. Lord Vishnu tried to rescue Vedas, but both demons defeated him. He prayed Lord Siva and sought his help. Lord Vishnu took the form of a fish and dived deep in the sea. He rescued the Vedas and brought to this temple. Deity of the temple turned the Vedas intact and purified. Hence, this is a place of learning, wisdom, and knowledge.
Festivals/Events/Gatherings
Among all festivals, Masi festival is a prime one celebrated in the month of February and March. It attracts a huge crowd from all over the world. Since ancient times, it has been regarded as one of the most popular festivals of Tamil Nadu. Mahiladisevai is the special festival on the 8th day of the month. It has association with the famous epic Silappadikaram of 2nd century. The celebration of Goddess Durga starts on the 8th day and continues till 15th day. On the last day, the roof of the celebration venue is burnt. It is said to be a symbolic representation of Kannagi burning Madurai city at the end of the epic Silappadikaram.Thousands of people come and offer their devotion and respect towards Vavudai Amman. It is a great event that nobody in Tamil Nadu likes to miss.
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