Vaikunta Ekadashi, a significant festival in Sri Vishnu temples, is celebrated with grandeur at the Srivilliputhur Andal Temple in Tamil Nadu, especially during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January). This sacred occasion involves the enactment of Araiyar Sevai, an ancient Tamil performing art dedicated to presenting the 4,000 sacred hymns of the Nalayira Divya Prabandham through music and abhinaya. The tradition, introduced by Vaishnavite saint Nadhamuni in the 9th–10th century CE, includes unique ragas and talas. Araiyar Sevai is performed at a few Divya Desams, including Srivilliputhur, Srirangam, Azhwar Tirunagari, and Melkote.
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| Andal temple, Srivilliputhur, Tamil Nadu, Alamy.com |
The festivities begin with the Pagal Pathu Utsavam, a 10-day event marked by the recitation of sacred verses and enactment of devotional themes like Andal’s devotion and the churning of the ocean. The idols of Andal and Vatapatrasayee Perumal are taken in a special procession to the house of Vedapiran Bhattar, a descendant of Periyazhwar, to symbolize their familial bond. The idols receive traditional offerings before returning to the temple, where the Araiyar Sevai commences. The event involves elaborate performances, including the depiction of Andal’s life, the Thiruppavai hymns, and episodes like the slaying of Kamsa by Narasimha.
On Vaikunta Ekadashi day, the Swarga Vasal (heavenly gate) is ceremonially opened, and the deities emerge adorned in resplendent attire. The Azhwars offer a formal reception, and the deities proceed to the Raa Pathu Mandapam. The 12 Azhwars' Mangala Sasanam and the recitation of sacred hymns continue through the night. The Raa Pathu Utsavam, lasting another 10 days, features nightly processions of Andal’s idol around the temple streets and rituals like the Margazhi Thaila Kappu (oil anointment) for the deities.
The festival blends devotion, tradition, and artistry, attracting thousands of devotees. It celebrates the timeless legacy of the Nalayira Divya Prabandham, with Araiyar Sevai performed by hereditary artists, preserving a centuries-old bhakti tradition.
I understand at many places the Araiyar Sevai during Vaikunta Ekadasi is on the decline due to HR & CE (TN State Govt. Agency) inference in the selction of Araiyars. Normally hereditary Araiyars conduct this divine Kainkaryam. Based on an old post:
https://www.navrangindia.in/2023/12/sri-andal-temple-srivilliputhur-and.html
https://www.navrangindia.in/2022/01/andal-temple-srivilliputhuer-vaikuntha.html
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