Here is a writeup of Stalapuranam about Annan Kovil, one among the 108 Divya Desams, written by Sri U.Ve.Vidwan Egai VedantaDesika Thatacharya Swami
This is the only Divya Desam where Azhvaar praises the Lord as ‘Annan’ (Brother).
Located away from the hustle and bustle of towns and cities, Annan Koil Divya Desam is located in the middle of a village, 8 kms South East of Seerkazhi off the Poompuhar- Thirukadaiyur road.
Looked at as the elder brother of Tirupathi Srinivasa, it is believed that those who cannot go to Tirupathi can come here and ‘Annan’ is said to fulfill their wishes. Lord here is seen together with the Goddess (Alar Mel Mangai) unlike in Tirupathi where he is seen alone. This is the only Divya Desam where the diety and Goddess have the same names as in Tirupathi.
Thiru Mangai Mannan wanted to marry Kumudha Valli who belonged to the generation of the Devas. Mangai Mannan is said to have worked with utmost sincerity towards fulfilling each of Kumuda Valli’s conditions to marry him. It is believed that Mangai Mannan finally married Kumudavalli at this place. Hence, there is a separate sannidhi for Kumudha Valli at this temple.
The Story
King Dhundhu Maaran, who belonged to the Surya dynasty, had a son Swethan who was destined to die at the tender age of 9. Swethan came here to undertake penance to increase his lifetime. Lord Vishnu is said to have appeared before him as Srinivasa and fulfilled his prayers. Hence, this is said to be a place when one’s sincere prayers will prevent untimely death.
Thirumangai Azhvaar came here, had darshan of the Lord and praised him here as if he has seen Lord Srinivasa himself. His Paasurams also reflect the fact that the Lord is the elder brother of Tirupathi Srinivasa.
“ Kaliyan Sonna Maalai Vallaaravar Vaanaraguvai Thaamey” shows this Lord as the elder brother.
Quick Facts
Deity : Annan Perumal East Facing Standing Posture
Goddess : Alar Mel Mangai
Utsavar : Srinivasa Perumal
Azhvaar : ThiruMangai Azhvaar 10 Paasurams ( 1308-17)
Temple Timing : 8am-1130am and 5.30pm-830pm
Contact : 04364 266534
Thanks to: prtraveller for english description
