As part of the ongoing Brahmotsavam at Sri Varadaraja Perumal Thirukkoil, Kanchipuram, On May 16 2014, Vijaya varusha Vaikasi Anusham; In the morning thiruveedhi Purappadu took place in Pallakku , Sri DevaPerumal gave scintillating darshan on Nachiyar Thirukolam . Later Perumal Ezhundarulal to Ahobila mutt At Kanchipuram. The evening Perumal Purappadu took place in Yali Vahanam. Lot of astikas took part in the purappadu and had the blessings of Divydampatis
Before describing purappadu, I would like to plant some thought so that they could start germinating. Our Perumal is known by various beautiful names like Devathirajan, Tepperumal, Athiyooran, Imayorthalaivan and many many more. One very apt name is Thyagarajan. Varadar by granting the wish of Periya nambi, sacrificed his jewel (Ramanujar) to Srirangam. This enabled establishment / strengthening of our Sampradayam. Additionally, Perumal kovil is also known as Thyaga bhoomi, how else to address the ruler of this bhoomi.
Yali, is a combination of animal & reptile. It has body and head of a lion with a trunk of an elephant and serpent like tail. This creature was supposed to be as ferocious as a lion, as strong as an elephant and would send shiver down the spine with the presence of the serpent. Good for all of us that this creature is not visible and exists within the realm of imagination. As per shilpa shastra having this creature in the door way would ward off evil thoughts. That is the main reason you would see them sculpted mainly on the door ways. This creature is also one of the favorite for sculptures as they can let their imagination go wild while carving. Devathirajanis the right person to ride this vahanam as he has also appeared in such unique combination of man & lion to protect his dear devotee.
These are some of the photos taken during the occasion..
