Sage Mrikandu, a revered sage in Hindu mythology, longed to witness the divine Vishwaroopam (universal form) of Lord Vishnu. To fulfill this desire, he sought guidance from Lord Brahma, the creator. Brahma, impressed by Mrikandu's devotion, advised him to perform penance on the banks of the Krishna Bhadra river, which is now known as the 'Thenpennai River' in Tamil Nadu.
With unwavering faith, Sage Mrikandu, accompanied by his devout wife Mitravati, journeyed to the riverbank. They settled there and commenced their rigorous penance. The couple dedicated themselves to their spiritual practices and also engaged in acts of charity, feeding the hungry and helping those in need, embodying the true spirit of Dharma.
One day, to test the depth of Mrikandu's devotion, Lord Vishnu appeared before them in the guise of an old Brahmin. The Brahmin, looking weary and hungry, approached the sage's hermitage and requested food. Despite the late hour and the lack of prepared food, Sage Mrikandu welcomed the visitor and requested his wife to serve him.
Mitravati, determined to uphold their tradition of hospitality, prayed fervently to Lord Vishnu. She implored that if her husband's penance and devotion were indeed pure, then the vessel should miraculously fill with food. Moved by her sincere plea and the sage's unwavering faith, Vishnu manifested his divine power. The vessel overflowed with food, and Mitravati was able to serve the Brahmin to his satisfaction.
Upon being served, the Brahmin revealed his true identity as Lord Vishnu. The couple, overwhelmed with devotion and gratitude, bowed before the deity. Pleased with their unwavering faith and devotion, Lord Vishnu granted them the divine vision of his Vishwaroopam. This form of Vishnu, encompassing the entire universe, left the couple in awe, as they witnessed the cosmic magnificence and the boundless glory of the divine.
This profound episode is deeply connected with the Ulagalantha Perumal Temple, also known as the Trivikrama Temple, located in Tirukkoyilur, Tamil Nadu. The temple stands as a testament to the devotion of Sage Mrikandu and Mitravati and their blessed encounter with Lord Vishnu's Vishwaroopam. It continues to inspire devotees who seek divine blessings and aspire to witness the boundless form of the Almighty.