Alagar is a manifestation of Hindu God Vishnu mainly worshiped in Tamil Nadu in India .
It is believed that Vishnu appeared in this form as the brother of Goddess
Meenakshi (Parvathi). Legend has it that Vishnu descended from Vaikunta and
appeared in the present day Alagar Koil region. He then gave his sister
Meenakshi in marriage to Sundareshvara (Shiva) – the divine couple resides at Madurai Meenakshi Temple .
The most famous temple dedicated to the Alagar form of
Vishnu is located at around 21 km north-east of Madurai . The temple known as Alagar Koil is
located on the foot of Alagar hills.
Scholars are also of the view that the legend was intended
to unite Shiva and Vishnu devotees.
Alagar is worshiped as Kallalagar in Alagar Kovil, as
Kattalagar in Srivilliputhur Temple and as Koodalagar in Madurai .
The murti of Algar is flanked by Bhudevi and Sridevi.
Alagar riding a horse and entering the Vaigai River
is an important ritual that takes place during the Chithirai Festival (April / May).
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