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Showing posts from June 29, 2016


Kallapiran Temple at Srivaikuntam in Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu – First Nava Tirupati Temple Associated with Surya or Sun

Kallapiran Temple, also known as Sri Vaikuntanatha Swamy temple, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located at Srivaikuntam in Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu. It is one of the Nava Tirupati Temples and one among 108 Divya Desams. This is the first Nava Tirupathi Temple and is associated with Sun (Navagraha Surya). Srivaikuntam Kallapiran Temple is around 40 km from Thoothukudi. There is no separate Navgraha Murti in the temple. The main deity represents the Navgraha. The main murti of Vishnu worshipped in the temple faces east and is in standing posture with Adi Sesha forming a canopy over His head. Moolavar is known as Sri Vaikuntanatha Swamy. Urchavar is known as Sri Kallapiran. Consorts of Vishnu worshipped here are Vaikuntanayaki and Chornathanayaki. The sacred temple pond is known as Bhrigu Tirtha. The shrine is noted for its carved pillars and sculptures of Yalis and animals. There is also a nine tier rajagopuram. Sun rays Fall on the Murti in Chithirai On