Srivilliputhur

Srivilliputhur (ஸ்ரீவில்லிபுத்தூர்) is a Divya Desam Vishnu temple town in Virudhunagar district, Tamil Nadu.

Overview

Srivilliputhur is the birthplace of the Alvar saint Andal and home to the Andal Temple, one of the 108 Divya Desams. It is also the home of the Tamil devotional classic ‘Tiruppavai’ and is one of the most important Vaishnavite centres.

History and Legend

The town is the birthplace of Andal (8th century CE), the only female Alvar saint, who composed the Tiruppavai, a devotional hymn of 30 verses. The temple was built to honour her and the deity Vadakusala Perumal (Vishnu). The Periyazhwar temple adjacent to the Andal temple commemorates her foster father.

Architecture and Features

The temple features a towering Dravidian gopuram, a sanctum with the Andal icon adorned with flowers, and the Periyazhwar shrine. The Tiruppavai hymns are recited daily. The temple’s festival calendar includes the Andal Thirukalyanam (divine marriage) during Margazhi.

Modern Status

The temple is managed by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of Tamil Nadu. The temple is a major pilgrimage site, especially during the Margazhi festival season.

Verification Notes

• Srivilliputhur listed as one of the 108 Divya Desams; birthplace of Andal.
• Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).