Sri Andal
Andal, the incarnation of Mother Earth, Bhoodevi, is one of the twelve Aalvaars,
great devotees of Vishnu. She was found in the garden of Periyaalvar. She grew
up to be a great devotee of Vishnu and a mystic poet. She is the author of
Thiruppavai. Even as a human she attained beatitude, as the consort of her
chosen Lord Ranganatha of Srirangam. She is the best exponent of Bakthi Marga
and a celebrated model of "bridal mysticism".
SLOKA/PRAYER
Sree Vishnu Chiththa Kula Nandhana Kalpa
Valleem
Sree Ranga Raaja Hari Chandhana Yoga Dhrusyaam
Saakshhat Kshammaam
Kaarunyaa Kamalaami Vaanyaam
Godhaam Ananya Sarana: Saranam Prapadhye.
MEANING
Bereft of any other refuge in Godha (Andal) who is merciful like
Goddess Mahalakshmi, has come in human form of Andal. She is like a wish
fulfilling creeper, that makes the family of Vishnuchitta (Periyaalvar) happy.
With her inner eye, she always sees and dwells on her Lord, the king and God at
Sriranga.
ANDAL AT SSVT
In Sri Siva Vishnu Temple, Andal is installed in a separate shrine built in
Chola style architecture. She holds a blue lotus on her hand.
AUSPICIOUS DAYS AND FESTIVALSWednesdays and Fridays are auspicious to
Andal. Andal married Sri Ranganatha on the Makara Sankaranthi day. On that day
Andal's marriage is celebrated in a grand style. " Aadi Pooram" and "Aani
Thirumanjanam" are also important festivals to Andal.
SPECIAL OFFERINGSAndal is specially worshipped by reciting her songs
called Thiruppaavai, early in the mornings during the Hindu month of Dhanu.
Performing Andal Kalyanam is customary. Venpongal and Sweet Pongal are offered
to Andal.
GAYATHRI
Dhanurdharaayai Cha Vidmahe Sarva
Siddhayai Cha
Dheemahi
Thanno
Dharaa Prachodhayaath.
MEANING
We worship the Goddess who adorns a bow and arrow in her hand. Salutations to
the Goddess who gives all the boons to the devotees. May that Boodhevi stimulate
our creative faculties.
|
