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.
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 SVT
In Sri Venkateswara Temple, Andal is
installed in a separate shrine. She holds a Thulasi
garland on her hand.
AUSPICIOUS DAYS AND FESTIVALS
Wednesdays 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 OFFERINGS
Andal 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 and MEANING
Dhanurdharaayai Cha
Vidmahe Sarva
Siddhayai Cha Dheemahi
Thanno Dharaa Prachodhayaath.
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.
Sri Venkateswara Temple |
