Andal Thirunakshatram also known as Andal Thiruvaadipooram refers to the celebration of the birth anniversary of Andal, a revered poet-saint in South Indian Hinduism. Andal is considered a prominent avatar among the twelve Alvars, Vaishnava saints known for their devotion to Lord Vishnu
Who is Andal?
* Andal is the only female Alvar saint.
* She is believed to be an incarnation of Bhumi Devi (Goddess Lakshmi as the Earth goddess), the consort of Lord Vishnu.
* Andal was discovered as an infant under a Tulsi plant in the Srivilliputhur temple garden by Vishnuchitta (also known as Periyalvar), a devout Vishnu bhakt and himself an Alvar saint, who adopted and raised her.
* She composed two significant Tamil works, the Thiruppavai and Nachiyar Tirumozhi, which are still recited by devotees.
Andal is also known as Godha Devi, Kothai Naachiyaar.
Her devotion to Lord Vishnu was so intense that she considered him her husband and famously offered garlands to the temple after wearing them herself, an act that Lord Vishnu reportedly accepted wholeheartedly.
Thirunakshatram of Andal
* Andal’s birthday is celebrated as Aadi Pooram, also known as Andal Jayanthi.
* This falls on the day of the Pooram nakshatra (star) in the Tamil month of Aadi.
* Aadi Pooram is a significant festival for Tamil Hindus, particularly those who follow the Vaishnava tradition and is observed in temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Shakti.
In essence, “Andal Thiruvaadipooram” commemorates the birth of a remarkable woman saint who, through her profound devotion and poetic expressions, has left a lasting legacy in the spiritual traditions of South India.
