Festivals

Thirumazhisai Alwar Varusha Thirunakshatram: Sacred Celebration of Devotion

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O devotees of Lord Narayana! On this auspicious day of February 3, 2026 (Tuesday) — the Varusha Thirunakshatram (appearance day anniversary) of Thirumazhisai Alwar (also known as Thirumalisai Alvar) under the star Magha (Magam) in the Tamil month of Thai — let us immerse our hearts in profound reverence for one of the twelve revered Alwars, the eternal torchbearers of Sri Vaishnavism.

In the sacred tradition of Sri Vaishnavam, the Alwars are not mere poets; they are divine incarnations who dove deep into the ocean of Lord’s qualities, emerging with hymns of pure bhakti that guide souls across ages. Thirumazhisai Alwar, the fourth among the twelve Alwars, is believed to be the incarnation of Lord Vishnu’s invincible Sudarshana Chakra — the divine discus that dispels darkness and protects the faithful.

The Miraculous Life and Avatar of Thirumazhisai Alwar

Born in Thirumazhisai near Kanchipuram (Tondai Nadu), the Alwar’s arrival was extraordinary. Legend narrates that he appeared as an incomplete form — a lifeless ball of flesh — to a devoted couple. Abandoned in a bamboo grove, the compassionate sage Pey Alwar (one of the Mudhal Alwars) revived him through divine grace, granting him a perfect human form. From infancy, he displayed unmatched wisdom and devotion.

Initially practicing various spiritual paths including Shaivism (as Sivakkiyar), he explored deeply before realizing the supreme truth of Sriman Narayana as the ultimate reality. His transformation exemplifies the journey from inquiry to unshakable surrender (prapatti). Through rigorous tapas and divine vision, he attained mastery over Sri Vaishnava siddhanta, composing soul-stirring pasurams that emphasize monotheism, devotion, and the supremacy of Vishnu.

His key works include:

  • Thiruchhanda Virutham — 120 verses of profound philosophical depth.
  • Thiruvandhadhi (Nanmugan Thiruvandhadhi) — 100 verses glorifying the Lord’s supremacy and refuting other doctrines.

These hymns form part of the sacred Nalayira Divya Prabandham, the Tamil Veda cherished by Sri Vaishnavas, recited daily in temples and homes for spiritual upliftment.

Spiritual Significance of Thirumazhisai Alwar’s Thirunakshatram

  • Celebration of Sudarshana Grace: As an embodiment of the Sudarshana Chakra, his appearance day invokes protection from all negativity, granting clarity, courage, and victory over inner enemies like ego and doubt.
  • Symbol of True Bhakti: His life teaches that sincere seeking leads to the Lord. Devotees observe this day to renew their commitment to exclusive devotion (ekanta bhakti) to Sriman Narayana.
  • Temple Observances: In major Divya Desams like Kanchipuram (Sri Varadaraja Perumal temple), Thirumazhisai, and others, grand utsavams are held. Special alankaram of the deity, recitation of his pasurams, sevai (processions), and discourses on his life inspire thousands.
  • In Tirumala & Srivaishnava Tradition: Though not always a major utsavam in Tirumala, Sri Vaishnava devotees worldwide mark this day with parayanam (group recitation) of his works, seeking the Alwar’s blessings for steadfast faith.

On this holy Tuesday, temples echo with the melodious rendering of his pasurams, reminding us: “Narayana! Narayana!” — the eternal name that alone grants liberation.

O beloved seekers! Let us prostrate at the lotus feet of Thirumazhisai Alwar and pray: May his grace awaken unwavering devotion in our hearts, dispel all illusions, and lead us to the eternal service of Lord Venkateswara.

Have you chanted his pasurams or visited his birth place? Share your devotional reflections in the comments below — let us glorify the Alwar together!

Om Namo Narayanaya!

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