Devotees throng Alagarkoil as ‘Paramapada Vasal’ opens for Vaikunta Ekadasi

Hundreds of devotees gathered at the Kallazhagar Temple in Alagarkoil near Madurai on Tuesday to celebrate Vaikunta Ekadasi. The highlights included a grand procession of Lord Sundararaja Perumal on a palanquin as he passed through the ‘Paramapada Vasal’.

To the rhythmic chants of ‘Govinda, Govinda,’ the beautifully adorned presiding deity was brought out of the ‘Moolasthanam’ at 6.10 a.m. After being carried to the ‘Paramapada Vasal’ to grant darshan to Nammalvar, the deity made the sacred passage through the gateway at around 6.20 a.m., facing the saint.

This ritual is an integral part of the 21-day festival held during the Tamil month of ‘Margazhi.’ The opening of the ‘Paramapada Vasal’ serves as a pivotal transition, marking the conclusion of the ‘Pagal Pathu’ observances and the commencement of ‘Ra Pathu.’

As one of the 12 Alvars, Nammalvar is believed to have served Lord Sundararaja Perumal at this very temple. Honouring this ancient tradition, he is accorded a place of high distinction during all temple processions..

In a similar display of fervour, a large number of devotees queued in long lines at the Sri Prasanna Venkatachalapathy Temple in Tallakulam. They gathered in the early hours to catch a glimpse of the presiding deity as the ‘Paramapada Vasal’ was opened for the ceremonial procession.

Later that evening, the Vaikunta Ekadasi rituals continued at the Koodal Alagar Temple in the heart of the city, where the presiding deity made the ceremonial entry through the ‘Paramapada Vasal’

In light of the occasion, prasadams were distributed to the gathered devotees. To ensure a smooth experience, officials from the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department made elaborate arrangements, including the installation of barricades at entry and exit points. Additionally, a strong police bandobust was deployed across all Perumal temples to maintain order.