353. Divya Desam Explorations
Divya Desam Temples are the 108 Vishnu temples that are mentioned in the works of the Tamil Aazhvars (saints). “Divya” means “divine” and “Desam” indicates “place” (temple). Of the 108 temples, 105 are in India, one is in Nepal, and last two are outside the Earthly realms. The last two are Thirupalkaddal and Paramapadam. Tirupalkaddal is the ocean of milk and Paramapadam is the Srivaikuntam where lord Narayana presides. The Divya Desams are revered by the 12 Aazhvars in the Divya Prabandham, a collection of 4,000 Tamil verses. While most Divya Desams follow Thenkalai mode of worship, some follow Vadakalai too among others. Sourced from www.templepurohit.com The idols of Lord Vishnu here can be found in the following 3 positions: - Kidantha Thirukkolam (Sleeping Position) – 27 Divya Desams Veetrirundha Thirukkolam (Sitting Position) – 21 Divya Desams Nindra Thirukkolam (Standing Position) – 60 Divya Desams In these 108 Divya Desams, the Lord Vishnu can be seen facing one of the fo