Thiruvallikkeni Sri Andal Neeratta Uthsava Mandapam

At Thiruvallikkeni, like in many other divyadesams – there will be festivities throughout the year.  Devotees are missing the Brahmothsavam, Udayavar Uthsavams and monthly purappadus due to the ongoing renovation works since balalayam on Jan 26, 2015. 

In the month of Margazhi, there occurs  the Nine day festival for Andal known as Neeratta Uthsavam.  Daily morning there will be veedhi purappadu of Andal signifying her preparation for the neerattam.  After the purappadu, Andal will have ‘Thirumanjanam’ at the Neeratta mandapam which is just opposite to the Thiruther.  Sri Parthasarathi Perumal too visits this mantap immediately after the ‘theppam’[float] festival day 1. 

The shops and structures adjoining this mandapam have been removed now as it sports a much different look to those who have been visiting the temple for years. It is reported that atleast six layers of old slate lime have been removed from the mandapam whose pillars and walls have a lot of ornamental works.  Here are couple of photos of the mandapam showing the old and new looks.

Adiyen Srinivasadhasan

13^th May 2015.