Thirukkadigai, Sholinghur – Religious Importance
Thirukkadigai
is revered in Nalayira Divya Prabhandham, the 7th – 9th century Vaishnava
canon, by Peyazhwar and Thirumangai Azhwar. The temple is classified as a Divyadesam, one of the 108 Vishnu temples that are mentioned in
the book. Peyazhwar describes the place as the one having gardens thronged by a
swam by bees. The temple also finds mention in later works by Nathamuni, Thirukachi Nambi, Ramanuja and Manavala Mamunigal. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the temple finds
mention in several works like 108 Tirupathi Anthathi by Divya Kavi
Pillai Perumal Aiyangar.
Doddacharya
was a Vaishnava saint believed to be the descendant of Mudaliandan. Doddacharya
followed the steps of Ramanuja in advocating Vishishadvaita and maintained the
temples hailed by the Azhwars. He is believed to have performed lot of miracles
and impressed by his work, Achyuta
Deva Raya (1529-42 CE), the relative of Krishna
Devaraya gave him benevolent donations for maintenance
of temples. During festival occasion in the temple like Brahmotsavam,
Doddacharya is given a special place in processions and during the Garuda Sevai
in Kanchipuram temple.
A
festival named Doddacharya Utsavam is celebrated during the Tamil month
of Masi (February - March). His descendants are believed to
administer the religious activities during modern times. Nithiyapadi Poojas are
performed in all the three temples - Big Hill, Small Hill and the Local Temple.
The pooja is performed under Vaikanasa Agama. The hereditary Seva is done by Doddachariar
Swami and is given the first preference in Theertham and Manthra Pushpa. The
recital of Vedha, Prabhandham and Andal Tiruppavai are the daily feature of the
Temple. The successors of swami Doddachariar perform this Pooja.