Madhana Gopala Swamy Temple – Legends
Lord Vishnu awakened Lord Shiva from meditation by
playing flute:
Before
ascending the throne in Madurai as King Sundara Pandiya after his wedding with
Mother Meenakshi, Lord Shiva performed Puja to a Linga. He plunged deep in
meditation. The heat and the flames that emanated from his body began to
burn the world. Shocked and threatened, the Devas surrendered at the feet
of Lord Vishnu for protection. Lord Vishnu knew that the flames could be
brought down only if the meditation of Lord Shiva came to an end.
He began
playing his flute so melodiously that penetrated into the ears of Lord Shiva
awaking him. Meditation ended. The world was saved. Pleased Lord
Shiva asked Lord Vishnu that he should ever be with him playing the instrument.
Lord Vishnu too was only happy to accept the offer. In the name of Lord
Madanagopala Swami, he is in Madurai West Masi Street spreading his musical
wind near the Immayilum Nanmai Tharuvar Shiva Temple.
Mother Andal visit to this Temple:
On her
way to Sri Rangam, Mother Andal visited this temple with Saint Periazhwar
travelling in a palanquin and worshipped Lord Madanagopala Swami before merging
in the divine body of Lord Perumal.