Aandaal in Walnut Wood Finish Solid Frame (WWFS6)
Aandaal in Walnut Wood Finish Solid Frame (WWFS6)
Andal, also known as Kodhai or Goda Devi, is a celebrated saint and poetess from South India, particularly revered in the Tamil Vaishnavite tradition. Here's why she is significant:
1. **Divine Love and Devotion**: Andal is known for her intense devotion to Lord Vishnu, particularly to his incarnation as Lord Krishna. Her poems, known as "Tiruppavai" and "Nachiyar Tirumozhi," express her deep love and longing for union with the divine.
2. **Symbol of Bhakti**: Andal's life exemplifies the path of bhakti (devotion) towards God. Her unwavering love for Lord Krishna serves as an inspiration for devotees to cultivate devotion in their own lives.
3. **Revered as a Goddess**: In the Tamil tradition, Andal is worshipped not only as a saint but also as a divine incarnation. She is considered the incarnation of Bhudevi, the consort of Lord Vishnu, and is believed to have merged with the deity Ranganatha (a form of Vishnu) at the Srirangam temple.
4. **Festivals and Celebrations**: Andal's birth anniversary, known as "Andal Jayanti" or "Andal Kalyanam," is celebrated with great fervor, especially in Tamil Nadu. During the Margazhi month (December-January), her poems are recited daily in temples as part of the ritual known as "Margazhi Nombu."
5. **Universal Love**: Andal's message transcends boundaries of caste, creed, and gender. Her devotion emphasizes the universality of love and the accessibility of God to all devotees, regardless of their background.
To include Andal in your prayers and life:
- Recite Andal's hymns, such as Tiruppavai and Nachiyar Tirumozhi, during your daily prayers or devotional practices.
- Learn about Andal's life and teachings, and reflect on her devotion and love for God.
- Visit Andal temples, such as the Srivilliputhur Andal Temple or the Thiruvallikeni (Triplicane) Parthasarathy Temple, and participate in the festivals dedicated to her.
- Embrace the spirit of devotion and love in your own spiritual journey, following Andal's example of surrender and dedication to the divine.
By connecting with Andal, devotees can deepen their devotion and experience the transformative power of love for the divine.