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[[Category:Temples]]
[[Category:Temples]]
Thiru Thanjai refers to the three temples of Thanjai Mamani Koil, Manikundram and Thanjaiyali Nagar in Thanjore that together constitute one of the 108 vaishnava divya desas. Here, Mahavishnu resides directly facing Thanjavur and is thus, aptly known as Thanjai Kattharulum Deivam.<ref>Prof. S. Narayanan (April 2004), 108 Temples of Azhvars, Volume 1, Maharashtra: Sri Ramanuja Mission.</ref>
Thiru Thanjai refers to the three temples of Thanjai Mamani Koil, Manikundram and Thanjaiyali Nagar in Tanjore that together constitute one of the 108 vaishnava divya desas. Here, Mahavishnu resides directly facing Thanjavur and is thus, aptly known as Thanjai Kattharulum Deivam.<ref name=":0">Prof. S. Narayanan (April 2004), 108 Temples of Azhvars, Volume 1, Maharashtra: Sri Ramanuja Mission.</ref>
== Introduction ==
Tanjore is a fairly big town and also the headquarters of the Tanjore district. It is one of the oldest towns of South India and takes its name from the word Tanjan, a demon who was vanquished by Lord Vishnu. The word Tanjam in Tamil means 'refuge'. Hence, Tanjore also means a city of refuge.
Tracing its origin from pre-historic times this parashara kshetra seems to have been the cradle of vedic civilization and one of the most sacred places of Hindu pilgrimage. It is rich not only in history and culture, but also in legends. The place acquired its religious importance by being the place of Nayanacharya's penance. The kings' patronage made Tanjore both a Shaivite and a Vaishnavite kshetra at once. Located in the outskirts of Thanjavur at Vennattrankarai stands a memorable monument dedicated to Tanjan after whom the divya desha and the city have been named. The once majestic gopura now stands all alone in ruins.
The three temples Thanjai Mamani Koil, Manikundram and Thanjaiyali Nagar in Thanjore together form one Vaishnava Divya Desham. Prof S. Narayanan says, "Historically, the credit goes to the Maratha Bhosles for bringing the three scattered temples to close proximity. The once flourishing and majestic temples of Rajendra now silently speak of that glory that reigned around. The temples have simple structure comprising a domed chamber and a mandapa. Unlike other temples of the region, these temples cannot boast of beautiful sculptures or the artistic depictions. That does not diminish their glory in any way."<ref name=":0" />
== References ==
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