Tiruvelukkai

This kshethram derives its name from the root words "Vel," meaning "desire," and "Irukkai," meaning "place of stay." Thus, the kshethram became Velukkai. It is said that the Lord came here out of his desire to meditate after killing Hiraṇyakashipu. He also killed all the demons that infested the surrounding land.

Devī Sarasvatī, in her first attempt to send demons, was unsuccessful, as Lord Ashṭabhujar defeated all of them. In her second attempt to spoil the yajña by creating darkness, she was again unsuccessful, as Lord Deepaprakasar provided a source of light. In a third attempt to stop the yajña from taking place, She created a mighty demon named Kapalika and unleashed him upon the land. The Lord is then supposed to have taken the form of Nṛisimha and killed the demon, therefore protecting the yajña.

It is said that the Lord presiding over this kshethram was initially Lord Vishṇu, facing east. However, when Bhṛgu Maharshi asked to see him in the form of Nṛisimha, he took the form of Azhagiyasinga Perumāl.

Pey Āzhwār: 3 Pāsurams

Tirumangai Āzhwār: 1 pāsuram

Total: 4 Pāsurams