From Andal to the Raman Effect, new book captures Srivilliputhur’s many legacies

A book on Srivilliputhur, part of The Hindu Group’s ‘Shrine Series’, was released by Nirmala Lakshman, Chairperson, The Hindu Group Publishing Private Limited, in Chennai on Thursday (May 28, 2026). Suresh Nambath, Editor of The Hindu, and Navaneeth L.V., CEO of THG Publishing Private Limited, were present.

The 168-page publication titled Srivilliputhur – Divine Realm of Andal, curated by Suganthy Krishnamachari, traces the religious, cultural, and historical significance of Srivilliputhur close to Madurai, known for the Andal temple and the Vatapatrasayee temple. The book also features photographs of the temples and festivals, besides illustrations by senior cartoonist Keshav depicting rituals from 8^th-century poet-saint Andal’s Varanamayiram verses.

Srivilliputhur is associated with Andal, who was brought up by Periyazhvar and is revered for her Thiruppavai verses. The book documents traditions linked to the temple town, including the offering of garlands worn by Andal before they were presented to Vatapatrasayee Perumal, following which she came to be known as ‘Soodikodutha Nachiar’.

Apart from temple history, the book documents other aspects of Srivilliputhur, including the Pennington Library established in 1875, the G.S. Hindu High School where scientist K.S. Krishnan studied before contributing to the discovery of the Raman Effect with C.V. Raman in 1928, and the geographical indication (GI) tag granted in 2019 to Srivilliputhur palkova.

It also details architectural and artistic features of the temples, including Ramayana paintings, pillar sculptures, and wooden carvings displayed at the Gopala Vilasa mandapam. Contributions made by Thirumalai Nayak to the temples and his palace in Srivilliputhur, now maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, are also covered.

The book also documents Srivilliputhur’s long association with the military service, noting that men from several surrounding villages have served in the Indian Army for more than a century.

Where to buy

The book containing two posters of Andal and Rangamannar and Peria Perumal with consorts is priced at ₹699 and is available now with a special launch offer of 30% for a limited period. Click here to grab your copy.