From Andal to the Raman Effect, new book captures Srivilliputhur’s many legacies
Nirmala Lakshman, Chairperson, THGPPL releasing The Hindu’s Srivilliputhur Divine Realm of Andal Book, along with Suganthy Krishnamachari, the curator of the book, at The Hindu Office in Chennai on May 28, 2026. | Photo Credit: B. Jothi Ramalingam 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 8th-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 …
