The Vanamutti Perumal (Vishnu) temple in Kozhikuthi near Mayiladuthurai is unique since the presiding deity is made of atti (fig) wood. Images of Vishnu in temples are usually made of stone, although those of wood are also occasionally known.
According to tradition lore, Vanamutti Perumal gave Darshan to a devotee named Pippalar Maharishi whose image is worshipped here. The imposing and majestic image of Vanamutti Perumal, approximately 14 feet in height, is in a standing pose, holding the Sankha and Chakra in the upper hands.
His lower right hand is in abhaya hasta, blessing devotees and lower left hand rests on a mace (gada). On His chest is a noticible Srivatsa mark, indicating the presence of Goddess Lakshmi. To the left of this deity, is a stone image of Bhumi Devi.
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