Sri Mayakoothan Perumal Temple

Sri Mayakoothan Perumal Temple at Thirukkulandai, also known as Perumkulam, is a revered Divya Desam near Kumbakonam praised by Thirumangai Azhwar in the Divya Prabandham. The deity's name "Mayakoothan" means "the Lord of divine enchantment (Maya)," referring to Vishnu's power to create the cosmic illusion that veils and reveals His true nature. In Sri Vaishnava philosophy, Maya is not mere deception but the Lord's creative energy that sustains the universe. The temple sits beside a large tank (Perumkulam — "great pond") that gives the village its alternate name. Devotees visit seeking clarity of spiritual vision and liberation from the bondage of worldly Maya through surrender to the Lord who is its master.