History of the place

Once Brahma also had five heads which confused Goddess Parvati. When she appealed to Lord Shiva, he tore off one of Lord Brahma's heads which stuck in his hand due to Brahmahatti dosha. Lord Vishnu adviced him to get alms from a Pathivrita (a wife whose life purpose is to serve her husband) on earth to get rid of Brahmahati dosha. As per the advice, Lord Shiva came down and seeked alms from Mother Mahalakshmi was serving Lord Narayana who was preaching Taraka Mantra to a human in Badrikashramam. Immediately, the head stuck to his palms fell down here in this place. This is called Brahmakapalam.

Saints who worshiped

Mangalasasanam (hymns) by Periyazhwar and Thirumangai Azhwar. This is the 99th divya desam.

Speciality of this temple

The Lord Vishnu here is called Badrinarayana, who is made of black Salakrama and is in sitting posture facing east. This Lord was consecrated by Adi Sankaracharya in 9th century. The present temple was built in 18th century by Karwal kings. The Lord Narayan did penance in Himalayas to safeguard his devotees. Mother Lakshmi took the form of Ilandai tree and gave shelter to the Lord. The Lord is also called Badri Vishal. Badrinathi is one of the four Mutts established by Adi Shankara.

Pariharam

People pray for marriage boon and also do rituals for the ancestors peace.Therefore, it is special to offer pindam to the Pitrus (ancestors). We can also keep the Atma pindam for ourselves.

Pariharam Procedure

Milk, honey, abishekams, thirumanjanam and nivedana called Mahabhok are offered to Badrinath. Vedic experts say that if Pindam (ritual where rice balls are offered to the ancestors) is put at Brahmma Kapalam here and dissoved in Alakananda, our ancestors are blessed.