Koyiloluku Part 1 & 2(Tiruvarankam Koyil Varalaru) (Tamil) Old Book

Koyilolugu Part 1 & 2 (Tiruvarangam Koyil Varalaru)" refers to a multi-volume historical and religious chronicle about the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam. The title is in Tamil, with "Tiruvarangam Koyil Varalaru" meaning "History of the Tiruvarangam Temple."

While the entire Koyilolugu is an extensive work, it has been published in multiple volumes and parts by various scholars and institutions. The specific breakdown into "Part 1 & 2" generally refers to the initial, foundational parts of this chronicle.

Based on scholarly sources and traditional understanding, the contents of these early parts would likely cover:

Koyilolugu Part 1: The Mythological and Early History

• Origin of the Temple Deity: This section would describe the mythological origins of the Sri Ranganatha deity (Moolavar). It is believed that the deity emerged from the cosmic ocean of milk (Kshira Sagara) during Brahma's penance. The text would likely trace the deity's journey from being worshiped by Brahma and the Sun God to being brought to Ayodhya by King Ikshvaku and then gifted to Vibhishana, the brother of Ravana.
• The Deity's Arrival in Srirangam: The chronicle would detail how the deity came to be consecrated in Srirangam. The story goes that Vibhishana was carrying the deity to Lanka when he stopped to rest in the Chola kingdom. Once placed on the ground, the deity refused to be moved, and Vibhishana was consoled by a local Chola king. This event established the Srirangam temple as the earthly abode of Lord Ranganatha.
• Early Temple History and Expansion: Part 1 would likely cover the initial construction of the temple, the patronage of early kings, and the contributions of the Alvars, the twelve great poet-saints of the Sri Vaishnava tradition, who sang hymns in praise of the Lord.

Koyilolugu Part 2: The Age of the Acharyas and Reforms

• The Advent of Ramanujacharya: This part is of immense historical and religious importance. It would focus on the arrival and profound influence of the philosopher-saint Sri Ramanujacharya (11th century AD). The chronicle would describe the chaotic state of the temple's administration and rituals before his arrival.
• Ramanujacharya's Reforms: The text would detail the systematic reforms Ramanujacharya implemented. This includes:
  • Organizing Temple Administration: Establishing a structured administrative system for the temple's daily functioning.
  • Standardizing Rituals: Codifying the rituals (pujas) and festivals (utsavams) to ensure consistency and sanctity.
  • Social Integration: The chronicle would also highlight Ramanujacharya's efforts to integrate people from all castes and communities into the temple service, a revolutionary social reform for its time.
• Later Dynasties and Invasions: Part 2 would likely continue the historical narrative by documenting the temple's history after Ramanujacharya. This would include the patronage of later dynasties and the devastating Muslim invasions of the 14th century, which led to the temporary relocation of the temple deity and the martyrdom of many devotees.

In essence, while Part 1 deals with the divine origin and mythical history, Part 2 is a crucial historical document detailing the transformative era of Sri Ramanujacharya and the subsequent historical events that shaped the Srirangam temple into the revered institution it is today.