Born of Goda Devi
Vishnuchitta was born in Sri Villiputtur, in the Sanctum of Vatapatra Sai. He found a baby, in the garden of Tulasi. He named her “Goda” – which means a garland.
Preparing Garlands for Lord
Goda used to prepare the garlands that her father carried to the temple to decorate the Lord. Once she prepared the garlands, she would try them on herself to make sure that they look beautiful and then used to give them to her father for an offering. Unaware of this, Vishnuchitta carried on offering them to the Lord.
One day, he found some hair in the garland. He realized the reason and was worried about the sacrilege committed. But that night the Lord appears in his dream and tells him that he prefers the ones worn by Goda.
Marrying Sri Ranganatha
Vishnuchitta brought her up in an environment of love and devotion towards the Lord. The intensity of her love and dedication towards the Lord grew so much that she decided to marry Sri Ranganatha, a form of Lord Vishnu.
When Andal was nubile, the Alwar began looking for a groom. But Andal insisted that she marries none other than Lord Ranganatha. Vishnuchitta takes Andal to Srirangam.
At the auspicious moment, the Lord marries Andal then she merges with the Lord.
Thus Goda became “Amuktamalyada” Mukta – worn and removed, mala – garland, da – one who gives.
Goda’s Marriage
Goda Kalyanam is performed in all Vishnu temples on Bhogi day with fervor and devotion, especially in the South.
Sri Krishnadevaraya, the famous king of the Vijayanagara empire (16th century) authored “Amuktamalyada”, a prabhanda, based on Goda Devi’s story.
He introduces the legends of Vishnuchitta, Yamunacharya, Khandikhya, and Kesidwaja to establish the philosophy of Vishistadvaita.
