India 21 August 2016: “108 Divya Desa Dharshan”, a spiritual travelogue put together by Mrs. Usha Raja was released by Mr. T. R. Mani, Senior Advocate, Madras High Court. The first copy was received by Dr. S. Padmanabhan, Srikaryam of Sri Ahobila Mutt and Professor and H.O.D., Sanskrit, University of Madras. Mr. Thothathri of Sri Vanamamalai Mutt was also present during the occasion.
The author Usha Raja said that there was a need for a book filled with correct and relevant information on the Holy Divya Desams in India. The idea is that it should be easy and handy to those who intend to visit the temples. Information regarding the deity, temple vimanam, holy water, sthala vriksham along with a brief history of the temple has been provided for each Divya Desa temples. Important festivals associated with the temple have been mentioned. Temple Timings, route and access logistics along with contact numbers, which may be of help to the tourists, are also provided.
Dr. Padmanabhan of Sri Ahobila Mutt hailed the book as an authentic guide for religious tourists. He advised that the youth should be guided to visit the temples and lauded the efforts of Mrs. Usha and her husband Mr. J. Raja, in collecting and compiling the information of the Vaishnavite Temples into a useful travel guide.
Photo caption, From L to R: Mr. Thothathri, Mrs. Usha Raja, Mr. T.R. Mani, Dr. S. Padmanabhan & Mr. Chellappan.