The Sri Aadhi Jaganatha Perumal Temple, located in Thiruppullani near Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu, is a revered South Indian Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple’s name is derived from a local legend that Rama used grass as a pillow, giving the village its name. Constructed in the Chola architectural style, it is celebrated in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, a significant early medieval Tamil canon by the Alvar saints, marking its importance among the 108 Divya Desams.
Believed to have been established in the late 8th century CE, the temple underwent further developments from the Medieval Cholas and Pandyas, and contributions from the Madurai Nayak kings and the Sethupathi Palayam. According to Hindu legend, Rama prayed to the God of the Ocean to find a way to Lanka, lying in Kusa grass, a penance known as Dharbasayanam. The temple is administered by the Ramanathapuram Samasthan Devasthanam Trust, overseen by the Hereditary Trustee, Raja Rajeswari Natchiyar.
Legends associated with the temple also include the story of Dasharatha, Rama’s father, who performed penance to obtain the sacred payasam, which led to the birth of Rama and his brothers. Childless couples visit the temple to perform nagapradishta, seeking blessings for children, believing that Adi Jagannatha will grant their wishes, similar to how Rama was born. The temple's rituals and traditions continue to attract numerous devotees seeking spiritual fulfillment.
The temple features a striking five-tiered rajagopuram facing east and houses the idols of Adi Jagannatha, along with his consorts, Bhudevi and Sri Devi. A separate shrine is dedicated to Padmasini, while another features Dharbasayana Ramar in a reclining posture. The temple also boasts a 13th-century metal image of Krishna, depicting him dancing amidst a snake, a rare artistic representation that adds historical significance to the temple’s rich heritage.