Adhirangam Ranganathaswamy temple
The Adhirangam Ranganathaswamy temple, also known as the Old Srirangam Ranganatha Perumal Temple, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu in Adhi Thiruvarangam, Tamil Nadu, India. Constructed in the Dravidian architectural style, it is believed to have been built by the Medieval Cholas and Vijayanagar kings and is considered one of the 108 Abhimana Kshethram of the Vaishnavate tradition.
Key Facts
- ›Dedicated to Vishnu in his Ranganatha form.
- ›Built in the Dravidian architectural style.
- ›Believed to have been constructed by Medieval Cholas and Vijayanagar kings.
- ›Covers an area of 5 acres and features a historical grain storage container.
- ›One of the 108 Abhimana Kshethrams in Vaishnavate tradition.
- ›Features a 29 ft reclining image of Ranganatha Perumal made of herbs.
Vishnu, Ranganatha Perumal, Ranganayagi
- One of the 108 Abhimana Kshethram of Vaishnavate Tradition
- Considered Older Than the Ranganathaswamy Temple At Srirangam
- Mentioned In the Sanskrit Work Skanda Purana
Medieval Cholas, Vijayanagar Kings
Vaikunta Ekadasi, Krishna Janmashtami, Ramanavami, Adi Pooram, Chittirai Chariot Festival
Granite, Brick, Stucco, Herbs
- Sculpted Pillars In Vijayanagara Style In Ranganayagi Shrine
- Huge Foot of Vishnu
Chandra Pushkarani, Thenpennai River, Kedilam River
About Adhirangam Ranganathaswamy temple
The Adhirangam Ranganathaswamy temple, also referred to as the Old Srirangam Ranganatha Perumal Temple, is a significant Hindu place of worship located in Adhi Thiruvarangam, within the Sankarapuram Taluk of Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, primarily worshipped in the form of Ranganatha Perumal.
History and Architecture
Constructed in the characteristic Dravidian style of architecture, the temple's origins are attributed to the patronage of the Medieval Cholas and the Vijayanagar kings. It spans an area of approximately 5 acres and is notable for housing a historical grain storage container. Architecturally, the temple features a flat rajagopuram, tall granite walls, and two precincts. The central shrine is approached through pillared halls, including a mani mandapam and mukha mandapam. The shrine dedicated to Ranganayagi, the consort of Ranganathar, is adorned with sculpted pillars in the Vijayanagara style.
Deities and Legends
The presiding deity, Ranganatha Perumal, is an imposing image measuring 29 feet and is crafted from a unique herbal composition, depicted in a reclining posture. Adisesha, a five-headed serpent, forms an umbrella over the deity, rendered in stucco. The sanctum also accommodates images of Sridevi and Bhudevi. Legends associated with the temple include Vishnu appearing as Ranganatha to rescue the Vedas from the demon Somukan and the moon god Chandra worshipping Vishnu here to regain his lost radiance, leading to the creation of the temple tank, Chandra Pushkarani.
Religious Significance and Practices
The Adhirangam Ranganathaswamy temple is held in high regard, classified as one of the 108 Abhimana Kshethrams within the Vaishnavate tradition. It is believed to be older than the famous Ranganathaswamy temple at Srirangam, hence its name "Adhi Rangam," meaning original Rangam. The temple observes six daily rituals and a dozen yearly festivals, with the chariot festival during the Tamil month of Chittirai being the most prominent. The temple follows the Vaikasana Agama tradition, and its administration is managed by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legend behind the Adhirangam Ranganathaswamy temple?
According to legend, Vishnu appeared as Ranganatha at this site to retrieve the Vedas stolen by the demon Somukan. Another legend states that the moon god Chandra worshipped Vishnu here to regain his lost glow, establishing the temple tank, Chandra Pushkarani.
What is the architectural style of the temple?
The temple is constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture. It features a flat rajagopuram, tall granite walls, and has two precincts. The shrine of Ranganayagi, the consort of Ranganathar, has sculpted pillars made in the Vijayanagara style.
What are the main deities worshipped at Adhirangam Ranganathaswamy temple?
The primary deity is Vishnu, worshipped as Ranganatha Perumal in a reclining posture. The temple also houses shrines for his consort Ranganayagi, as well as Kodandarama, Hanuman, and Krishna.
What is the significance of the temple tank?
The temple tank, Chandra Pushkarani, is significant as it is believed to be the tank established by Chandra, the moon god, for his worship of Ranganatha. It is also identified with the Thenpennai River.
What are the notable festivals celebrated at the temple?
The temple celebrates festivals associated with Vishnu, such as Vaikunta Ekadasi, Krishna Janmashtami, Ramanavami, and Adi Pooram. The chariot festival during the Tamil month of Chittirai is the most prominent, though the Brahmotsavam has been suspended.
What is unique about the presiding deity's image?
The presiding deity, Ranganatha Perumal, is an imposing image measuring 29 ft and is made of 'mooligai silai,' an idol made with herbs. It is seen in a reclining posture, with the five-headed snake Adisesha forming an umbrella over it.
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