Tamil Nadu is known as the temple city of India and one such a place in South India where the intricate structure and brilliant sculptures of its ancient temples, keep all its visitors spellbound with their impressive elegance. Designed by Tirumalaiya, the Ganaga chieftain in the 894 A.D., Ranganathaswamy Temple is one of the main attractions in Srirangapatna, near Mysore. Lies on the banks of River Kaveri the temple is devoted to Lord Ranganath, a manifestation of Lord Vishnu. It’s expected that in the reclining form this idol is the biggest statue of Lord Vishnu.
Lord Ranganatha is the main deity here who is a manifestation of Lord Vishnu. Idol of the Lord is in a resting posture on a bed of snake Aadi Sesha. Aadi Sesha is said to have seven heads and if often depicted with the Lord Vishnu. It is said that this is one of the most popular idols of Lord Vishnu in the reclining position. Idol of Goddess Lakshmi near the Lord’s legs can also be seen. Goddess Ranganayaki is regarded as being the major goddess here.
A magnificent structure, sensitive designs, beautiful statues and amazing frescoes of the temple, even today give you an in-depth understanding of the fantastic abilities of the then designers, artists and craftsmen. During your Ranganathaswamy Tour, you just cannot skip the thousand- pillared hall that can keep anyone impressed with its artistic brilliance; the wonderfully designed figures of horses standing on their rear legs depicting war scenes on the base of these pillars give you a real scene.
