Sri Ranganathar Srirangapatna

Srirangapatna Ranganathaswami Temple at Karnataka .

Srirangapatna known to be the historical capital of warrior kings Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan, is a town of Mandya district, a highly sought after destination in Karnataka for it’s magnificent temples and monumental forts. Located 16 kilometers from the beautiful city Mysore, this place is recognized for its rich cultural heritage. History has it that the forts hold stories of famous battles and also portrays Tipu Sultan’s history as a ruler. Tipu built palaces and forts so as to hold proof of him as a legend and powerful, undefeatable war hero.

Not many realize that Srirangapatna is actually an island surrounded by river Cauvery from all sides. This egg-shaped island is named after Sri Ranganatha, the presiding deity of the Sri Ranganatha Swamy temple.

Srirangapatna Ranganathaswami temple built in 894 AD is an abode to Sri Maha Vishnu, lord here is in a reclining position, resting over the coils of Adi Seshu (A seven head serpent). The reclining posture statue is said to be the largest murti of its kind in the state of Karnataka.

Srirangapatna Ranganathaswami Temple is one of the largest temples with a lofty tower. The Lord is reclining on Adi Sesha with the Goddess in His chest. The murti of sage Gautama and Goddess Cauvery are enshrined at the holy feet of the Lord.

Saints and Alwars are enshrined on the corridors. Two pillars in front of the inner entrance are called Chaturvimsati. The 24 forms of Vishnu with their names are engraved thereon. In the north-west corner is the shrine of the Divine Consort Ranganayaki Thayar and the sacred feet of the Lord. Pattabhirama with Sita and Anjaneya at His feet and Lord Rajamannar are wonderful sculptures. There is another Krishna shrine, which is very popular among the devotees. The murti’s of Srinivasa and Panchamukha Anjaneya, installed by Guru Vyasaraya, are noteworthy.

The other three temples are the Adi Ranga Temple (in Srirangapatna), the Madhya Ranga Temple (in Shivanasamudra) and the Antya Ranga Temple (in Srirangam). All these three temples are considered very important Ranganatha temples.

Nimishambal shrine Goddess Nimishambal is enshrined in an ancient Shiva temple (20 km from Mysore) on the banks of river Cauvery. The temple is dedicated to Lord Mouktikeshwara. Also enshrined in the temple is Lord Lakshminarasimha. The devout strongly believe that the Goddess helps them succeed in any step they take by invoking Her. Many devotees make a thanks-giving visit to this temple later.