Category: Hindu Temples

Hindu temples are known by many different names, varying on region and language, including Alayam, Mandir, Mandira, Ambalam, Gudi, Kavu, Koil, Kovil, Déul, Raul, Devasthana, Devalaya, Devayatan, Devakula, Devagiriha, Degul, Deva Mandiraya, and Devalayam

Eri Katha Ramar Temple, Maduranthakam

Eri Katha Ramar Temple, Maduranthakam

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Eri Katha Ramar Temple

One of the most important and famous Sri Rama temples in Tamil Nadu is in Maduranthakam, a small town in Chengalpattu district, of Tamil Nadu. Officially known as Sri Kodandarama temple, it is popularly called Eri Katha Ramar temple. This ancient place was originally known as Madurantaka Chaturvedimangalam as the Chola emperor Madurantaka Uttama Chola (973-985 A.D.), the son of Gandaraditya Chola donated this village to scholars of the four Vedas (Chaturvedins) who lived here.

The principal deities (moola-vigrahas) enshrined in the main sanctum of this east-facing temple are Sri Kodandarama (Eri Katha Ramar), Lakshmana, and Sita. These huge deities are made of stucco (sudhai in Tamil). In Tamil Nadu, there are many temples wherein the main deities are made of stucco such as the famous Lord Ranganatha Swami temple in Srirangam and also Lord Vishnu enshrined in the Yathoktakari, Pandava Doota and Ulagalanda Perumal temples in Kanchipuram.

In the temple at Maduranthakam, Rama and Lakshmana are seen holding their respective bows in their left hands and Sita stands to Rama’s right. The processional deity (utsava-bhera) of Lord Rama in this temple is also worshipped as ‘Eri Katha Ramar’. Here we can see, Karunakara Perumal (Lord Vishnu), flanked by Goddesses Sridevi and Bhudevi, believed to have been worshipped by God Rama.

All the deities in the main sanctum, including Sri Sudarsana are enshrined under the Pushpaka Vimana. An inner enclosure (prakaram) with a raised pillared veranda runs around the main sanctum.

Eri Katha Ramar Temple, Maduranthakam

In this temple, Lord Rama and Lakshmana are seen holding their respective bows in their
left hands and Sita Devi stands to Rama’s right. Here Swami is called ‘Eri Katha Ramar’.

An interesting story

In the outer open prakaram, are situated many sub-shrines of which the most important one is for Maa Sita, worshipped here as Janakavalli. This sanctum, which faces east and has an inner prakaram and a pillared mandapa in front, was constructed in 1798. An interesting detail about this sanctum is that it was constructed on the orders of Colonel Lionel Place, who was then the Collector of Chengalpattu.

The story of how an English official came to be associated with this temple is truly fascinating. In Maduranthakam, close to this temple is a large irrigation tank. Whenever it rained heavily, the breaches in this tank led to the flood waters damaging the crops in the village. During 1795-1798, the Collector of Chengalpattu decided to rectify the situation and in 1798, he stayed in Madurantakam during the rainy months with his engineers.

He came to see the temple and saw lots of stones inside. On enquiring why they were there, the people there said that they were constructing a separate sanctum for Sita but unfortunately were unable to complete it as the crops had been damaged due to floods and they could not donate to this noble cause. The Collector then said that if God Rama would prevent the breaches in the irrigation tank, he would construct the shrine for Sita.

In the following days, there was heavy rainfall in the area. The Collector, wanting to see if the arrangements for preventing the breaches were intact, walked near the bund of the irrigation tank when he saw two Divine Beings with bows and arrows guarding the bund. At once, he knelt and prayed to Rama and later said that he had a vision of Rama and Lakshmana. The tank did not breach that year and the crops were saved. Colonel Place immediately kept his promise and made the necessary arrangements for building the shrine for Goddess Sita (Janakavalli).

There is a Tamil epigraph that mentions that Colonel Lionel Place built this shrine. There is a sanctum for Andal Devi and opposite it is one for Sri Vishvaksena. Near the entrance to the temple is a sanctum enshrining a stone image of Sudarsana (personification of the discus of Lord Vishnu) in His pose of moving forward with God Narasimha on the reverse side. Situated nearby are shrines for the Alwars and Sri Vedanta Desika.

There is also a sanctum for Sri Lakshmi Narasimha with a circumambulatory path (pradakshina patha) in this temple. At the entrance to the temple is a tall five storeyed gopuram. The sacred tank (pushkarini) of this temple is called Sri Rama Tirtham and Sri Ramanuja Tatakam. On the banks of this tank is a shrine for Anjaneya Swamy, facing the main temple.

Ramanujacharya’s connection with Madhurantakam

There are many Vishnu temples in Tamil Nadu which are connected to the life of Ramanujacharya. This temple in Maduranthakam is one such and is connected with an important milestone event in his life. Yamunacharya (Alavandar), a famous Srivaishnava Acharya, wanted Ramanuja to come to Srirangam to spread and establish the Srivaishnava tradition (sampradaya).

Periya Nambi (also known as Maha Purna), Yamunacharya’s disciple started from Srirangam to go to Kanchipuram to meet Ramanuja. Ramanuja was also anxious to meet Periya Nambi and decided to go to Srirangam. The important and historic meeting between Ramanuja and Periya Nambi took place at Maduranthakam.

There is a small four-pillared mandapa to the rear of the Andal shrine is the place under the Magizha tree where Sri Ramanuja was given Pancha Samskara (Samashrayanam) by his teacher (Acharya), Periya Nambi. Shrines for Udaiyavar (Ramanuja) and Periya Nambi are seen near the Vishvaksena shrine.

Festivals

The most important festival in this temple is the Rama Navami Utsavam.

Sri Amaralingeswara Swamy Temple, Amaravati

Sri Amaralingeswara Swamy Temple, Amaravati

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Sri Amaralingeswara Swamy Temple

Amaravati, a celebrated centre of the Saiva pilgrimage in Andhra Pradesh, is situated on the southern bank of the river Krishna in the Palnadu district. Amaravati also called Dharanikota or Dhanyakataka, was the capital of many dynasties in ancient times.

It is one of the Pancharama kshetras and the seat of a Simhaparishat of the Saivas and its God. Amareswara Swamy is said to have been installed by Lord Indra. The consort of Lord Amaralingeswara Swamy is Bala Chamundika devi.

Description of the temple

The Linga of Amareswara is situated on the upper floor of a small shrine surrounded by three prakaras. The main entrance to the outer or first prakara is in the south and faces the main road. It is surrounded by a gopura of later construction.

The courtyard inside this prakara contains nine shrines which house in order, a linga named ‘Parameswara, Virabhadra, Jwalamukhi, Parthisvara, Somesvara, Mahishasuramardini, Kosalesvara and Virabhadra’. Inside is the second prakara with only one entrance in the west.

There are six small shrines inside this enclosure housing the images of Kumara, Hanuman, Ganapati, and Bhairava. At the center of this enclosure is a big raised platform with a flight of steps in the north and south near the eastern extremity. In this enclosure are to be found four small shrines in the cardinal directions, each with a linga inside.

There is one dhvajastambha to the east and another with a balipitha to the west. In the center is the shrine of Amareswara. The adhistana of the garbhagruha and antarala consists of upana, tripatta, patta, a narrow gala cut into compartments by short pilasters, and a broad allinga pattika.

The north and south walls of the garbhagriha contain in order, two pilasters, and a projecting kosta. The walls of the antarala contain two pilasters, a kosta between two pilasters. (Ramarao. M, Eastern Chalukyan Temples of Andhradesa, Hyderabad, 1984, p.40). The shrine contains on the axis the garbhagruha, antarala, mukhamandapa and mahamandapa. The mahamandapa has four rows of six pillars of the Chalukyan type.

There is a life-size statue of Raja Vasireddi Venkatadri Nayudu in this mandapa standing with his hands in Anjali facing the linga of Amareswara. The mukhamandapa beyond has openings in the north and south. There are four stout pillars in the centre slightly raised with the space between them.

There is a small Devi shrine to the north of this mandapa. The antarala is plain and narrow. The garbhagriha contains a tall marble linga emanating out of the vedi with an indenture at the top.

The vimana contains on each side a row of six pilasters, a kapota above them, a step with a lion in each corner, another step, a four-sided Nagara sikhara, and kalasa. The vimanas of all the minor shrines in this temple area contain two or more steps, a narrow gala, and Vesara sikharas.

Sri Amaralingeswara Swamy – History

As per some Legends, the demon king named Tarakasura defeated the gods. Then gods came to reside here and since then the place came to be called ‘Amaravati‘. Lord Siva is worshipped as Amareswara Swami or Sri Amaralingeswara Swamy with his consort Bala Chamundika Devi.

Swami in this temple

The Sivalinga here in Sri Amaralingeswara Swamy temple is very tall. According to some legends, Sivalinga was growing in size, and to stop its growth, a nail was hit onto the top of the Sivalinga. When the nail dug into the Linga, blood oozed from the Sivalinga.

The main festivals and rituals in the temple are Maha Sivaratri, Navaratri, and the Kalyanotsavas. Amaravati is thus an important kshetra situated at a particularly sacred spot of the river Krishna and is a consecrated place of worship for the devotees.

How to reach Sri Amaralingeswara Swamy Temple

This temple is located at a distance of 40 km. from Guntur, A.P. One can move on Busses and Trains to this temple.

Click here for google map’s location

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Sri Chinthala Venkataramana Swamy Temple

Sri Kurmanatha Swamy Temple

Sri Kurmanatha Swamy Temple

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Sri Kurmanatha Swamy Temple – Lord Vishnu in Kurma Incarnation

The second incarnation of Lord Vishnu was Kurma avatar. The Lord had taken this incarnation to help the Gods and demons churn the milk ocean to get Amrutam (the elixir of immortality).

The demons were dominating the devatas on the battlefield because their Guru Sukracharya obtained the Sanjeevini (mantra for making the dead alive). All dead demons were multiplying even after they were killed by devatas in war.

Kurma Avatar of Maha Vishnu
Kurma Avatar of Maha Vishnu

When gods prayed to Lord Vishnu, he advised them to churn the ocean with the help of Mandara Hill as the churning rod and snake God Vasuki coiled around it as a rope to pull either side by devatas and demons. While churning the ocean, the Mandara Hill was sinking into the ocean making it difficult for them to churn. Then Lord Vishnu took the form of Kurma (turtle). He supported the hill on his back and saved the hill from sinking.

 

Churning of ocean

It is believed that praying to Lord Vishnu in the form of Kurma brings wealth, health prosperity in life, and sturdiness. Kurma Jayanti is celebrated on Purnima day in the month of Vaisakha month. Many also believe that starting the construction of houses on this auspicious day brings happiness to the family.

Sri Kurmanatha Swamy Temple Location

One of the famous temples dedicated to this incarnation is situated in the Srikakulam district in Andhra Pradesh. One can easily reach this place which is 15 km away from Srikakulam. The temple is popularly known as ‘Sri Kurmanatha Swamy temple’.

Click here for Google Map’s Location 

Legend of the Temple

Swetha Chakravarthi desired to make love to his wife, Vishnu Priya when she was observing austerities on Ekadashi day. To stop the advances of her husband, she prayed to Lord Vishnu who sent a stream of rushing water to separate her husband. He was carried away to Swetha Giri by the gush of the water stream. Narada appeared before the king and advised him to do penance by reciting the Kurma Narayana Mantra.

Pleased by the prayers, Lord Vishnu appeared before him and agreed to stay back there to bless the devotees. Lord Brahma consecrated the deity in the form of Kurma (turtle) and installed with holy Gopala Yantra. Lord Vishnu also created a pond called Swetha Pushkarini with his Sudarsan Chakra to enable his devotees to take a bath and worship him in the temple. Vishnu’s consort evolved from the pond and stayed with the Lord with the name Kurma Nayaki mounted on Garuda.

More about Temple.

The temple was renovated several times. The present structure of the temple was built in the 13th century by Ananthavarman who was a Ganga King. Before Sri Ramanuja visited this temple, the holy rituals of God were being done according to Shaivite culture. With the help of King Ganga, the rituals have since been performed in Vaishnava tradition.

However, this is one temple that follows both traditions. Every day abhishekam is being done. Akhanda Deeparadhana, Special Nitya Kalyanam, and Nitya Bhogam are done. The annual celestial marriage of the Lord is done on Vaiskha Suddha Ekadasi. The idol is made of a large saligrama stone. It is 2.5 feet long.

The idol is in three parts,

  • the head facing the west,
  • the middle stone representing the body of the turtle, and
  • the small stone at the end represents the Sudarshan chakra.

The superstructure of the temple is in the shape of an Octagonal sikhara with a kalasa on the top. The main hall has 108 monolithic stone pillars each one in a different style and architecture. The postal authorities released a five-rupee postal stamp depicting the temple in the year 2013.

Sri Kurmanatha Swamy Temple inside
Sri Kurmanatha Swamy Temple

This is the only temple that has two dwajastambas (flag posts) facing the East and West. The Lord originally was east-faced but turned west at the request of his devotee and hence a flag post in the west direction was also established. There was a story for this. Once a tribal king visited the place and being amused by the pushkarani he constructed a tank and was worshipping the Lord.

He was staying in the ashram of Sage Sampangi which was situated on the western side of the temple. At his request, the Lord turned towards the west, and hence a flag post was consecrated in the temple. The temple is guarded by Lord Anjaneya instead of Lord Bhairava because a curse was bestowed on him. When Balarama wanted to visit Lord Vishnu, Bhairava, the kshetrapala of the temple, did not allow him to enter.

Angered by this, Balarama replaced him with Hanuma as the protector of the place. A flag post is also constructed on the east side as the Lord was originally facing east. Devotees are allowed to enter the temple both from the west side as well as the east side.

Before entering the temple, devotees have to visit the Pathalasiddheswara temple. The temple has 108 pillars and the architecture on one pillar is different from the other. It is believed that Lord Krishna played with Gopikas in the Pushkarini, hence the sand in the Pushkarini turned white.

A Place for Salvation

Sri Kurmam temple is considered a moksha sthanam (place of salvation) and Pushkarini has cosmic powers. Some people believe that this is as pious as Varanasi and hence people are obligated here to perform the rites of the departed souls. A bath in the Pushkarini is said to cleanse not only the soul but also all the ills of the body.

There are two more temples dedicated to the Kurma avatar,

  • one is Sri Gavi Ranganatha Swamy temple in Chitradurga, Karnataka and
  • the other one is Sri Kurma Varadharaja Swamy Temple in Chittoor.
Sri Chinthala Venkataramana Swamy Temple, Tadipatri

Sri Chinthala Venkataramana Swamy Temple, Tadipatri

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Sri Chinthala Venkataramana Swamy Temple

Sri Chinthalarayaswamy Temple or Sri Chinthala Venkataramana Swamy Temple is situated at Tadipatri, a town in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, who is referred to as Chinthala Venkataramana.

Sthalapurana

According to a legend, it is said that once a huge noise burst out from a tamarind tree and when the villagers gathered to find out the source of the noise, they saw an idol of Lord Vishnu, which had erupted from the tamarind tree. Later that night, Lord Vishnu appeared in the dream of Thimma Nayudu, the ruler of the region, and instructed him to build a temple by placing the idol found inside the tamarind tree.

The temple was named after the tamarind tree, as ‘Chintha’ in Telugu means ‘Tamarind’. Chinthala in Telugu means that this deity will remove worries.

Inscriptions

The earliest inscription in the temple is dated 1551 and registers gifts to the temple. There are other inscriptions belonging to the 16th and 17th centuries.

Builder of the temple

Sri Chinthala Venkataramana Swamy Temple was built by Pemmasani Yerra Thimma Nayudu II of the Pemmasani Nayaks (son of Thimma Nayudu), a subordinate of Sri Krishnadeva Rayalu during the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 16th century. Thimma Nayudu appointed two archakas and a chief priest and he gifted lands to the temple.

Originally the temple was called Chinthala Tiruvengala Natha Swamy Temple. Spread across five acres of land, this temple was built according to the Silpa Sastras.

Sri Chinthala Venkataramana Swamy Temple

Mandapas

The carvings of episodes of the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and the Bhagavatha are seen around the Garbha Griha, Ranga Mandapa, Mukha Mandapa, Main Gopura, and the Prakaras. The Mukha Mandapa has 40 pillars in the Vijayanagara style. Beyond the Mukha Mandapa is a Ranga Mandapa, which has scenes of the Ramayana and rare sculptures of the Vishnu avatars or incarnations.

Temple Complex

There are other temples inside the complex, one dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi worshipped as Anandavalli Thayar, Lakshminarayana, Varaha, and the other to Lord Anjaneya. There is a shrine for Sri Ramanuja Acharya, the founder of Vishishta Advaitha philosophy.

Three Entrances

The temple has three entrances – one each on the North, South, and East. On the East, is the Dhwaja Stambham. The sculptures of the river goddesses – the Ganga and the Yamuna are prominently displayed on either side of the entrance.

The rajagopuram faces the east and is a solid structure, built using stone and brick. The stone part contains figures of Vidyadharas, Apsaras and Avatars, Elephants, Horses, and parrots arranged on different levels.

Chinthala Venkataramana

Important festivals in the temple

The important festivals held in this temple are Diwali, Sri Rama Navami, and Brahmotsavam which falls in October. A mighty temple gopuram greets the visitors and the devotees. Right after it is the Dhwajasthamba and then comes the Garuda mandapa. Right in front of the Garuda Mandapa is the large Mukha Mandapa followed by the Ranga Mandapa and the Garbha Griha.

Garbha Griha

The presiding deity of the temple in the Garbha Griha is a 10-foot-tall idol of Lord Venkateswara. It is very beautiful and a classic example of a masterpiece of the Vijayanagara architecture. Lord Venkateswara is in a standing position and is holding the Sankha (conch) and Chakra (Discus) in the upper left and right hands. The lower right hand is in abhaya hasta (reassuring the devotees) and the lower left is in kati hasta (resting on the waist).

The ceiling in the main temple is an octagonal-shaped flower. The Mukha Mandapa and the Ranga Mandapa are full of images and stories from the Mahabharatha, the Ramayana, and the Bhagavatha, all in proper sequence of events. It is certainly one of the highlights of this temple as each pillar tells beautiful stories through its intricate carvings.

One of the rare sculptures in the Ranga Mandapa is the Matsya (fish) incarnation of Vishnu killing the demon Hayagreeva.

Lord Vishnu Incarnation - Matsaya Avtaar - Killing Hayagriva
Lord Vishnu Incarnation – Matsaya Avtar – Killing Hayagreeva

Every inch of the exterior walls of the temple are carved and each carving tells us a lot about our gods and our puranas. The temple is famous for sculpture and is classified as one of the Monuments of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India. The temple occupies a pride of place in the history of Indian art and architecture.

Every Indian must preserve and protect it for the sake of the future generations.

The Divine Vahanas of gods and goddesses

The Divine Vahanas of gods and goddesses

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– Smt. T.S. Rajalakshmi

Divine Vahanas

Vahana in Sanskrit means “that which carries,” a vehicle for Gods and Goddesses. All Gods and Goddesses have their vehicles (Divine Vahanas or Vahanams). The vehicle may be a bird or an animal. Yet, they too are considered with high respect and offered prayers.

They become vehicles to serve them out of devotion. They are staunch devotees who are ready to serve the Almighty at any point in time.

Lord Ganesha – Mooshika

“Mooshika” (mouse), is the vehicle for Lord Ganesha who is worshipped first in all types of worship in the Hindu Tradition. The interesting story is that “Mooshika” was Gandharva Krauncha in his previous birth and due to a curse he was born in the rat family. He was disturbing everybody in the hermitage of Sage Parashara. Gajanana who was there caught hold of him and warned him of dire consequences.

Mooshika Vahanam

Mooshika surrendered to Gajanana and offered to serve him as his vehicle always. Ganesha is also known as “Mooshika Vahana” and is sung as “Mooshika Vahana Modhaka Hastha”. Lord Ganesha mounted on Mooshika teaches us that one should not be distracted by whatever he sees and be wavering in his mind and that one can be controlled by the grace of the Lord.

Lord Subramanya – Surapadma

“Surapadma–the Peacock”, is the vehicle of Lord Karthikeya. Surapadma was a cruel Asura who was torturing the angels. When Lord Muruga fought with Surapadma vigorously, the latter took the form of a tree. Lord Muruga split the tree into two halves turning one half into Peacock and the other into a rooster (which is the symbol for Muruga’s flag).

Lord Subramanya - Peacock

Surapadma surrendered to Lord Muruga and became his vehicle. Lord Muruga is known as “Mayil Vahana”. There is a famous poem as “Erumayil EriVilayaduMugam” in which the vehicle is primarily called upon along with the Lord. Lord Muruga riding on a peacock teaches that even though one takes pride in one’s beauty, he has to submit to the Lord.

Lord Siva – Nandeeswara

“Nandi”, the divine bull, is the vehicle for Lord Siva. He is also the Dwarapalaka of Lord Siva. Nandi means happiness, joy, and satisfaction. He was the son of Sage Shilada who was an ardent devotee of Lord Siva. He wanted a son to be born to serve Lord Siva. Thus, with the Lord’s blessings, Nandi was born to serve as his gatekeeper.

Special Abhishekam and Alankaram is performed during the early hours (Pradosha kaala). He is considered to be the chief of Siva Ganas and a primary Guru. He was a preceptor to Patanjali and Thirumulainathar as well and hence called Nandikeshwara. All Siva temples have Nandi in the front-facing Lord Siva. It is believed that if anyone confides his wishes in Nandi’s ears, he would convey them to Lord Siva and Mother Parvati and get them fulfilled.

“Bairava” who is also the manifestation of Lord Siva has a dog as his vehicle. One can identify Siva temples from the outside by seeing Nandi idols on the walls of the temple.

Many Siva temples have very big Nandi idols as

  • Rameshwaram temple,
  • Brihadeeswara temple and
  • Gangaikonda Chozhapuram temple in Tamil Nadu,
  • Lepakshi temple,
  • Virupaksha temple in Hampi,
  • Chamundeshwari Temple at Chamundi Hills,
  • Hoysaleshwara Temple at Halebid in Karnataka,
  • Bhanjanagar temple at Orissa and
  • Mahanandiswara temple in Kurnool.

Devotees recite the shloka on Nandi during Lord Siva’s darshan: “Nandikesha Mahaabhaaga Sivadhyaana”. A Great Saiva Devotee named Nandanar was not able to view Lord Siva (Sivalokanathar) at Thirupunkur in Tamil Nadu as Nandi was obstructing the darshan.

Nandi Idol - Shiva

Lord Siva commanded Nandi to move aside to enable Nandanar to have His Darshan. Nandi complied with the orders and moved aside. Thus, Nandi aids other devotees to get the blessings of the Lord irrespective of caste and creed. The message from Nandi shows that every Jeevatma should focus only on serving the Lord.

Goddess Parvathi – Simha

“Simha – the Lion” is the vehicle for Goddess Parvathi. Durga kills Mahishasura by mounting on the Lion. The vehicle depicts the power of a woman who controls anger and pride and saves the world from the wicked.

goddess Parvati

Lord Vishnu – Garuda

“Garuda –the Divine eagle” is the vehicle for Lord Vishnu. He was the son of Sage Kashyapa and Vinata. To liberate his mother from slavery, he went to heaven and brought back ambrosia for his stepmother, thus performing the toughest job. Such is the power of Garuda. He symbolizes speed and power.

Natural Stone Garuda Formation
Natural Stone Garuda Formation – Tirumala Ghat Road

Many ancient texts praise Garuda as Pakshiraja–the King of Birds. Garuda Purana is one of the puranas categorized as Saatvik Purana. It has the dialogue between Garuda and Lord Vishnu. Garuda is praised in many puranas as a savior because he takes the Lord with great speed to enable him to save the devotees in time.

A classic example is Gajendra Moksha where the Lord mounted on Garuda saves the elephant. It is believed to be auspicious to remember Garuda Seva and Gajendra Moksham while waking up in the morning.

Garuda also symbolizes the Vedas. It is also said that the wings of Garuda always sound Vedic hymns. He is also praised as Suparna, Vainateya, Nagari, Jitantak, Nagbhishan, Garutman, Vishari, Vrihadtantrasaar, Ajit, Vishwaroopi, Khagshresta (best among birds) and Kashyap Nandan. One can identify the Vishnu temple from the outside by seeing Garuda’s statue on the walls of the temple.

Some temples are famous for Garuda. Naachiyaar Kovil near Kumbakonam is famous for Stone Garuda (Kal Garuda). This is the place where Garuda arranged for the marriage of Vanjulavalli Devi and Lord Srinivasa. Here, during Garuda Seva, Garuda becomes heavier when going out of the temple and becomes lighter when entering the temple. Garuda Seva in Kanchipuram, Tirumala, and Sri Rangam is very famous. Amrutha Kalasam offered to Garuda cures various diseases.

Garuda Seva with Umbrellas during Brahmotsavam
Garuda Seva – Tirumala

A few villages near Tirunelveli have a practice of performing special Abhishekam and dressing (Sattai Sathal) for one of the Garuda Statues seen on the top of the temple wall. During annual Brahmotsavas, the Garuda flag is hoisted on the main mast and it is called “Dwajarohanam”. Sri Rangam Garuda is quite huge and magnificently painted with beautiful natural colors. Garuda wore snakes as his ornaments.

DWAJAROHANAM, Tirumala

There are many songs mentioning Garuda like “Garuda Gamana, Garuda Dhwaja” etc.

Famous Shloka “Mangalam Bhaghavan Vishnu Mangalam Garudadhwaja” praises the Lord along with Garuda. Garuda was born as Perialwar, father of Sri Andal. Hence, Srivilliputtur’s inner shrine has Garuda along with Lord Rangamannar and Sri Andal. “Pallandu Pallandu” divya prabhandam was sung by Perialwar when he saw the Lord with his consorts mounted on Garuda and gave him darshan. The Garuda Flag of Lord Vishnu indicates the “Speed, Power and Dharma”.

It is also believed that the darshan of Garuda will cure diseases and bring prosperity.

Goddess Mahalakshmi – Elephant

“Elephant” is the vehicle for Goddess Mahalakshmi. We can see mostly Mahalakshmi in a sitting posture with two elephants on either side at the entrance of a temple or house as it is considered very auspicious. An elephant is a symbol of power and prosperity.

Goddess Mahalakshmi - Elephant
Tiruchanur – Alamelu Ammavaru/ Goddess Mahalakshmi – Elephant Vahana

Goddess Lakshmi is also known as Gaja Lakshmi. Gaja Vahana seva is auspicious to Goddess Padmavati Devi in Tiruchanur as Garuda Seva to the Lord. The Paraphernalia from the Lord of Seven Hills is brought on the elephants to Goddess Padmavathi Devi during Panchami theertham during Brahmotsavas.

Lord Brahma-Hamsa

“Hamsa–the Divine Swan” is the vehicle for Lord Brahma and Goddess Saraswati. The word Hamsa is a combination of two words “Aham” +” Sa” which is “I am He”. This reveals that one can get enlightened by the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Knowledge, wisdom, purity, peace, and truth are imparted.

Divine Vahanas - Brahma Vehicle or Vahan - Swan or Hamsa

Lord Indra – Airaavatha

“Airaavatha – the white Elephant” is the vehicle for Lord Indra, King of Heaven. He is praised to be a king of elephants. It stands at the entrance of (Svarga) heaven. Some texts reveal that Airaavatha emerged during the churning of the Milky Ocean. Airaavatha in Puranas is praised as a symbol of protection and success.

Churning of ocean

Vahana symbolizes a strong relationship between Paramatma and Jeevatma like that of Master and Servant. They may appear two different individuals but the truth is that Jeevatma is controlled by Paramatma. The vahana is the foremost Bhakta who helps other Bhaktas in getting the blessings of the Lord by carrying him to them. It also shows the loyalty towards the Lord. It points to the easiest way to approach the Lord and get his blessings.

All the Vahanas have a special power of cleansing the mind, body and giving us positive energy. Let’s be blessed more when we get the Darshan of the Lord in these vahanas. We should also look forward to every moment to get the opportunity to serve the Lord like Vahanas.

The 4 Abodes of Lord Vishnu (Char Dham)

The 4 Abodes of Lord Vishnu (Char Dham)

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The 4 Abodes of Lord Vishnu

Lord Vishnu, who is the preserver among the Trimurtis is worshipped across India. Lord Vishnu takes Avatar (incarnation) to uplift the Dharma in this world. The Dashavataras are well-known and there are many famous temples related across India that pilgrims visit every year and get blessed by Lord Vishnu.

Apart from that, many temples are grouped based on Avatars, Leelas, visits by Saints, sacred hymns, Ages, etc.

  • “Char Dham – Four Abodes” are temples at Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath grouped in Uttarakhand.
  • Like that, the “Chote Char Dham–Small Four Abodes of Lord Vishnu” are grouped based on the act of Lord Vishnu.

Shaantaakaaram Bhujagashayanam Padmanaabham Suresham
Vishva Aadhaaram GaganaSadrusham Megha Varnna Shubha Angam|
LakshmiKaantam KamalaNayanam YogibhirDhyaana Gamyam
Vande Vishnum Bhava Bhaya-Haram SarvaLokaEkaNaatham ||

Badrinarayana

Badrinath, which is also called Badrikashram (10,000 feet approx. above sea level) is a place in the Himalayas, Uttarakhand, Northern part of India. The first act of “Waking up of Lord Vishnu and Taking Holy Bath” is in this Divya Kshetra.

It is one of the “Swavayam Vyakta Kshetras” among the Self-Manifested 108 Vaishnavaite Divya Desams. The Lord here is known as “Badri Vishal or Badrinarayana”.

The Lord is in Padmasana posture. Legend says that this forest area was covered by Badri Trees (Berry or Jujube fruit) and Goddess Mahalakshmi took the form of Badri Tree to give shade to Lord Badrinarayana. Lord Narayana selected this place for meditation.

4 Abodes of Lord Vishnu - Badrinath

Many puranas regard this place as equivalent to heaven. River Alakananda flows in front of this shrine. People perform rituals near Brahma Kapala for their ancestors. The temple is in between Nar and Narayana mountains. Kerala priests “Namboodris” perform puja. They are also called Rawals. The puja process is set up by Adi Sankaracharya. Maha abhishekam will start early morning with ghee, yogurt, milk, sandalwood, saffron, etc., continuously chanting the mantras.

Special Abhishekam— Shravani Abhishekam is done in Shravana month. The temple is closed during winter (mid-Nov to mid-Apr). During that time, the Utsava Murthy is brought to Joshimutt (6000 feet approx.).

Before leaving for Joshimutt, the priest dresses the Lord in woolen vests and cotton muslin dresses on top of that. He is decorated with the finest silk, jewelry, and orange flowers.

Along with Badrinath, there are other deities- Narada, Uddhava, Kubera, Garuda, Silver Ganesha, Nar, and Narayana in the Garbha Griha (sanctum sanctorum). There is Taptha Kund, a natural hot water spring where pilgrims take a holy dip. Alwars have also sung in praise of this Lord. Adi Sankaracharya has set up Mutt in Badrinath to spread the Hindu Philosophy in the north.

Dwarakdesh

Shanku Chakra Gadha pani!
Dwaraka Nilayachyuta!
Govinda Pundarikaksha!
Rakshamam Sharanagatham

Dwaraka which is also called Dev Bhoomi is in Gujarat which is the Western part of India. The second act of “Dressing up–Divya Alankar” is in this Divya Kshetra which is also one of the 108 Divya Desams. As the name mentions it’s the gateway to heaven. It is also one of the Seven Mukthi sthalas (places for Salvation).

Dwaraka is a place where Lord Krishna has set up the city built by God’s Architect Vishwakarma. All the people of Mathura were shifted to Dwaraka. The Lord here is known as ‘Dwaraka desh’. Deep daan is very divine in River Gomati. It is considered the most popular city of those times. It shows the prosperity of the place.

Dwarka

The current temple dedicated to Dwarkadesh was built by Vajranabha, grandson of Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna is in standing posture with four arms bearing Shanka (Conch), Chakra (Discus), Gadha (Mace), and Padma (Lotus).

The specialty of this temple is that Mother Devaki is facing Lord Krishna. There is a separate temple for Goddess Rukmini Devi. Lord Krishna of Dwaraka is beautifully decorated from the day start of Mangala Arati till Shayan Arati (Ekanta Seva) at night. After Abhishekam, the adornment starts with Pitambar (Yellow silk garments). It is like a Pyjama (Salwar type), then Vagho (one piece of cloth), and four pieces of cloth for four hands of the Lord.

The ornaments are Chandanmala, Betelnut mala, and Vaijayanthimala. The crown is named ‘Kuve’ which has Chandrakala beautifully ornamented. The conch and the discus are decorated with precious diamonds and stones. Great Acharyas, Adi Sankaracharya, and Ramanujacharya have visited this shrine. Adi Sankaracharya has set up Mutt in Badrinath to spread the Hindu Philosophy in the Western region.

Lord Jagannath

Neelachala Nivasaya Nithyaya Paramathmane!
Balabadra Subadhrabhyam Jagannathaya te namah!!

Puri Jagannath is a temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath (Mahavishnu – Ruler of the World) situated in Puri, Orissa in the Eastern part of India. The third act “Divine Dining Feast” is the world-famous richest prasadam offered. Many Puranas have mentioned the story of how Lord Jagannath, Sister Subhadra, and Brother Balaram reside in this temple.

King Indradyumna dreamt of the Lord as “Neela Madhava” and wanted to get his Darshan. He told the same to his ministers and asked them to find out how to get the Lord’s Darshan. Vidyapati, one of the Brahmin priests, set out to search and found Lord Neela Madhava prayed by a tribal group. They did not allow any of them to get the Lord’s Darshan. Vidyapati, somehow, managed to marry the daughter of the tribal chieftain and requested for the Lord’s Darshan.

Four Abodes - Jagannath Temple, Puri

They agreed on the condition that they would take him blindfolded to the place. Vidyapati agreed and got the Divine vision of the Lord. He cleverly put mustard seeds on the path which grew later and he showed the path to the King. Unfortunately, when the King reached the place, he could not find the Lord. The vexed king desperately cried for the Darshan. He heard a celestial voice informing him to come to the seashore where he could find a fragrant wood floating that could be used to carve out the Divine idol. Thus, he got the wood but was waiting for a sculptor.

Vishwakarma appeared in disguise as an artisan and informed him that he would carve the idols provided he is not disturbed until the carving is complete. He closed the door and days passed. As King did not hear any sound even after a few days, he was worried. Impatiently he opened the doors and found the idol half-complete as is seen today. The Lord informed that he would like to be in this form and bless the devotees.

As mentioned, the Lord’s naivedyam (food offering) is called Bhog (food), and the prasadam is considered sumptuous to consume. The kitchen is considered to be the largest temple Kitchen in the world. Daily Naivedyam is offered six times to the Lord. Naivedyam offered in the morning is called ‘Gopala Vallabha Bhoga’. It consists of around seven items.

At 10.00 a.m. ‘Sakala Dhupa Naivedyam’ is offered with thirteen items. Then, ‘Chatra Bhoga’ in the afternoon is given to pilgrims. Then, ‘Madhyahna Dhupa’, the heavy meal; ‘Sandhya Bhoga’ at night, and the last one is Bada ‘Simhara Bhoga’. The prasadam is called “Mahaprasad”. Around fifty-six varieties of Naivedyams are prepared in this kitchen.

The specialty of the Mahaprasad is that Goddess Mahalakshmi herself is believed to supervise the Kitchen. Cooking is done in earthen pots. There is an open market named Anand Bazar where Prasadam is sold. The Adi Sankaracharya visited the temple and set up Mutt there.

Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra
Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra

Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra is world famous where millions of pilgrims flock to get the Darshan of the Lord on the gigantic chariot. Enchanting Lord Vishnu in the reclining posture gives bliss to the devotees. In the four Dhams, reclining posture is in two places from the South. Some consider that Thirupullani near Rameshwaram and Sri Rangam for Shayan (lying) are legendary. Both places are related to Srimad Ramayana.

Lord Ranganatha Swami of Srirangam

Kaveri VirajaSeyam Vaikuntam Rangamandiram!
Sa Vasudevo Rangesha: prathyaksham paramam padam!!

Srirangam is the foremost Divya Desam which is considered the resting place for Lord Vishnu. Alwars have sung the praise of Lord Ranganatha elegantly. It is Swayam Vyaktha Kshetra (Self- Manifested). Here Lord reclines on a huge Adi Sesha (Serpent). The idol was first given by Lord Vishnu to Lord Brahma, then to the Ikshvaku dynasty, and finally to Vibheeshana by Lord Rama himself.

Lord Ranganatha wished to reside on the banks of River Kaveri and Kollidam. Ekanta Seva is unique in Srirangam, especially during Ira Pathu Seva. This practice was started by Ramanuja. Sri Ramanujacharya served this temple for many years.

Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple, Srirangam (Divya Desam)
Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple, Srirangam (Divya Desam)

 

The unique playing of Veena is soothing to hear. Adi Sankaracharya visited this temple. Many hymns highlight the beauty of Sri Rangam temple. The greenery in this temple is considered to be equivalent to Sri Vaikuntam which made the Lord rest happily in this place.

Many songs question the Lord why he is reclining; is it because he walked with Sita Devi in the forest or he had danced on snake Kaliya or walked to get three steps of land from Mahabali? The beauty of the Lord is to the fullest when the Lord is in a reclining posture as seen in Sri Rangam.

Wherever the Lord is, whatever he does, it gives ecstasy to the devotees as they visit the temples for Darshan and blessings. At each place, he is celebrated with pomp and glory. His beauty steals the minds of the devotees.

In the North, he does penance for the wellness of the world; in the West, he shows his beautiful form by dressing himself which cools the minds of the devotees; in the East, he wants to feed the devotees, in the South, he wanted to maintain peace and give salvation to his devotees. Thus, he is ready to save the world from the clutches of the wicked and guards from all sides by performing simple acts.

Lord Adi Jagannatha of Thirupullani

Thirupullani (near Rameshwaram), is the Southern Divya Desam, where Lord Rama is in a reclining posture. Here Lord is in ‘Yoga Nidra’ pose. The temple is one of 108 Divya Desams. It’s on the way to Rameshwaram. This temple is dedicated to Lord Adi Jagannatha perumal.

It is believed that King Dasaratha first performed Putra Kameshti Yagna in this place and later in Ayodhya. In the same temple is another important shrine where Lord Rama is in reclining posture on Darbha Grass. It is believed that Lord Rama did penance for the Lord of the Ocean (Sagara) to give way to reach Lanka. Alwars have praised the Lord in this Divya Desam. Pitru Tharpana (rituals for ancestors) are performed in Sethu Samudra (on the shores of Sethu). As devotees, we are blessed by visiting these places.

Darshan of Nava Narasimhas

Darshan of Nava Narasimhas

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Nava Narasimhas – Ahobilam

In Ahobilam, Narasimha Swami is incarnated in nine forms. In Brahmanda Purana, the nine Narasimhas were described as

Jwala Ahobila Malola Kroda Karanja Bhargava
Yogananda Kshatravata Pavana Nava Moorthayaha

Except for two or three temples, all the other temples had to be visited only on footway through the hills.

The Nine Narasimhas sthalas are :-

  1. Jwala Narasimha
  2. Ahobila Narasimha
  3. Malola Narasimha
  4. Kroda Narasimha
  5. Karanja Narasimha
  6. Bhargava Narasimha
  7. Yogananda Narasimha
  8. Kshatravata Narasimha and
  9. Pavana or holy Narasimha.

Before visiting these nine shrines, let us see how we approach the place. Situated in the Nallamalai Hills, Ahobilam is about 24 Kms. from Allagadda Taluk Headquarters, 112 Kms. from Cudappah, and 65 Kms. from Nandyal in Andhra Pradesh and can be reached by bus from Hyderabad and also by rail via Kurnool and then by bus from there.

Long long ago, the Tamil mystic bard, Thirumangai Azhwar sang that Singavel Kunram (Ahobilam) was accessible to none but Gods. Due to the efforts of the current 45th Srimad Azhagiyasingar, the access routes to several of the shrines have been greatly simplified such that people of different age groups are now able to visit the places easily.

The whole complex is in two parts – one called

  • Eguvu Ahobilam (Upper Ahobilam) with Nava Narasimha shrines and
  • the other is called Diguvu Ahobilam (Lower Ahobilam)

with a single shrine for Lakshmee Narasimha connected by a road, stretching a distance of about 12.8 Km. from Lower Ahobilam to Upper Ahobilam.

The Sthalapurana of Ahobilam in Sanskrit gives an account of nine forms of Narasimha, worshipped here.

BHARGAVA NARASIMHA KSHETRAM

The Bhargava Narasimha Swami is situated at a distance of 2km from the Lower Ahobilam, on a hill, near the sacred pond, known as ‘Bhargava Theertham’, where Bhargava Rama performed his penance. Hence the Lord of the temple is known as Bhargava Narasimha Swami.

Nava Narasimha - Ahobilam

This place is also known as Akshaya Teertham and Bhargoti. Here Swami appears in a posture killing Hiranyakashyapa on his thighs with two hands and holding Conch- Chakra in the other two hands.

YOGANANDA NARASIMHA KSHETRAM

This temple is to the southeast of Lower Ahobilam at a distance of 2km in forest. The popular legend is that after killing Hiranyakashyapa, Lord Narasimha taught Prahlada several yogic postures.

Nava Narasimhas - Ahobilam

Therefore, the Lord in this aspect is called Yogananda Narasimha. Here Swami appears in yogic posture with two hands placed on knees and holding Conch-Chakra in the other two hands.

CHATRAVATA NARASIMHA KSHETRAM

This temple is about 2km from Yogananda Narasimha temple. ‘Vata’ means peepal tree, ‘chatram’ means umbrella. The image of the deity is installed under a peepal tree, surrounded by thorny bushes. Hence, the Lord is called Chatravata Narasimha Swami.

Nava Narasimhas - Ahobilam

The deity holds the Conch-Chakra in two hands, abhayahastha (hand in a gesture of fearlessness) and the other hand in a posture of enjoying music.

KARANJA NARASIMHA KSHETRAM

This shrine is situated at a distance of 7km from the lower Ahobilam. ‘Karanja’ means Kanuga tree. In Dwaparayuga, when Hanuman came in search of Sri Rama and performed penance here under this tree, Srihari incarnated in the form of Narasimha Swami. Hanuman desired to see Swami as Srirama hence Swami gave darshan with a bow in his hand.

Nava Narasimhas - Ahobilam

The deity here appears in a meditating posture with Chakra in the right hand and bow in the left hand instead of the conch. The deity has a third eye on the forehead as found nowhere else. Annamacharya praised this deity in his Keerthana “Phalanethraanala prabalavidyullatha”.

KRODA (VARAHA) NARASIMHA KSHETRAM

The temple of this Lord is 1km away from the Upper Ahobilam temple on the bank of Bhavanasini river. The deity is in Hiranyaksha’s killing posture. The image of the deity bears three forms- the face of a boar (varaha or kroda), the body of a human, and the nails of a lion.

The deity is in a standing posture with both his hands on his waist and is seen along with his Consort, Bhudevi, lying on him.

JWALA NARASIMHA KSHETRAM

This temple lies 2km east of upper Ahobila temple on a hill called, ‘Achalachaya Meru’. This place is said to be the actual spot, where the fierce anger of the Lord reached its culmination when he tore Hiranyakashyapa.

Nava Narasimhas - Ahobilam

The deity in this cave temple appears in three forms:

  1. Eight-armed Narasimha Swami,
  2. Four-armed Narasimha Swami,
  3. Fierce form of Jwala Narasimha Swami killing Hiranyakashyapa.

The Achala Meru Mountain is divided into two vertical halves with one half slightly bent. In between is the Jwala Narasimha temple. After killing Hiranyakashyapa, Swami washed his hands in the nearby pond as seen today from the water in the pond being red.

MALOLA NARASIMHA KSHETRAM

Nearly two kilometers from the main temple of Upper Ahobilam is the famous shrine of Malola Narasimha Swamy. The deity here appears in ‘Soumya’ (graceful) form. As Lord Narasimha is seen with his consort, Lakshmi, He is known as Malola Narasimha Swamy.

The word ‘Malola’ means beloved to Lakshmi (Ma=Lakshmi, Lola= beloved). It is said that the ‘utsavamoorthi’ of the Lord appeared to Srimath Adivan Satakopa Jeeyar, the first Jeeyar of Ahobila Mutt.

Right from the founder, i.e., the first Jeeyar of Ahobila Mutt down to the 44th pontiff, Srivan Satakopa Sri Vedanta Desika Yatheendra Mahadesika, the present jeeyar, the utsavamoorthi of Malola Narasimha Swamy is worshipped and it is taken by them whenever they are on religious tours, visiting the villages every year.

Recently, the 45th Jeeyar Srivan Satakopa Sri Narayana Yatheendra Mahadesikan has taken over the worship.

PAVANA NARASIMHA SWAMI

Pavana Narasimha is about 6km from the Upper Ahobilam temple, on the banks of the river, Pavani. Hence the deity is known as Pavana Narasimha Swami. River Pavani flows taking the form of a snake hence the deity is also known as Pamuleti Narasimha Swami.

Here Swami appears as Lakshmi Narasimha with Abhayahastha sitting under the shade of Seven-hooded Adisesha. The idols of Navaneetha Krishna (crawling Krishna with butter in hand), Gopala Krishna, Varadaraja Swami, and Hanuman are seen beside.

Beginning with Brahmotsavams to Nrisimha Jayanthi, special utsavas are performed every Saturday. Thousands of devotees participate in these utsavams to have darshan.

Lower Ahobilam

In addition to the shrines mentioned above, there is a famous shrine dedicated to God Narasimha Swamy in the Lower Ahobilam, which is popularly known as Prahlada Varada Sannidhi. The other objects of this place are ‘Ugra Sthambham’ and ‘Prahlada Mettu’.

(a) UGRA STHAMBHAM

At a distance of eight kilometers from the Upper Ahobilam temple, we can see a cleft of the mountain dividing it into two visible parts. It is a long-held view that from the cleft, the Lord appeared in the form of Narasimha and this cleft is known as ‘Ugra Sthambham’.

(b) PRAHALADA METTU

The small shrine, situated in a cave on the hill, is in between Ugra Sthambham and the Upper Ahobilam. It is dedicated to Prahlada Narasimha Swamy. The image of the Prahlada is installed in a small cave.

There are many holy ‘theerthas’ (water ponds) around this place. Of these, Rakthakundam is the most important. It is stated that Lord Narasimha after killing the demon Hiranyakasipu, washed his hands in this ‘theertham’ and hence the water is still reddish in appearance.