The Ranganayaka Swamy Temple is a stunning and ancient temple located in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh. It is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, a form of Lord Vishnu who is depicted reclining. If you are interested in Hindu mythology and architecture, this temple is definitely worth visiting, as its beauty will surely mesmerize you.
The Ranganayaka Swamy Temple History
The Ranganayaka Swamy Temple, also known as the Talpagiri Ranganathaswami Temple or the Ranganayakulu Temple, is an ancient temple in Nellore. It dates back to the 7th century CE and was founded by the kings of the Pallava dynasty, who ruled over this region for many centuries. In the 12th century CE, it was renovated and expanded by King Raja Mahendra Varma, who belonged to the Chola dynasty.
There is a beautiful story behind the name “Talpagiri.” It is said that when Lord Sri Maha Vishnu came to Earth, he wanted to rest alongside his wife, Sridevi. He asked the serpent deity, Adisesha, to be his dwelling during their stay on Earth. Adisesha then transformed into a mountain at a special location, which we now call “Talpagiri Kshetram.” The name “Talpa” means the divine bed of Adisesha, which is where Lord Maha Vishnu rests.
According to legend, the great Sage Kashyapa conducted a sacred ceremony called the Poundarika Yagna at this location on the day of Ekadasi. As a result, Lord Maha Vishnu appeared and blessed the sage. This is why Talpagiri Kshetram is considered a very special and holy place.
On the banks of the Penna River lies a beautiful temple that holds great spiritual significance. The temple is known for its impressive wind tower called the “Gaaligopuram,” which stands 70 feet tall and is adorned with gold-plated vessels called “Kalashams.” This tower was built by a local chieftain named Yeragudipati Venkatachalam Panthulu, who was a devoted follower of Lord Ranganatha. The temple’s location near the river enhances its scenic beauty and adds to the peaceful atmosphere.
The main god worshipped at the temple is Lord Ranganatha, who is depicted lying on a serpent bed named Anantha. The Lord Ranganatha statue is a beautiful black stone sculpture that measures about 10 feet long. It features the goddess Sridevi sitting on the Lord’s chest, while Lord Brahma sits on a lotus that rises from the Lord’s navel. At the Lord’s feet, you’ll find smaller statues of Sridevi and Bhudevi. In front of the main deity, you’ll see the Utsava murtis, which are festival deities. There’s also a lovely sitting statue of the goddess Sridevi, known as Ranganayaka Devi.
One unique thing about this temple is that the idols face west, towards the Penna River, which is different from most temples where the deity faces east. Additionally, the temple has smaller areas dedicated to the worship of Goddess Rajya Lakshmi Devi, Goddess Andal Ammavari, Lord Rama, Lord Narasimha, and Lord Venkateswara.
Every year, the temple hosts a festival called Brahmotsavam. It takes place in March or April, according to the Indian calendar. During this festival, the idol of Lord Ranganatha is paraded around on different vehicles like Garuda Vahana, Hanumantha Vahana, Sesha Vahana, and Simha Vahana. This event attracts a lot of devotees from all over the country and even abroad.
The temple has a cool mirror house that’s really popular with visitors. It’s like a fun house of mirrors that reflects the images of the deities’ idols and looks really cool. The temple walls are decorated with the Sri Vishnu Sahasranamavali, a list of 1000 names for Lord Vishnu. People like to chant these names as they walk around the temple. It’s a cool place to visit.
If you want to explore the culture and heritage of Nellore, the Ranganayaka Swamy Temple is a must-see destination. It’s a peaceful place where you can feel the presence of Lord Ranganatha and connect with the divine.
The Ranganayaka Swamy Temple is known for its impressive entrance gate called Raja Gopuram (Gaaligopuram). This gate is very tall and has beautiful carvings and sculptures on it. Many people think that it is a great example of Dravidian architecture. The Raja Gopuram is also a famous landmark in the city of Nellore.
Nellore Talpagiri Ranganatha Swamy Temple Timings:
- The temple is open from 6:00 AM in the morning until 12:00 PM noon and then reopens from 2:00 PM in the afternoon until 9:00 PM at night.
Nellore Talpagiri Ranganatha Swamy Temple Address:
- Sri Ranganayaka Swamy Temple, Yadava Street, Ranganaykulapet, Nellore District, Andhra Pradesh – 524001
- Phone Number: 0861 2331156