Nellore Sri Ranganathaswamy (Talpagiri Ranganathaswami) Temple- Andhra Pradesh

Address

Nellore Sri Ranganathaswamy (Talpagiri Ranganathaswami) Temple- Ranganayakula Pet Road, Ranganaykulapet, Nellore, Andhra Pradesh 524001

Diety

Ranganathaswami Amman: Sridevi, Bhudevi

Introduction

Sri Ranganthaswami Temple in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, India is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha a resting form of Lord Vishnu. This temple, also called Talpagiri Ranganathaswami temple or Ranganayakulu is one of the oldest temples in Nellore. It is located on the banks of the Penna River and is believed to have been constructed in the 12th century.

Puranic Significance

Sri Ranganatha swamy Temple was founded in the 7th century by kings of Pallava. King Raja Mahendra Varma later created the temple in the 12th century. It is situated on the banks of the river Penna. A huge tower, called Gaaligopuram, which literally means “wind tower” is just before the primary door to the temple. This tower is about 70 feet high and is surrounded by 10 feet of gold-plated ships, called kalashams. A grand festival is held each year during the month of March – April (which varies according to the Indian calendar). These are known as Brahmotsavam. On sanctum sanctorum walls are displayed Sri Vishnu Sahasranamavali or the 1,000 distinct names of Lord Vishnu. Devotees are chanting Sri Vishnu Sahasranamavali while doing the temple parikrama. Lord Ranganathaswamy’s idol is seen in Anantha’s reclining posture. The Ranganayaka Swamy Temple also has a mirror house that is the devotees ‘main attraction. There is a distinct Goddess Rajya Lakshmi Devi shrine facing south of Goddess Andal Ammavari’s primary temple and shrine facing north. According to the legend, Lord Vishnu and his wife Goddess Sridevi chose to visit Bhoo-Loka. He told Adisesha to be the place to remain at Bhoo -Loka as Lord’s residence. According to the Lord’s order, at this location, Adisesha took the form of a hill. The location is therefore known as the Kshethra Talpagiri.

Special Features

Just before the main entrance of the temple is a huge tower, called Gaaligopuram, which literally means “wind tower”. This tower is approximately 70 feet high and has 10 feet of gold plated vessels on top of it, called kalashams. The gopuram was constructed by Yeragudipati Venkatachalam panthulu.

Festivals

A grand festival is held each year during the month of March – April (which varies according to the Indian calendar). These are known as Brahmotsavam.