Sri Uthara Ranganathar Temple (Pallikonda), Vellore

Address

Sri Uthara Ranganathar Temple (Pallikonda, Pallikonda, Vellore District– 635 809, Phone: +91 4171 240234 Mobile: +91 94433 09572

Deity

Sri Uthara Ranganathar Amman: Sri Ranganayaki

Introduction:

• Located in Pallikonda Village, Vellore District, Tamil Nadu.
• Dedicated to Lord Vishnu in reclining posture (Sayana Kolam) as Rangantha Swamy.
• Situated on the banks of the Palar River.
• Presiding deity: Rangantha Swamy; Goddess: Ranganayaki Thayar.
• First of three temples where Lord Narayana reclined to block floods meant to disrupt Lord Brahma’s Yagna.

Puranic Significance:

• Dates back to before the 12th century.
• Contributions from Vikrama Chozha (1122-1135 AD), Samburayars, and Vijayanagaras.
• Legend of a debate between Mahalakshmi and Saraswathi over supremacy; Saraswathi’s fury led her to flood the Yagna as Sheera Nadhi (Palar River).
• Lord Vishnu reclined in three places to stop the flood: Pallikonda (Vada Arangam), Thiruparkadal, and Tiruvekkaa (Kanchipuram).
• According to Brahmanda Purana, staying one night at this temple ensures salvation, unlike other places where three nights are required.

Beliefs:

• People believe that getting married at this temple brings the 16 types of wealth.
• Prayers for marriage, reunion of separated couples, and financial stability.
• Devotees offer Thirumanjanam (ritual bathing) to the deity.

Special Features:

• East-facing temple with a 5-tier Rajagopuram on the riverbank.
• Pallipedam, Dwajasthambam, and Garudalwar located after the Rajagopuram.
• Lord Vishnu blesses devotees in a reclining posture on Adhiseshan, with Sridevi and Bhoodevi.
• Chotta Ranganathar (small replica shrine) located in the artha mandapam.

Festivals:

• Brahmotsavam (April-May) and Vaikunda Ekadasi are celebrated with grandeur.

Century/Period/Age

12th century A.D.

Nearest Bus Station

Pallikonda

Nearest Railway Station

Gudiyatham

Nearest Airport

Chennai

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