Srinivasanallur Sri Koranganatha Temple, Trichy

Address

Srinivasanallur Sri Koranganatha Temple, Srinivasanallur, Via Namakkal road, Trichy district- 621209.

Deity

Sri Koranganatha

Introduction

• Location: Srinivasanallur Town, Trichy District, Tamil Nadu.
• Deity: Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known as Sri Koranganatha Swamy.
• Historical Significance: Constructed by the Medieval Cholas; protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
• Architecture: An exemplary piece of early Chola architecture, showcasing intricate carvings.
• Inscriptions: Inscriptions from Parantaka Chola (935-950 CE) found on temple walls.

Puranic Significance

• Historical Context: Built by Parantaka I, who conquered Madurai and Ilam (Ceylon).
• Local Lore: The temple’s lore includes a story about a sanyasi and a monkey (korangu), but inscriptions indicate continuous worship over the years.
• Name Origin: The region is referred to as Mahendra Mangalam, potentially named after Pallava king Mahendravarman I.

Special Features

• Structure: East-facing temple with a two-storied Vimana (approximately 50 feet high).
• Architecture:
  • Unique sculptures reflecting the architectural brilliance of the Chola period.
  • Absence of rampant lion base pillars; instead, a single course of animal heads (vyala) above the adhisthana.
  • Advanced features compared to simpler shrines in the region.
  • Vimana features karnakutas and salais, reminiscent of Pallava monoliths.
  • Niche sculptures of deities, including Kali, Shiva as Dakshinamurthi, and Brahma.

Inscriptions and Decorations

• Inscriptions: Numerous inscriptions detailing the temple’s history and endowments.
• Niche Sculptures: Boldly carved images of deities, including attendants and deities like Lakshmi and Brahma.
• Architectural Details: Various niches and sculptures on the external walls, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship.

Century/Period/Age

1000 Years old

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Nearest Bus Station

Srinivasanallur

Nearest Railway Station

Trichy

Nearest Airport

Trichy

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