Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
The Sri Ranganthaswami Temple in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, India is a Hindu temple 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. Ranganathaswamy temple is located on the banks of the Penna River and is believed to have been constructed in the 12th century. 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 kalisams. Every year during the month of March-April(varies according to Indian calendar) grand festival is celebrated. these are calledBrahmotsavam.
The main entrance of the temple is 29 meters high and has seven gold 'Kalasams' (pots). Addalamandapam (mirror hall) presents the most picturesque sight with its high-definition of mirrors. It also houses the seat of the Lord.
Over 600 years old, Ranganatha Temple observes an annual festival of Rath Yatra (chariot festival) every year. The main Deity, Garbhodakasayi Vishnu reclining on his couch of Ananta Sesa, is ten feet long. Laksmi is sitting on a lotus flower on his chest. Lord Brahma sitting on a lotus rising from the Lord's navel. At the Lord's feet are 26' high deities of Sridevi and Bhudevi. In front of the main Deity are the Utsavamurtis (festival Deities) of Ranganatha Swami. There is also a four-handed seated Deity of Laksmidevi called Ranga-nayaki-devi.
Sri Ranganathaswamy temple was built around 1070. It is on the bank of the River Pennar, or Penarkini. The temple has a 110 year old 95 foot high gopuram covered with hundreds of forms of Lord Vishnu.
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