The name Sarangapani (“one who has the bow in his hand”) derives from the Sanskrit word Sarangam meaning bow of Vishnu and pani meaning hand. (Source Wikipedia)
For more information check the temple website or Wikipedia
The Sarangapani Temple is a famous temple located in the town of Kumbakonam in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is considered to be one of the most important temples in the region.
The Sarangapani temple is one of the few ancient temples in India that is still active and has been functioning for over 1000 years.
The temple is believed to have been built during the 12th century by the Chola kings and has undergone several renovations and additions over the centuries. The temple has a beautiful architecture and is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures.
The main deity of the temple is Lord Sarangapani, a form of Lord Vishnu, who is depicted in a standing posture with his consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi. The temple also has shrines dedicated to other deities like Lord Rama, Lord Hanuman, and Goddess Lakshmi.
The temple is a popular pilgrimage site and attracts thousands of devotees every year. The annual Brahmotsavam festival, which is celebrated in the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April), is a major event at the temple and draws large crowds.
The Sarangapani Temple is a must-visit destination for those interested in temples and historical architecture, and is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu.
Here are some interesting facts about the Sarangapani temple:
- The temple has a unique feature of having two separate sanctums for Lord Sarangapani and Goddess Komalavalli. This is unusual as most Hindu temples have a single sanctum for the main deity.
- The temple is one of the few ancient temples in India that is still active and has been functioning for over 1000 years.
- The temple is renowned for its stunning architecture, which features intricate carvings, beautiful sculptures, and exquisite frescoes.
- The temple is believed to have been visited by several great saints and scholars, including Adi Shankaracharya, who is said to have composed a hymn in praise of Lord Sarangapani.
- The temple is also famous for its annual float festival, which takes place in the Tamil month of Thai (January-February) and involves a procession of beautifully decorated floats on the temple tank.
- The temple is said to have been originally built by the Chola dynasty, but was later expanded and renovated by various rulers, including the Nayaks and Marathas.
- The temple has several unique features, including a special shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the form of a reclining posture, which is rare in South Indian temples.
- The temple has been declared a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India and is considered an important cultural and historical site in India.