Srirangam is the foremost of the eight self-manifested shrines (Swayam Vyakta Kshetras) of Lord Vishnu . It is also considered the first, foremost and the most important of the 108 main Vishnu temples (Divyadesams). This temple is also known as Thiruvaranga Tirupati, Periyakoil, Bhoologa Vaikundam, Bhogamandabam.
Ranganathaswamy Temple is currently the largest functioning Hindu temple in the world.
Interesting facts about Ranganathaswamy Temple
- This temple is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha which is a reclining form of supreme Lord Vishnu. It was constructed during the Dravidian period. Ranganathaswamy Temple is currently the largest functioning temple in the world. It is spread in over more than 156 acres and is currently the largest religious complex in India.
- There are around 39 pavilions and 21 towers in this temple. The largest gopuram in this temple is known as Rajagopuram and is currently the second tallest temple tower in Asia.
- According to Hindu legends, the deity present in this temple was originally worshipped by Lord Rama. After killing Ravana, Lord Rama handed the deity to King Vibhishana. Lord Vishnu told Vibhishana that he wanted to stay as Rangantha in this temple. King Vibhishana also received a special gift from the Lord Vishnu.
- Most archaeological evidence suggests that this temple was constructed in the 10th century. Most of the inscriptions are from Vijayanagara, Hoysala, Pandya, and Chola dynasty. However, this temple is mentioned in Tamil literature from the pre-Sangam era.
- The idol was stolen in the 13th century by Malik Kafur who was a general of Alauddin Khilji. He took the idol back to Delhi. The devotees of Srirangam visited Delhi and performed an act in front of the emperor. The emperor was impressed by the performers and offered them the deity.
- Surathani was the daughter of Malik Kafur. She was in love with the Lord Ranganatha deity. Surathani submitted herself in front of the Lord Ranganatha deity. She immediately attained moksha after this act. You can also find a painting of her in this temple.
- The large diamond of Orlov was actually the eyes of this deity. However, a French soldier disguised himself as a Hindu during the Carnatic war. He stole the diamond from the temple in 1747.
Source – https://rohini.us/srirangam-ranganathaswamy-temple-all-you-need-to-know/
