Ranganathar Temple, Thiruparkadal – The Temple
The
temple consists of 24 pillared Artha Mandapam, Mahamandapam and Sanctum Sanctorum. Presiding Deity is called as
Ranganatha. Lord Ranganatha is seen sleeping on the 9 ft long 3 ft height
Adhiseshan. The interesting feature of Ranganatha at Thiruparkadal is that he
is seen resting his head (Southern Direction) on a Marakkal (measuring bowl) in
a grand Anantha Sayana Posture.
The
presiding deity is around 6 feet long accompanied by his consorts Sridevi and
Bhoodevi and Brahma seated on the lotus flower rising from the Lord's navel. Yet
another special feature is that the entire moolavar deity of Ranganatha is made
of Athi Maram. Like how Kanchi Varadaraja is referred to as Athi Varadar, Lord
Ranganatha at Thiruparkadal is referred to as Athi Ranganatha. Because he is a
Swayambu Moorthy, there is no Thirumanjanam performed but only Thaila Kappu is applied.
Mother
is called as Alarmelmangai Thaayar / Ranganayaki Thaayar. There is a
separate shrine for Anjaneya and those who want to get rid of Apamrityu
Dosham offer him a garland of pumpkins.
Vimanam
over the sanctum is called as Ranga Vimanam. On the Ranga Vimanam, one finds
the Mandhakini hill, the posture of nectar being drilled as well as the Saptha
Rishi’s penance posture. The Sthala Vriksham of this Temple is a combination of Vanni and
Pinna Marams.
