Uthra Ranganathar Temple, Pallikonda – The Temple
The Temple
is situated inside a fort like structure. Presiding Deity is called as Uthra
Ranganatha Swamy with Sridevi Thayar and Bhoodevi Thayar. He is in Anantha
Sayana Thirukolam ((Reclining posture) on Adhiseshan facing East. Sridevi
and Bhoodevi Thaayars are sitting next to the Lord and with Lord Brahma in Nabi
Kamalam (Navel). The idol of the Lord is made of Salagrama stone.
Utsavar (Festival
Deity) is Ranganatha Swamy with Sridevi and Bhoodevi Thaayars. Another
Utsavar Idol called Kasthuri Ranganathar or Chotta Ranganathar can be seen in
the sanctum. Mother is called as Ranganayaki Thayar. She is housed in separate
shrine and she is in sitting posture. There are shrines of Rama, Navaneetha
Krishna, Andal, Anjaneya, Udayavar, Manavala Mamunigal, Kulasekhara Azhwar,
Nammazhwar and Garudazhwar in the Temple premises. Theertham associated with
this temple is Vyasa Pushkarani.
There
are several inscriptions inside the temple, both in the inner prakara as well
as on the walls of the outer prakara dating back to the Chozha period. Vikrama
Chozha I, the son of Kulothunga Chozha I has donated several pieces of land for
the upkeep and maintenance of the temple. The temple’s history can
also be seen from ancient granite structure of the inner and outer prakara. Later
Krishna Deva Raya has contributed significantly to the temple including
building the big outer walls.
According
to the inscriptions in this temple, there were many kings, who took part in
renovating, maintaining and establishing this temple. Some of them are Vikrama
Cholan of 1118 - 1136 A.D, Kulasekara Samburvarayar king who has donated
large land area for the welfare of the temple, and Krishnadevaraya who has
constructed compound wall and did many other facilities to this
temple.
