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Context

PM prays at Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Tamil Nadu.

Details

• The Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple, located in Srirangam, Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu, India, is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Ranganatha, a form of Lord Vishnu.
• Srirangam is located on an island between the Kaveri River and Kollidam River.

Historical and Archaeological Significance

• Ancient History: The temple's history is supported by both ancient textual references and archaeological evidence. Inscriptions date back to late 100 BCE to 100 CE.
• Ramayana Mention: The deity finds mention in the Sanskrit epic Ramayana, dating back to around 800 to 400 BCE.
• Vaishnavism History: The temple played a crucial role in the history of Vaishnavism, particularly during the 11th-century with the contributions of Ramanuja and his predecessors Nathamuni and Yamunacharya.
• Bhakti Movement: It was a hub of the early Bhakti movement, featuring devotional singing and dance traditions that ceased during the 14th century but were later revived.

Architectural Style and Significance

• Dravidian Architecture: Constructed in the Dravidian architectural style, the Srirangam temple is glorified in the Naalayira Divya Prabhandam by the Alvars.
• Foremost Divya Desam: It holds the unique distinction of being the foremost among the 108 Divya Desams, sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Architectural Features and Size:

• Size and Layout: The temple complex covers 63 hectares with 81 shrines, 21 towers, 39 pavilions, and water tanks, making it the world's largest functioning Hindu temple.
• Renovations and Additions: Renovations and additions have been made over the centuries, including the construction of a 73-meter tall outer tower in 1987.

Social and Economic Role

• Economic and Charitable Institution: Historical inscriptions suggest that the temple served not only as a spiritual center but also as a major economic and charitable institution. It supported education, hospitals, a free kitchen, and regional infrastructure projects through donations.

Recognition and Awards

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: The temple complex has been nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is on UNESCO's tentative list.
• UNESCO Asia Pacific Award: In 2017, the temple received the UNESCO Asia Pacific Award of Merit for cultural heritage conservation, making it the first temple in Tamil Nadu to be honored by UNESCO.

Conclusion

The Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple stands as a testimony to the enduring cultural, religious, and architectural legacy of South India, drawing millions of visitors during its annual festival and holding a unique place in Hindu worship and heritage.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Which architectural style is the Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple constructed in? A. Nagara B. Dravidian C. Vesara D. Indo-Islamic Answer: B.