Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Shivanasamudra is a significant religious and historical site located in the state of Karnataka, India. Situated on the banks of the river Cauvery, it holds immense cultural and spiritual importance.
Situated in Shivanasamudra, Kollegala taluk, Chamarajanagara district, Karnataka, India, the Sri Ranganthaswamy temple is dedicated to Ranganatha, a manifestation of Vishnu. While numerous Ranganatha temples dot South India along the banks of the river Cauvery, three temples stand within islands formed by the river itself, including this one.
Located 85 km from Mysore and 115 km from Bangalore, the temple is renowned for its Dravidian-style architecture. Known as “Madhya Ranga,” it is esteemed by Sri Vaishnava devotees.
Among the three forms of Ranganatha, the deity here is considered the youthful representation of the supreme being, known affectionately as ‘Mohana Ranga’ and ‘Jaganmohana Ranga’. Despite its remote setting, the temple attracts a considerable number of weekend visitors. Renovation efforts commenced in February 2021.
Here are some key points about the Ranganathaswamy Temple:
- Dedication: The temple is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, an aspect of the Hindu god Vishnu. Lord Ranganatha is depicted in a reclining posture, typically lying on the serpent Adishesha.
- Architecture: The temple exhibits traditional Dravidian architecture, characterized by its pyramid-like gopurams (towering gateways), intricate carvings, and vibrant sculptures. The temple complex includes several structures such as the main shrine, mandapas (halls), and various smaller shrines.
- History: The origins of the temple date back to the Ganga dynasty, which ruled parts of southern India from the 4th to the 11th centuries CE. Over time, the temple underwent renovations and expansions under the patronage of different rulers, including the Hoysalas and the Vijayanagara Empire.
- Location: Shivanasamudra is renowned for its picturesque waterfalls formed by the river Cauvery. The temple is located amidst this scenic landscape, adding to its allure and attracting tourists and pilgrims alike.
- Religious Significance: The temple is a prominent pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Vishnu, especially those following the Vaishnavism tradition. It holds regular religious ceremonies, festivals, and rituals throughout the year, drawing devotees from various parts of the country.
- Accessibility: Shivanasamudra is approximately 130 kilometers from Bangalore, making it accessible by road. Visitors often combine a trip to the Ranganathaswamy Temple with a visit to the nearby Shivanasamudra Falls, contributing to its popularity as a tourist destination.
Overall, the Ranganathaswamy Temple at Shivanasamudra stands as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of Karnataka and continues to be a cherished site of worship and exploration for visitors and devotees alike.
Other Nearby Temples
Adjacent to the Ranganathaswamy temple, there are three additional temples situated on different sides of the island.
The renowned Sri Someshwara Temple, an ancient site at Shivanasamudra, holds significance. It is believed that Adi guru Sri Shankaracharya visited this place and established a “Sri Chakra” here. Interestingly, the Someshwara Linga predates the Ranganatha Idol, and legend has it that the Saptarshis conducted worship at this Linga.
Located 1 km from the Someshwara temple is the Shakthi Devathe temple dedicated to Vanadurga Devi.
