Koyil – Tiruvarangam / Srirangam
Divya Desam 1 of 108 | Region: Chozhanadu
Srirangam, often referred to simply as “Koyil” by Sri Vaishnavas, stands as the foremost among the 108 Divya Desams. Located near Tiruchirappalli in Tamil Nadu, this revered temple sits on an island between the Cauvery and Coleroon (Kollidam) rivers. Dedicated to Lord Ranganatha, a reclining form of Lord Vishnu on Adisesha, the temple is unmatched in scale, sanctity, and significance.
Sacred Highlights:
- Presiding Deity: Lord Ranganatha (Nam Perumal) in a reclining posture
- Thayar (Divine Consort): Ranganayaki Thayar
- Theertham (Sacred Tank): Chandra Pushkarini
- Vimanam: Pranavakriti Vimanam
- Other shrines: Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, Nachiyar, Chakrathazhwar, Garuda, Hanuman, and Andal
- Special Temple: Dasavathara Sannidhi – the only temple showcasing all ten avatars of Vishnu
Mythological Significance:
As per the Sriranga Mahatmyam, the divine Vimanam of Srirangam originated from the Milky Ocean through the penance of Lord Brahma. Carried by Garuda and sheltered by Adisesha, it was first installed by Brahma at Satyaloka, where worship was performed by the Sun God.
Later, the Vimanam was gifted by Brahma to the King of Ayodhya from the Ikshvaku dynasty. Over generations, it was worshipped by the royal lineage, including Lord Rama himself. After his victory over Ravana, Rama gifted the Ranga Vimanam to Vibheeshana. On his journey to Lanka, Vibheeshana paused at the Kaveri river for prayers, placing the Vimanam at Sesha Peetam (Srirangam). When he attempted to lift it again, the Vimanam would not move—signifying the Lord’s wish to remain there permanently. Even today, tradition holds that Vibheeshana visits the temple for midnight worship.
Alwars’ Divine Hymns:
All Azhwars, except Madhurakavi Azhwar, have sung praises of Srirangam. The temple holds a distinguished place in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, with extensive Mangalaasaasanam (sacred hymns) offered by:
- Periyaazhwar – 183, 189, 212, 245, 402–432
- Andal – 607–616
- Kulasekhara Azhwar – 647–676, 728
- Tirumazhisai Azhwar – multiple pasurams including 772, 800–806, 844…
- Tondaradippodi Azhwar – 872–926
- Tiruppan Azhwar – 927–936
- Tirumangai Azhwar, Poygai Azhwar, Bhoothathazhwar, Peyazhwar, and Nammazhwar also composed numerous verses
Contributions of Ramanuja:
Sri Ramanuja, the great Vaishnava Acharya, played a pivotal role in systematizing temple administration. His mortal remains are preserved in a seated posture in a shrine on the fifth prakaram – a rare and revered sight. Shrines dedicated to all Azhwars and Acharyas are also found within the complex.
Cultural Heritage:
The divine art form Arayar Sevai, a unique blend of song and dance expressing the Divya Prabandham, originated here under Nathamuni’s guidance. This tradition is still observed during major festivals at Srirangam, as well as in other Vaishnava temples like Srivilliputhur, Alwar Thirunagari, and Melkote.
Architectural Grandeur:
- Spanning 156 acres, it is the largest functioning temple complex in the world.
- Surrounded by seven concentric prakarams (walls) stretching over 9 kilometers in total length.
- Features 21 gopurams (towers) including the 236-foot tall Rajagopuram, built by the 44th Jeeyar of Ahobila Mutt.
Celebrations & Festivals:
Vaikunta Ekadasi (Margazhi) and Panguni Brahmotsavam draw lakhs of devotees annually, alongside numerous utsavams throughout the year.
Plan Your Divine Journey with SouthGuru Holidays
Let us guide your spiritual travel with authentic Divya Desam experiences and tailored pilgrimage packages across India.
📞 Call us at: +91-73565 07555
📧 Email: sales@southguru.in
🌐 Website: www.southguruholidays.com
