The Kurmanathaswamy Temple in Srikurmam, Andhra Pradesh,, the only temple dedicated to the Kurma (tortoise) avatar of Lord Vishnu stands out in its historical, architectural, and cultural significance, with fascinating legends and a blend of architectural styles.
 |
| kurmanathaswamy Temple,SrikurmamAP, |
.jpg) |
| Vishnu in Kurma (tortoise) avatar. hindupost.in |
 |
| kurmanathaswamy Temple,SrikurmamAP, |
Key Highlights and Legends:
Deity and Legends: The main deity, Kurmanathaswamy, is in black stone, with separate representations for the head, body, and tail. Maa Kurmanayaki, is his consort. Numerous legends, such as the story of King Sutha, Queen Ganga, and Sage Narada's guidance, explain the origins and sanctity of this site. Other tales involve penance, divine interventions, and the role of saints like Bilvamangala Thakur, whose samadhi is within the temple.
Historical Significance: The temple is said to be very old, but its present structure dates back around 700 years. Mentioned in sacred texts such as the Kurma Purana, Vishnu Purana, and Padma Purana, this temple was visited by eminent Hindu Acharya like Adi Shankaracharya, Ramanujacharya, and Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. The deity initially faced east but turned westward due to Sri Ramanujacharya’s prayers.
Architectural Features: Built with a blend of Kalinga and Dravidian styles with unique deviations, the vimana (tower) has a pyramidal structure, with intricate carvings of Lord Vishnu and associated deities. The garbhagriha (sanctum) features an octagonal sikhara topped with a kalasa. The temple has 108 ekasila (single-stone) pillars, each uniquely designed. Notable features include two dwajasthambas (flagstaffs) on the east and west, which is rare in Vishnu temples.
Swetha Pushkarini (Temple Tank): Created by Vishnu’s Sudarshana Chakra, the tank is known as Sudha Kundam. Its white sand, called Gopi Chandanam, is said to have turned white after Krishna's playful acts with gopis. It holds medicinal properties, and a dip here is believed to absolve sins, especially during Magha Shuddha Chavithi.
Cultural Practices and Uniqueness: The temple follows a mix of Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions. Quite popular for Ancestor worship lots of devotees can directly enter the sanctum, a departure from typical Vaishnavite temple rules.
Conservation Efforts: A star tortoise conservation park within the premises symbolizes the temple's connection to the Kurma avatar.
Unique Features: Two Dwajasthambas: Represent the deity's dual orientation (east and west). Installation on Gopala Yantra: This is a rare consecration feature.Fusion of Traditions: Both Shaiva and Vaishnavite worship styles are observed. Bilvamangala Thakur’s Legacy: His samadhi and connection to the deity highlight deep spiritual bonds.
Conclusion:
The Kurmanadha Swamy Temple of Srikurmam is a treasure trove of history, spirituality, and architecture. Its combination of ancient legends, diverse architectural styles, and rare worship practices makes it a sacred and unparalleled pilgrimage site in India.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kurmanathaswamy_temple,_Srikurmam
https://hindupost.in/dharma-religion/kurmanathaswamy-temple-srikurmam-andhra-pradesh/#
.jpg)
.jpg)
 Temple n Srikurmam, A P Representing Kurma (Tortoise) Avatar){kind=link}