16th CE Ramaswamy Temple Kumbakonam

Ramaswamy Temple, Kumbakonam is a Hindu temple dedicated to Rama, an incarnation of Vishnu, located in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the most prominent Vishnu temples in Kumbakonam and is one of the five temples that are connected with the Mahamaham festival that happens once in 12 years.

History of Ramaswamy Temple Kumbakonam:

The temple is believed to have been built in the 16th century by the Thanjavur Nayak kings. The temple was built during the period of Thanjavur Nayaks king Achuthappa Nayak (1560–1614) and completed during the reign of Raghunatha Nayak (1600–34). The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, his consort Sita, his brother Lakshmana and his faithful devotee Hanuman. The temple is also known as the “Temple of the Ramayana” as it depicts many scenes from the epic Ramayana.

The temple is a magnificent example of Dravidian architecture. The temple is surrounded by a high granite wall and has seven gopurams (towers). The main gopuram is 173 feet (53 m) tall and has 11 tiers. The temple has four main shrines, each dedicated to one of the four main deities of the temple. The main shrine is dedicated to Lord Rama and Sita. The other shrines are dedicated to Lakshmana, Hanuman, and the goddess Lakshmi.

The temple has many beautiful sculptures and paintings. The walls of the temple are adorned with sculptures of scenes from the Ramayana. The temple also has a large collection of paintings, including paintings of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Hanuman, and other Hindu deities.

Read More>> Ram Mandir Ayodhya | Shri Ram Janmabhoomi

Legend of Ramaswamy Temple Kumbakonam:

The legend states that Lord Rama, along with his consort Sita and brother Lakshmana, was once exiled from his kingdom of Ayodhya. They spent 14 years in exile, wandering through the forests of India. During their exile, they came to Kumbakonam, where they were welcomed by the local people.

One day, Rama and Sita were bathing in the Mahamaham tank, a sacred pond located near the temple. While they were bathing, a golden chariot emerged from the water. The chariot was carrying a divine pot containing the nectar of immortality.

Rama and Sita were amazed by this sight and decided to worship the divine pot. They prayed for the well-being of all mankind. As they prayed, the divine pot began to glow brightly. A voice from the pot proclaimed that Rama and Sita were incarnations of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.

The voice also said that Rama and Sita would bless the people of Kumbakonam with prosperity and peace. Rama and Sita were overjoyed to hear this and promised to protect the people of Kumbakonam.

The divine pot then disappeared, leaving behind a small portion of the nectar of immortality. Rama and Sita drank the nectar and were immediately granted immortality. They then built a temple at the spot where the divine chariot had appeared. The temple was dedicated to Lord Rama and came to be known as the Ramaswamy Temple.

Read More>> 2500 Years Dwarkadhish Temple: Where Miracles Still Happen

Significance of Ramaswamy Temple Kumbakonam:

It is one of the oldest and most revered Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Rama.
It is a magnificent example of Dravidian architecture.
It is one of the five major temples that are associated with the Mahamaham festival.
It is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus from all over India and the world.
It is a place of great spiritual and cultural significance.

Ramaswamy Temple Timing:

The Ramaswamy Temple in Kumbakonam, India, is open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily. There are six daily rituals performed at the temple at various times throughout the day.

Here is the schedule of the daily rituals:

• Tiruvanandal – 8:00 AM
• Kala santhi – 9:00 AM
• Uchikalam – 12:30 PM
• Ntiyanusandhanam – 6:00 PM
• Irandamkalam – 7:30 PM
• Ardha Jamam – 9:00 PM

Read More>> Arunachaleswara Temple: A Spiritual Experience of a Lifetime

Festivals:

Rama Navami: This festival commemorates the birth of Lord Rama. It is celebrated during the Tamil month of Chaitra (March-April).

Sri Ramanavami Brahmotsavam: This ten-day festival is celebrated in a grand manner, with various rituals and processions. The highlight of the festival is the chariot procession of Lord Rama, which is drawn through the streets of Kumbakonam.

Vaikuntha Ekadasi: This festival is celebrated on the eleventh day of the waxing moon in the Tamil month of Marghazi (December-January). It is believed that Lord Vishnu descends to earth on this day to bless his devotees.

Thai Pongal: This harvest festival is celebrated in the Tamil month of Thai (January-February). It is a time for families to come together and thank the gods for a bountiful harvest.

Mahamaham: This festival is celebrated once every 12 years, when the Sun and Jupiter enter the zodiac sign of Aquarius. It is a grand festival that attracts devotees from all over India.

Read More>> Brihadeeswarar Temple: Timeless Marvel of Chola Architecture

Myths of Ramaswamy Temple Kumbakonam:

There are many myths and legends associated with the Ramaswamy Temple. One of the most popular myths is that Lord Rama himself visited the temple after his victory over Ravana. Another myth is that the temple’s sanctum sanctorum is filled with a sacred substance called “Rama Linga,” which is said to be self-manifested.

One of the most famous legends associated with the Ramaswamy Temple is the story of the “Golden Lotus.” It is said that a golden lotus flower used to bloom in the temple tank every year. The lotus was said to be a manifestation of Lord Rama himself. However, the lotus stopped blooming in the 19th century, and it is said that this is because humanity has become too materialistic and has forgotten the true meaning of spirituality.

Another legend associated with the Ramaswamy Temple is the story of the “Talking Parrot.” It is said that a parrot used to live in the temple, and it would talk to the devotees and answer their questions. The parrot was said to be a manifestation of Lord Hanuman, Rama’s loyal companion. However, the parrot disappeared in the 20th century, and it is said that this is because humanity has lost its faith in God.

Places to visit near Ramaswamy Temple Kumbakonam:

Sarangapani Temple: Located in Kumbakonam itself, this is one of the Divya Desams and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is one of the largest temples in Kumbakonam.

Mahamaham Tank: This sacred tank is located in the heart of Kumbakonam and is associated with the Mahamaham festival. It’s a large tank surrounded by several temples.

Adi Kumbeswarar Temple: Another important Shiva temple in Kumbakonam, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is one of the oldest temples in the town.

Chakrapani Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known for its beautiful architecture. It’s located in Kumbakonam and is easily accessible from the Ramaswamy Temple.

Kumbakonam Temples Circuit: Explore other temples in and around Kumbakonam, known for their architectural and historical significance. Some notable ones include Nageswaran Temple, Kasi Viswanathar Temple, and Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram.

Swamimalai Murugan Temple: If you’re interested in visiting a Murugan temple, Swamimalai Murugan Temple is about 8 kilometers from Kumbakonam. It is one of the Arupadaiveedu temples dedicated to Lord Murugan.

Darasuram Airavatesvara Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this temple is known for its intricate carvings and is located near Kumbakonam.

Gangaikonda Cholapuram: While a bit farther away, this historic site is worth a visit. It features the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, constructed during the Chola dynasty.

FAQ:

Q: Where is the Ramaswamy Temple located?

A: The Ramaswamy Temple is located in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India. It is situated on the banks of the River Mahamaham.

Q: What is the Ramaswamy Temple dedicated to?

A: The Ramaswamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, an incarnation of the Hindu god Vishnu. Lord Rama is revered as a hero and an ideal king in Hindu mythology.

Q: When was the Ramaswamy Temple built?

A: The Ramaswamy Temple is believed to have been built in the 16th century by the Chola dynasty. However, there is evidence to suggest that there was a temple at this site as early as the 7th century.

Q: What are the architectural features of the Ramaswamy Temple?

A: The Ramaswamy Temple is a magnificent example of Chola architecture. The temple has a towering gopuram, or gateway tower, which is adorned with intricate carvings. The temple also has a number of shrines dedicated to various Hindu gods and goddesses.

Q: What are the festivals celebrated at the Ramaswamy Temple?

A: The Ramaswamy Temple is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus, and a number of festivals are celebrated here throughout the year. The most important festival is the Rama Navami, which celebrates the birth of Lord Rama.

Q: What are the timings of the Ramaswamy Temple?

A: The Ramaswamy Temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Q: What is the dress code for visiting the Ramaswamy Temple?

A: Men are expected to remove their shirts and upper body garments before entering the temple. Women are expected to wear modest clothing that covers their shoulders and knees.

Q: Are cameras allowed inside the Ramaswamy Temple?

A: Photography is not allowed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the Ramaswamy Temple. However, photography is allowed in other parts of the temple complex.

Q: How can I reach the Ramaswamy Temple?

A: The Ramaswamy Temple is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest airport is Trichy Airport, which is about 60 km away.

How to reach Ramaswamy Temple Kumbakonam:

By Air: The nearest major airport to Kumbakonam is Tiruchirapalli International Airport (TRZ), which is approximately 91 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation to reach Kumbakonam.

By Train: Kumbakonam has its own railway station, which is well-connected to various cities in Tamil Nadu and other parts of India. You can check train schedules and book tickets online through the official Indian Railways website or visit the railway station directly.

By Road: Kumbakonam is well-connected by roads, and there are regular bus services from nearby cities. You can also hire a taxi or use other private transportation services to reach Kumbakonam by road.

Google Maps: