Melkote Sthala Purana

· Temple Town – Melkote

· Temple Type – Abhimana Sthalam/Purana Sthalam

· Sthala – Syambhu/ Self Manifested Deity/Mukti Kshetram

· Deity: Thiru Narayana/Chellaipillai/SampathKumar/RamaPriya

· Murthy’s as per Agama Shastra:

1. Moola Murthy (Main Deity – Thiru Narayana)
2. Utsava Murthy (Procession Deity – Ramapriya/Selvapillai/Cheluvaraya)
3. Snapana Murthy
4. Shayana Murthy (Sleep Deity)
5. Bali Murthy (Ritual Deity)
6. Yaga Murthy (Deliverance Deity)

· Hill Diety – Yoga Narashima/

o Steps to the hill: 360 -365 (one day one step – for one yr)

§ Special steps– 9 Steps called Nvagraha steps

· Tayar

o Moola Murthy –Yadhugiri Nayaki

o Utsava Murthy – Cheluvanarayani

o Tulaka Nacharyar/Bibi Nachiyar

· Other Shrines:

o Ramanunja Sannidhi,

o Chakratalvar,

§ Hanuman/Chinnavar

§ Periyarvar/Garuda Sthamba - Balipeetham

· Acharya – Ramanuja

· Sampradya – Sri Sampradya

· Litreachure – Divya Prabandham/Dravida Veda

· Kshetra: - 7 Kshetras

§ 1.Paridhanashila Kshetra:

§ 2.Yoganarasimha Kshetra:

§ 3. Gnanaashwatha Kshetra.

§ 4. Taarkshya Kshetra.

§ 5. Nayana Kshetra.

§ 6. Varaha Kshetra

§ 7. Seetha Aranya Kshetra.

· Theertha - Astha Theertha

1. Veda Pushkarini:

a. Dhanushkoti:

2. Palasha Thirtha

3. Yadava Thirtha:

4. Darbha Thirtha:

5. Padma Thirtha:

6. Maitreya Thirtha:

7. Narayana Thirtha:

8.Vaikunta Ganga:

· Ponds – 60ponds in Melkote

· Pond Types: Square, Rectangle, Circle

§ Kinds of Ponds:

· Nanda – One side steps

· Bhadra – Two Side Steps

§ Other kinds of Ponds are not found in Melkote

1. Jaya – 3 Side Steps

2. Vijaya – 4 Side Steps

· Vriksha/Sacred Tree – Bhadri

· Vimana – Anandamaya

· Other Saints – Purandara dasa, Kanaka Dasa, Narada, Vyasa, Bhrugu, Shandilya, etc

· Kings – Krishnaraja Wodeyar III, Vishnuvardhana, Mallikarjuna/ Immadi Prudhadeva Raya , Mummadi Krishna Raja Wodeyar

· Mudi – 3 Mudi

1. Vaira Mudi/Vajramukuta

2. Raja Mudi

3. Krishnaraja Mudi

· Festivals/Utsavams

1. Vasantosavam – Chitrai – (April – May)

2. Teppotsavam –

3. VairaMudi –

· Pillars:

· Pastimes:

· Gopuram:

· Architecture:

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Melkote

The place is also known as Thirunarayanapuram. It is built on rocky hills known as Yadavagiri or Yadugiri overlooking the Cauvery valley.

Early in 12th century, the great Srivaishnava saint Sri Ramanujacharya took up his residence and lived here for about 14 years (said so). It thus became a prominent centre of the Srivaishnava sect of Brahmins, who obtained from the Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana, who had become a follower of the Acharya, an assignment of the fertile tracts of land in the neighbourhood, especially of the Ashta Gramas, on either bank of the Cauvery.

Sri Ramanuja spent twelve years in Melukote, and revived it well. This is said be his “Vijayasthana” (Place of Victory). He gifted his own Deity to his devotees before departing for Tamilnadu. His last advice was ‘kutim krutvaa tasmin yadugiritate nityavasatihi’. Live in Yadavagiri even if you have to live in a hut. All your sins will be washed away and you will attain Moksha, just by living in this pilgrimage town.

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Kalyani Tirtha

Pushkarini (the main lake) here is ‘Kalyani Thirtha’. It has its own sanctity. It is believed that ‘ Kalyani’ was formed from a drop of sweat of the Adi Varaha Murthy when he was carrying mother-earth (Bhoodevi). River Ganga resides in Kalyani in Phalguna month. One will earn the fruits of endeavor when Pooja is performed on its bank.

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Pastime of Kalyani : Story of Sucharita:

When Sucharita was bathing in Ganga with members of his family, he got a desire to bathe in Kalyani in Melukote, also known as Yadavagiri. He stated ‘Kalyani’ while dipping into Ganga, and he came up in Kalyani in Melukote. He was totally surprised. He stayed back in Melukote and involved himself in temple duties. Once he had to go out of town. He nominated his eight-year-old son, Narayana to do his duties at the temple. His mother gave him some steamed rice as an offering to god. Narayana was very perturbed that god did not consume any food offered by him. Innocent Narayana pleaded with god to eat and taking pity on his innocent belief, Tirunarayana consumed the rice. However his mother could not believe that god really ate the food and she thought he had misused it. Out of anger she asked the boy to go and beg for his food for that day. Narayana went to eight houses to beg. Yadugiri Nayaki personally gave him alms in all the eight houses. The alms of the seven houses were all precious stones like diamonds and rubies etc. The alms in the eighth house were rice. The family got rich with this and lived comfortably thereafter. This form of good deeds of Tirunarayana and Yadugiri of Melukote are many.

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Ramanuja Acharya Sannidi

The main deity is the preaching pose (Upadesha mudra). The Utsava Murthy of Ramanuja is in saluting pose with folded hands, as if to tell us that ‘always believe in God and entreat him with folded hands.’ The town is obliged to Sri Ramanuja and he gets all the adoration. He came here nearly one thousand years ago, restored the town, rebuilt the temple and installed the deities. Melukote that had deteriorated into a forest became a town once again. He is like a king here and his beautiful statuette appears to be talking to us. It is therefore aptly known as ‘peshum yatirashar’ (Speaking Ramanuja).

The ramanuja padam is called -

The Vishnu padam is called - Sadari

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Chelluvanarayana Swamy Pastime

Brahma requested Lord Narayana (Vishnu) to provide him an Deity, to perfporm daily prayers. Vishnu in turn gifted an Deity to Brahma, which was created from his Atma Kalasha. Brahma who was using it for regular prayers, presented it to his son (Manasika Putra) Sanathkumara, for his daily prayers when he came down to Earth. Sanathkumara brought this Deity of Narayana to south India and installed it in the present day Melkote. Hence this place gained the name "Narayanadri".

Now, in the absence of a Vishnu's Deity for offering prayers, Brahma once again approached Vishnu with the request. Vishnu gifted him another small Deity along with the Deitys of both his consorts, "Bhudevi" (Earth) and "Sridevi" (Laksmi).

In Tretha Yuga, Rama required an Deity for his prayers because he himself was the human incarnation of VIshnu. Thus Lord Rama looked towards Brahma for an Deity of Vishnu. Brahma gifted these precious Deitys to Lord Rama. Lord Rama was greately attached and deeply devoted to these Deitys. In view of Rama’s deepest love and reverence to this Thirunaryana's Deity, it gained the name "Ramapriya".

Kusha, Lord Rama’s son inherited Ramapriya’s Deity which he gifted to his daughter Kanakamalini during her wedding to a Yadava king. Sri Krishna and Balarama of the Yadava family, inherited this Deity in Dwapara Yuga. Balarama during his travel, observed the exact similarities of the main deity of Cheluvanarayana in Narayanadri, with the Ramapriya's Deity in his pocession. Balarama and Sri Krishna brought Ramapriya's Deity to Narayandri, installed it in the temple as the "Utsavamurthy" and offered their prayers. Thus the place gained the name "Yadavadri".

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Sanctum Sanatorium

You will see the holy Deity of Tirunarayana as you enter temple. You will get a feeling that the God is beckoning you with his kind and cool eyes. The sweet smile on his face attracts anyone. You feel brave with his blessings. He carries with him Shankha (Shell), Chakra (Wheel) and Gadha (Mace) to help us in crossing difficulties in the huge ocean of our life and with his right palm he gives a protective gesture. The presence of the Goddess at his feet (known as Varanandi) is a singular specialty of this place. In no other place you can see Goddess at the feet of the main deity. Here Goddess Lakshmi is at his chest as well as at his feet.

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Chakratalvar

As you go round the temple in a Pradkshine (walking around the temple clockwise) you pass through the sanctorum of Sri Sudarshana Alwar. Chakrayudha of God always gets prominence. Therefore Sudarshana Alwar has a separate sanctorum in all temples. Here Sudarshana has eight arms (Ashtabuja).

Tayar Sannidhi

Going further you will reach the sanctorum of His consort known as Yadugiri Nayaki. Her eye s show love and compassion, as a mother would look at her children. She is very beautiful with lotus flowers in two hands and showing protection and boon with other two hands. The Utsava Murthy called Sri Cheluvanayaki, is as beautiful as the name indicates. She is an eye-catcher with her serene beauty.

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Hanuman

Another specialty is that, each direction North, East, South and West have a Hanuman God watching over the town.

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Pillars near Tayar Sannidhi

The sculptures in front of Tayar sanctorum are excellent and exceptional. You will hear lilting musical sounds when you tap one of the pillars. A pillar has a sculpture depicting God Narasimha (human-lion) splitting the torso of demon Hiranyakashipu. Another pillar has a bull-elephant combination, where, if you cover a half with one palm you see a bull and when you cover the other half you see an elephant.

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Ramanujacharya

Sri Ramanuja was born in the 11th century in Sriperumbadur, Tamil Nadu, as an incarnation of Adisesha. He studied in Kanchipuram and got married. He became a saint later, as he desired to renounce family life. He had to come to Karnataka due to some compulsions in Srirangam where he lived. He reached Tondanur in Karnataka, via Satyamangalam and Tenkanambi. King Bittideva, the ruler here, was a follower of Jain religion. His daughter was a paranoid and was bothered by demon. Sri Ramanuja cured her of this disease and Bittideva converted himself from Jain religion to Srivaishnavism. He changed his name to Vishnuvardhana. He has given a number gifts and lands to the temple. Ramanuja ran short of the white mud (Tirumann) required for applying on the forehead (Naamam). On that night Sri Tirunarayana appeared in his dream and informed him that he was buried in an anthill in Melukote and gave him the directions to reach there. Ramanuja immediately departed for Melukote, following the route flanked by Tulasi plants. On his arrival he bathed in Kalyani, marked his forehead with Tirumann Naamam and got ready to locate the anthill. With the help of the local people, he washed the anthill with milk and water from Kalyani. When the hill was totally dissolved, he saw the divine, spiritual, glittering sculpture of Tirunarayana. He reinstalled the Deity in the temple, built the sanctum sanctorum and Shukanasi. Melukote, which had turned into a desolate town, was revitalized.

Sri Ramanuja arrived in Melukote on Makara Shukla, Punarvasu day, nearly nine hundred years ago. Even now that event is celebrated in Melukote as ‘Punarvasu Utsava’ in a magnificent manner.

The locals, who were all Harijans and tribal, helped Ramanuja Acharya in all his endeavors. Ramanuja removed caste barriers and honored them as upper caste people, calling them ‘Tirukulatthar’. They were permitted to enter the temple and offer prayers. Even now they have special convenience for offering Pooja, during Vyramudi and Chariot processions. Ramanuja was the pioneer to recognize the Harijans and tribal people and give them respectable recognition, in a move to eliminate untouchability.

Melukote is a town dependent on temples. People live mainly on temple-related duties. Pooja in temple is most important. Ramanuja revitalized the town and made arrangement for everyone to pay obeisance in the temple irrespective of their caste or creed. People of all castes are employed in the temple. The bugle player during Utsava is a Harijan Chluvayya.

He made arrangements in the temple for performing daily Pooja with discipline and to set timetable. For this purpose he brought well-experienced Archakas from Pancharatra town near Srirangam and fifty two (Aimbattiruvar) people for other services. They were divided into four groups as Tiruvananthapuradasar, Maalaakaaradasar, Tirukkurunkudidasar and Yatirajadasar and allotted them work accordingly. He also established Yatirajamutt and nominated seventy-four Pitha Adipathis. Everything was well organized.

Acharya now realized the absence of Utsava Murthy (Deity for procession) for Brahma Utsava celebrations and wondered how he can get one. He had a vision in his inner eye (Gnana Drushti) that a suitable Deity was in Delhi. He went to Delhi, met the Badshah ruler there and asked him for the Deity. He displayed a large number of Deitys lying in his museum. Acharya could not find the Deity of Ramapriya among them. He learnt that the princess was playing with one of the Deitys, in her chambers. She kept it with her always, as it was very beautiful. She was not home when Acharya visited them. He asked the king to give him that particular Deity. King asked him to take it if he can. Ramanuja called Ramapriya “ Yatiraja Sampathkumara, my dear Selvapillai come to me, come running”. As soon as Ramanuja called him with love and affection, the Deity danced up to him, to the clinking sounds of his anklets. He walked and sat on Acharya’s lap. Then on he came to prominence as ‘Yathiraja Sampathkumara’. Sampath means wealth, for Yathiraja he is all the wealth. Ramanuja happily returned to Melukote, with the Deity. Thus arrived Utsava Murthy Selvapillai in Melukote on Jeshta star in the month of Magha. Presently that day is celebrated as ‘Delhi Utsava’.
The princess in Delhi felt very sad, not finding her favorite toy. Learning of Ramanuja having taken it to South, she followed him to Melukote with her entourage. She was not allowed into the temple. Therefore she amalgamated with the Lord and now she sits at the feet of Cheluvaraya as ‘Varanandi’. The princess came to be known as ‘Bibinachiyar’. She has important role in folklores. There is an abode for her in the hill. It is known as ‘Horagammana Gudi’ (Temple for outside lady). Once a year, villagers from around the villages, hold a grand carnival in her honor. Villagers sing many lilting folk songs in her praise. The merging of a Muslim princess with a Hindu god shows the emotional unity of the communities.

Although the Acharya was a Sanyasin, he managed all these so meticulously that he came to be known as Yatiraja (King of saints). Cheluvaraya became Yuvaraja (prince) as Acharya brought him here as a child.
There are a number of stories in Yadavagiri Mahatme, to bring out the fact that the scholars living here should never be humiliated in any manner.

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Mantra

1. (Ashtakshara) Tiru mantra,

2. Dwaya mantra,

3. Charama Sloka, are three sacred Mantras.

The fact that the Lord himself has preached these to his devotees shows his love for everyone.

· In Badari in North India, Narayana preached Ashtakshara mantra to human beings.

· He preached Dwaya Mantra to Lakshmi in Yadavadri, known as Southern Badari.

· Charama Sloka contains three Slokas.

1. sarva dharmaan parityajya maamekam sharanam vraja |
aham tvaa sarvapapebhyaha moksha yishyami maa shuchaha ||

Sri Krishna preached these words in Bhagavad-Gita to Arjuna.

2. sakrudeva prapannaaya tavasmithi cha yaachate |
abhayam sarvabhutebyaha dadaamyetadvratam mama ||

Sri Rama preached these words to Sugriva and others in Ramayana.

3. sthite manasi suswasthe sharire sati yo narah |
dhatusaamye sthithe smarthaa viswaroopam cha maamajam ||
thahastham mriyamaanam thu kaashtapaashaansannibham |
aham smaraami madbhaktham nayaami paramaam gathim ||

Sri Varaaha Swami preached this to ‘mother-earth’ (bhoodevi) in Varaaha avatar.
In all these preaching the God utters, “I will safeguard everyone who surrenders to me. This is my vow.”

· In Melukote, Tirunarayana himself is the main deity for Ashtakshara mantra.

· He is standing with Goddess Lakshmi at his feet, as stated in Dwaya mantra.

· He assures safeguard as in Charama Sloka

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Mutts and Temples around kalyani

There are shelters constructed around Kalyani and there are a number of religious institutions (Mutts). There are also a number of tiny temples, which can be called ‘surround temples’.

‘Bindu Madhava’, ‘

Karanika Narayana’,

‘Lakshmi Narasimha’, ‘

Maruthi’, etc, temples are some of them.

Three sanctums of the seven sanctums (Saptha Kshetra) are on the banks of Kalyani. The abode of Goddess Bhuvaneswari built by the then Maharaja Mummadi Krishna Raja Wodeyar is also here. In the pillars known as ‘Navarang’, there are beautiful carvings of Gods. There is tortoise head in front of Bhuvaneswari. Bhuvana means world. Adisesha (Snake god) and Ashtadiggajas (Eight protectors of the eight directions) carry the world. As you go around the Bhuvaneswari Deity in Pradakshine (walk in clockwise direction) you will see the front and rear right legs, the back of the tortoise. As you go further you will see its rear and front left legs, further you will notice the tortoise carrying the Goddess. The eight corners have snakes and Ashtadiggajas. (Nowadays many movies are using this view).

Thirukalayanam at Kalyani

Near by is the ‘Dhara Mantapa’ (Nuptial Hall). Once a year the wedding of Cheluvaraya Swami and Cheluvanayaki is performed here. In the beautiful spacious hall is a square quadrangle in an elevation, where a beautiful swing is fitted. The celestial couple is seated on the swing after other formalities for the wedding, such as exchange of garlands, etc. Other wedding rituals such as Dhara, Manglya Dharana, Homa etc, are performed as per the Shastras. The couple returns to the town in a procession, with Cheluvaraya in the lead, followed by Cheluvanayaki and Sri Ramanuja. This is an exceptional sight! It is said that similarly Sri Rama went to the forest, followed by Seetha and Lakshmana. Here Cheluvaraya who is Ramapriya (loved by Rama) enter the town this way. It is also believed that Sri Ramanuja is an incarnation of Lakshmana. Even now this hall is also used for many marriages.

Attached to this hall is the ‘Gajendra Moksha’ (Elephant Salvation) hall. The divine ‘Gajendra Varada’ sanctum is located here. During the three important carnivals (Jatres), on the day auspicious bath (Thirtha Snana), Eight lake Pooja (Ashta Thirtha) days, Cheluvaraya with his consorts comes here in a procession. On ‘Angamani Utsava’ day only Sridevi and Bhoodevi come here to offer Pooja to Kalyani Thirtha. During the replay of Gajendra Moksha Utsava, the show of archery by Cheluvaraya is a spectacle to behold!

There is an abode for Nagavalli. The Goddess comes here for three days after the ‘Kalyana Utsava’ (marriage celebration), during Jatre. On the day of Nagavalli, which is performed three days after the wedding, Cheluvaraya and Cheluvanayaki are brought in a procession seated facing each other in a palanquin. This a very stunning sight. When the water is very still in Kalyani Lake, we can enjoy the beauty of the reflection of Narasimha temple hillock, and the quadrangular construction around the lake.

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Sapth Kshetrams/Seven Centers (Saptha Kshetra)

1.Paridhanashila Kshetra:

This is on the banks of Veda Pushkarini Thirtha. On the Southeast corner of the lake is an abode, in which you can see carvings of Dattatreya (an incarnation of Vishnu) with four students. There is stone located here, and it is called ‘Paridhanashila’. It is because; the Saffron robes were kept on this when Sri Ramanuja received them. It is imperative for a Sanyasin (Saint) to receive saffron robes from a senior Sanyasin, at the time renunciation. However here, there is provision to place the robes on the Paridhanashila and receive it himself, to become a Sanyasin. That is the significance of this Kshetra.

2.Yoganarasimha Kshetra:

Prahlada had the revelation of Yoganarasimha on the hill situated to the East of Kalyani Lake. Prahlada himself has installed the Deity of Sri Narasimha here.
When the ruler of Mysore Hider Ali was passing here, few of his elephants used in war became sick. Some of his followers suggested that if he vows to Narasimha, the elephants will get well. Accordingly when he vowed to this deity, the elephants were cured. The happy Muslim King gifted a large leather drum (Nagari) to the God. To this day this drum is beaten everyday, during Pooja in the temple. Its resonating sound declares the Pooja time to everyone in the area. Yoganarasimha had the charm to make a Muslim King his devotee.

There are 360 steps to reach Yoganarasimha temple at the top and can be ascended fairly comfortably. For a large number of people Narasimha happens to be the family deity and hence large number devotees frequent this temple.

3. Gnanaashwatha Kshetra.
There is large Pepal tree on the west bank of Kalyani. There are three famous Pepal trees in Karnataka. They are ‘Brahma Ashwatha’ at T. Narasipur, ‘Vidura Ashwatha” at Vidura Ashwatha and ‘Gnana Ashwatha” in Melukote. Five intellectuals Shuka, Pundarika, Rukmangada, Ambarisha and Prahlada acquired their knowledge meditating for Narayana under this tree. Next to this tree is ‘Five Scholar Center’ (Pancha Bhagavatha Kshetra.), in memory of these people.

4. Taarkshya Kshetra.
At a short distance towards West, from the Pancha Bhagavatha Kshetra is ‘Taarkshya Kshetra’. According to the demand of Sri Vishnu, Garuda brought and placed white mud here (Shwetha Mrittike, Tirumann) from White Island (Shwetha Dweepa). It is still perpetually (Akshaya) available.

5. Nayana Kshetra.
Nayana Kshetra is located in the row of hills above Narayana Kshetra. ‘Nayathi ithi Nayanam’ – by complete surrender you can get salvation (Moksha). A Brahmin Vishnuchitta had performed penance here. One can attain his wishes by praying here with a Keshava Deity.

6. Varaha Kshetra
This is located on the East bank of Kalyani. You will achieve success with your vows, penance and meditation here. Adi Varaha preached Charama Sloka to Bhoodevi (mother earth) seating her on his lap.

7. Seetha Aranya Kshetra.
This is situated at the South entrance of Kalyani. Sri Rama stayed here in a hut (Parnakuti) built by Lakshmana. Therefore the name Seetha Aranya is apt. It is good to wear neck chains made of beads from Tulasi stems (Tulasi Mala) from here.

Thus the seven Kshetra having constant contact with God, have the pride of place in Melukote

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Astha Tirtha

1. Veda Pushkarini:

Sri Maha Vishnu came to this world as Dattatreya, in one of his incarnations in Tretha Yuga. Assuming the Four Vedas to be his students, he taught the four Vedas to them, on the banks of this lake. The lake is therefore called Veda Pushkarini. This lake and Paridhanashila Kshetra are neighbors.

Dhanushkoti: Although this is not one of the Ashta Thirtha, this is a beautiful place to visit. On top of a hill, on a vertical rock there are tunnel like formations. This tunnel was formed when Sri Rama shot arrows to get water for Seetha to bathe. There are three tunnels, as he shot three times. This is a clear water pond in the rock. There are also carvings of Seetha, Rama and Lakshmana in the rock and this is a place worth sightseeing.

2. Yadava Thirtha:

River ‘Yadavi’ flows by the side of this lake. A king by name ‘Yadavendra’ performed Yaga on the bank of this lake and attained Moksha.

3. Palasha Thirtha:

Palasha Thirtha is situated to the north of Darbha Thirtha. The name is because there a large number of Muttuga trees here. The sons of Vasishta Maharshi, who were cursed by Viswamitra Maharshi, were cured off the curse after bathing in this lake.

4. Darbha Thirtha:

Dattatreya used the Darbha grass grown on the banks of this lake for his daily Pooja needs. Therefore the name Darbha Thirtha is in vogue. It is said that, anyone dying holding this Darbha, will attain Moksha. Shandilya Maharshi recited the Pancharathra Shastras on the banks of this lake, needed for propitiating God (Bhagawan Aradhana).

5. Padma Thirtha:

This is located to the North of Palasha Thirtha. Sanathkumar used the lotus flowers grown in this lake for his daily Sri Narayana Pooja. One who wears the lotus beads from this lake will attain Moksha.

6. Maitreya Thirtha:

This is located to the North of Kalyani. Parashara Maharshi preached Vishnu Purana to Maitreya here. South Indians call this ‘Maitreya Thirtha’ after the student’s name and North Indians call this ‘Parashara Thirtha’ after teachers’ name.

7. Narayana Thirtha:

Narayana Thirtha is to the North of Maitreya Thirtha. Those who are cremated near this lake attain Moksha. Vishnuchitta a bachelor did penance on its bank. Sri Narayana appeared before him and blessed him with Moksha. ‘Nayana Kshetra’ is carved like a cave in the rock above Narayana Thirtha.

8. Vaikunta Ganga:

In Trivikrama incarnation of Vishnu, his feet touched Brahma Loka. Brahma washed Vishnu’s feet with the water from his jug (Kamandala) The flowing water became River Ganga. Others in heaven (Nityamuktas in Vaikunta) washed the feet with water from River Virija. A drop from that fell at the North of Narayana Giri and this is Vaikunta Ganga. Bhaktisara (Tirumazhishai Alwar) attained Moksha after doing penance on the banks of this river. This is a place of tourist attraction. A pond is formed by water flowing from the hillock and further flows and collects in cradle like pond. It further flows and falls down hill into another pool. This is therefore named Cradle Pond (Tottila Madu). The view of flowing river with surrounding hill range is a beautiful sight. There is a carving of Vishnu depicting Brahma and others washing his feet.

Thus the Ashta Thirtha here has importance in attaining Moksha. A carnival is held at the time ‘Ashta Thirtha’, and it is called ‘Tottila Madu Jathre’. In Badarikashram in North India, Maharshi Vyasa and others were very happy to hear about the greatness of Yadavagiri, Saptha Kshetra and Ashta Thirtha from Narada. They later visited Yadavagiri personally and obtained the blessings of Sri Tirunarayana
(In course of time the locals went in exodus, due to raids by outside rulers. Temple went into desolation and large anthills grew on the temple tower. The important Deity of Cheluvaraya was stolen and taken away.)

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Sisters’ Lake (Akka Thangiyara Kola)

There two lakes side by side below the Roya Gopuram known as Sisters’ Lake (Akka Thangiyara Kola). They are also called Cheluva Arasana kola. Cheluva Arasa had two wives, who were sisters. These lakes were built in their memory. These are in fact twin lakes, almost attached to each other and one is larger than the other. It is said that the elder sister built the small lake and the younger sister built the large lake. The water in large lake is sweet and potable. People in the town use this for drinking purposes. The smaller lake is used for washing.
Other places of tourist interest such as Dhanushkoti, Vaikunta Ganga and Thottilamadu are already covered in Ashta Thirtha narration.

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Gopuram

The Temple has a Chaturmukha Gopuram (Four faced). It looks alike from all four sides. This design is not commonly seen elsewhere. Sri Ramanuja built the temple up to its ‘Shukanasi’ stage. The kings of Mysore built it further. The temple in Melukote is smaller than the temples at other centers. However the divinity of the place is very high.

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Architecture

The principal temple is a square building of large dimensions but very plain, dedicated to Lord Cheluva-Narayana Swamy or Tirunarayana. The utsavamurthi, which is a metallic image, representing the deity which is called Cheluvapille Raya or Cheluvanarayana Swamy whose original name appears to have beenRamapriya. According to a legend, this metallic image was lost and was recovered by Sri Ramanujacharya. The annual report of the Mysore Archeaelogical Department states on the strength of epigraphic evidence, that the presiding deity of this temple was alerady a well known object of worship before Sri Ramanujacharya worshipped at the shrine in December 1098 and even before he came to the Mysore region and that very probably he used his influence to rebuild or renovate the temple. From the lithic records of the period, existence of Tamil influence and Vaishnava worship in the area are also evident.

The temple is richly endowed having been under the special patronage of the Mysore Rajas, and has a most valuable collection of jewels. As early as 1614, the Mysore king Raja Wodeyar (1578–1617) who first acquired Srirangapatna and adopted the Srivaishnava faith, handed over to the temple and the Brahmins at Melkote, the estate granted to him by Vijaynagar king Venkatapati Raya. On one of the pillars of navaranga of the Narayanaswami temple is a bas relief about one and a half feet high, of Raja Wodeyar, standing with folded hands, with the name inscribed on the base. He was said to be a great devotee of the presiding deity and a constant visitor to the temple. A gold crown set with precious jewels was presented by him to the temple. This crown is known as the Raja-mudi after his name. A legend says that on the day of his death, he was observed entering the sanctum and was seen no more afterwards. From the inscriptions on some of the gold jewels and on gold and silver vessels in the temple it is learnt that they were presents from Krishnaraja Wodeyar III and his queens. Krishnaraja Wodeyar III also presented to the temple a crown set with precious jewels. It is known after him as Krishnaraja-mudi. Vairamudi or Vajramukuta, another crown of great value, seems to be older than Raja-mudi and Krishnaraja-mudi and it is not known as to who gave it to the temple All the three crowns are kept in the safe custody of the Government and brought to the temple on specific annual occasion for adoring the image ofCheluvanarayana Swamy. The vairamudi festival, which is the chief annual celebration is attended by more than 400,000 people

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Other Relevant Information

Srirangam, Tirupathi, Kanchipuram and Melukote also known as Tirunarayanapuram are the four holy, famous and important pilgrimage centers in South India because they are Syambhu Sthala.

Sriranganatha in Srirangam is, divine, crystal pure, kind to all |
Sri Srinivasa living on the Mount of Tirumalai, shines like dark clouds |
Sri Varadaraja shines as a Parijatha flower lives at Kanchi known as Hastishaila |
Sri Narayana at Tirunarayanapuram is Lord of wealth, and a beacon of light at Yadushaila |

The Lord’s gait (nade) at Srirangam,
The Lord’s patty (Vade) at Tirupathi,
The Lord’s Umbrella (kode) at Kanchi,
The Lord’s Crown (mudi) at Melukote, are all very famous.

The Temple of Ecstasy (Bhoga Mantapa) at Srirangam,
The Temple of Flowers (Pushpa Mantapa) at Tirupathi,
The Temple of renunciation (Thyaga Mantapa) at Kanchi,
The Temple of Knowledge (Gnana Mantapa) at Melukote.

Thus these four pilgrimage centers are considered very important. Our Bharath (India) Nation is located at the South of Asian Continent. Our forefathers know India as ‘Bharatha Varsha’ or “Bharatha Khanda’ since times immemorial. Our country is a sinless, devoted land. There are a number of pilgrimage centers all over the country, from the Himalayas in the North to Kanyakumari in South and from Dwaraka in West to Bhubaneswar in East.

Our culture has existed for many millenniums. It has been our practice to worship and visualize the God in different forms. To meet the imagination of everyone, God appears in different forms at various pilgrimage centers, Melukote is one such famous, sacred, pilgrimage center, located in Karnataka State, in South India. Melukote has mythological, historical, and cultural importance. This information is intended to bring out the important facets of this divine center, for people to read and see the place.

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Story of Chaturvedi

A Brahmin called Chaturvedi used to entertain guests for propaganda. When a local resident, Hariratha and his son went to his house, they were thrown out. The son, out of anger, cursed him and his family to destruction. His father advised him against such habit. He recited the name of god Govinda seven times. Still, the family of Chaturvedi died and went to hell. Even Yama was upset with them and sent them back to earth as ‘Brahma devils’ (Brahma Pishachi), as they had misbehaved with the good citizens of Yadavadri. Thereafter they received Sripada Thirtha from the Srivaishnavas there and were atoned of their sins.
Another Brahmin Vishnuratha had fed lovingly Hariratha and his son. He also gave good hospitality to Dattatreya and his four students. Therefore he always lived rich and comfortable. Thus, those who serve scholars well are taken good care of and those who ill-treat them will have trouble.

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Town Gate or Roya Gopuram

This is called Roya Gopuram because Gopalaraya built it. However it is not a Gopuram in real sense. There are four 52 feet tall granite pillars erected in an elevated area. As it is at a height, it is visible from a long distance in the town. In the early times people had to enter the town through this gate, while coming from Srirangapatna via Thondanur. It is therefore called Town gate.
Melukote is on top of hill, synonymous with its name. You can see parts of the fort built by Yadava kings. From the height of Melukote, the surrounding areas look simply gorgeous.

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Utsava In Melukote

There is some Utsava or the other every month of the year, in Melukote, and they are all celebrated in grand manner. Kotharotsva in January runs for ten days. The procession of Cheluvaraya comes to every doorstep, every day, to receive offerings of flowers. The happiness of devotees seeing their loving god at their door is immeasurable.

Angamani Utsava

The Utsava performed on the next day of Sankranthi (Pongal) is Angamani Utsava. Ramanuja brought the Deity of Cheluvaraya from Delhi. They located the Deitys of Sridevi and Bhoodevi in houses of Tiruvananthapuradasar and Maalaakaadasar. Since then, their houses became the parents’ house (Tavaru Mane) for the goddesses. Angamani Utsava is also known as ‘Kanoo Habba’. The goddesses arrive at Kalyani Thirtha and perform Pooja. In the night they are well dressed and decorated and they go to their parents’ house. Their parents fill up their sari pallu with varieties of fruits and other gifts. They rest for some time in the near by Angamani Mantapa, and return to the temple in a procession to the beat of drums and blaring bugles. The washer men of the town spread colorful saris (Nademudi) on the ground for the convoy to walk on. Cheluvaraya is angry because of their slow and late return from their parents’ house. Immediately, fully dressed up Cheluvaraya rushes out towards Paarvate Mantapa outside the town. As a rabbit crosses the road at that time, which is a bad omen, he returns to the temple. This is an enjoyable and interesting event on show, and is an important festival here. Villagers from the area sing melodious folk songs.

Ratha Sapthami

This day coincides with the change of direction of sun’s movement after Sankranthi. Cheluvaraya is taken in a procession in Sun’s chariot with seven horses. This is conducted in traditional and folk style. Number of folk dancers performs in front of the procession, such as Nandikolu Kunitha, Kolaata, Old Couple, stilt walk, dances by children, add to the glamour.

Punarvasu Utsava

This is the auspicious day on which Sri Ramanuja arrived in Melukote and surfaced Tirunarayana from the anthill. This Utsava is performed on Makara Shukla Punarvasu day. Sri Ramanuja is always in saffron robes as he is a Sanyasin. But due to some compulsions in Tamilnadu, he had to reach Karnataka in white robes, dressed as a normal family man. In memory of that situation, on this Punarvasu day Sri Ramanuja wears white robes.

Three important Brahma Utsava (Brahmotsava) are performed in Melukote. They are detailed below.

Vyramudi Brahmotsava

This is performed in the last month of Lunar Calendar, Phalguna. Although it is a ten-day event, it goes on for 15 to 20 days. It is the most popular Utsava of this place. For three days it is performed as Teppa Utsava or Teppa Jatre. This is Kalyana Utsava held in Dhara Mantapa in Kalyani Lake. It is a worth seeing the celestial marriage ceremony of Cheluvaraya and Cheluvanayaki held on the banks of Kalyani, without any pomp and pageantry. After this for ten days the important Utsava of the Jatre are held. On the fourth day coinciding with Pushya star, Cheluvaraya wear the Vyramudi crown made of precious diamond stones embedded in gold. This is brought to Melukote with full honors on that evening, from the Government treasury in Mandya. The procession, which usually starts at 9 PM, will go on till 2AM. It goes around the temple on the four main streets. The sight of Cheluvaraya wearing Vyramudi in procession is beyond words. Tens of thousands of people congregate here to witness this Utsava. This Utsava is one of its kind and devotees pay obeisance with folded hands, reciting God’s name. On succeeding days, other Utsava, such as Prahlada Paripalana, Gajendra Moksha, Rathotsava and Teppotsava are performed.

Krishnarajamudi. Utsava

The kings of Mysore are devout devotees of Melukote. For dynasties they have rendered innumerable service to Tirunarayana. Mummadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar gifted a crown similar in appearance to Vyramudi and many invaluable jewels to Cheluvaraya. This crown is therefore named Krishnarajamudi, in his honor. Cheluvaraya wears this in Ashada month. This is called Krishnarajamudi Jatre. It is celebrated for ten days, as is the case with Vyramudi Utsava, with all grandeur.

Rajamudi Utsava

Raja Wodeyar also gifted a crown and a variety of jewels to Cheluvaraya. This is known as Rajamudi. This is worn in Kartika (November) month. This is also a ten-day Jatre. As the feet of God is taken to all the Ashta Thirtha, it is also known as Ashta Thirtha Utsava. Hundreds of devotees take part in this Utsava. This Rajamudi is also worn on a day during Vyramudi Jatre.
There are many other Utsava in Melukote apart from these main Jatre. Some of the important Utsava are Pavitra Utsava, Pallava Utsava, Navarathri Utsava, and Kruttika Utsava.

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Divyaprabhandam

Alwars ruled over the God by their unstinted devotion. All the twelve Alwars are from Tamilnadu. They are famous as Tamil saints. Andal is an important female saint. They have written and recited Tamil verses in praise of God. These are known as ‘Paashurams’ or ‘Divyaprabhandam’. Nammalwar and Tirumangai Alwar have sung in praise of Tirunarayana of Melukote. In Tiruvoymoli, Nammalwar has written ten Paashurams called ‘oru nayakamayi’.

The essence of these is as follows:
‘ This family, wealth, authority are all temporary. Worship at the feet of Tirunarayana to get salvation’.
Tirumangai Alwar states in Periya Tirumoli ‘naadinen naadi naan kandukonden Narayana ennum Tiru naamam’. The meaning of this is, ‘I discovered the name of Narayana, he when worshiped would give everything like good family, wealth’.

Although presently these are not so popular in Tamilnadu, the scholars in Melukote have kept them alive with constant usage.
Melukote is an ancient center for Sanskrit, in a Kannada state, with Tamil utterance. The fragrance of Kannada, melody of Sanskrit, and greatness of Tamil are all maintained here. The culture here is admixture of all these. Acharya Ramanuja was also known as ‘Bhashyakara’ as he had written a synopsis for Veda during his stay here.

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Saints
Many poets of Karnataka, known as Dasas, have composed and recited number songs on Cheluvaraya and Tirunarayana of Melukote. Purandaradasa sings ‘sarvaaparaadhava kshamisayya Melukote Cheluvaraya’.
Kanakadasa sings ‘yadavagirivaasa ahudo Sri Narasimha’ in praise of the god on the hill.

Vyasaraya sings a Mangala song, ’varada Yadavagiriya Cheluva Narayana charana kamalagalige aarathi ettire’.

A scholar from here Pundit Alasingrachar has translated many ancient books into Kannada. National poet P.T. Narasimhachar (Pu.Ti.Na.) is from here. Thus contribution of Melukote in cultural field is very large. Thousands of scholars have publicized about the cultural and historical heritage of Melukote in their books in Kannada, Sanskrit and Tamil.

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Library and Sanskrit College

The private library of his holiness the Yatirajaswamigalu of Melkote contains a large number of Sanskrit and Tamil works bearing on the Vishishtadvaita school of philosophy, a few works bearing on logic, rheotic, mathematics, astronomy, astrology, ritual, architecture, Panchatantra, Dharmashastras, Grihya and Dharmasutra and a good number of Sanskrit works. There are also few Kannada and Teluguworks. There is also a Sanskrit college here named Sri Veda Vedantha Bodhini Sanskrit Mahapathashala which was established as early as in 1854 and which is one of the oldest institutions of its kind in the state. Melkote has contributed many literary figures like Pu Ti Narasimhachar, Tirumalaraya, Chikkupadhyaya and Alasingachar.

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Academy of Sanskrit Research

The town is also home to the Academy of Sanskrit Research, an institution that was founded in 1977, by the Government of Karnataka. The Academy has 45 employees with 15 research scholars working on Sanskrit Research. Some of the areas of research include - Vishistadhvaitha, Upanishads and Scientific research from ancient texts. There is also a library that houses 10,000 manuscripts and 30,000 books.

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