Image title: Figure 125. Ramasvami temple

Ramasvami temple in Kumbakonam is located at the south end of the bazaar street. It is located almost in the centre of the town and faces north. A grand Rajagopuram [Rajagopura] is built at the entrance.

Once you enter the temple a huge Mahamandapa with several columns is present. Each one of these columns is a masterpiece with exquisite sculptures carved on them. The pillars have been numbered and labelled for the people to understand. The sanctum is beautiful with the Mula Vigrahams in black stone depicting the scene of coronation of Rama.

“This temple was renovated by Raghunatha Nayaka who ruled Tanjavore from 1614–1640 C.E.” “The King’s minister Govinda Diksita was instrumental in erecting this temple. The Mahamagam [Mahamaga] tank in Kumbakonam was also built by Govinda Diksita.” At the very entrance of the Mahamandapa is Raghunatha Nayaka and his two queens are seen.

The story of erection of the temple is quite interesting. “Raghunatha Nayaka was a devotee of Rama. Once he dug a tank in Darasuram and while digging it he found the idols of Rama and Sita. Inspired by this he with the help of his minister Govinda Diksita got this temple constructed. Today the Ramasvami Temple stands almost in the middle of the town.”

Gallery information:

Kumbakonam is considered as one of the holiest places in Tamil Nadu and is known for its temples and Mathas (monasteries which were centres of Brahmanical learning). These photographs depict the connection between the sculptures in the temples and Natya Shastra and related texts dealing with iconography.