Ryali Jaganmohini Temple History: The term “Ryali” in Telugu represents falling. As per the legend narrated in the “Bhagavatam,” a heavenly dispute unfolded between the Devatas and Rakshas regarding the distribution of holy divine nectar. Witnessing this discord, “Sri Maha Vishnu” interfered in the form of Mohini, a captivating woman, charming both factions to share the nectar equally. Despite the promise, for the sake of universal peace, the divine nectar was ultimately distributed only among the Devatas.
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After the distribution, Mohini disappeared. Fascinated by Mohini’s enchanting beauty, Lord Siva pursued her briefly, with a flower falling from her plait. Lord Siva, upon smelling the flower, was surprised to discover “Sree Maha Vishnu” in the guise of Mohini, leading him to feel shy about his plan. The spot where the flower fell was named Ryali.
Ryali Jaganmohini Temple
The Ryali temple, renowned as the Lord JaganMohini Keshava Swamy temple, stands out for its unique art and architecture. The most distinctive feature is the idol of the presiding deity, carved skillfully from a single black saligrama stone. This 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide idol portrays Keshava Swamy on the front and JaganMohini, a charming woman, on the back.
Lord Maha Vishnu, embodied as Keshava Swamy, is depicted with four hands, holding “Shankha” and “Chakra” in two hands, while the other two hold “Gadha” and “Manthara” mountain. Opposite this temple lies the shrine of Lord Shiva as Sri Umakamandaleswaraswami.
The sculpture includes depictions of Sridevi, Boodevi, Saint Narada, Ramba, Oorvasi, Kinnara, Kimpurusha, Govardhana Krishna, Adi Shesha (the serpent), Garuda, and Ganga Devi. Water continually sprouts from underground at the idol’s feet, moistening the flowers, and the water from these flowers is sprinkled on devotees. Additionally, there is a separate shrine for Sri Sathya Narayana Swamy along with Sri Lakshmi Devi.
List of Festivals Celebrated in Ryali Jaganmohini Temple :
- Sri Jaganmohini Kesava Swamy Kalyanam (March/April).
- Sri Rama Satyanarayana Swamy Kalyanam (March/April).
- Sri Venugopala Swamy Kalyanam (June).
- Shravana Bahula Ashtami or Sri Krishnastami (August).
- Karthika Shuddha Dwadasi or Ksheerabdhi Dwadasi (November).
- Devi Navaratris (October).
- Mukkoti Ekadasi.
- Bheeshma Ekadasi.
How to Reach Ryali Jaganmohini Temple:
Ryali is situated 40 km from Rajahmundry, 74 km from Kakinada, and 34 km from Amalapuram, accessible by buses or personal transport.
Contact:
Executive Officer,
Sri Jaganmohini Kesava & Gopala Swamy Temple, Ryali,
East Godavari District,
Pin-533236.