Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple - Melukote

Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple, located around 50 km from Mysuru, this Vishnu temple comes under Pandavapura taluk of Mandya district. Also known as Thirunarayanapuram, this temple is built on granite rocky hill that comprises some of the oldest rock formations on earth overlooking the Kaveri river valley. The temple has strong connections with the 12th century Tamil Vaishnavite saint and social reformer Ramanujacharya. Early 12th century was the time of great rivalries between Shaiva and Vaishnava sects in South India. Vaishnavas were persecuted by the Cholas.

Sri Ramanujacharya had to escape from Chola rule and he was allowed to live in exile here for some 14 years by then Hoysala ruler Vishuvardhana. At that time, the king was influenced by Sri Ramanujacharya, Vishuvardhana converted himself from Jainsim to Vaishnavism. During that time, the town was plundered by Muslim invaders. The processional idol of the temple was possessed by the Muslim emperor, Muhammed Shah of Delhi. Muhammed Shah gave that idol to her child Bibi. When Ramanuja requested to give him back that idol, the plea was answered and he got back it. But, that girl was so attached with the idol and followed him till this shrine from Delhi.

Ramanuja understood that she had become a devotee and installed an idol of her at the temple, which is found even today as Bibi Nachiyar. The Temple is a masterwork of workmanship. Built in Dravidian Style of architecture, this temple structure incorporates a large pond constructed near the foothills. The pond is built of stone and is in the shape of a stepped well. The outer walls and the pillars of the temple have intricately carved sculptures decorated on them. The shrine enjoyed special patronage from almost all the rulers of Mysore. The existence of Tamil influence and Vaishnava worship in the area are still evident.