Rajamannar or Rajagopalaswamy is a unique and rare form of the beloved Hindu Lord Krishna, revered in Southern India as the protector of cows and a valiant guardian against forces of evil. A remembrance of his battle with Kamsa is the inspiration behind this aspect of Sri Krishna, where he is attired in golden armor and carries weapons along with his Murli (flute).
Worshipped in Mannargudi (Mannar- Vishnu, guddi-region, meaning Vishnu’s region), Rajamannar, his devotion and depiction in art was popularized by Thanjavur Nayakas, leading to the emergence of a divine and aesthetically rich representation of Rajagopalaswamy in Tanjore paintings.
This Thanjavur artwork presents Sri Rajamannar in a heavenly manner, standing under an imposing arch with the Kirtimukha crest and a line of marble balustrade amplifying the grandeur of the image. On a golden pedestal, Rajagopalswamy stands attired in a Pitambara (yellow garment), and golden armor, with a sword and shield tucked in his waistcloth, a bow and arrow on his shoulders, a handrest, and a spear. In his hand as delicate as a lotus, Rajamannar holds the flute, which maintains his association with his roopa as the fluting Lord or Murlidhara.
The splendor of Rajagopalaswamy is beyond words. His moon-like countenance becomes animated with the lotus eyes and the gentle smile that charms the three realms.
The two marble pillars on his sides frame the graceful pose of Rajamannar behind whom is a cow, ornamented with golden necklaces and a red dot on her forehead, accompanied by her calf who gazes at his mother with affection. A towering presence in the foreground, Sri Rajagopalswamy, the Lord of Dakshina Dwarka (Dwarka of South) emanates strength and divinity, assuring his devotees of his omnipresence.
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