The mighty annihilator of Kamsa’s armies and the protector of cows, Sri Krishna in Mannargudi, Tamil Nadu is revered by Vaishnavas as “Rajagopalaswamy” or “Rajamannar”. This form of the blue-skinned Lord depicts him attired in a short dhoti, fine ornaments, holding an Ankusha or goad, accompanied by a cow and two calves.
In this glistening bronze statue, Rajagopala strikes a magnificent stance, standing on an inverted lotus pedestal. The icon is placed on a square platform, shared by the bovine friends of Krishna, who surround him with affection and devotion.
A meditative expression is spread over Rajagopalaswamy’s countenance, bringing out his divine quality, which is also highlighted by the triangular Srivatsa symbol on his chest, representative of Sri Lakshmi who resides in the heart of Vishnu.
In the Alvar traditions, Rajagopala is the form which is known for removing Kamsa’s sins from earth, as the eternal guardian of all living beings. The temple town of Mannargudi is reverential as the first “Abhimana Desham”, the 108 sacred spots where the heavenliness of Sri Vishnu can be experienced.
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