Srirangam is the main Divya Desam, which is considered the resting place of Lord Vishnu. Alwars sang the praises of Lord Ranganatha gracefully. It is Swayam Vyaktha Kshetra (self-manifested). Here the Lord reclines on a huge Adi Sesha (Serpent). The idol was first given by Sri Vishnu to Lord Brahma, then to the Ikshvaku dynasty and finally to Vibheeshana by Sri Rama himself. Sri Ranganatha Swamy wished to reside on the banks of the Kaveri River and Kollidam.
Ekanta Seva is unique to Sri Ranganatha Swamy in Srirangam, especially during Ira Pathu Seva. This practice was started by Ramanuja. Sri Ramanujacharya served in this temple for many years. Veena’s unique rendition is relaxing to listen to. Adi Sankaracharya visited this temple. Many hymns emphasize the beauty of Sri Rangam Temple.
The greenery of this temple is considered equivalent to Sri Vaikuntam, who caused the Lord to rest happily in this place. Many songs ask the Lord why he is lying; Is it because he walked with Sita Devi in the forest or danced on the snake Kaliya or walked to get three steps of Mahabali land? The beauty of the Lord is greatest when the Lord is in a reclining posture as seen in Sri Rangam.
