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The Famous Sculptures Of Janganmohini
Kesavaswami Temple
Ryali lies at a distance of 24-km from
Rajahmundry. It was known as "Ratnapuri"
in the past. Ryali is famous for excellent sculptures and rare iconography
in the 'Janganmohini Kesavaswami' temple. The image of the Lord is an
exquisite piece of sculpture, which is considered to be the only one of
its kind in India.
The
figure in front is 'Kesava' or 'Keshava', and on the reverse is the female
attire with a hair-do representing 'Jaganmohini'. Carved in black stone,
the image of the deity excites admiration. Even to this day it is as fresh
as though it has just come from the chisel of the sculptor.
The image stands at a height of 5ft and the front portion, besides the
face of Kesava, contains sculptural representations of 'Dasavatara' (ten
incarnations of Lord Vishnu). At the feet of the image is the figure of
Goddess Ganga, from which drops of water trickle down throughout the day.
This is considered a rare phenomenon. Though small, the shrine presents a
grand appearance artistically.
Devotees congregate in large numbers on the occasion of 'Kalyanotsavam' of the deity celebrated for five days every year during March-April.
Road: The nearest railway station is Rajahmundry. From Rajahmundry you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Ryali.
Accommodation is available at the hotels in Rajahmundry.