Temple Description

The temple is adorned with intricately carved pillars and features a dome-like structure embellished with detailed sculptures. The main deity of the temple is Cheluvanarayana Swamy, also known as Tirunarayana (ತಿರುನಾರಾಯಣ) or Cheluvapille Raya (ಚೆಲುವಪಿಲ್ಲೆ ರಾಯ), a form of Lord Vishnu. Historical inscriptions reveal that the deity was also referred to as Ramapriya.

The utsavamurthi (ಉತ್ಸವ ಮೂರ್ತಿ), a metal idol used in processions and religious rituals, represents Cheluvanarayana Swamy. Legend has it that this metal idol was once lost but was recovered by Sri Ramanujacharya.

According to the annual report of the Mysore Archaeological Department, epigraphic evidence suggests that the deity was already a significant object of worship before Sri Ramanujacharya visited the shrine in December 1098 CE. This period predates Sri Ramanujacharya’s arrival in the Mysore region, where he likely influenced the rebuilding or renovation of the temple. Lithic records from the era also indicate Tamil influence and Vaishnava worship.

The temple’s three crowns are held by the government and are brought to the temple on a specific annual occasion to adorn the image of Cheluvanarayana Swamy.