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The Main Difference Between Ranganatha And Ananta Shayana Form Of Vishnu

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The main difference between the Ranganatha and Ananta Shayana forms of Vishnu is that in the Ananta Shayana form, there is a depiction of Brahma seated on a lotus that arises from Vishnu's navel, whereas in the Ranganatha form, this specific depiction is absent. The right hand of Ananta Shayana form of Vishnu touches a Shivling. Ranganatha form uses right hand as a pillow to sleep. There are several additional differences and unique characteristics associated with these two forms:

These differences are based on the Ananta Shayana form of Vishnu worshipped in Thiruvananthapuram Padmanabha Swamy Temple and Ranganathaswamy worshipped at Srirangam Temple.

Ananta Shayana Form

  1. Depiction:
    • Vishnu is depicted reclining on the cosmic serpent Ananta (also known as Adishesha or Sheshanaga).
    • The serpent has multiple hoods, which form a canopy over Vishnu's head.
    • Brahma is shown seated on a lotus that emanates from Vishnu's navel.
    • The right hand extends to touch a Shivling.
  2. Symbolism:
    • Represents the cosmic slumber of Vishnu, where he is in a state of yogic sleep, signifying the cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction.
    • Brahma emerging from the navel represents creation, while Vishnu's recline on the serpent signifies sustenance and the cosmic balance. Touching of Shivling symbolizes cycle of creation and the continuous transformation that is taking place in the universe.
  3. Iconography:
    • The Ananta Shayana form is rich in symbolism related to cosmic cycles, the balance of the universe, and the interplay between creation and preservation.
  4. Temple Associations:
    • Found prominently in South Indian temples, such as the Padamanabha Swamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Kera.
  5. It must be noted here that there couple of other lesser known temples in the Ananta Shayana form of Vishnu and the murti worshipped here is slightly different from the Padamanabha Swamy Temple.

Ranganatha Form
  1. Depiction:
    • Vishnu is also depicted reclining on Ananta, similar to the Ananta Shayana form, but without Brahma on the lotus.
    • His head rests on the right hand, and the left hand may extend along the side or rest on his body.
  2. Symbolism:
    • Primarily focuses on the aspect of Vishnu as the supreme protector and preserver of the universe.
    • Emphasizes the divine rest and the peaceful, meditative state of the deity.
  3. Iconography:
    • The Ranganatha form is often simpler in depiction compared to Ananta Shayana, focusing more on Vishnu's divine and majestic presence rather than the cosmological aspects.
  4. Temple Associations:
    • The Ranganatha form is the central deity in many South Indian Vishnu temples, such as the Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam and the Ranganatha temples in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

Additional Differences

  • Cultural and Ritual Significance:
    • The Ananta Shayana form is often associated with stories from the Puranas and the Mahabharata, emphasizing the cosmic functions of Vishnu.
    • The Ranganatha form has a deep connection with the Vaishnavism tradition in South India and is central to many local legends and temple rituals.
  • Artistic Representations:
    • Ananta Shayana depictions may include elaborate carvings and murals showing the cosmic ocean, other deities, and celestial beings, reflecting its cosmological significance.
    • Ranganatha depictions tend to focus on the serene and majestic nature of Vishnu, with less emphasis on the surrounding cosmological elements.

In summary, while both forms represent Vishnu in a reclining posture on the serpent Ananta, the presence of Brahma on the lotus in the Ananta Shayana form marks a significant iconographic and symbolic difference. The Ranganatha form, meanwhile, emphasizes Vishnu's protective and serene nature without the cosmological elements associated with creation.