| Vishnu
Mayam Jagat |
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| Temples
Of India |
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| INTRODUCTION |
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| It may appear funny or quixotic that certain states are totally oblivious of the importance of certain avatars. Not even one or
two temples of any size is built for deities, like Narasimha. particularly in the North India. I mean separate, independent
temples; but here and there, one may come across the Narasimha representation, on panels, or ceilings through painting or
carving, leave alone the question of a niche or pavilion for him. I Want to represent each state as in the previous book. It is
only the Andhra Pradesh that seemed monopolising this deity, as evidenced by the existence of well-built, grandly
maintained, ancient temples numbering more than forty. In other states, like Karnataka, Kerala and TamiINadu, there are few
and they are largely visited too. Needless to say, that my dumping of Narasimha temples in A.P. in the list is justified. About
the temples for Kurmavatar, there is only one of its kind In the whole of Bharat Khand and it is in Andhra pradesh, and it is
given elaboration. Likewise for Matsyavatar too. The only one in superbly maintained condition, deserving indispensable
mention is in Andhra Pradesh again. It is given due significant treatment. For the Vamanavatar, again the dearth appeared
on the scene, but Tamil Nadu and Kerala states are having some ancient temples installed with those august icons Next
comes Parasuramavatar. It is a pity that Kerala state, the gift of that formidable God has not built number of temples befitting
his stature, contribution etc. But for him Kerala could not have been owning as much spiritual wealth as it is now proud of.
Touch any part of the Kerala shrine at any place, Parasurama appears and feasts the eyes and ears of devotees with
monumental contribution he made for the growth of theism. The lone spot at Trichur temple, though declares his glory, with
awe-some episodes is no holy temple, but the sacred spot of his meditation during his stay is receiving prayers. So it can be
subordinated, in a way to the one extant in Maharastra at Phede and the other at Renuka. Ironical it appears that it was built
by a Muslim lady, whose faith in him consoled and profited to her heart's content. And finally for Balarama. Again
disappointment stared in the face. There is only one and that lone fullfledged temple is in Kerala and it is visited largely and
maintained to a commendable degree. Elsewhere in the north there are a few, but not worthy of mention. No doubt in many
hoary Krishna temples, Balarama's icon is installed adjacent to the archamurti, or close to one of the walls, but no annual
festivals nor sodhasopachara worship is performed A sad neglect! And unpardonable blemish!! Inclusion of such places is
made for maintaining impartiality.
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