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Home > Temples of Kerala > Lord Sankaranarayana Lord SankaranarayanaThe concept of Sankaranarayana is the outcome of reconciliation of the Vaishnavite and Saivite cults. The exact period of introduction of the cult is not known. The Aryans, who were predominantly worshippers of Vishnu accepted the Saivite form of worship of Dravidian origin when they immigrated into the South. Of course basically an intelligent folk they went one step forward by evolving a composite deity which evolved both the characteristics of Siva and Vishnu, the result being the introduction of Sankaranarayatja cult. In the Thu!u territory, through which Aryans immigrated the Sankaranarayana cult is ascribed to 7th century AD90 and therefore these temples are datable after this period. Those who worship Lord SankaranaraYaJ).a are the blessed as stated in Skandopanishad Sivaaya Vishnurupaaya Sivarupaaya Vishnave The ,vigrahas of Lord Sankaranrayanaa are of two types - in linga shape and in figurines. Sankaranarayana idols other than those in linga form, are on standing pose. The idols are carved in such a way that the figure of Siva is on the right side and Vishnu on the left, the main distinguishable characteristics being the face and weapons in their hands, ie on the right side which represents Siva has jata with crescent and three eyes while the left side which represents Vishnu has ordinary Kireeta and face. The weapons on the right side (that of Siva) are 'axe and thrisool (triad) or Naaga while the left hands (that ofVishnu) hold conch and lotus or club. As per sankalpa the ornaments are also different on each side. The idols relate mostly to nava-thaala.
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