Shri Rangji Temple Vrindavan

This huge south Indian-style temple dates back to 1851, an expression of gratitude from a businessman for a much-awaited progeny to Lord Vishnu. The 30m-high gopuram, a large kund and a tall golden pillar in the main courtyard are its most striking features. Inside the temple is an idol of Lord Vishnu lying down on the Shesha Nag (divine serpent). The temple is known for a 10 day Rath (chariot) festival held in March-April

Sri Rangji Mandir is dedicated to Lord Sri Goda-Rangamannar. Goda or Andal as she is popularly known in South India was a famous 8th century Vaishnava saint who was in deep love for Lord Krishna and his leela bhoomi Vrindavan. She sings songs in his praise and wants to attain him by marrying him. Lord Ranganatha who is none other than Krishna answers her prayers by becoming her bridegroom. In SriRangji Mandir, Lord Krishna is present as the bridegroom with a walking stick in his hand in accordance with the custom in a traditional south Indian marriage. To his right is Andal and to his left Garuda, the vahana of Vishnu.

Andal had expressed three wishes. Her first wish was to spend her life at the feet of Lord Krishna in Vrindavan. Her second wish that Lord Krishna accept her as his bride came true when she married Lord Krishna and the third wish that Lord Ranganatha (Lord Krishna) be offered "Ksheeranna"(dessert made of rice and milk) in a hundred pots was fulfilled by the eleventh century vaishnava saint Sri Ramanujacharya. Her first wish which had not been fulfilled by any of the previous Vaishnava acharyas was fulfilled by Sri Rangadeshik Swamiji by constructing this temple.

Sri Rangji temple is one of the largest temples in the whole of North India. It’s one of the very few temples in India, where regular festivals are celebrated and all the traditions and rituals are performed according to the prescribed Vedic norms. In SriRangji temple one would find a unique mixture of both south and north Indian traditions. In addition to celebrating all the festivals which are part of South Indian SriVaishnava temple tradition, several festivals which are part of the North tradition are also celebrated here. For example its only at SriRangji temple where devotees can enjoy the pleasure of playing holi with the Lord during SriBrahmotsav.