SRI VISHNU

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Vishnu, one among the Trinity of Gods, is in the form of Ananthapadhmaanabha. He is the Protector of the Universe. He comes to earth in different incarnations to protect the world.

SLOKA/PRAYER

Santhaakaaram Bhujaga Sayanam Padhmanaabham Suresam
Viswaakaaram Gagana Sadrusam Meghavarnam Subhaangam
Lakshmikaantham Kamalanayanam Yogi Hridh Gnaana Gamyam
Vande Vishnum Bhavabhayharam Sarva Lokaika Naatham.
Santhaakaaram Bhujaga Sayanam Padhmanaabham Suresam

MEANING
I bow to Vishnu, with the benign form, reclining on the serpent. The lotus issues forth from the navel and He is the very universe. He is the supreme among the Gods, the consort of Lakshmi, and He resplendent like the sky, and the color of the clouds and with auspicious limbs. His eyes are beautiful like the lotus and He is ever in the hearts of His evolved devotees. He is the one and only Lord of all this universe and can save us from the cycle of repeated births and deaths.
VISHNU as ANANTAPADMANABHA AT SSVT
The yoga nidhra form represents Ananthapadhmanabha of Thiruvananthapuram. The shrine is built in the Vijayanagara style of architecture, of twelfth century. The shrine with reclining Ananthapadhmanaabha symbolizes the picture of Pralaya (Dissolution), when Lord Vishnu is lying still with eyes closed on the coils of Anantha, the thousand-headed Lord of Serpents. On the eve of Creation, by His will through Brahma arising from Vishnu's navel, the Creation is accomplished. Lord Vishnu with Goddess Lakshmi, His holy consort, is the sole source of Creation. Lord Vishnu seems to rest his right hand on the Sivalingam. Several of His devotees and celestial beings are seen in the panel behind the idol and in front of it, in postures of worship, meditation and reverence.

AUSPICIOUS DAYS AND FESTIVALS

Ekaadasi, the 11th day of the lunar fortnight is auspicious to Vishnu. Vaikunta Ekaadasi, falling in December- January, is celebrated as a special festival when the "gates of Heaven" ceremoniously open for devotees to enter.

SPECIAL OFFERINGS

Sudarsana Homam, the celebration of the His Divine Disc - Sudarsanam, and special flower alankaras are performed to Ananthapadmanabha. Yogurt rice, coconut and jaggery mix are offered to Lord Ananthapadhmanabha.

GAYATHRI

Naarayanaaya Vidhmahe Vaasudevaya Dheemahi
Tanno Vishnu Prachodhayaath.

MEANING

We worship Narayana. Salutations to the Great Lord Vasudeva. May that Vishnu stimulate our creative faculties.