Ryali Jagan Mohini Kesava Swamy Temple – A Divine Symbol of Dual Beauty
The Ryali Jagan Mohini Kesava Swamy Temple is one of the most unique and spiritually significant temples in East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh. Located in the picturesque village of Ryali, between Ravulapalem and Atreyapuram, this temple stands as a remarkable example of divine artistry, devotion, and mythology.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagan Mohini Kesava Swamy, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The main idol here is an extraordinary piece of sculpture — carved from a single block of black stone, it portrays Lord Maha Vishnu (Kesava) on the front and Goddess Mohini on the back. This rare dual form symbolizes the divine transformation of Lord Vishnu into Mohini, the celestial enchantress who distributed the nectar of immortality (Amrit) among the gods after the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan).
The front side of the idol features Lord Vishnu holding the Shankha (conch), Chakra (disc), Gada (mace), and Padma (lotus), while the reverse side beautifully depicts Goddess Mohini with a graceful feminine form adorned with ornaments. This intricate and detailed craftsmanship is considered one of the finest examples of temple sculpture in South India.
The temple’s serene surroundings, ancient architecture, and divine atmosphere attract thousands of devotees and art admirers every year. Special poojas and festivals are celebrated with devotion, especially Vaikunta Ekadashi, Sri Rama Navami, and Krishna Janmashtami, when the temple comes alive with lights, music, and spiritual fervor.
The Ryali Jagan Mohini Kesava Swamy Temple is not only a place of worship but also a living testament to the district’s cultural heritage, artistic excellence, and deep-rooted spirituality — making it one of the must-visit temples in East Godavari District.