Anantashayana, Saranga

Anantasaayi Narayana image is a Rock cut colossal image of Narayana built during early 9th Century which resides on the left bank of the Brahmani River. It is easily accessible by road from Saranga in Dhenkanal district. A similar image is found near Bhimkund in Anugul district.After examination of that statue the statue is assigned to 9th century AD.It was built during Bhaumakara dynasty ruling central part of Orissa. The image depicts sleeping image of Vishnu holding Chakra, Shankha, Gada. A lotus sprouting from the navel has sitting Brahma in a meditation pose. The shrine is regularly worshipped by local people. Due to Archaeological Survey of India the statue is being renovated and kept in a good condition. Floods in Brahmani River are the only threat for the image as this is built by Sandstone.

See also

References