The Vivekananda Rock memorial also has religious importance as it is believed that this rock has the imprint of Goddess Devi Kumari’s feet and hence it is said to be blessed. Sripada Mandapam and Vivekananda Mandapam are two places to see here on the Rock memorial.
Architecture of Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Kanyakumari
Vivekananda Rock Memorial boasts of great architectural excellence. The memorial which was inaugurated in 1970 now mesmerises every visitor with its architecture. It was in 1962, when the idea of the memorial was first proposed. There are two primary mandapams- Vivekananda Mandapam and Sripada Mandapam; both these mandapams have been built in such a way that the statue of Swami Vivekananda can be seen directly from Sripadam.
Vivekananda Mandapam at Vivekananda Rock Memorial
An architectural masterpiece, Vivekananda Mandapam is quite similar in structure to Sri Ramakrishna Temple which is located in Belur, while the entrances of the memorial can trace their style from the ancient Ajanta and Ellora cave temples. The life size bronze statue of Swami Vivekananda in his ‘Parivrajak’ posture is alluring and one of the most attractive features of the memorial.
This mandapam has various sections. There is a meditation hall with six rooms adjoining it; it is called Dhyana Mandapam. Its spiritual atmosphere is ideal for a peaceful meditation. The assembly halls combined with two rooms, corridor, and open courtyard (prakaram) is the Sabha Mandapam. It also includes the area where the statute has been kept, called Pralima Mandapam. Another section is Mukha Mandapam. The area with front steps has two more rooms and a corridor.
