India's tallest Garuda idol (God Vishnu's Vahana) is at the Srirangam Ranganathar temple, TN

very old mage .Garuda shrine, Srirangam, TN.in.pinterest.com

Above image: It is the only oldest Garuda image at Srirangam temple available. Garuda is symbolic of speed, protection, valor and devotion..........

Srirangam, temple, Garuda Azhwar. shrine  in.pinterest.com

Above image: Srirangam Ranganathar temple, TN. The Garuda Mandapa. The Garuda statue,  half  human and half bird is a huge one, perhaps the tallest in India about 14 ft. high on a pedestal that is about 5 ft.  It is not made of hard stone, it seems to be  masonry work. Showing the anjali-mudra he is adorned with snakes. Before praying to the main deity, it is a custom to pray to Garuda at his shrine first.............. .

Srirangam temple Garuda shrine pinterest.com

The Garuda stone image in the Gauda Mantapa of the popular and foremost Divyadesam shrine - Sri Ranganathar Temple in Srirangam, Tamil Nadu  is one of the largest and most significant representations of Garuda, the celestial vehicle (vahana) of Lord Vishnu. The colossal idol referred to as Garuda Azhwar, perhaps is the tallest in India about 14 ft. high on a pedestal that is about 5 ft. I is in a  tall shrine, equally tall entrance gate  directly opposite the hall leading to the sanctum, facing the reclining (sayana) form of Lord Ranganatha. The image is exquisitely sculpted, showcasing Garuda with folded hands in the traditional Anjali Mudra, symbolizing his devotion and servitude to Vishnu.

The Gauda Mantapa itself is a prominent pavilion within the sprawling temple complex, specifically dedicated to Garuda, also known as Vainateya or Pakshiraja, the king of birds. The idol is adorned with intricate jewelry, vibrant garlands, and vivid alankaram (decorations), enhancing its visual grandeur during temple festivities. Devotees often offer special prayers here to seek Garuda’s blessings, especially for protection and the removal of obstacles.

Srirangam Perumal temple, TN. 4.bp.blogspot.com

One of the unique aspects of this Garuda idol is the presence of a small idol of Hanuman near its feet. This symbolizes the mutual reverence between two of Vishnu’s greatest devotees—Garuda and Hanuman. Another fascinating feature is the offering of Garuda Sevai, a special ritual where the Utsava Moorthi (processional deity) of Lord Ranganatha is carried on Garuda’s shoulders during the Vaikunta Ekadasi festival.

Historically, the Gauda Mantapa dates back to the Vijayanagara period, reflecting the empire’s contributions to the temple’s expansion and architectural splendor. The artistry of the Garuda image and its spiritual significance make it a revered and prominent feature of the Srirangam temple, embodying devotion and service to Lord Vishnu in every aspect. Located in the third hall, Garuda mandapam with  Garuda shrine has  953 pillars, each carved with different images of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures, Commonly this hall is known as  1000 Pillared mandapam.

The Garuda Mantapa in the Srirangam Sri Ranganathar Temple  is a prominent spot for devotees to offer prayers seeking protection and blessings. During special occasions like Vaikunta Ekadasi

 devotees  pray  at the Garuda shrine before proceeding to pray to Perumal in the garbhagriha.

 https://www.navrangindia.in/2022/09/garuda-deva-integral-part-of_25.html

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garuda#Symbolism

https://arjuna-vallabha.tumblr.com/post/174634549172

https://www.teamgsquare.com/2011/09/garuda-lenka-kambhas-pillars.html