Srirangam Saptha Prakara Parikrama

Srirangam Saptha prakara parikrama:

We came to know that every year Saptha prakara parikrama is organized by Mrs. Saraswathy and Mr. Sripathy in coordination with “Pejawar matt.”


This year it was on 22, 23 and 24th of October 2009. We availed this opportunity and joined them on 24th October for parikrama. They have arranged stay and food for everyone at “kodiyalayam chattram” at “Srirangam”. Anyone can join for parikrama, and food was arranged separately for Brahmin and others.


This is the contact number for details about saptha prakara parikrama 0431-2436502.



They arranged for sankalpam for cauvery snanam by a prohit, at 3Am and, thereafter every one of us went to River cauveryby van. 20Rs per head was charged for van. After the bath we came back to chattram, for changing our clothing. Then they guided us to starting place of Prakara parikrama.







Srirangam Ranganadhar temple has seven prakaram relating to saptha lokas.
1) Bhoolokam Full of houses and shops.

2) Bhuvarlokam Thiruvikraman Thiru veedhi.(street)

3) Suvarlokam Kili chozan or Agalangan Thirvedhi. (Street)

4) Maharlokam Thirumangaimannan street or Alinadan Thiruveedhi..

5) Janolokam Kulasekaran Thiru veedhi.

6) Thapolokam Rajamahendr chozan Thiru veedhi.

7) Sathyalokam (Garbha graham) Dharmavarma chozan Thiru veedhi.



Main deity Sriranganadhar facing south side, so the parikrama also starts from south entrance of 7th prakaram. Pandit was there along with us till the end of parikrama. He recited mantras which we were asked to repeat and do namaskaram before starting at that place.


We were asked to stop at all corners of four roads, and to the middle of all four roads in front of the gopurams in all seven prakarams which represent Ashtadikbalakars. He recited some namavali and we bowed at all the places.

There is lot of small sanctums, all along the parikrama rounds. We visited only few, but I am trying to give you some more which are important. This we can make it only if we go on our own and not with the group.

7th prakaram of Srirangam temple.


Our parikrama stared mid way of South Chittirai veedhi”,” Kattai gopuram” entrance. This is to mid way of the road. The road is full of shops. There is a mandapam in which there is a small sanctum in basement with deity known as padhala Kannan”.


We took a turn towards west and the street is known as chittrai thiru veedhi or Raja veedhi. We find houses to both sides of the roads. We enter to north Side Street known as Mela chittrai veedhi. Here we see a Hanuman temple in this street.


We enter east side road known as North chittrai veedhi. In the starting of the road we see “Hayagrivar and Desikar” sanctums, and the building looks like a matt.


Next we took a turn towards south and it is known as South chittirai veedhi. We find a ratham which looks like a pushpaka vimana known as Goratham“.

Now we enter into 6th prakaram, from south entrance of kattai gopuram. Sankam and Chakkram are kaval deivam of this gopuram. The street is named after choza raja, as Thiru Vikraman veedhi There are shops in these roads and it is a commercial business centre.


We took a turn towards west. The road is also known as “utthira veedhi”. We find a ratham here and archakar’s houses. Here the houses are to one side and to the other side of the road we find a big wall.


We took a turn to north side which is named as “Mela uttira veedhi”. Next we turned towards east side and the road is known as“North uttrai veedhi”. We find Sriranga Narayanar Jeeayar matt in this road.


We turned towards south side, road is known as Keezai uttirai veedhi”. We have darshan of Hanuman temple. At the end of the road we turn south and this is South uttira veedhi. There is a matt with Manavala Mamunigal sanctum. Half way of the road we reach Nanmugan kottai vassal
.

We started our 5th Prakaram

Two Devas Dharmathyakshar and Niyantha are kaval deviam, {security}. The street is also known as Agalanganin thiru chuttru”. Here we start from north side and we see a mandapam with four pillars. To one pillar we see Kavi arasar Kambar in standing posture. To left of this mandapam there is a sanctum for Nadha muni, his deciple Thiruvaranga perumalariarum, and Alavandhan grand son of Nadha muni.


We see Andal sanctum and we next come to Venuganan sanctum, which is very old one. We find Ranga vilas of Nayakar’s contribution which is full of beautiful sculptures. We take a turn to west and as we pass, we find Chakkratazwar sanndhi. At the back of the sanctum we see small ventilator through which we can have darshan of “Narashimar”.


We proceed towards north and we come across Vasantha mandapam Here we cross a grill gate and enter inside and we see Ranganayaki Thayar sanndhito left. We find Hanuman to a pillar near the entrance of the sanctum and we take a round and enter the temple.


The main deity is also known as padidanda pathini”, hence all the festivals concern to her are celebrated within the temple only. We see urchava vigram in the front and 2 main deity at the back.

Old moolavar was hidden under the Vilava tree during Muslim invasion. After the war, they were unable to locate and find out and new Thayar idol was installed. After sometime they found the old one and they installed it in the main sanctum. We take a round inside Thayar sannidhi and once again start with prakara parikrama.



We see a four pillared mandapam known as Kambar mandapam. In the year 885AD, Ramayana was inaugurated. There is a sanctum for Nigamantha Desikan” near the compound. “Narashigaperumal” sanctum is seen nearby.


From here we walk towards east side and we come across a grill gate, we enter and step inside thousand pillar mandapam. In the centre of thousand pillar mandapam we see “Thiru mamani mandapam”.



As we come out of this mandapam, we walk a while to reach a small mandapam known as Kanumandapam. As we proceed towards west side we see Sesharayar mandapam with beautiful sculptures related to Vijayanagara history.



Next to this we see pillai Lokacharayarsanctum, adjacent to it is kannan temple where main deity is in “Geethopadesa” posture. As we go around we come across Udayavar sannidhiWe find other sanctums like Thirupanazwar, Vittala Krishnan, Thondaradipodi azwar, and Kooratth Azwar sanctum is seen.


Here we enter to our 4th prakara parikrama

This Prakara parikrama is known as Thirumangai mannan chuttru” or “Aali nadan chuttru”. Two Devi’s Ganga and Yamuna are protecting this Gopuram. Here we enter into a big mandapam, in which we see huge Garuda with snakes as garland on him. As we walk out we see “Nammazwar” sanctum with Thirumangai mannan and “Madhura kavi azwar”.


As we go around to west side we come across “Mela Pattabhiraman” sanctum. Other deities in different sanctums are “Mudhalazwar, Teertha perumal” known as “Vasudevan”, and after climbing few steps “Danvanthry” Bagwan. We come across Chandra pushkarani and sthala vruksham “Punnai” tree.


When we go around the pushkarani we see “Santhana gopala Krishnan, Varaha perumal, varadharaja perumal, Sri Kodanda Ramar and Paramapadha nadhan Sriman Narayanar with Bhoodevi and Neeladevi”. We proceed the same way and reach Garuda mandapam. Here we see a sanctum for Thirukachhi Nambi and little further we come to an end of this prakaram and here we enter third prakaram.


The 3rd prakaram round is known as “Kulasekaran chuttru”.

The enterance is known as Aryabhatar vasal. Here “Garuda and Chakkra perumal” are Kaval deivam (security). As we enter we see Dwajasthambam covered with gold plated sheet.


As we go clockwise, we see Pavithrotsava mandapam to left. The mandapam was constructed by King Kulasekaran. “Saraswathy and Hayagrivar” are seen in this mandapam. We come across another mandapam constructed by Vijayaranga Chokkanadhar. They say Viraja River flows under this mandapam. To left side we see “Paramapadha vassal”.

We continue with our parikrama and we come across “Dolotsava mandapam or Uonjal Mandapam” and “Hanuman”. With this we come to an end of this prakaram.



The 2nd prakaram round is known as “Chozha mannan Rajamahendran chuttru”.


Front side of the main entrance, is taken care by “Badhran and Subadhran”, back side of the main entrance is taken care by “Sanganidhi and Padumanidhi”.

In this round we come across Sanctum for “Vishvaksenar, Hanuman and Vebeshanar” is seen. Near this place “Arjuna mandapam” is seen. To NW side of our round Nachiayar” sanctum is seen. We come across “Revathy mandapam”, “Kili Mandapam” {parrot}, “Chandana mandapam” {sandal}.



We take step to east side known “Yalzhisteps, and enter into the main sanctum round. There are 8 steps here known as “Ashtakshara” steps.


Entrance of 1st prakaram is known as “Thiru Anukan thiru vassal”.

This round is known as “Dharma varma chozan chuttru”. “Jaya Vijayan” is dwarabalakar here. The mandapam with 24 pillars known as “Gayatri mandapam or Ranga mandapam”, they say 24 pillars represent 24 letters of Gayatri mantra. There is lot of painted pictures depicting stories of Ramayana.


The main entrance leading inside is known as “Kulasekaran” steps. Here we have the darshan of Lord Sri Ranganadhar.



We thank Mrs.saraswathy and Mr. Sripathy for their wonderful arrangement and we feel happy for the great opportunity, to join them and enjoy. With all these strain and effort we put and enter into the temple, and buy a ticket of Rs 50, we are thrown out in no seconds from the sanctum. It is real painful thing by the time our vision gets adjusted we are forced to come out. This is only the grief of the public who come, there to have the darshan of Sri Ranganadhar. Many of us, came once again in the evening to have a darshan...

Varnasi, River Ganges and Ghats

We are glad to share our travel trip to Varanasi, Mirzapur, Allahabad, Ayodhya, Nemisaranyam and Lucknow.


Inspite of certain difficulties we had to face, we did enjoy our trip and it was a memorable one. The trip was for ten days including train travel. All arrangements were done only by phone calls, so there were problems in communication about taxi rates. They do not disclose everything and take it for granted that we are aware of it. This was the first time we faced such problem.


I feel south is much better in many things than north. Their taxi driver are not ready to show the places which you ask for, instead he decides for you, and say those are the places visited by pilgrims normally. This was major problem in going around the places of our choice. We were able to see just 60% of our choice.


Taxi or auto is not the mode of transport recommended for Kasi, since the lanes are narrow; always one has to walk a lot to reach the temples. I will try to give hints about the places which we missed, along with the one which we visited, so that it can help someone who goes through the information about our trip.

1. Varnasi:
   
   
   We did minimum rituals in Ganges shore after a dip in Ganges. The prohit arranged for a boat to travel from one end to the other end of Varnasi shore.
   
   
   The great river banks at Varanasi, is built high with eighteenth and nineteenth-century pavilions and palaces, temples and terraces, are lined with an endless chain of stone steps. We got down from the boat in certain ghats and the rest we saw only from the boat.
   
   
   
   
2. Ghats
   
   
   The five important ghats are Asi ganga Ghat, Dasaswameda ghat, Adi kesava ghat Pancha ganga ghat, and Manikarnika ghat.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   At every point one has to climb atleast 50 steps we had to go up and pass through small lanes to reach the temple. We took the boat from Kedar ghat.
   
   
   
3. Kedar Ghat
   
   
   We had darshan of Kedareeswarar in this ghat. The temple is in South Indian style. We see Nalwar sculpture on the temple walls. The shiva lingam was huge one.
   
   
   
4. Thirupura Bairavi Ghat:
   
   
   Here in this ghat we have varahi temple to visit. The temple is opened from 4 am and it is closed by 7am before sun rise. Here she is known as pdala varahi.
   
   
   Goddess Varahi is in basement room and no one is allowed inside other than poojari. We have a room to ground level and here there is a small opening just to peep through to have Pada darshan of varahi amman.
   
   
   There is one more hole from where you can see a portion of Goddess varahi. The distance from where we look down to see varahi is about 10’feet from ground level.
   
   
   
5. Bindu Madhavar ghat:
   
   
   
   We have Bhindu Madhavar temple here in this ghat. This is one of the panchava madhava kshetram. The main deity Bhindu madhavar with four hands is of saligrahma stone. They say the yatra completes only after a visit to the temple.
   
   
   
6. Hanuman ghat:
   
   
   Kanchi Kamakoti Sankara math, with patasala is on this ghat.
   
   
   Kamakshi temple is near by. The temple was constructed as acharaya wanted it.
   
   
   
   Main deity is Kamakoteswarar, and goddess Kamakoti devi. Siva linga is of saligrahama stone. The sculpture of goddess kamakoti devi is of green stone, Ganesha and Soorya dev are of red stone. In the temple we see pallikonda sivan also. The gopuram is of south Indian style. We see different forms of Lord Siva as we go around the main sanctum.
   
   
   
7. Sindhya ghat :
   
   
   we have a Dattatreyar temple. We see padam of Dattatreyar
   
   
   
8. Ghya ghat:
   
   
   Swamy Narayan temple is seen in this ghat.
   
   
   
9. Mani karnica ghat:
   
   
   There is a small vishnu shrine and Padhuka of marble stone on the embankment of the ghat. chakkra teertham is there wich we cannot see.
   
   
   
10. Pancha ganga Ghat:
    
    
    important for pinda pradhanam. {ritual}
    
    
    
11. Adi kesava ghat :
    
    
    
    This is the place where vishnu landed first as an emissery of and stands on the original site of the city before it spreads southwards. It is to the outskirts of city. Here River Orna mees with River ganges and sangamam takes place.

[Varnasi][Ganges][Ghats]

Kumkulamma temple, Mavulamma temple and Yamadhuru of west godavari temples, Ap

1. Kumkulammavari temple
   
   
   
   The temple is located on the way to Dwaraka Thirumala. It is about a kilometer distance from the temple.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The main deity is swayambu Goddess to Kunkudi tree (soap nut tree).
   
   
   
   We see goddess kunkulamma to the trunk of the tree. There is an idol they have installed in front of the tree, to which all rituals are done. The tree is very old and it has started perishing. So, to protect the tree, it is covered with silver kavacham.
   
   
   
   We see a small urchava vigraham in front of the deity. They say the goddess is sister of Lord Venkateswara. Yatra to Dwaraka thirumala is completed only when they visit and pay homage to goddess Kumkulamma
   
   
   
   
2. Mavulamma:
   
   
   
   The temple is in Bhimavaram town of west Godavari district in Andhra Pradesh. The temple is about a kilometer distance from Someswara swamy temple of pancha ramala kshetram
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The main deity is, Goddess Mavulamma. The idol is about 10' height. The goddess has eight hands with weapons in each hand. There is a silver garland of skull decorating her.
   
   
   
   Inspite of everything, we can fell the kindness in her looks. We do not feel like moving out from the sanctum.
   
   
   
   
   
3. Yanamadhuru, Saktheeswarar temple
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Saktheeswarar temple
   
   
   
   The temple is about 7 kilometers from Mavulamma Temple of Bhimavaram town
   
   
   
   The main deity is Swayambu Sivalinga known as Saktheeswara Swamy and goddess Parvahi with child Lord Subramanya on her lap.
   
   
   
   Here we see, Siva in Sirasasana posture which is unique and it is one of its kinds.
   
   
   
   
   Purana says once Yama prayed to Lord Siva to help him out in defeating Sambasuran in fight. At this time Lord Siva was meditating in sirasasana posture and sakthi was beside him to take care and see that he was not disturbed by someone. So, Sakthidevi Parvathy gave her powers to Yama. With her powers in him, Yama was able to defeat Sambasuran
   
   
   
   He prayed to lord Siva to stay back in the same form here and bless mankind. We see goddess next to Lord Siva with Subramanya on her lap.
   
   
   
   Siva is known as Saktheeswarar, because Goddess gave her powers. They say since Lord Siva is in Sirasasana form here, with goddess beside him to shower her blessings on us
   
   
   
   We see two small Nandhi in front of the Nandi in front of Dwajasthambam. The two small Nandi’s are dwarabalakar, which were inside the sanctum and now shifted outside. We find Navagraha sannidhi in the temple. There is a pushkarani in front of the temple

Dwaraka Thirumala, West godavari ,AP.

1. Dwaraka Thirumala:
   
   
   
   
   The temple is located 40kms distance from Eluru of west Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh. One can reach the place easily. Eluru is on the main railway line to Visakapatnam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The main deity is, Swayambu idol of Sri Lord Venkateswara. This place is known as china Tirupathi. They say offerings of; Tirupathi can be given here in this place.
   
   
   The temple is named after great saint Dwaraka. He penenced on ant hill to get the self manifested idol and installed here. In the sanctum the main shrine is visible only upto bust and the lower part is regarded to be immeresed down the earth.
   
   
   
   We see another idol of sri venkateswara at the back of the original one in full which was installed by sri Ramanujar in 11th Century.
   
   
   
   According to purana the temple belongs to krutha yuga. As per Brahma purana, Aja Maharaja {grand father of Sri Rama } worshiped, Sri Lord Venkateswara.
   
   
   On his way to swayamvaram of Indumathi {grand mother of Sri Rama} he crossed the temple of Dwaraka thirumala and he did not pay homage to lord. He had to face problems with other kings. Since he overlooked the temple on his way, he realized all that’s happened and he pleaded Lord, to forgive him.
   
   
   
   The present temple is constructed by Maylavaram Zamindars between the year 1877 and 1902.
   
   
   The temple timings are 5.30 am to 12 noon and 4pm to 8pm.

Antarvedi, East Godavari, Andhra pradesh.

1. Antarvedi: Lakshmi Narashima Swamy.
   
   
   Location: The place is located 15 kms from Sakhnitpalle mandal and 10 kms from Narasapur. The village is placed at the confluence of the bay of Bengal and Vashista Godavari, one of the seven branches of River Godavari..
   
   
   
   It is said that Maharishi vasishta brought River Godavari, here and it is one of the most sacred bathing ghat for entire Godavari delta. The place is known as Dakshina Kasi. This is 32 kshetra of 108 Narashima kshetram.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The temple was built during 15-16 th century. The temple is called as an island temple because it’s on the tributary of Godavari and Vasishta Godavari, meeting the sea, {sagara Sangamam}
   
   
   Main deity is Lord Lakshima Narashima Swamy facing west and the temple is of 5 storeyed vimana gopuram. There are also deities like Neelakanteswarar, Sri Ramar and Anjaneyar.
   
   
   As we enter inside we see Garuda and Anjaneyar to either side. We see Baktha Anjaneyar to a side and Venugopala swamy
   
   
   To the roof near the sanctum, we see Lord Krishna on palm leaf. The whole piece is a single stone. We see lakshmi on the lap of main deity Narashimar which is not too clear
   
   As we go around the main sanctum, to east side Prakaram, Goddess Rajayalakshmi thayar and Venkatachalapathy is seen. To North side Prakaram, Bhoodevi, and Ranganadhar. To west side prakaram we see Santhana gopala Swamy and Kesava swamy. Finally to south side prakaram, we see Azwar sanndhi and Chaturbuja Anjaneyar
   
   
   
   The purana says Maharishi vasishta established an ashram here. Lord Brahma performed rudra yaga and installed Lord Neelakanteswara to get rid of his sins.
   
   
   Rakthavilochana son of Hiranyaksha performed penance for a long period on Lord Siva, who finally was pleased and agreed to fulfill his wishes. Rakthavilochana prayed to lord that during the war time the blood drops that fall on the sand, and as many particles of sand are there should be transformed into warriors for his force.
   
   
   purana: During Kaliyug the place Antarvedi was forest and everything was lost. Kesavadas was having cows which were taken out for grazing by Nar. One day the cow showered all milk on an ant hill.
   
   
   This was happening everyday and Kesavadas followed the cow and found that the milk is showered on an anthill. He had a dream to construct a temple for Narashimar there. The temple was constructed at the same place of the anthill. When they started the work they found a stone sculpture of Narashimar and it was installed in the temple
   
   
   The temple fell into ruins and it was rebuilt under the patronage of Sri Narendra Lakshmi Narashima Rao as an offering to Lord for protecting his ship from drenched into the sea. The temple was reconstructed in the year 1923.
   
   
   
   
   
2. Vasishta Devalayam
   
   
   This temple is constructed in the year 2005
   
   
   The Devalayam is near Narashima swamy temple. The building is in circular form and the height is 54’. They say Sri chakkram is kept to same depth down ie. 54’. We have to climb few steps to reach the first level.
   
   
   
   
   
   Here, we see saligrahama tortoise on which Maha Meru of Emarald is installed. We are allowed to enter inside the sanctum, and as we go around we see Dasavataram sculptures of Saligrahama stone are installed.
   
   
   Next we go to the second level where we have the darshan of saptha Maharishi.

[Srichakkra][Baktha Anjaneya][Mahameru][Chturbuja Anjaneya][Saligramam][Dakshina Kasi]

Kapotheeswara swamy, Kadali, East godavari district.

1. Kadali: Kapotheeswara swamy.
   
   
   The temple dates to 15-16th century. It is 95 kms from Kakinada and 71Kms from Rajamandry of east Godavari district.
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu Siva lingam known as Kapotheeswara Swamy.
   
   
   
   Importance: something unique about the temple is we see the impressions of head, wings and tail of "Dove" on Siva lingam, to both side’s front and back, which is only one of its kinds. Subramanyar is in the form of Nagar here.
   
   
   There is a pond in front of the temple which is known as Kapotha kundam where Ganges flows as Antharvahani. The place is considered as “Dakshina Kasi”, because even here there is a burial ground near the temple, like Kasi kshetram.
   
   
   
   The other deities which we see while going around the temple are Ganesha, veera Badrar & Badra kali to one sanctum, Valli Devasena sameda Subramanaya Swamy, Kumara swamy, Sita Ramar Durgai, Navagraham, Kala bairavar and Soorya Narayanar in linga form in different sanctums. Janardhana Swamy if Kshetra palakar and he is in a small separate sanctum.
   
   
   
   Importance: Sri jagadguru Adi sankaracharya visited the temple and he has installed "Sri chakra sahitha Sri Bala thripura sundari devi".
   
   
   
   
   
   Purana says once a hunter was out for hunting and that day it was raining and the weather was chill and he was unable to proceed. He was hungry and he rested under a tree. On the branches of the tree there were two doves sitting.
   
   
   They saw the hunter who took shelter under the tree. They thought he is their guest and wanted to do the needful. They picked bark pieces and made fire out of it and they dropped their nest and fell into it. They did so, to be meal for the hunter who is their guest.
   
   
   Hunter was moved by their act and he lit fire and fell into it. Lord Siva was happy with the birds thinking , and he revealed himself, to the doves and gave them siva kaivalyam.
   
   
   The dove requested for the life of hunter and Lord Siva to stay in the place and bless mankind. Siva did as per dove’s request. Here we see the imprint of doves head stomach and tail on Siva lingam to both sides. This is some thing unique.
   
   
   There is a seperate temple for Sri Devi, BhooDevi, sahitha "Sathyanarayana Swamy". In front of him we see Suvarchala sahitha Anjaneya swamy in small sanctum.
   
   

[Dove][Dakshina Kasi][Antarvahini][Siva Kaivalyam][srichakkram][adi sankarar]

Koti Lingeswara swamy temple, and Jagan mohini Kesava temple, East Godavari.

1. Kotipalli: Koti ligeswara swamy temple.
   
   
   The temple is 45kms from Kakinada, and about 10kms from Draksharamam, of east Godavari district.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity: Small Siva lingam known as Koteeswarar and his consort Goddess Sri Raja Rajeswari.
   There is a big Nandi in front of the Dwajasthambam.
   
   
   Purana says Devendra installed Siva lingam here to get rid of his curse by Gautama Muni. He did abishekam to Siva Lingam by water acquired from one crore teerthams.
   
   
   
2. Jagan Mohini Kesava Temple
   
   
   
   The temple is in Raily, which is 35kms from Rajamandry, East Godavari.
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Swayambu Jagan Mohini Kesavaswamy.
   
   
   The idol is of Saligrahama stone with Dasavathram, Thumburu, Naradha, Ramba and Urvasi sculptures all around it. SriDevi and Bhoodevi sculptures are seen in the main sculpture stone, near the padam to either side. Water is there near the padam and they say, it is Ganges water flowing as antarvahini.
   
   
   Another unique thing about the deity here is, Kesava swamy in front and at the back of the same sculpture we see Mohini roopam. They allow inside the main sanctum, to have darshan of both deities in that single stone. We also see Rama Sathyanarayana Swamy which is of marble stone.
   
   
   Purana says when the ocean was churned for nector, Vishnu took the avatharam of Mohini to distribute the nector to Devas and Asuras. It’s the same roopam which we see in the temple.
   
   
   
3. Uma Kamandaleswara swamy:
   
   
   The temple is just opposite to Jagan mohini Kesava swamy temple to the other end of the road.
   
   
   Main deity is Swayambu Siva lingam known as Kamandaleswarar, of Ardhanari Swaroopam. The other deities in the temple are Vinayakar, bairavar, Durga Devi, Subramanyar, and Navagraham.
   
   
   Purana says Lord Siva was fallen in love with Mohini roopam of Kesava swamy and started following her. Kesava swamy wanted lord Siva, to come out of the maya, so he turned back to see Lord Siva. That is the reason we see Siva temple to front of Kesava swamy and Mohini to the back of Kesava swamy

[Thumburu][Mohini roopam][Narada][Goutama Muni]

Temples of East Godavari District, AP.

1. Samarlakota: Anjaneyar.
   
   
   The place is 13 kms from Kakinada and 16 Kms from Pithapuram.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This is a recent temple. Hanuman is huge one and it is visible from road. We see lord ganesha and Lord Hanuman in different sanctum here.
   
   
   
2. Bhoo sameda Mandava Narayana Swamy temple:
   
   
   The temple is in Samlkota, near Kumara ramam, Bheemeswara swamy temple, East Godavari District.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The Main Deity is Bhoo sameda Mandava Nrayana Swamy is very old and belongs to treat Yugam. The present structure of the temple dates to 6th Century. As we enter we see Dwajasthamba and Garuda near it in small sanctum. Goddess Mahalakshmi is seen in different sanctum to side from the main one.
   
   
   
3. Bikkavolu: Sri Swayambu Lakshmi Ganapathy.
   
   
   The place is 35 Kms from Kakinada. The temple dates back to 9-10th century. Ganesha is huge one of 8’ height in sitting posture.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   They allow public inside the temple and one can say their wishes in Ganesha’s ear. There is a Siva temple near by which was constructed in 9-10th century.
   
   
   
   
4. Iyappa Temple : The temple is on the way to Gollamamida village which is 25kms from Rajamundry.
   
   
   
   
   
   This is a recent temple.
   
   
5. Sri Kodanda Ramar Temple:
   
   
   The temple is in gollamamida village, of East Godavari District. The temple is noted for its Gopurams. East and west temple tower are 200’ and 160’ respectively. The temple was constructed in the year 1889.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity: Sri Sita Ramar with Sita Mahalakshmi and Sri Lakshmana.
   
   
   
6. Sooryanarayanar temple:
   
   
   
   
   
   The temple is near by Sri Kodanda Ramar temple of Gollamamidada village.
   
   
   Main deity is Soorya Narayanar.
   
   
   Ouatside the main sanctum to either side, we get the darshan of Sri Lakshmi Narashimar and sri Lakshmi Narayanar. Garuda is seen near Dwajasthambam.
   

Temples of Pithapuram. East godavari District, AP.

1. Anaga Datta temple of Sri Ganapathy Sachidananda Swamy Ashram:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This place is about 3 Kms from Pithapuram. The Datta temple is very beautiful. As we enter we see Dwajasthambam of stone and to four sides we see beautiful sculptures carved on it. Inside the main hall we see Lord Dattatreya installed.
   
   
   
   
2. Valli Devasena samedha Veera Venkata subramanya swamy:
   
   
   The temple is in Pithapuram town on our way to Kunti madhava temple from Datta Ashram.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Thrimukha Lingeswarar. Other deities seen in the temple are Vinayakar, Sooryan, Purihita devi, and Kala Bairavar.
   
   
   
   
3. Kunti Madhavar temple:
   
   
   
   This is an ancient temple in Pithapuram Town, of East godavariDistrict. The temple is one of Pancha Madhava Kshetram .
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Sitaramar Known as Madhavar.
   
   
   Purana says he was worshipped by Kunti Devi and hence the name Kunti madhavar. Devendra to get rid of the dosha, by killing Vridhasura, he created Pancha Madhava Kshetram and this is one among the five.
   
   
   There is lot of inscriptions to relate the temple to 12th Century. As we go around the temple we see, Azwar sannidhi, Andal, Rajalakshmi thayar, and Ramanujar sanctums.
   
   
   
4. Kukuteswara Swamy:
   
   
   The temple is in Pithapuram town, East Godavari District. The temple is near Kunti Madhar Temple. The temple is famous for three things, “
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Dattatreyar sanctum, Kukuteswarar sannidhi and Pruhitha Devi, one of the Sakthi Peetam.
   
   
   
   A) Sri padha vallabar is considered as the avatharam of Dattatreyar. One day his parents and people around in the temple saw Sri padha vallabar as Guru Dattatreya. They installed Dattatreya sanctum under the same tree where they visualized.
   
   
   
   B) Kukkuteswara swamy: Swayambu lingam known as Kukkuteswarar, and Puruhitha Devi in separate sanctum. Adi sankarar has installed Rajalakshmi thayar next to Kukkuteswarar sanctum.
   
   
   C) According to sthala puranam the back of Sathi devi fell here, and it is considered as one of the Sakthi Peetam. There is Sri chakra installed in front of Pruhita Devi near her leg, and kumkuma archana is done here.
   
   
   
   Purana says Gayasura allowed Rishis to perform yagnam on his body as a platform. Once the yagnam gets completed he will be the powerful person. His head was in gaya, his padam was in pithapuram, hence the place is known as “Pada Gaya”.
   
   
   
   As we enter the temple we see a big pushkarani known as Gaya teertham. We see padam to a cornor and as we go around we see lot of people performing rituals for ancestors. There is entrance which leads us into the temple.
   
   
   
   Here Siva is known as Kukkuteswara. Before the yagnam was completed Siva took the form of cock and crowed. Gayasura got up and the yagnam became incomplete. Lord Siva revelead himself and blessed him. Gayasuran realised his foolishiness and he prayed Siva to stay back and bless mankind.
   
   
   The other deities which we see in separate sanctums here are Sri Seetha Ramar, Adi Sankarar, Kasi Viswanadhar, Annapurani, Navagraha, Subramanya Swmy, and Bairavar.

[Gayasuran][sakthi Peetam][Srichakkram][Pancha Mdhava Kshetram]

Simhachalam, Annavaram temple, East Godavari District,, AP.

1. Simhachalam:
   
   
   
   Varaha Lakshmi Narashima swamy Temple.
   
   
   
   This place is 16kms from Visaka patnam. The temple is in on a small hill.
   This is one of the important sthalam like Ahobilam and sholingar. The place is surrounded by mountains with lots of medicinal herbs which is good for us.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Varaha Lakshmi Narashima Swamy.
   
   
   
   The deity is about two and half feet height and Thirumugam of perumal is Varaha and body is human. The deity is covered with sandal paste always.
   
   
   
   The sandal paste is removed on Vaisaka suddha divithiya day of every year, and one can have the darshan of Narashima swamy, without sandal paste. Next day again they cover the deity with sandal paste. With the paste on him Varaha Lakshmi Narashima Swamy looks like a Shiva lingam.
   
   
   
   The purana says the temple was constructed by Devas. There is 16 pillar and 96 pillars mandapam with beautiful sculptures on it. As we come out of the main sanctum we see a pillar which is known as “kappa Sthambam”.
   
   
   
   Sthala purana says they have installed “Santhana gopala Yantram” under the pillar. Any wishes will be fulfilled by embracing the pillar and think of the wish. They charge 25Rs for this. As we go around the prakaram we see Lakshmi Devi in separate sanctum.
   
   
   The story is they say prahaladha was tortured by King Hiranyakasibu. Prahaladha refused to chant his fathers name, instead he chanted Narayana’s name. Once he was thrown down from the hill top. Lord Narayana came to resque his devotee prahaladha and this was the hill top where he was rolled down, and the temple is built in the same place.
   
   
   
   Ramanujar visited the temple in 11th century.
   
   Rooms are available.
   
   
   
   
2. Annavaram:
   
   
   
   The place is in East Godavari District, 72 kms from Rajamandry, and 32kms from Pithapuram.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Veera Venkata Sathya Narayana Swamy.
   The temple is situated on Rathana giri hills on the banks of River Pampa.
   
   
   
   The shrine is of two storeys. We see Sathya Narayana Swamy, in the upper level and in the down level we have the padha darshanam of main deity.
   
   
   
   Devasthanam choultry is available. There are few hotels available for accomdation.
   
   
   
   
3. Chebrolu:
   
   
   This place is bout 20kms from Annavaram. This is Sita Rama Devalayam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Sita Rama sculpture made of one single stone, and Seetha is seen on Sri Rama’s lap.

Pancha ramala Kshetram

Panchaa ramala Kshetram:This is a group of 5 temples, in Andhra Pradesh. According to puranas the temples are age old. The latest construction works and development took place in 10th Century, during chalukaya period.
According to purana, Tarakasuran did penence and was blessed by Lord Brahma. He did penance and was also blessed by Lord Siva. He was too strong and he can be defeated only by Siva sankalpam.



He acquired an "Athma lingam" from Lord Siva and was asked to wear it to neck so that no one can defeat him. Once he acquired all these powers he started troubling everyone on earth. To rescue the living beings on earth from Tarakasuran Siva had to take step.



Siva, parvathy marriage took place and Lord Subramanian was born. As he grew up he was made the head of warriors of Devas. Lord Subramanya was asked to fight with Tarakasura. Lord Subramanya took Agni astram and aimed at Athma Lingam
tied in the neck of Tarakasuran and it broke into 5 pieces and thrown in different places.



Subramanya asked them to install the pieces immediately in the places where they fell. In three places the Siva lingam started growing, and it was nailed says puranas. There is a controversy about this.



These five places are called as “Pancha arama kshetram”.
The places are “Draksharamam” were Daksha prajapathy installed the Athma lingam, “Kumara ramam”, were Lord Subramanya swamy installed the Athma lingam here, “Ksheera ramam”, were Lord Sri Rama installed the Athma lingam, “Amara ramam” were Amarendra installed the Athma lingam and “Soma ramam” were Lord Chandra installed the Athma Lingam.

1. Draksharamam:
   
   
   The temple is in East Godavari district of AP. It is 10th Century temple.
   The place is about 60kms from Rajamandry and 32kms from Kakinada.
   
   
   
   This is the place were Daksha prajapathy did his Daksha yagnam and hence the name Draksharamam. The temple arectiture is blend of both chalukya and chola.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu spatika Sivalinga of 16’height and the main sanctum is of 2 floors. The Siva lingam is known as Bheemeswarar and it is also known as Bogalingam. Here the installation of Bheemeswarar was done by Dakshaprajapathi, and hence the name Draksharamam for the town.
   
   
   
   
   Goddess is Manikamba is one of the "Sakthi peetam" and here she is ichha sakthi and gyana sakthi as well. Here sati Devi’s navel part fell, and this is one of the sakthi peetam. She is rested on “Srichakra” here. We can have the darshan of srichakram also. She is having Athma lingam in her hand.
   
   
   
   
   Any pooja for Lord Shiva is done from the first floor only. Before we enter into main sanctum we enter into two prakaram which are dark. On the walls of the prakaram we see too many small projections of small stones which they say when the temple was constructed originally there were diamonds kept in those places and the prakaram was well lighted by glitter of diamond stones. When they started robbing the diamond they turned into stones.
   
   
   
   Purana says the temple was originally constructed by demons. We find a pillar in the same prakaram which is supposed to be the foundation pillar of the temple and it is close to the wall and we are supposed to pass through the gap and it is known as “Moksha Dwaram”. To the corner of the prakaram there is a small place from where we can have “Sikara Darshanam”
   
   
   
   As we reach we can have the darshan of Bheemeswarar on four sides.
   The other deities in the temple are Ganapathy and Nrithya ganapathy near the entrance of the temple.
   
   
   
   As we enter inside there is a Dwajasthambam and in the prakaram we see Lakshmi Narayanar who is kshetra palakar. Virupakshar, Saptha madhar, Subramanyar, small stone miniature of the temple, unjal mandapam, Navagraham, Ashta dik balakar, Sikha Anjaneyar, Kailasa ganapathy, 108 Siva lingam on a square stone in a line, and bhima sabha.
   
   
   
   
   Annadhanam is provided in the temple and a big hall with locker and a rooms are also available there.
   
   
   
2. Kumara ramam:
   The place is in East Godavari district of AP.
   
   
   
   The temple is in Samalkotha which is 16kms from Pithapuram and 13kms from Kakinada. This is 10th Century temple. One piece of Athma lingam was thrown here and the installation was done by Lord Subramanya and hence the name Kumara ramam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is huge swayambu spatika lingam known as Bheemeswarar, and his consort Bala Thirupaura sundari. As we enter the temple we see pond in front, dwajasthambam and a huge nandi.
   
   
   
   As we go around the prakaram we see Ganapathy, Soorya Narayanar, Dattatreyar, Saraswathy without veena in her hand, Sapthamadhar, Subramanayar, Mahishasura mardhini, Lakshmi, and Kala Bairavar.
   
   
   
   The main sanctum is of two levels we climb steps to reach the first floor and we have the darshan of “Lord Bheemeswarar” and “Bala Thirupura sundari” with Athma lingam in her hand beside Siva lingam in the main sanctum. In front of Siva lingam small nandi is there and we see padam in front of nandi.
   
   
   
3. Ksheeraramam:
   
   
   The place is in west Godavari district of AP.
   It is 11kms from Narasapur, 21kms from Bheemavaram. The temple dates to 10th century
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu spatika lingam known as Ksheera Ramalingeswarar. This is another place where a piece of Athma lingam fell and it was installed by Lord Sri Rama, and hence the name Ramalingeswarar. The Siva lingam is small in this place, it is not smooth and it is white in color.
   
   
   
   The temple gopuram is about 125’height. Near the main entrance of the temple we see Veerabadharar and Anjaneyar to either side. There separate sanctums for Lakshmi, Janardhanar, Saraswathy and Brahama, and hence the temple is known as Trimoorthy temple also.
   
   
   
   
   Other deities seen inside the temple are Mahishasuramardhini, Kumara swamy and Subramanyar in the form of Nagar, in different sanctums.
   
   
   
   
4. Somaramam:
   
   
   The temple is in Gunupudi village of Bheemavaram town, west Godavari district, AP.The place is 32 kms from Narasapur and 70kms from Eluru.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity: Swayambu spatika Athma lingam known as Someswarar. One of the pieces of Athma lingam fell here and it was installed by Lord Chandra, hence the name Somaramam.
   
   
   
   The Lingam is big and changes its colors which is something unique. It is milky white on full moon day and by the time of new moon day it changes into whitish or black.
   
   
   
   We see goddess parvathi to side in different sanctum near the main sanctum of Lord Siva. In front of Someswarar we see saligrahamam.
   
   
   To the main mandapam, we have steps leading to Annapurani temple which is above Main Siva sanctum. Amba and Ambalika are Dwara balikas to the sanctum of Annapurani.
   
   
   
   The other deities around the temple are Kumaraswamy, Lakshmi Janardhanar, Subramanya swamy, and Soorya Narayana Moorthy. There is a separate sanctum for Nava graham. There is a pushkarani in front of the temple.
   
   
   
5. Amararamam:
   
   
   
   This is in Amaravathy town of Sathanapalli taluk, Guntur district.AP.
   The place is 30kms from Guntur.
   
   
   Main Deity: Swayambu Spatika Athma Siva lingam Known as Amararamam.
   
   
   The Athma lingam piece which fell here was installed by Amarendran and hence the name Amaravathy for the place. The Siva lingam started growing here and they it was nailed to stop the growth. Again here the lingam is too big and can be worshipped from first floor.
   
   
   We see marks which they say, is the blood stains when nailed. We see 108 Siva lingam in the prakaram. River Krishna is flowing near by.

[Swyambu Lingam][spatika Lingam][athma Lingam]

Melacheruvu Siva temple and Wadapalli Agyastheeswarar temple.

Melacheruvu Someswara swamy, wadapalli Agasteeswara swamy and Chejerla Kapodeeswara Swamy, all three temples sthala puranam seems to be the same.
They say the three kshetras are a group.


Sthala puranam: A hunter aimed at a dove which took shelter in to the temple of shiva.So, when the hunter asked for the dove Siva refused and in turn he asked him to take his flesh. There was no choice for the hunter and he removed flesh from the top of Shiva lingam. The cut we see on the top of Shiva lingams relates itself to the sthala puranam.


We visited Melacheruvu and Wadapalli on the same day. Chejerla, Kapotheeswara swamy temple, of Guntur District, we visited some 20 years back, so I hardly remember about the temple. I wish I will be able to visit the place some time.

1. Melacheruvu:
   
   Someswara Swamy and Ishta Kameswari Ambal.
   
   
   The temple dates back to some 6000 years.The present structure of the temple is of 600 years old. The temple is small one with place left around.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   LOrd Siva in the form of Lingam, it is known as swayambu lingeswara Swamy of Kakathiya Dynasty. According to purana the Siva lingam was installed by Agastaya muni.
   As we enter we find a huge Dwajasthambam. Kala bairawar near the dwajasthambam is seen. Nandi is a huge one near the dwajasthambam opposite to Main deity Someswara lingam.
   
   
   
   Archakar say, the main lingam is growing. It is also interesting to find that every foot (0.3m) of growth there forms a round line on Siva Linga We find a small hole on top of the main lingam, where water is there always and it does not overflow. Poojari sprinkles the water from there on devotees.
   
   
   
   They say once they tried to find how deep the hole is and where the water comes from. They were not able to find out and when they removed the thread which they used to find the depth was with blood to the tip. They believe it is Ganga water on the Siva lingam and that is given as teertha prasadam.
   
   
   
   We see Goddess Ishta kameswari in different santum with separate dwajasthambam.
   Something unique about the goddess is we see Siva linga in her hand. Navagrahas are installed at little distance in separate sanctum.
   
   
   The place is a small town and there are not much of facilities available and the temple is opened in the morning. We were lucky enough to get the darshan of lord Siva.
   
   
   This temple is about 10 Kms from Mattapalli, Narashima Kshetram and that was how we
   visited. I have mentioned abort the route in my visit to pancha Narashima kshetram.
   
   
   
   
   
2. Wadapalli:
   
   
   Agastheeswara Swamy Swamy and Meenakashi Ambal.
   
   
   
   The temple is near Lakshmi Narashima Swamy temple of wadapalli. The location and route is mentioned in my visit to pancha Narashima kshetram.
   The temple premise is big but sanctum is small one.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   We have darshan of dwajasthambam and nandi. We see Ganesha and Subramanya to either side of the main sanctum. Inside we have the darshan of Lord Siva in the form of huge lingam. We can find the opening on the top of Shiva lingam, where we see it’s full of water. It appears as opened mouth. Even here teertha prasadam and water is sprinkled on devotees from the water taken from the Siva lingam.
   
   
   
   Goddess Meenakshi is seen in separate room close to main deity Lord Siva. We see Agyasthaya muni and Lopamudra sculpture in the sanctum.
   
   
   The temple is as old as 6000 years, and the present structure is 600 years old.
   The temple is on the bank of Krishnaveni River.
   
   
   The atmosphere is very peaceful and green. We have darshan of Navagrahas in a separate sanctum away from the main temple.
   
   
   
   
3. Chejerla:
   
   
   This temple is in Guntur district. Main deity here is Lord Siva in Lingam form known as Kapotheeswar.

[Agastheeswarar][Someswarar][Agasthiyar][LordSiva]

Maheswaram temple and Karman ghat temple. Hyderabad

1. Maheswaram: Siva temple.
   
   
   The temple is located about 50Kms from Secunderabad and it’s on the way to Srisailam from Hyderabad. The temple is of some 350 years old
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Shiva Ganga Raja Rajeswari and Raja Rajeswara swamy.
   
   
   
   
   
   The temple is constructed on the pushkarani Known as Shiva Ganga. It’s a big pushkarani with steps leading down to the water, and we find small 16 sanctums around the pushkarani with small Shiva lingas in it. In some of the sanctums the original shiva linga is missing. These are shodasa lingas around the main Goddess.
   
   
   
   We find three main trees in one place and Ganesha in a small sanctum near this. We enter into a small hall and there is a path leading to main sanctum and steps to the side, leading down to pushkarani.
   
   
   
   The temple is constructed in the pushkarani with two floors. After we worship the pushkarani we enter into a hall where we have the darshan of Goddess Raja Rajeswari. In front of her sanctum we find lion sculpture.
   
   
   As we climb few steps we reach Lord Shiva temple. We see Nandidevar in front of the sanctum and Shiva in the form of Linga known as Raja Rajeswarar.
   
   
   Purana says Akkanna and Madanna developed the temple.
   Shivarathri festival is celebrated here. Once again comittee members are developing the temple now.
   
   
   
2. 
   Karman Ghat: Anjaneyar.
   
   
   The temple is in saroor Nagar, Hyderabad, AP. The temple is 15 kms from Hyderabad Rly station and 12 Kms from Imliban bus station. The temple is opened to public from 6-12 noon and 4-8 in the evening. The temple dates back to year 11century.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   According to, history 2nd Kakatiya king Pratapa rudra,went for hunting one day, and he heard the roar of tiger and he proceded towards that direction. He could not find and he rested under a tree and again he heard the roar from a bush nearby and he heard a voice asking him to meditate, and then he will be able to find what it is.
   
   
   The King did as he was asked and he saw Swayambu Anjaneyar in front of him near the bush when he cleared it. Tke King left to his palace Golkonda. The same night he had a dream to construct a temple for Anjaneyar at the same place where he saw and the place was Lakshmi puram forest and it will be known as Karman Ghat hereafter.
   
   
   King did as he was asked and the construction was started on Hanumath Jayanthi day. The main sanctum is Anjaneyar.
   
   
   Later on many sanctums were constructed for other deties like Ganesha, Rama mandir, Durga devi, Saraswathi, Kasi viswanadhar, spatika linga and Bramaramba, Santoshi matha, Navagraha, Venu gopalan, Jaganadhar and Subramanya in the form of Nagar by the kings who ruled later.
   
   
   The history says Aurangazeb ordered his soilders to demolish the temple and they were not able to reach the temple surroundings. So he himself came to temple and he heard a voice to get the strength to do so before demolishing. Aurangazeb in turn asked to prove the power, and he had the darshan of hanuman and he left the temple. There is a small idol of Hanuman in gold in the main sanctum.

Pancha Narashima Kshetram, AP

Pancha Narashima Kshetram: Vadapalli, Mattapalli, Kethavaram, Vedadri and Mangalagiri.

1. Mattapalli: Sri Lakshmi Narashima Swamy
   
   
   The temple is situated on the banks of River Krishna at Mattapalli in Huzurnagar Talaq of Nalgonda District, Andhra Pradesh.
   
   
   The place is about 225 kms from Hyderabad, and 25 Kms from Huzurnagar. The place can be reached by train. The station is Miryalaguda, from there you have to take a bus to Huzarnagar and from there share autos are available.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main Deity is Swayambu Sri Lakshmi Narashima Swamy. This is a cave temple.
   We see Goddess Rajyalakshmi and Chenchu lakshmi Thayar to side, which was installed later.
   
   
   
   Inside the cave the sacred image of Lakshmi Narashimar in seated posture, with well spread hood of “Sesha” over the head. He is fully adorned with shanku, Chakra, and Gada.
   
   
   
   We see urchava vigrahas also inside the sanctum. Baktha prahaladha is near the main deity who can be seen only in the morning at 5Am, rest of the day it is covered with flowers alankaram.
   
   
   
   Sri Lakshmi Narashima Swamy was worshipped by Sages and Rishis. Purana says Barawadja muni worshipped lord here. In Kaliyuga Lord appeared in dream to Sri Anumula Machi Reddi then the ruler of Thangeda a place nearby. He asked him to go in search, of his swayambu image in the form of Narashima in one of the caves on the bank of River Krishna. As he was not able to locate the place he prayed to Lord to help him out.
   
   
   
   Lord indicated that there would be an eagle sitting on an “Are” tree and opposite to it in a cave he can find the image. Machi Reddy was able to locate the place and he constructed the temple.
   
   
   
   Once upon a time the place was forest area but now it is not so. Opposite to the main cave we see Garuda and Hanuman. We can have darshan of Brugu, Marichi, Athri and Kasyapa muni idols. Next to them Ramanujar is also seen.
   
   
   
   The place is a small town. There are rooms available near the temple. Sri Mukkore Lakshmi Narashimachariar is fond of this place, and he had mentioned about the main deity Sri Lakshmi narashimar in his book Kurai ondrum illai.
   
   
   
   They have arrangements for meals at 1.30 as annadhanam scheme. Sahasranama archana for the lord begins at 11.30Am.
   
   
   
2. Vedadri: Yogananda Lakshmi Narashima Swamy temple.
   
   
   
   The temple is on the bank of Krishna River and it’s located in Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh. It’s about 10 kms from chillakallu on the national highway from Vijayawada to Hyderabad.
   
   
   
   Brahma purana says, Somasura stole the Vedas from Brahma and hided himself in ocean. Brahma approached Lord Vishnu to get back the Vedas from the Asura. Sriman Narayanar in the form of Matchaya avathara rescued the Vedas from the asura.
   
   
   Vedas took human form and thanked lord Vishnu, and prayed to stay on their heads.
   Lord Vishnu agreed to stay with them as pancha murthy, only after Hyranya vadham. He asked them to stay in the river as Saligrahama Mountain till then.
   
   
   Lord Narayanar in the form of Narashima killed, Hiranya kasyapa and ever since stayed as jwala Narashima on the mountain head of Vedadri.
   
   
   
   Brahma requested Lord Narashima to stay at sathya lokha as saligrahama. Lord Narashima agreed and even before Brahma could offer prayers to Lord the sathya lokha was in flames. So Brahma brought back the saligrahma moorthy to River Krishnaveni and erected it on Saligrahma Mountain. Thus Lord Narashima fulfilled the wishes of Veda Purushas and River Krishnaveni.
   
   
   
3. Vadapalli: This is the first pancha Narashima kshetram.
   
   
   This place is 20 kms from Miryalaguda station which is on Hyderabad to Chennai via Nalgonda. The place belongs to Nalgonda district of Andhra Pradesh.
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity is Sri Lakshmi Narashima Swamy.
   
   
   Purana says 6000 years back Agyasthya muni brought the Siva Kesava idols and he wanted to install them. He was traveling through all Lokas and finally he landed in Bholokaham, as he was heading towards Kasi kshetram, he heard akasa vani saying that Lord Narashima wanted to be installed at this place where sangamam of River Krishna and River musi.
   
   
   
   Agyastayar installed and constructed a temple for Lord Narashimar. As the years passed there was lot of changes and the temple was not taken care and the main deity was covered by ant hill.
   
   
   
   During 12th century Reddy Kings developed their city and at that time they found the deity of Narashimar and they re constructed the temple and installed the main deity.
   
   
   The temple is small one and has lot of place, around it with trees and plants. We see Dwjasthanbam near the entrance and Garuda near the Dwajasthambam. As we enter inside we have the darshan of Jaya, Vijayan to either side of the entrance. We have to enter into artha mandapam and inside in the main sanctum we have the darshan of Lord Lakshmi Narashima swamy. There is no separate sanctum for Goddess. This is the only sanctum in the temple.
   
   
   
   Inside the main sanctum we see two lamps lit and tied to a pole next to deity. One lamp is to the height of main god and the other is half way down. The light lit to the lamp on the top is wavering where as the one to the other lamp is still.
   They say the shake in the light is due to the breath of Lord Narashima in main sanctum.
   
   
   This is a unique thing about the Lord of this place. The deepam here is Akanda Deepam.
   
   
   
   The temple is open upto 12 noon and in it’s opened again at 4.30 Pm onwards As we go around the temple to the side we have the darshan of Anjaneyar. This is a small village and we did not see any rooms as such for rental.
   
   
   
4. Mangalagiri: Panakala Narashimar.
   
   
   
   The place is about 20kms from Vijayawada. The temple was found by pandava king Yudishtra.
   
   
   
   
   Mangalagiri is in existence from the beginning of all Four Yuga. It was known as Anjanadri in Krutha Yugam, Totadri in Tretha Yugam, Mukthadri in Dwapara Yugam and Mangalagiri in Kali Yugam.
   
   
   
   
   Sri Narashima Swamy destroyed the demon known as Namuchi in Kritha Yugam. He stayed back as Swayambu Moorthy in this place. Devas were unable to with stand Lord’s Ugra Swaroopam, and they tried to cool him by offering Amrutham in Krutha yugam, in Tretha yugam he was offered Cow’s Ghee, in Dwapara yugam he was offered Cow’s Milk and in Kaliyugam he is offered Panakam.
   
   
   
   Anjaneyar is Kshetra palakar in this place.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   We see an arch near the entrance of road leading to Panakala Narashima Swamy temple on hill top.
   
   
   
   
   The hill looks like an elephant. Prince Harsva srungi visited all holy places and came to Mangalagiri and stayed back doing penance in praise of Lord Vishnu. One day when his father visited this holy place, to take his son back to kingdom Harsva srungi took the shape of an Elephant to become the abode of Lord Vishnu, who is known as Panakala Narashima Swamy. This is the legend about the hill of this place.
   
   
   
   To reach the top of hill we have steps as well as road. We reach the Panakala Narashima swamy temple, mid way to the hill top. There are many shops selling pooja items.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   We see Dwajasthambam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   We enter into a sanctum where to the left we have darshan of Sri Hanuman and we proceed further in a line to have darshan of Sri Panakala Narashima swamy.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   We see a cut in the rock to which the face of Narashima Swamy kavacham with wide opened mouth is kept. This is the place where Panakam (Panakam is made of Water and Jaggery) is offered to God.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   We climb few steps to see Hanuman sculpture to the wall.
   
   
   
   Further few steps lead us to Thayar Sannidhi, which is behind Sri Narashimar sanctum.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   There is a small cave outside next to Sri Lakshmi temple,which is believed to lead to Vundavalli caves on the bank of River Krishna. The Sages used to use that way to have their bath in River Krishna.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Sri Lakshmi Narashima swamy temple view from top of the hill
   
   
   
   The temple is closed by 4PM.
   
   
   
   Lakshmi Narashima Swamy temple:
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The main Raja Gopuram of nine tiers facing east. .
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   As we enter in we see Dwajasthambam in front of the main mandapam of Lakshmi Narashimar temple.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   When we go around the temple we see Sanctum for Sri Rama to the left. West gopuram is un finished. We see Rajalakshmi Thayar Sannidhi to right side of main Sanctum.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   We climb few steps to enter inside the main mandapam where we see Garudazhwar sanctum.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   This is the main sanctum door of Sri Lakshmi Narashima Swamy Temple.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Tanjavoore painting of Sri Lakshmi Narashimar and Sri Rajayalakshmi Thayar is seen on mandapam wall inside.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Charriot of Sri Lakshmi Narashimar Swamy Temple.
   
   
   
   
   
5. Kethavaram: We are yet to visit the place. This is a place to be visited during day time only.
   
   
   

[Narashimar][PanchaNarashima) [NarashimaKshetram]

Sri Yogananda Narashima swamy temple, Vedadri, krishna district.

1. Yogananda Lakshmi Narashima Swamy temple:
   
   
   Main Deity is Yogananda Lakshmi narashima Swamy.
   
   
   The temple is on the bank of River Krishna. It is situated at 10 Kms from Chillakallu on National high way No.9 from Vijayawada to Hyderabad.
   
   
   
   Importance: Here the Lord is existing in five forms different from each other known as Pancha Narashima Moorthy.
   
   
   Namely Jwala Narashima on vedasikara of the mountains, Saligrahma Narashima in the River Krishnaveni.
   
   Yogananda Narashima erected by sage Rishya Sringar, as Lakshmi Narashimar on his own peetam.
   
   
   Veera Narashimar on garudadri situated at a distance of 5kms from east to Vedadri.
   
   
   The Brahma Purana says Somasura stole the Vedas from Brahma, and hid himself into the ocean. Lord Brahma approached Lord Vishnu to help him out to get back the vedas from the asura.
   
   
   Sriman Narayanar took the form of fish {mathsaya avatara} and entered deep into the ocean and rescued Vedas from asura. The Vedas took human form and thanked Lord Vishnu, and asked Lord to stay with them on their heads. Lord agreed to stay till the time comes and he asked them to stay in River Krishnaveni as saligrama stone.
   
   
   
   After Hirnaya kashapa vadam Lord Narayanar who incarnated himself as Narashimar, stayed as Jwala Narashimar on the mountains head at vedadri in fulfillment of his words to veda purushas.
   
   
   Lord Brahma requested Jwala Narashima to stay at sathya lokha as saligrahama, and Lord Narashimar obliged to do so. Even before Lord Brahma could offer his prayer to Lord, sathya lokha was consumed in flames.
   
   
   Lord Brahma personally brought the Saligrahma moorty to the River Krishnaveni and erected it on the saligrahma mountain.
   
   
   Krishnaveni prayed to Narayanar, to allow her to worship him daily. Here Lord Lakshi Narshimar the incarnation of Sriman Narayanar fulfilled the desire of both veda purusha and river Krishnaveni.

yadagiri gutta Secunderabad AP.

Lakshmi Narashima Swamy:


This is a cave temple on the top of a hill 60 Kms away from Hyderabad,6 kms away from Raigiri railway station.







Main Deity: Swayambu Lakshimi Narashima Swamy.


Once the sage Rishyasringa muni's son Yadagiri, who penanced here in the cave with the blessings of Anjaneyar on this hill between Bhongiri and Rayagiri in Nalgonda district hence the place is known as Yadagiri Gutta.


Lord was pleased with his devotion and appeared in five different forms. Yadarishi sought to see him with his consort Lakshmi on his lap.


We have to go through an entrance which narrows itself into a dark cave, to have the darshan of the main deity Lakshmi Narashima Swamy. Lord Narashima is found sculpured to the rock.


Alwars are seen worshipping Lord here. The rock formation in the hill are considered as Jwala Narashima and Yoga Narashima respectively.





On the hillock there is a Siva temple also.



Down the hill a kilometer away there is Narashima swamy temple which was the first place Narashima reveled himself.





As we climb few steps we see padam which denotes to Narashima climbed up to gutta from there.


Puranic knowledge city near Yadagiri gutta.





The place is still under construction and its going to get opened shortly.
Near the entrance we see a big statue of pancha muka Hanuman and pancha mukha Siva.



[Narashimar][Siva][Parvathi][Lakshmi]

Sri Ranganadhar temple, Jiyaguda, Hyd.

1. Ranganadhar temple:
   
   
   Sri Ranganadhar temple of Jiyaguda is 4kms from Afzalgung, Hyderabad. the temple is 500 years old.
   
   
   As we enter we see Dwajasthambam and Garuda azwar in front of the main deity in the main hall. There is a beautiful bunch of brass lamp
   
   
   
   
   
   
   Main deity: Ranganadhar in sleeping form on Adiseshan with Goddess Sridevi, Boodevi, Neeladevi beside him and Brahma in lotus.
   
   
   He has rested his head to one hand, one to side, third one holding sanku and fourth one holds chakkra. The main deity is small in size.
   
   
   There are 2 small sets of brass idols of Narayanar with Sridevi and Bhoodevi in standing posture. Abishekam is performed for vishnu in saligrama form which is in the main sanctum.
   
   
   We find brass sudarshanar inside the sanctum. seperate urchava vigram is also there.
   As we go around the main sanctum, we see Thayar in different sanctum known as Lakshmi.
   
   
   
   The main deity was installed by Vanamamalai jeeyer. There is a well in the temple premises in which the water is clear and one can see the bottom.
   
   
   There are some brass idols in different small sanctum of which one exclusive piece is Ranganadhar idol exactly like the main deity.
   
   
   we find Anjaneyar in seperate sanctum and Navagraha is also seen which is a rare thing in vaishnava temples.

[Ranganadhar]
[Vishnu]
[Hanuman]
[Lakshmi]

Sri Ranganadha swamy temple at Rangbagh, Hyd and Peddamma temple, Jubliee hills

1. Ranganadha Swamy temple:
   
   
   Sri Ranganadha swamy temple is located at Rangbagh, Nanakram guda Hyderabad, which is about 17 kms from central Hyd. The temple is about 350 years old.
   
   
   The temple and its surrounding lands were purchased by Seth Shival pitti in the year 1861. It was a part of the private property of the Pitti family till 1954. Now it is transferred to trust which was created by pitti family.
   
   
   This is the only temple of the present day which has re-aligned rituals of worship with traditional dance during Brahmotsavam. This was started in the year 1966 and it has marked a new chapter of indian dance.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   As we enter in we see Dwajasthambam with brass covering. we first pray to garuda and Hanuman in front of Ranganadhar to main hall.
   
   
   Main deity SRi Ranganadha swamy is carved from a single black stone. Ranganadhar is in relaxed reclining posture under the hood of Adi seshan. We see Sridevi, Bhoodevi, Neela devi beside him and Brahama on lotus.
   
   Ranganadhar is resting his head on a hand and facing deciples who come to temple. Sanku and chakkra to two hands and fourth one is to the side.
   
   
   To the same stone on the top we see incarnations of Dasavatharam which is rare thing. Pancha lokha urchava moorthy of all deities are seen inside the main sanctum.
   
   
   As we go around the main sanctum we see seperate sanctum for Acharas and Ramanajacharya. One more sanctum is there for goddess Laksmi made of black stone. Urchavar is also there in pancha lokha.
   
   
   Annual brahmaotsavam is celebrated and utsava moorthy are taken around with various vahanas.
   
   
   
   
2. Peddamma temple :
   
   
   
   The temple is thousand years as per the legend. This temple is in Jubilee hills.It is on the main road.
   
   
   The goddess inside the main sanctum is sitting on simha vahanam as santha swarupam.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The legend says Goddess after slaying the demons visited the place to quench her thirst at the well situated here and she was seen by a sheperd and that moment goddess turned into an idol. a small temple was built at that time in thr same place.
   
   
   In 1993-94 the temple has developed with sanctum sanctoram,and Raja gopuram.
   As we take a round of the main sanctum we see Nava matha sculptures in a small sanctum.
   
   
   Next to this temple in the same premises there is another temple where Valamburi ganesha is seen. To either sides in different sanctums Goddess Lakshmi Devi and Goddess saraswathi are seen.
   
   
   There is seperate sanctum for Nagadevata in the same premises of Peddamma temple
   
   

[Ranganadhar]
[Lakshmi]
[saraswathi]