Saturday, 30 April 2011

Temples of Telangana


A
                                                       
                                                      PROJECT REPORT 
                                                                                                                                                                                                                        ON 
                                                                                                                                                                                     

                                 “Temples of Telangana”

                                                                        By

                 THOGARU HARIKRISHNA
                                          Rool number: 101009314002
          Project Submitted in partial fulfillment for the award of the degree of
‘MASTER OF ARTS’

 
                              PG College Secunderabad. (2009-2011)

                                     OSMANIA UNIVERSITY, HYDERABAD­-500007
                                                



                                            


            
             
                                   DECLARATION



       I here by declare that project report titled “Temples of Telangana” Submitted by me to the Department of  Master of arts pg college secundrabad , O.U., Hyderabad, is a bonafide work undertaken by me and it is not submitted to any other university or institution for the award of any degree diploma/certificate or published any time before.





Name And Address Of Student                         Signature of the student

T.Harikrishna,
PG College Secunderabad OU.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

                                     CERTIFICATION
                                                                                                                                                                    

This is to certify that the project report title ‘‘Temples of Telangana”

Submitted in partial fulfillment for the award of ‘MA’ department of History ,pg college secunderabad,OU. Hyderabad, was carried out by T.Harikrishna under my guidance. This has not been submitted to any other university or institution for the award of any degree/diploma/certificate.




Name and address of the guide                       Signature of the guide


 

 

                    

                         Temples of Telangana

                                                  INDEX
      CONTENT
1)       Adilabad

2)       Hyderabad

3)       Karimnagar

4)       Khammam

5)       Mahabubnagar

6)       Medak

7)       Nalgonda

8)       Nizamabad

9)       Rangareddy

10)   Warangal
                                      

Telangana or Telingana is an unofficial region in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. The region lies on the Deccan plateau to the west of the Eastern Ghats range, and includes the northwestern interior districts of Warangal, Adilabad, Khammam, Mahbubnagar, Nalgonda, Rangareddi, Karimnagar, Nizamabad, Medak, and the state capital, Hyderabad. The Krishna and Godavari rivers flow through the region from west to east.
Telangana region has been ruled by many great dynasties like Sathavahanas, Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Mughals, and the Qutubshahis. As the Mughal Empire began to disintegrate in the early 18th century, the Muslim Asafjahi dynasty established a separate state known as Hyderabad. Later Hyderabad entered into a treaty of subsidiary alliance with the British Empire, and was the largest and most populous princely state in India. Telangana never under direct British rule, unlike Coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema regions of Andhra Pradesh, which were part of British India's Madras Presidency.
                   








                    Adilabad Temples


  The district derives its name from Adilabad, its headquarters town which was named after the ruler of Bijapur, Ali Adil Shah. The district was for long not a homogenius unit and its component parts were ruled at different periods by nasties namely, the Mauryas, Staavahanas, Vakatakas, Chaludyasof Badami, Rashtrakututs, Chalukyas of Kalyani, Mughals, Bhosle Rajes of Nagpur and Asaf Jahis, besides the Gond Rajas of Sirpur and Chanda.  Originally this was not full fledged district but a sub-district named Sirpur-Tandur which was created in A.D. 1872 with Edlabad(Adilabad), Rajura and Sirpur as its consistuents talukas.In 1905 the status of this sub-district was raised to that of an independent district with head quarters at Adilabad.
             The district is situated between 77.46' and 80.01' ,of the eastern longitudes and 18.40' and 19.56', of northern latitudes.The district is bounded on north by Yeotmal and Chanda district of Maharastra, on the east by Chanda district, on the south by Karimnagar and Nizamabad districts and on the west by Nanded district of Maharastra State.

Jainad Temple

                  

Jainad temple is situated in Jainath, a small village 21 Kms from AdiIabad. A prakrit. stone inscription with 20 slokas in the temple mentions that it was built by the Pallava chief. The temple has all the features of Jain style of temple architecture.
An important example of the famed Pallava architecture, this beautiful Jain temple draws countless of devotees each year. The temple is also home to a beautiful image of Lakshinarayana.

Gudem - Sri Satyanarayana Swamy Temple


Gudem Gutta is a popular temple place in the Adilabad District in the northern Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh. It has the famous 'Sri Satyanarayana Swamy Temple'. Lots of pilgrims visit this place during 'Karthika Masam' to have a holy dip in Godavari river and perform 'Satyanarayana Vratam/Puja'. It located near Mancherial. Less than 40 kms from Mancherail.
Sri Ayyappa Swamy (Abinava Shabarimal) Temple
Sri Ayyappa Swamy (Abinava Shabarimal) Temple in Gudem Gutta. Most popur Temple in north Telanga Region in AP.

Basara Sri Saraswathi Temple

This is an ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi. The temple at Basar is also the abode of Goddess Lakshmi and Kali. The current structure dates back to the Chalukya period.
This temple has no exquisite carvings like other temples. Walking ahead a few steps, one enters the sanctum sanctorum - a feeling better experienced than described. A feeling of peace, brightness and unlimited joy engulfs one. The presiding deity, 'Gnana Saraswathi Devi', is in a seated position with a 'Veena' in hand and bedecked with turmeric. Adjacent is the shrine of Goddess Maha Lakshmi and a little distance away, on the eastern side is the Maha Kali temple.



Keslapur Nagoba Temple (Jathara)

Keshlapur is a remote village , about 32kms from district centre of Adilabad and 25kms from Uttnooris the famous temple of NAGOBA, the Serpent God popularly known as “Shesha Nag” the divine serpent of Lord Shiva.
Keslapur Jathra is the major festivals celebrated by the Gonds tribe of India. At Kelaspur Jathra they worship, the snake deity called Nagoba Jathara, whose temple is found in the Keslapur village of Indervelly mandal of Adilabad district in Telanga region. The most famous attraction at the festival is the Gusadi dance performed by wearing head gears decorated with the peacock feathers, along with cotton cloth around their waist. Smearing ash all over the body is a must see at this distinctive festivals of Gonds tribe of India.
This deity is offered pujas throughout the year with much reverence and devotion not only from the devotees within the state but also from the neighbouring state of Maharashtra.
During the months of December and January (The month of Pushyam or PushyaMasam according to the telugu calendar), this deity is offered several offerings and rendered special pujas. The entire month is termed auspicious and celebrated throughout.
The Gondu tribes of adjacent Maharashtra are regular visitors of this deity in this part of the year and visit the temple to surrender their offerings. The devotees’ comeback to get the blessings of this deity at Keshlapur, the abode of the serpent God Nagoba year after year.



                                  




                       

                    Hyderabad Temples

 

Birla Mandir


This beautiful temple, which is located atop a hill, was constructed by Birlas. Birla Mandir is composed of sculpted white marble, and floats on the city skyline from the hilltop of Kala Pahad. The idol in the temple is a replica of the one at the famous Tirupati and was completed by the Birlas in 1976. The temple offers a panoramic view of the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secundrabad. Scenes from Ramayana and Mahabharata are finely sculpted in the marble. The main idol in the temple is an 11 foot tall statue of Lord Venkateswara which is sculpted from black granite, specially mined and brought from Phirangipuram in Guntur district.
Birla Mandir on the Naubath Pahad is a magnificent Hindu temple of Lord Venkateshwara, entirely built in white marble located in Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India .
The Birla Foundation has constructed several similar temples in India, all of which are known as Birla Mandir.
The temple manifests a blend of South Indian, Rajasthani and Utkala temple architectures. In its entirety, it is made of 2000 tons of pure Rajasthani white marble.
The granite of the presiding deity is about 11 ft (3.4 m). tall and a carved lotus forms an umbrella on the roof. The consorts of Lord Venkateswara, Padmavati and Andal are housed in separate shrines. There is a brass flagstaff in the temple premises which rises to a height of 42 ft (13 m).
History
The temple is built on a 280 feet (85 m) high hillock called the Naubath Pahad on a 13 acres (53,000 m2) plot. The construction took 10 years and was consecrated in 1976 by Swami Ranganathananda of Ramakrishna Mission. The temple does not have traditional bells, as Swamiji wished that the temple atmosphere should be conducive for meditation.

The Temple

Though the chief deity is Lord Venkateshwara, the temple has pan-Hindu character with deities of Shiva, Shakti, Ganesh, Hanuman, Brahma, Saraswati, Lakshmi and Saibaba. The selected teachings of holy men and Gurbani are engraved on temple walls.
Birla temples are open to all, as identified by Mahatma Gandhi and other Hindu leaders as one of the major social evil that was to be reformed in modern India as part of Freedom struggle.
The temple complex overlooking the southern side of Hussain Sagar offers a magnificent panoramic view of the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. It presents a colorful and spectacular sight when illuminated at night.
Other nearby structures are Andhra Pradesh Secretariat, Assembly and Birla Planetarium.
Located near Secretariat & Ravindra Bharati, Opp : Reserve Bank of India.
Timings : 7am to 12pm and 2pm to 9pm. Photography not allowed

Chilkur Balaji Temple


 The Balaji temple is one of the oldest temples in the Telangana region built during the time of Madanna and Akkanna, the uncles of Bhakta Ramadas.
Approximately, 75,000 to a lakh devotees visit the shrine during the week, but on Fridays and Saturdays, the temple gets close the cumulative of a week. Many of whom come to pray to Balaji for visas to travel or move to the US and other Western countries. And its head priest Gopala Krishna is instrumental for the temples popularity as Visa God.
It is also the only temple in India that does not accept any money, does not have a hundi, from the devotees no green channel or privileges for VVIPs and it fought and won the right to stay out of government control except for the temple "Ramanuj Kot", a temple in Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
Located at Chilkur in Moinabad mandal. Around 23 km from Mehdipatnam.
Temple of Lord Sri Venkateshwara also popularly called "Visa Balaji"...!! This name is due to a very large number of devotees with a wish to go to abroad, got their wish fulfilled. It is customary to encircle the temple (known as Pradakshina) eleven times and pray to God for a specific wish. Once this wish comes true, the Devotee has to visit again and perform 108 Pradakshinas. This is one of the very few temples in India which does not accept monetary donations in a Hundi and therefore does not fall under the purview of endowments dept of our Govt. The Temple circulates a monthly magazine "Vak" which means Speech (Of GOD), nominally priced at Rs 5.00 only. This magazine is the only source of 'Temple-Income'.

 

 

Karmanghat Hanuman Temple


MaKarmanghat Hanuman Temple is located at Karmanghat, closer to Sagar Ring Road, it is a marvellous temple of Lord Hanuman. It is also said to be one of the oldest temples in the city.

History

It was built in 11th century A.D (approximately 1143).
When a Kakatiya king went hunting and was resting under a tree, he heard the chanting of Lord Rama's name. Wondering who it was in the middle of a terrible forest, he discovered a stone vigraha of Lord Hanuman, in seated posture and the voice coming from the vigraha. Having paid his respects, he returned to his capital, and that night, Lord appeared in his dream and asked him to construct a temple.
The temple was built immediately and successive kings ruled it well. About 400 years later, Aurangzeb sent out his armies to all corners of the country to wipe out hindus and hindu temples. At this temple, the army couldnt even step close to the compound wall. When the general reported this to Aurangzeb, he himself went with a crow bar to break down the temple. At the threshold of the temple, he heard a deafening roar rumblning like thunder, and the crowbar slipped from his hands as he was shaking in fear. Then he heard a voice in the heavens "Mandir todna hai rajan, to karo man ghat" ("if u want to break down the temple king, then make ur heart stronger") which is why the place got the name kar-man-ghat. And to this day, Lord Anjaneya sits peacefully meditating and blessing devotees, as Dhyana Anjanyea Swamy...

Peddamma Temple

This temple is located at Road no.55. JubileeHills, Peddamma temple is very famous among "Bonaalu" (A Very Colourful Local Festival - More popular in Telangana Regions of AP) celebrating community. The word "Peddamma", which is "Pedda+Amma", literally means 'Mother of Mothers' or "The Supreme Mother". She is one of the 11 forms of Village Deities and The Supreme most. The Temple is a must-visit during this "Bonaalu" festival which occurs during June-July every year. People offer their prayers and scrifices to The Mother round the year, and The Mother bestows Her warm to the devotees.

Ranganatha Swami Temple

Sri Ranga Natha Swamy temple is a Hindu temple located in Jiyaguda, Hyderabad. It is one of the most sacred of temple of Sri Ranganatha on the bank of Musi River. It is located near to High Court of Andhra Pradesh, and near to Purana Pul (old bridge). 
Sri Ranganatha is a Hindu God well-known in South India. The abode is a resting form of Lord Vishnu, one of the foremost of Hindu Gods. His consort is Goddess Lakshmi, also known as Ranganayaki. One of the most sacred of Ranganatha temples is Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam in Tamilnadu and 108 Divya Desams (sacred places of worship of Lord Vishnu), Ranganatha or the reclining posture of the God can be found in this temple. The people celebrate main festival during Ekadasi Festival celebrations at Ranghanatha Temple
Massive celebrations held at Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple marking the Vaikunta Ekadasi, The Ekadasi celebrations would coincide with the month long celebrations of Dhanurmasa. Celebrations would be held in accordance with the full Vaishnavite traditions. The devotees would have an experience similar to attending the Brahmotsavams of Tirumala by witnessing the special decorations of temple deity during Ekadasi celebrations. Archanas would be performed between 7 am and to 12 midnight. Having the darshan of the special decorations of temple deity would be an occasion of great spiritual importance, There would be no tickets of any kind for the darshana, and the Archanas would also be performed free, they informed. There are ample number of RTC buses to reach Jiyaguda. How to reach:
From Secunderabad Railway Station buses with numbers, 1J, 2J and 86J, which pass via Koti, kachiguda and Narayanguda, would take the devotees to temple directly. From Langar Houz buses with numbers 80 which passes via Tappa-chabutra, Hara-Darwaza and Puranapul would take the devotees to temple directly.
The Temple Committee founder trustees Srungaram Tiruvengalacharyulu, Sesha Chari priest Srungaram Rajagopala Charyulu
Around 400 Yrs old temple Located at Jijyaguda.

 

Subramanya Swami Temple

Located at Padma Rao Nagar, also called "Skanda Giri Temple", about 2 km from Secuderabad Railway Station. The word "Skanda+Giri" means The Hill of Lord Skanda, another name of Lord Subramanya. Lord Subramanya is primary deity is accompanied by Sri Valli and Sri Devasena. The other important sannadhis are Lord Sundara Ganapathi, Ekambareshwarar (Lord Shiva) accompanied by Goddess Kamakshi, Sri Varadharaja Perumal with Goddess Sridevi and Sri Bhudevi and Goddess Jaya Durga.
The Temple follows Tamil Sampradaya in terms of rituals, however, celebrates important festivals as per both Tamil and Telugu calenders.
Devotees visit the temple especially on Tuesdays as it is important for both Sri Subbramania and Goddess Jaya Durga the famous temple in hyderabad

Akkanna Madanna Temple


This temple is located in Shalibanda and is popular during the festival of Bonalu.

 

 

Ujjaini Mahankali Temple


Mahankali temple to offer 'bonam'

HYDERABAD: Lashkar Bonalu began on Sunday with thousands of devotees, especially women in their traditional attire, offering 'bonam' to Goddess Mahankali and other goddesses at various temples in Secunderabad.
As always, the Ujjaini Mahankali temple in General Bazar saw the maximum turnout of citizens and VVIPs, including chief minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy.
Located at Mahankali street, Ramgopal Pet, near Paradise. Ujjaini Mahankali Temple is a highly revered shrine located in Secunderabad, Andhra Pradesh. Built in 1815 by Suriti Appayya, a resident of Secunderabad, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali. The original idol was a wooden statue later replaced with a marble statue and re-consecrated in 1964.
Bonalu is a Hindu festival of the Goddess of power, Mahakali, celebrated in Hyderabad, Secunderabad and parts of Telangana and Rayalaseema in India.[1] It is celebrated in the month of Ashada masam, in July/August. Special poojas are performed for Yellamma on the first and last day of the festival.[2] The festival is also considered a thanksgiving to the Goddess for fulfillment of vows.
Bonam means Bojanaalu or a meal in Telugu, is an offering to the Goddess. Women bring cooked rice with milk, sugar sometimes onions in a brass or earthen pot, adorned with small neem branches and turmeric, vermilion (kunkum) or Kadi (white chalk) and a lamp on the top. Women place the pots on their heads and take it to Goddess temple, led by drummers and dancing men.
Bonalu festival begins with the Golconda Mahankali, located inside the Golconda fort, and follows with Secunderabad's Ujjaini Mahakali Temple also called as Lashkar Bonalu, Balkampet Yellamma temple and then to the old city.[3].
The festival starts at Golconda
Women carrying Bonalu are believed to possess the spirit of Mother Goddess, and when they go towards the temple, people pour water on their feet to pacify the spirit, who, by nature, is believed to be aggressive..
It is believed that the Goddess comes back to her maternal home during Ashada Maasam, so people come to see her and bring offerings of food to show their love and affection, just as they would prepare a special meal when their own daughters visit them.

 

Potharaju


A woman under trance
Potharaju, the brother of Mother Goddess, is represented in the procession by a well-built, bare-bodied man, wearing a small tightly draped red dhoti and bells on his ankles, and anointed with turmeric on his body and vermilion on his forehead. He dances to resounding drums..

Ghatam

Ghatam is a copper pot, decorated in the form of mother goddess . The Ghatam is carried by a priest , who wears a traditional dhoti and body with smeared in turmeric . The Ghatam is taken into procession from first day of the festival till last day, when it is immersed in water . The Ghatam in usually accompanied by drums.
Ghatam is followed after Rangam. The festival concludes with immersion of Ghatam. The ghatam of Haribowli's Akkanna Madanna Temple[9][10] leads the procession, placed atop an elephant and accompanied by mounted horses and models depicting Akkanna and Madanna. It ends in the evening with a glittering procession and display followed by immersion of ghatams at Nayapul.
.Sanghi Temple
Sanghi Temple, located at Sanghi Nagar in Andhra Pradesh in India, is about 35 km from Hyderabad city.[1] The sacred Raja Gopuram, which is very tall, can be seen from several kilometers away.
The temple complex is located on the top of Paramanand Giri hill, which attracts a number of devotees who seek the gods' blessings. The beauty of the slope around the temple is a popular view among its visitors. As you approach the Paramanand Giri, the gateway, or Maha Dwaram, welcomes the visitors. As you further proceed, the stone elephant is seen at the stairway. There are three Gopurams seen at the foot of the hillock which are so tall and seem as if touching the heavens. On the top of the temple complex, one can see the shrine of Lord Anjaneya, the son of Anjana devi and Wind God, who is believed to shower his blessings to his devotees.
The temple is constructed in South Indian style of temple architecture and houses all important Hindu God idols. It is a favorite getaway point for the Hyderabadis as well as a popular tourist spot. The idol of Venkateshwara inside the sanctum sanctorum is 9-½ ft tall.
Timings of Sanghi Temple 08.00 a.m. to 08.00 p.m.,break b/w 1pm to 4pm on all days except notified public holidays.
Timings : 6am to 1pm and 4pm to 8pm.
This temple, dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, graces a promontory overlooking Sanghi Nagar. This temple is named after the family of Sanghis, owner of Sanghi group of industries. This beautiful temple, which is located a top a hill has been constructed in South Indian style with deities of many Gods. It has now become a major spot of shooting of films. Also, the hill-top view is very refreshing and the calm breeze brings joy and peace. The best time to visit this temple is in the evenings during sun set. The sun-set view is just very beautiful.

 Ashtalakshmi Temple, Hyderabad

Ashtalakshmi Temple is a popular Hindu temple of Goddesses Ashtalakshmi in Hyderabad, India. This magnificent temple dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi stands distinctly on the outskirts of the city of Hyderabad. Amidst the varied Islamic architectural monuments in Hyderabad, this temple has a different style - a touch of the south-Indian architecture.
In India, among the Hindu pantheon, the Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, finds a special place in the hearts of the people for she brings prosperity and happiness as well as salvation. But very few temples have Goddess Lakshmi in all her eight splenderous forms.
This temple has Goddess Lakshmi as Ashtalakshmi in all her eight forms. This temple is located in the Dilsukh Nagar locality of Hyderabad.

Katta Maisamma temple

Katta Maisamma temple is an Hindu temple located at Tank Bund in Hyderabad.[1] It is popular during the time of Bonalu festival.
Main article: Katta Maisamma temple
This temple is located at Lower Tank Bund.

Balkampet Yellamma temple

Balkampet Yellamma temple is an Hindu temple located at Balkampet in Hyderabad.[1] It is very famous among Bonaalu and on Sundays.This temple is located at Balkampet.

ISKCON Temple

The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) was established by His Divine Grace Abhay Caranarvinda Bhaktivedanta Swami, affectionately known to his disciples as Srila Prabhupada. Born on September 1, 1896 in an orthodox Vaishnava family in Calcutta, India, he was named Abhay Caran by his doting parents. His father, Gour Mohan Dey, particularly wanted Abhay to become a great devotee of Sri Krishna, and worked hard to develop his natural affection for Krishna since childhood. Srila Prabhupada built 108 temples all over the world and spred the transidental knowledge of the vedas in different languages.

Shankara Math

Located at Nallakunta.
This Temple was under (branch of) Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Sankara Mutt, Kancheepuram (Kanchi), Tamil Nadu State.

 

 

Satya Sai Temple

Located at Sivam road, Near Osmania university
This 'Sivam' Temple is a branch of the International Satya Sai Seva organisation. The significance of this Temple is the regular Bhajans, Keertans & Classical Music programs.

                       Karimnagar Temples  
 Kaleswaram
Kaleeswaram Siva temple on the bank of River Godaveri. Triveni sangamam of rivers Godaveri, Saraswathi and Pranahitha.
We reached the temple at 11am. The distance is about 305 kms. We reached and from there via Parkal we reached Kaleeswaram. We went to dip our legs in the river, and on our way to temple to right we saw Sangameswara and Dattatreya in different temples. We proceded towards main temple.
Sivarathri being annual celebration in the temple there was crowd, we made through by taking a ticket for special darshan.

Kaleeswara temple: We find two deites on same avudai (base). Only one of its kind. One to the left is Kaleeswara and the other to right is Swayambu linga known as Muktheeswara.
Muktheeswara linga has two holes on it like nostrils. Any amount of water poured on linga enters through the hole and joins the River Godavari, something unique.
The sthala purana of the temple is once Narada muni raised a doubt with Godaveri and Ganga as to who is great. They started arguing and finally Ganga said she is powerful because lord Siva is on banks of River Ganges at Varanasi to bestow moksha to people who worship there.
Godaveri had no words to say. She wanted to prove herself competent to Ganga. She started penancing at the banks of Godaveri to be blessed by Siva. One day siva asked her what she wants. Godaveri asked Siva to reside on the banks and to bless people who worship there. Siva said yes and he said people attain moksha by touching, think or visit and worship. He formed as a Swayambu linga known as Muktheeswara.
The other linga known as Kaleeswara was installed by Yamadarma. There was no work in yamalokha because of Muktheeswra. He wanted to do something about it and approached Narada muni who took him to Brahma who guided him to Siva. On hearing to his complaint Siva asked him to install a linga by name Kaleeswara next to Muktheeswara on the same base and worship. He said first pooja is to Kaleeeswara and then to Muktheeswara otherwise Yama has full rights to punish them.
Goddess Parvathi is in different sanctum and there is a Srichakra yantra in front of her. There are other dieties like Vijaya ganapathi, Vishnu, Subramanya, Kasi visweswarar, Kala bairavar and Navagraha. To the front of the temple we see Yamakonam if one passes through that they will be relieved of all tortures in Yamapuri.
We see a Saraswathi devi temple outside the main temple. She is known as Maha saraswathi.

 Thousand pillar temple:
The temple is in, Hanumakonda 6kms from Kazipet junction. It was built by Kakatiya King Rudra deva. The temple is in star shape and there are three shrines to lord Siva,
Now we see only Siva linga there and other two is not to be found. The pillars of the temple is richly carved. There is a large black Nandi placed on an open platform. 
Badrakali temple:
The temple is about a kilometer from thousand pillar temple. The temple is famous and well known. It’s a very old temple of 800 hundred years. The temple is extended without disturbing the old sanctum.
Badrakali is of stone and huge one in sitting posture with eight hands. Here we see her sitting on Sadasivan. Santha swaroopini in this place.
Vemulawada near Karimnagar is a well-known pilgrimage town.
Deity: Lord Shiva. There are temples dedicated to Rajeswaraswami, Kedareswaraswami, Nageswaraswami and Bhimeswaraswami. There is also Kasi Visweswaralingam and temples dedicated to Anantha Padmanabhaswami and Laxmi.

Vemulavada is famous as the seat of a Western Chalukya Rajeswaraswami temple. There is also another temple called Waddegeswaraswami temple. There is a big tank on the northern side of the Rajeswara temple called Dharmagundam, which is fed, by a big stream that flows by the side of the village.

An inscription in the temple states that Rajaditya, a vassal of Western Chalukya King Thribhuvanamalla, did the foundation ceremony-pratisthapana and constructed this temple in the 9th year of Chalukya Vikrama Era. These kings lived around 9th and l0th centuries and hence the temple is nearly 1000-years-old. Besides many Sivalingas there are a few Buddhist and Jain images, which were added later. Similarly, there is the Seshasayi temple just behind the Rajeswara temple. There are two other temples called Bhimeswara and Kedareswara temple, in the same village. These two are very ancient temples.

Legend: It is mentioned in Rajeswara Mahatmyam that Bhimeswara took the form of Rajeswara. There is a Sthalapurana for the temple called Vemulavada Rajeswara Mahatyam. According to this, the lord`s presence here can be traced back to the Bhavishyottara Purana. The legend states - Once there was a great king by name Narendra, who was the grandson of Arjuna shot dead a Rishi. To repent the crime he wandered in holy lands until he came to Vemulavada and drank three handfuls of water from the tank Dharmagundam and he was relieved of the sin. The Lord appeared before him and told him about the shrine of Lord Siva - Rajeswara at the bottom of the tank. He was asked to bring it up and consecrate it on the banks for worship. The king accordingly did as requested. Since that time the deity is called Rajeswaraswami.

Festivals: Thousands of pilgrims flock here in the months of Magha and Phalguna. During Mahashivratri the crowd is even larger; Kalyanotsavam is celebrated on the Purnima day of Phaiguna month every year.


                        

Khammam Temples

The place Khammam has been derived from the name of a temple ‘Narasimhadri’, later ‘Stambha Sikhari’ and finally it was termed as ‘Stambhadri’. The vertical rock under the temple is known as ‘Kamba’. This very evidence shows the importance laid on temple architecture in this district. Khammam can be called a tribal land with stress laid on the agrarian sector. However, the fact remains that temples and pilgrim tours are considered significant for god-fearing devotees, who visit places like- Jeellacheruvu, Lord Shiva Temple-Kallur, Lord Venugopal Swamy Temple, Peddama Thalli Temple, Sree Seetharamachandra Swamy temple, Sri Lalitha Maha Tripura Sundari Temple. The places of Jamalpuram and Parnashala are considered extremely holy sites for the Hindus. While some of them were built in ancient times of 12th or 14th centuries, some were built in recent times by prominent people holding fundamental positions. Lord Shiva dominates in almost all the shrines, with a few exceptions. The temple structures were mostly of stone.

Bhadrachalam Rama Temple

Bhadrachalam near Khammam. This ancient shrine is built on a hill, accessed by a flight of steps.
Deity:Lord Rama

This temple is vast in size. The vimana and the mandapams are of fine craftsmanship. This temple is associated with Bhadrachala Ramadas an ardent devotee of Rama. The temple underwent renovation in the 17th century. Valmiki has sung the story of Sri Ramachandra here. The spot where the temple stands was where Lord Rama lived before Ravana carried Sita away. Lord Rama is said to have given Ramachandra darshan and liberated his soul. That is why it is called Bhadrachalam in the memory of the Saint Bhadra. The temple has beautiful pieces of sculpture that captivates the attention with their sheer beauty and excellence of workmanship. Sri Rama is shown here as handsome, well-built, holding the Dhanus-bow and arrow, and standing in the Tribhanga pose. Sita stands close to him, also in Tribhanga pose, with a lotus in one hand and the other hand in the katyavalambita posture.

Festivals: Ramadas expanded the temple and constructed mantapas and gopuras for conducting several festivals for the Lord particularly Sri Ramnavami which is celebrated on a grand scale here. The temple till recently got an endowment of Rs. 20,000/- from the Nizam`s treasury, for the maintenance of worship of Sri Rama. It was at Bhadrachalam that Sri Rama lost Sita, and it was here that he manifested himself to save his devotee Ramadas. During Sri Rama Navami endless streams of pilgrims do the famous Bhadrachala Yatra.
Other Shrines: close by are in the vicinity: Parnasala, 32 km near Bhadrachalam is said to be the site of the hut where Rama, Sita and Lakshman lived in exile. Ushnagundam, a hot water spring 6 km near Bhadrachalam is another site visited by them.

Gunti Malleshwara Swamy Aalayam Temple
Location: Khammam
Deity: Lord Shiva
It is built on the river Munera and was called Moudgalya in the past. The Sivalinga is self- manifested and very powerful. There is also an image of Virabhadra, adjacent to it. There is another temple by the name of Narasimhaswamy Aalayam close to it.

The place Khammam has been derived from the name of a temple ‘Narasimhadri’, later ‘Stambha Sikhari’ and finally it was termed as ‘Stambhadri’. The vertical rock under the temple is known as ‘Kamba’. This very evidence shows the importance laid on temple architecture in this district. Khammam can be called a tribal land with stress laid on the agrarian sector. However, the fact remains that temples and pilgrim tours are considered significant for god-fearing devotees, who visit places like- Jeellacheruvu, Lord Shiva Temple-Kallur, Lord Venugopal Swamy Temple, Peddama Thalli Temple, Sree Seetharamachandra Swamy temple, Sri Lalitha Maha Tripura Sundari Temple.





             


              MAHABUBNAGAR TEMPLES

Mahbubnagar is the largest district in Telangana region and the 2nd largest in Andhra Pradesh state. It is also lovingly called ‘Palamooru’. A number of temples braid Mahbubnagar. The temples of Mahbubnagar further add to the tourism sector of the district. The major pilgrim centres are Alampur Temple, Manikonda Temple, Wanaparthi Temple, Malleswaram Temple, Somasila temple, Sri Rangpur Temple, Uma Maheswari Temple, Tripurantakam Umamaheshwaram temple, Bekkeswara Aalayam Temple and Nava Brahma Temple on the riverbanks of Tungabhadra. The major dynasties that ruled this place were the Cholas, Kakatiyans, Vijayanagara kings and Nizam Nawabs, proof of ancientness of the beauteous construction of these legendary temples. Lord Shiva rules mostly in the shrines, with exceptions thrown here and there. The spectacular rich heritage of these constructions lay stress on the century old times, dating back to the Ramayana and Mahabharata period with elaborate sculptural works. The region is also popular for its traditional handicrafts and handloom works. The vistas prove that Mahbubnagar served a golden preceding era, an additional profit for tourist development.        
Mahabubnagar is very close to the state Capital and located at 96 Kms from Hyderabad, is well connected by road and rail and Air with all important towns and cities in the State.
Pillalamarri  : The most important place of interest near Mahabubnagar is the famous banyan tree called Pillalamarri, which is about 8-km from the city. The famous 500 yr. old Banyan tree here, covering an area of over three acres, can accommodate about 1000 people in its shade. There is a shrine of a Muslim saint under the tree. From a distance the tree presents the appearance of a small hillock with green foliage but on reaching nearer, it looks like a large green umbrella under which about thousand people can easily take shelter. The tree is a very old one and it covers an area of 3 acres (1.21 hectares).
People gather here for picnics and celebrations. You can know the history and Story of Pillalamarri by clicking here. 
Umamaheshwaram (Home of Parvathi and lord Siva)
Umamahesshwaram is located at a distance of 150 KM from Hyderabad and close by Achampet in Mahabubnagar District. Umamaheshwaram temple is situated on very tall hills of Nallamala forests and dates back to 2nd century A.D. To reach the temple, one has to ride on very steep and dangerous curves of 5 mile length from the bottom of the hill. It is well known as North Entrance to Srisailam (Jyotirlingam). Umamaheshwaram temple is in deep Nallamala forests and located in vast range of Scenic mountains. This place is popular for it's Mysterious papanashanam where you can always find a mug of water, inspite with drawing any amount of water from it throughout the year. Nobody could figure out the source of water. Till today it is the home for innumerous Sadhus. The presiding deities in Umamaheshwaram are Mallikarjuna (Shiva) and Bhramaramba (Devi).
Alampur:
Location: 200 KM from Hyderabad, 90 KM from Mahabubnagar and 27-km From Kurnool
Previously Known As: Halampuram, Hamalapuram And Alampuram.
Architecture: Chalukyan sculpture
Also Known As: Navabrahmeshwara Theertha


Alampur is located in Mahabubnagar District and it is home to the very ancient Navabhramma temples dating back to the 7th century CE. Alampur is located at a distance of 200 km from Hyderabad. Alampur is considered to be the western gateway of Sree Sailam, the revered Jyotirlinga Shivastalam in Andhra Pradesh. The southern, eastern, and northern gateways are Siddhavattam, Tripurantakam and Umamaheswaram respectively.
The Tungabhadra and Krishna are in confluence near Alampur, which is also known as Dakshina Kailasam (as is Sree Kalahasti in Southern Andhra Pradesh).  Nine temples here referred to as the Nava Bhramma temples are dedicated to Shiva.
The Nava Bhramma temples were built by the Badami Chalukyas, who ruled for about 200 years from the middle of the sixth century onwards. The Badami Chalukyas built several temples in Karnataka, and the Alampur temples in Andhra Pradesh.The Alampur site preserves archeological remains in the form of temples exhibiting a hybrid style of architecture - dating back to the 6th-7th centuries CE. Some of the images from this site are also housed in a museum nearby.
The Bala Bhramma temple is the principal shrine of worship. It dates back to the year 702 CE - per the inscriptions seen here. Shivaratri is celebrated in great splendour here.
Also in the enclosed courtyard is located the Suryanarayana temple, dating back to the 9th century. This temple has bas reliefs representing the incarnations of Vishnu.  There is also a Narasimha temple with inscriptions from the period of Krishna Deva Raya of the Vijayanagar Empire.
Near Alampur, is  Papanasam with a cluster of over 20 temples of varying sizes and styles. The most important of these is the Papanaseswara temple.:

7th Century Chalukyan Sculptures of Alampur

In the cultural history of  South India, the emergence of the Chalukyas of Badami is an important event, particularly in the field of art and architecture. They caused the excavations of rock cut temples and construction of structural temples. Having made use of the locally available red sand stone, they experimented to blend the characteristic features of the contemporary Indian architectural styles--Rekhanaga and Dravida.
This dynasty  controlled the whole of northern Deccan. The Chalukyas were supporters of Brahmanical Hinduism with its life and exuberant vitality. This resulted  in their prolific building activities which evolved their special style of architecture.
Chalukyas architecture reflects from the following images, which still can be seen at Alampur.




Other Historical Sites of Palamoor
Gadwal : Gadwal town , between the Krishna and Tungabadra Rivers, is noted for the harmonious coexistence here of the cultures A.P and Karnataka. Gadwal is also famous for its  handloom weaving industry. Gadwal silk saris, with exquisite zari work command a good market through out the country. 
Koilsagar Project : The Koilsagar Dam, about 8 km from koil konda village, stretches across the Peddavagu, a minor tributary of the Krishna River. The western stretch of this picturesque reservoir is surrounded by high hills, making it a beautiful spot. 
Manikonda : The Lakshmi Venkateswara shrine is on a 915 Mts. high hill that is 2 km from the village. 
Wanaparthi : The ancient shrine of Vittaleswara is located here. The Sarlasagar project nearby features the biggest syphon dam in the world.
Bala Nagamma (Aidamma): This famous ancient place has perched a coveted place in the temple history due to its association with the infinitely popular Balanagamma folk lore story popularised by the Burrakatha artistes akin to Harikatha bhagavathothamas. The goddess Aidamma played a spectacular role and established for herself a permanent place due to demonstration of her sports . She is popular as very compassionate goddess. Who rescues her aborers from the clutches of the Satanic forces. If they rely upon her and her bounty after offering soulful prayers. She reveals her dreadful aspect and is appeased with animal sacrifice most On account of enjoying her munificence and freed from the unending worries, she is adored passionately by rural folk and festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm. Daily pujas, and the annual festival falling in the month of Sravana lure huge crowds, who are lustily participating in special prayer services to express their devotion to her. It lies in the Wanaparthi taluq of Palamoor district of Andhra Pradesh, accesible by bus.

Beechupalli Anjaneya Swamy Temple
Beechupalli Anjaneya Swamy Temple lies in Mahboobnagar District in Alampur Mandal. It is in between Hyderabad-Kurnool route (NH 7), about one mile from Kondapeta. It is about 155km from Hyderabad. Rivers Krishna and Thungabadra merge at this place. The main deity is Lord Anjaneya. The main idol belongs to 16th century.
Sangameswar Temple, Somasila
The temple is shifted from Sangameswar to Somashila to protect from being drowned in Krishna water. This place can be used as a leisure spot also. There are many Shivalingas in the temple complex. Shivarathri & Karthikamasam are celebrated with many fervors. For all festivals special poojas are held. Mainly pushakaras are celebrated in a grand style. Pushkara snanam is considered as most auspicious. Somasila is situated at a distance of 15 kms. from Kollapur which is 158 kms. from Mahbubnagar and 55 kms. from Kurnool. Somasila is well connected by road and there are frequent buses from Kollapur. 
Worlds's largest Tiger Sanctuary (Mannanur): Dry deciduous mixed forest along the river Krishna which cuts through a picturesque gorge of the Nallamala hills with deep valleys on sides. The sanctuary  with a wide area of 3568 Sq. km. spanning Guntur, Prakasam, Kurnool, Mahabubnagar and Nalgonda districts. About 130 km. south of Hyderabad. Animals found :  Spotted Deer, Mouse Deer, Black Bucks, Sambhars, Chousingha Nilgai, Wild Boar, Indian Giant Squirrel, Tree Shrew, Rayel, Mugger Crocodiles, Wild dogs, Jackals, Wolves, Foxes, Sloth Bear, Panthers, Tigers. Accessibility: 130 km. by road from Hyderabad. Well connected with State owned buses. Contact: Field Director, Project Tiger, Achampet/Srisailam 
Season: October to May.
Farahabad : Farahabad is at an altitude of 914 Mts. in the Nallamalla Hills in the Eastern Ghats. This holiday resort enjoys a salubrious climate. It has been most appropriately named Farahabad, which literally means 'Mount Pleasant'. 
The Temple of Sri Kurumurthy Srinivas Swamy 
This temple is on the hills of Kurupathi or Kurumurthy. It is self-manifested (Swayambhu). In confirmity of the legend once, Sri Laxmidevi earnestly desired Lord Srinivasa to make his Abode on the hills to enable his devotees to offer prayers. In Telugu "Kuru" means "to do" "Matim" means "mind" and "pati" means "husband". Hence, the hill is called Kurupati. About 630 years back the image of the Lord was in the cave. In 1350 A.D Sri Mukkara Chandra Reddy constructed the temple and later renovated by Sri Ramabhupal and Kotha Kapulu. As in the case of, Tirumala Tirupathi, Lord Srinivasa made his abode on the seven hills of Kurupathi. They are Swethadri, Ekadri, Durgadri, Ghanadri, Ballukadri, Patagadri and lastly Daivatadri. The Temple of Sri Kurumurthy Srinivasa Swamy is on the hills of Daivatadri. In the Temple History of Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanam a detailed account has been given as how Brighu Maharshi kicked Sri Maha Vishnu on the right of his chest which forced Sri Laxmi Devi to desert her husband in protest and came down to the universe. In search of her Maha Vishnu also descended on earth and after several trails and turbulations, he became an idol and known as Lord Venkateswara.

Sangameswara Aalayam Temple
Location: Kudali, Mahabubnagar
Deity: Lord Shiva

This temple is located at the confluence of Tungabhadra and Krishna rivers. It was built by the Chalukyas and resembles the Alampur Navabrahmaalayas in architecture. The walls have beautiful carvings of Nataraja, Ardhanareeswara, and Andhakasura samharamurti. Regular prayers are offered. It lies 15 km from Alampur in Mahabubnagar.

Uma Maheswari Temple
This temple was built during the reign of Maurya Chandragupta contains a grand image of Errana, adored in literature. It is a hill temple, built by Kalyana Chalukyas in the seventh century itself.
Tripurantakam Umamaheshwaram Temple
Location: Mahabubnagar
Deity: Umamaheshwaram - Parvati and lord Siva

Umamaheshwaram temple is situated on very tall hills of Nallamala forests and dates back to 2nd century AD. To reach the temple, there are very steep and dangerous curves from the bottom of the hill. It is also known as the North Entrance to Srisailam (Jyotirlingam). Situated deep in the Nallamala forests. This place is popular for its mysterious papanashanam where there is always water, throughout the year. Nobody has found the source of water. Today it is the home to numerous sadhus. The presiding deities in Umamaheshwaram are Mallikarjuna (Shiva) and Bhramaramba (Devi).

Bekkeswara Aalayam Temple
Location: Bekkam near Mahbubnagar
Deity: Lord Shiva

According to legend the name Bekku means "cat" in Kannada language. Being the ancient seat of Siva, there is a group of five Sivaalayas called Siddheswara, Kapileswara, Someswara, Malleswara and Kaleswara within 15 km of each other.

Legend: The sthalapurana states that this village was called Narasingarayapalli. One day a cowherd saw a cow go into the palm grove and empty its udder over an anthill. Strangely a cat lying hidden in the anthill came and drank the entire quantity. The villagers dug out the anthill and found a black Sivalinga. They built a small shrine and installed the linga calling it Bekkeswara. The lord is said to have showered boons. Later some bhaktas brought two Sivalingas from Banaras and installed them in the same compound, but in separate shrines. They were called Moksheswara and Sakaheswara.

Uma Maheswaram (The North Gateway of Srisailam)

Uma Maheswaram
Uma Maheswaram (The North Gateway of Srisailam)
This temple is located in Achampet Mandal of Mahaboob Nagar District in between Hyderabad and Srisailam Highway and it is 3 Kms away from Rangapuram village after Achampet. Uma Maheswaram is a hill temple regarded as North Gate of Srisailam temple which is located in picturesque NallamalaForest. After killing Ravana, Sri Rama started pradakshina of Srisailam from this place. The important locations of this area are Papanashanam, water falls, Bhogamaheswaram and the caves where the sages did meditation. Uma Maheswaram is a celebrated temple since Kakatiya Period and Maha Shivarathri is celebrated with great splendor here. The importance of this temple is mentioned in Puranas and Epics. The waters in the hills and woods look very beautiful and it is very cool even in summer.

Sri Rama Temple, Sirisanagundla

This temple is located around 80 Kms from Hyderabad and Mahaboob Nagar and 4 Kms away from CharagondaVillage on the way from kalwakurthy to Devarakonda. This is one of the important Srirama Temples in Mahaboob Nagar Districts and it is located on a small hillock. This temple was constructed during 13th and 14th Centuries. Owing to the instructions of Srirama in a dream, the idol of this temple brought from Palvanur near Bhadrachalam. Earlier to this temple, Datthatreya Ashram and Muthyalamma temples were here. This hillock is covered with stone slab to an extent of 60 acres. Before this hillock you can find a small forest spread to an extent of 24 acres with Tamarind and Neem trees. From the top of the hillock you can see the natural beautiful locations in all directions. Srirama Navami will be celebrated in a grand way.

SaneeswaraSwamyTemple

This place is located about 5 Kms from Bijinepalli Mandal head quarters which is about 35 Kms away from Mahaboob Nagar. This is the only Shani temple in the country having 7 ½ feet idol of the God. The idol has been istalled along with Jwestha Devi on a vehicle is a very attraction. Special Poojas will be held in this temple on the eve of Shani Thrayodasi. This temple is attracting the pilgrims from the entire South India.

Navabrahma Temple-Alampoor-Mahabubnagar

A group of nine temples of Navabrahma (also known as Nava Brahmeswara) are located at Alampur town in the Mahbubnagar district of Andhra Pradesh. All these temples, devoted to Lord Shiva, are situated near the banks of Tungabhadra River. They are built during different periods by the Badami Chalukyan kings.
The nine temples are as follows.
1.      Taraka Brahma
2.      Swarga Brahma
3.      Viswa Brahma
4.      Padma Brahma
5.      Arka Brahma
6.      Garuda Brahma
7.      Vira Brahma
8.      Kumara Brahma
9.      Bala Brahma
The Navabrahma temples are situated near the left bank of River Tungabhadra. All the temples, except Taraka Brahma, were built within the premises of fort in the courtyard. Taraka Brahma was built outside the fort. It is the only temple which is built in south Indian style while all other temples were built in north Indian style. These Nava Brahma temples resemble the architecture of Sangameshwara temple of Kudaveli. All the temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and each of them has a long rectangular mandapam with pillars enclosed to the sanctum sanctorum and Nandi sitting in front of it. There are minor differences between one another regarding the number of pillars and carvings. Some of them have a front porch and the doors of the entrance are carved with multiple divisions of lintel and jambs.
History
Though the exact time of the construction is not known; inscriptions at the temples say that the Navabrahma temples are built during 7th and 8th centuries AD, after the reign of Pulakesin II (619-642).


                          






   MEDAK TEMPLES


Lakshmi Narashima Swamy Temple:


I am glad to share my visit to Lakshmi Narashima Swamy temple, at Nacharam gutta, Medak district, Andhra pradesh. The place is about 50 kms from Hyderabad. the temple is 600 years old. Its a cave temple, on a small hillock.
Inside the sanctum, we see Swayambu Narashima swamy and Lakshmi thayar carved to the rock. there are some more pooja idols inside the sanctum. Purana says Naradha penenced here.
The place is known as Nacharam gutta in rememberence of a baktha by name Nacharam.
As we go round the temple to left side we climb few steps and have darshan of Soorya narayanar who is facing east. we have a pradakshan of pepal tree and pass through two rocks to see a Shiridi sai baba mandir. At the back of him Dattatreya is seen.
We climb down few steps to Visit Lord Siva in linga form in a seperate sanctum. Sri Sathyanarayana Swamy idol of marble, in different sanctum, Sita Ramar sanctum, Navagraha in small room. we have to get down few steps to have the darshan of Bairavar in seperate sanctum.

 

SAPTAPRAKARAYUTA BHAVANI TEMPLE, ISMAILKHANPETA, MEDAK DIST,

Sri Saptaprakaarayuta Durga Bhavani Maha Kshetram, Eswarapuram Village, Ismailkhanpet Mandal, Medak District, Andhra Pradesh Ph: 08455 – 233799
This temple is 800 year old and renovated by Swamy Madanaananda Saraswathi, who is the Head of Basava Kalyana Peetham, Karnataka. The temple is under the control of Sri Sringeri Jagadguru Mahasansthan, Dakshinaamnaaya Sarada Peetham. The speciality of this temple, Deity is made of a single stone with a unique height of 15 feet. Daily Sevas will be performed regularly. Annual Festivals will be observed on Palguna Bahula Chavithi, Panchimi & Shasti. Special Seva will be performed on Bhadrapada Bahula Amaavaasya( 50 Kg Turmeric paste will be applied to the deity.) Every day Srichakraabhishekam will be performed. For further information regarding Pujas & Sevas contact the Main Priest Sri Ravikumar Sharma on 9490079330.
How to reach: If you are coming from Hyderabad catch the Bus going to Sangareddy Or catch bus going to Patanchervu from there every ½ hour bus is available and get down at Sangareddy Old Bus Station. From there catch any bus going to Narsapur and get down at Ismailkhanpet.

Mandapur Shanighat temple, also known as Parvathi Parameshwara Shanighat Temple, located in Kondapur mandal of Medak district is one of the popular Shani temples in Andhra Pradesh. Wargal Shani temple is another Shani Mandir located in Medak district. The important aspect of this temple is – here Shani is worshipped along with Parvathi Parameshwar (Lord Shiva and Parvathi). The idol of Lord Shani represents the architectural values of the sculptors and it remains one of the best Shani idols in the world. 2010, Shani Trayodasi date is
Shani Trayodasi is the important festival celebrated in Mandapur Shani Temple. In July July 10th. Shani Amavasya and Shani Jayanthi are also the best occasions to visit the temple.
Shanishwara Melukolupu, Thila Thailabhishekam, and Maha Mangala Harathi are the main rituals of Shani Trayodasi puja in Shanighat temple in Mandapur. Those who are interested to perform and to participate in Shani pujas can contact the Chief Priest of the temple Mr. Parameshwara Swamy in his mobile number – 90328 01076.
                 

     NALGONDA TEMPLSE

Yadagirigutta

YADAGIRIGUTTA
  
  
The town acquired its name and fame from a sage called Yadarishi, son of the great sage Rishyasrunga who did penance inside a cave with the blessings of Anjaneya on this hill between Bhongir and Raigiri in Nalgonda district.Pleased with his deep devotion, Lord Narasimha (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu) appeared before him in five different forms as Jwala, Yogananda, Gandabherunda, Ugra and Lakshminarasimha. They later manifested themselves into finely sculpted forms that later came to be worshipped as Panchanarasimha Kshetram. As the legend goes, the Lord appeared first as Jwala Narasimha (Lord as a flame), when Yadarishi was unable to face the intensity of this apparition, he appeared in a peaceful form as Yoganarasimha (Lord in a Yogic Padmasana posture with open palms on the knees). Not satisfied with the Lord appearing alone, Yadarishi sought to see him with this consort, so he is said to have appeared with Lakshmi on his lap, known as Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy and as being worshipped by Alwars, his ardent devotees.
To see these three forms one has to go through an entrance that narrows itself into a dark cave which in fact is surmised as the urga (fiery) form of Narasimha (the fourth form) because it was beyond the strength of a sage to see that form and gandabherunda ( the garuda pakshi or the eagle) is the fifth form of the Lord which is said to have been found sculpted in rock underneath the Anjaneya, known as 'Kshetrapalaka' (or the one who ruled over that hill). All these forms are known as " swayambhu" or self emanated. Yadarishi is said to have been granted his wish that the place where the Lord appeared will be known by his name as Yadagiri (giri means hill in Sanskrit, and gutta which means a hillock in Telugu seems to have been a latter-day suffix) and that Lord Lakshmi Narasimha will be worshipped for many years to come.

Sri Laxmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, Repala

The Sri Laxmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is located at Repala village, and it is at a distance of 5 km from National Highway No. 9. In between Suryapet and Kodada there is a village Modhula Cheruvu, from here Repala is at a distance of 5 km. The temple has a history of over 400 years. The ancient temple gives much pleasure to the devotees. Every year Brahmotsavas will be held in the month of March.

Chhaya Somalingeswara Temple

Mystic Doorway "Chaya" (shadow) Somalingeswaraswamy temple. It is an amazing fact that there is an everlasting shadow formed any time of the day on the presiding deity. One has been unable to figure out what or which pillar casts the shadow above the linga placed on the ground, as the temple is surrounded by many pillars. Hence the deity acquired its name from this mysterious shadow. It is a major attraction in Panagal near Nalgonda and people have been amazed by this mystery since time immemorial. Many devotees throng this temple during Sivarathri.

Pillalamarri

Beautiful paintings, exquisitely carved pillars and several ancient inscriptions may be seen in the Kakatiyas temples here. This historic area was the birthplace of the famous Telugu poet Pillalamarri Pina Veerabhadrudu. The area is very near to Suryapet.
Pillalamarri
     
Beautiful paintings, exquisitely carved pillars and several ancient inscriptions may be seen in the Kakatiyas temples here. This historic was the birthplace of the famous Telugu poet Pillalamarri Pina Veerabhadrudu.

Mattapalli/Mattampalli

The Temple of Sri Laxmi Narsimha Swamy, a famous pilgrimage, is situated at Mattampally on the banks of the river Krishna. Major celebrations take place during the Vykunta Ekadasi in January & Kalyana Mahotsvam in May. The idol was formed naturally, it is situated in a cave.
Temple of Sri Raja Rajeswara Swamy
at village Gundlapahad near Nallabelli in Nalgonda district was attacked by christians. They had burnt photos of gods & godesses and puja requirements and damged stone idols of gods in that temple. They entered temples by breaking locks and spoiled that temple. People chased those miscreants and caught 2 of them and handovered them to police. Those 2 persons were recently converted into christianity.


Buddha Statue
Nagarjuna Sagar in an important Buddhist site located 150 kms from Hyderabad. The historic location takes its name from the Buddhist saint and scholar Acharya Nagarjuna who is said to have set up a centre of learning here. Today, Nagarjuna Sagar is home to Nagarjuna Sagar Dam - the world's tallest masonry dam that irrigates over 10 lakh acres of land.
It was during the building of the dam that the ruins of an ancient Buddhist civilization were excavated here. Some of the relics unearthed have been carefully preserved on a picturesque island called Nagarjuna Konda, located in the centre of a man-made lake. The vestiges of a sacred Buddhist stupa, vihara, monasteries, a university and a sacrificial altar have been carefully reconstructed at Anupu on the east bank of the reservoir.
  
A fascinating island set in the middle of a man-made lake, Nagarjuna Konda houses the excavated remains of the 2nd and 3rd century Buddhist civilization found at Nagarjuna Sagar. To reach Nagarjuna Konda, visitors board a boat at the jetty near Vijayapuri township.
Chaya Somalingeswara Temple
Mystic Doorway "Chaya" (shadow) Somalingeswaraswamy temple. It is an amazing fact that there is an everlasting shadow formed any time of the day on the presiding deity. One has been unable to figure out what or which pillar casts the shadow above the linga placed on the ground, as the temple is surrounded by many pillars. Hence the deity acquired its name from this mysterious shadow. It is a major attraction in Nalgonda and people have been amazed by this mystery since time immemorial. Many devotees throng this temple during Sivarathri.
Nandikonda
Nandikonda is a small village on the bank of River Krishna. It is about 64.37-km from Miryalaguda. The most important structure discovered was the Ikshvaku citadel with its great fortification wall, ditch, gates and army barracks inside and a great rectangular stadium.
Kolanupaka
  
It is located 6-km from Aler and 80-km from Hyderabad, and is a place of much historical importance. It was once a prosperous city covering an area of 93.24-kms and the ruins of old fortifications can still be seen. It gained prominence when it was made the alternate capital of the Kalyani Chalukyas in the 11th century AD.
  



Rachakonda
Situated 64-km from Nalgonda it is a place of tourist importance. The 'Dasavatara' sculptures in a cave near Pattabhigutta and the five temples in the town are excellent specimens of Kakatiya art and architecture. Situated among hill ranges, Rachakonda is a place of considerable archaeological interest.
Bhongir Fort
  
  
Bhongir fort was built on an isolated rock by the western Chalukya ruler Tribhuvanamalla Vikramaditya VI and was thus named after him as Tribhuvanagiri. This name gradually became Bhuvanagiri and subsequently Bhongir. At the foot of the fortified rocks 609.6 meters above the sea level stands the town of Bhongir. The splendid historical fort with the awe-inspiring rock and the aesthetically fortified courts which have stood the ravages of time stir the imagination of the tourists. The Bala Hisar or citadel on the top of the hill gives a bird's eye view of the neighbouring area. The fort is associated with the herioc queen Rudramadevi and her grandson Prataparudra's rule.
The fort is located upon a single hill at an altitude of 500 feet. Built is the 12th century the fort spreads over an area of 40 acres.




Wadapally
Sri Meenakshi Agastheswarw Swamy, Wadapally
6000 years ago sage Agasthya Maharshi installed the idols of Sri Meenakshi Agasteswara and Sri Laxmi Narsimha at holy SANGAM of Krishna and Musi rivers in Wadepalli village of Miryalguda Mandal. For thousands of years the temple place remained in dense forest. During the time of excavation the idols of Lord Shiva were found in the temple and reinstalled the same. Once a hunter was chasing a bird, the bird wanted to save its life. So it hid behind the idol of Lord Shiva by covering it with its wings. Lord Shiva appeared to the hunter and asked him not to kill the bird. Lord Shiva assured the hunter that he would offer his brain instead of bird. Then the hunter agreed to him and had the brain of Shiva by inserting his fingers. As he did so, holes were made on his head. Goddess Ganga rose out of the holes, soon after this incident. There are holes on the SIVA LINGAM in which 10 figures can be inserted. Even after taking large quantities of water from the holes, the level of water does not go down. Once Sri Shankaracharya visited the temple along with his diciples.They wanted to find out the reason as to why the water level is not going down therefore they tied a thread to spoon and dropped it into the hole then it went inside deep and stopped. When they pulled up the thread, they found blood stains on that, then realised their mistakes and begged pardon from the God.




Pangal
  
  
The shrines of Panagal constitute perhaps the finest examples of the medieval deccan temples. The temple complex consists of the main shrine dedicated to Siva with the Nandi mandapa in front. The architecture of the temple is the finest. It has 66 pillars. The four central pillars of the mandapa are highly ornate at the bottom and, on them, the scenes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata are depicted. The perfected-screen pattern on the flanks in various dancing poses displays the supreme workmanship accomplished during that period. Dancers and hair styles also adorn the outer walls. These are specially noted for their graceful carving. The beauty of their proportion and the vibrant texture of the shapes which enrich the exterior and their impressive clarity testify the architectural genius of their builders. They also reveal the high perfection reached by the sculptors and architects of that age. The Kakatiya Stapati mastered the idioms of the earlier Chalukya style.
The Chayala Somesvara temple is yet another temple near Panagal. The temple is known for the Chhaya (shadow) of Siva Linga which is said to be stationary from sunrise to sunset. The technique of the architect is unique. It is regarded as the most imaginative work of the Kakatiya architecture. The temple also contains valuable inscriptions of Rudramba's time.
The most conspicuous feature of the Pandya style was the emergence of the monumental gateway or Gopuram which is the dominant point of temple complex. The walls of the temples imposed an ornamental appearance. The gateways are treated with rich plastic decorations
MATAMPALLI
  :
The Temple of Sri Laxmi Narsimha Swamy , a famous pilgrimage is situated here on the banks of rever Krishna . Major celebrations take place during the Vykunta Ekadasi in January & Kalyana Mahotsvam in May.
Peddagattu Jathata,
 also known as Lingamanthula Jathara, is held once in two years at Durajpalli in Nalgonda district of Andhra Pradesh. In 2011, Peddagattu Jatara starts today, 21 February. It is celebrated at Lingamanthula Swamy Temple at Durajpalli prior to Maha Shivaratri in Magha masam as per Telugu calendar. This Jatara is one of the biggest fairs in India and second largest in Andhra Pradesh after Sammakka Sarakka Jatara held at Medaram in Warangal district. It is estimated that nearly 20 lakh devotees will visit the temple during the festival.
Devotees offer pot-full of rice and worship Lord Shiva (Lingamanthula swamy) for a great agricultural year. Durajpalli is located at a distance of 140 kilometers from Hyderabad.

                         

                                    




                        NIZAMABAD TEMPLE

 

Akshara Abhyasam
Now a days there is heavy rush of pilgrims coming to Basara to perform "Akshara Abhyasam" for the children. According to the legend Maharishi vyasa and his disciples and sage Suka decided to settle down in a cool and serene atmosphere after the kurukshetra war. In the quest for the peaceful abode, he came to Dandaka forest and pleased with serenity of the region selected this place. After his ablutions in the river Godavari Maharishi Vyasa used to bring three fistful of sand and place it in three small heaps and made images Sarada, Laxmi, Gowri with his mystic power and later conducted prayers. This idol made of sand has its face smeared with turmeric. Eating a little bit of this turmeric paste, it is believed, will enhance one's wisdom and knowledge. Many people, in fact, take their kids to Basara for "Akshara Abhyasam" before commencing formal school education. Special poojas and celebrations are held at the temple during Maha Sivarathri, beginning 15 days before (Vasantha Panchami) and continuing 3 days after the festival. Devi Navarathrulu is celebrated for ten days during Dasara. Since Maharishi Vyasa spent considerable time in prayers, the place was then called "Vasara" and turned into Basara due to the influence of the Marathi language in the region.

The Eight Pushkarnis
Some 100m from the temple there is the cave, where the devout 'Narahari Maluka' is believed to have performed rigorous penance. There is a four-sided monolith rock called "Vedavathi", which produces different sounds on each side when struck. It is said to contain jewels of Sita Devi. There are eight 'Pushkarnis' spread across the village known as 'Indra Teeratham', 'Surya Teeratham', 'Vyasa Teeratham', 'Valmiki Teeratham', 'Vishnu Teeratham', 'Ganesha Teeratham', 'Puthra Teeratham' and 'Shiva Teeratham'.
The most important festivals celebrated are Maha Shivaratri (February-March) and Devi Navaratrulu (Septmber-October) and on both the occasions about 10,000 pilgrims visit the place from all parts of Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra.
Basar is a village with wonderful gardens surrounded by the temple premises amidst the dry and barren patches of the north Telangana region.
GODAVARI PUSHKARALU IN NIZAMABAD DISTRICT
        The Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Hyderabad had paid a visit to Nizamabad District on 24.12.2002 and 25.12.2002.  During the course of his visit the Hon’ble Chief Minister had visited Kandakurthi Village in Renjal Mandal on 25.12.2002.  The Villagers of Kandakurthi have requested the Hon’ble Chief Minister to make necessary arrangements for the ensuing Godavari Pushkaralu at Kandakurthi as it is the only entering point of Godavari river in the state,  but  no Godavari Pushkaralu were organised in the district for the past (50) years. 
         The Hon’ble Chief Minister was pleased with the request made by the villagers and was very kind enough to assure Godavari Pushkaralu, 2003 would not only be held at Kandakurthi, which is recognised as 116th Pushkaram Ghat, but also at two more important places in the district.  The assurance given by the Hon’ble Chief Minister on 25.12.2002 has taken shape in the form of Godavari Pushkaralu at Kandakurti (v) of Renjal (M), Pochampad of Balkonda (M) and Tadpakal of Morthad Mandal.  The entire people in Nizamabad district are very much pleased as their long cherished dream of conduct of Godavari Pushkaralu in Nizamabad district has come true.
        The reaction of the people in this regard is enclosed for kind perusal of the Hon’ble Chief Minsiter.
 KANDAKURTHI:-
         Also popular as the entry point of river Godavari, in the state of Andhra Pradesh, which originates at Triombakeshwar of Nasik in Maharastra state.   The Triveni Sangam and Wriveni Sangam  is the confluence of river Haridra, Godavari and Manjeera.  This village has a great historical background and believed that the Skandaashramam was also here.  During the period of Vanavasa, Lord Sri Rama came here and done pujas.  The village is also the birth place of the founder of R.S.S. Dr. Keshav Rao Balirao Hegdewar and lot of people including pilgrims / scholars and political leaders visit this place.
         The inter stage bridge that was built on river Godavari, which joins Andhra Pradesh state with Maharastra is the focal point to eye   the picturesque view of   confluence of three rivers namely Godavari, Manjeera and Haridra.   On the banks of Godavari an ancient  Shivalaya temple, built with black stone is existing.  Apart from this, in the  village Ramalayam, Keshava smruthi mandiram, Scanda mataalayam are the holy temples.  People believe that if any individual takes a dip in the Godavari river all his sins would be washed away  and he becomes a purified soul.  It is also believed that  Kandakurthi has the holiness equalient to Kashi in the North and Rameshwaralyam in the South.  Pilgrims who visit Kashi will have to visit Rameshwaralaya or  else they will not be relieved from the sins.  But for any reason if a pilgrim fails to visit one of  the above temples he can visit Ramalyam and Shivalayam in Kandakurthi village to wipe out the sins.  People also believed that not only they get rid of their sins if they take a dip in  Godavari river but also believe that they will be relived from various types of diseases. 
SARAGANPUR TEMPLE:
Sarangapur is temple is located (7) K.Ms. from North-East of Nizamabad town abating Alisagar. There is a Hanuman temple located on a hill top. These temple is constructed by Ramdas. This temple as 1400 acres of land. There is a tremendous scope for develop site on hillock along with Alisagar Project. (10) acres of land on Hillock is being developed into a garden. Thereis (33) acres of land available near Sarangapur that can be developed into Eco-tourism by providing slab trails for walking.
SRI SAI BABA
"Saibaba Temple" the greatest temple of Sai Baba Nizamabad located at MadhavaNagar approximately 5 km from Nizamabad city, direction: Hyderabad Road. Attracts millions of followers of all religions, castes and beliefs that come to pay homage to Shri Sai Baba.
This temple is also known as MadhavNagar Sai Baba Temple, very famous temple in Nizamabad district. Sai Baba temple is a shrine that attracts millions of believers for many years.
Come and visit once....

100 pillar temple Bodhan Nizamabad District

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this is a very sad story of hundred pillered temple located in bodhan which is of great archeological importance has been neglected since ages. its not maintainedàand its sad to say that people are shitting near the temple as there is no one to look after it..
I think there should be a compound wall aroung this temple and it would be great if archelogical department takes this hundred pillar temple under its control.
Other historical sites in Bodhan include Vanda Stambala Gudi (Hundred Pillars Temple) and Shivalayam. Vanda Stambala Gudi was built during the Kakatiya’s Dynasty and is similar to the Veyyi Stambala Gudi (Thousand Pillars Temple) of Warangal. However the temple has fallen into disrepair and has almost entirely disappeared.

                        RANGAREDDY TEMPLESE
Rangareddy district (also sometimes spelled Ranga Reddy) is a district in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. The district has an area of 7,493 km², and a population of 3,575,064 of which 54.20% is urban as of 2001.[1] The district encircles the city and district of Hyderabad, and the city of Hyderabad also serves as the administrative center of the district.

Ranga Reddy District was formed on 15th August, 1978 by carving out some portion
of Hyderabad Urban Taluk & the merger of the entire Rural and Urban Areas of the remaining
Taluks of Erstwhile Hyderabad District.This District is primarily the Rural hinterland for Hyderabad City feeding the powerful commercial Centre with various Raw Materials, agriculture produce and fininshed products.
Origin of the Name : The Name of the District was Hyderabad (Rural) to begin with. It was
changed as K.V. Ranga Reddy District and later on Ranga Reddy District.
It was named after Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Sri K.V. Ranga Reddy.
Location : The District is located in the Central Part of the Deccan Plateau and lies between
160 30' and 180 20' of North Latitude and 77030' and 79030' of East Longitudes.
Boundaries : The District is bounded on the North by Medak District, East by Nalgonda
District, South by Mahaboobnagar District, West by Gulbarga District & North West of Bidar
District of Karnataka State. It covers an area of 7564.88 Sq. Kms.
History : Ranga Reddy District is at the cross roads of India geographically, historically and
has been the meeting ground for the fusion of various civilisations, religions, races, cultures,
languages and traditions with the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad as its
core.

This District including present Hyderabad Urban District was formerly known as Atrafe-
Balda District and was a part of the gulshanabad, Medak Division (Subah). In 1931-34
Baghat taluk from Atraf-e-Balda District. was made a separate Baghat District under the
Commissioner (Subedar) of Medak Division. After police Action in 1948., Atraf-a-Balda and
Baghat District were merged to from the Hyderabad District. Later in 1978, it was split into
Hyderabad Urban District and Hyderabad Rural District or Ranga Reddy District.

Lord Balaji Temple at Chilkur, Ranga Reddy, Andhra Pradesh, India

Chilkur Balaji Temple is located at Chilkur in Moinabad mandal in the Ranga Reddy district, Andhra Pradesh, India. It is one of the famous temples in Andhra Pradesh. It is believed that those who visit the temple will fulfill their desires. The important feature at this temple is that there is no hundi unlike in other temples. This is one of the few temples in India which does not accept monetary donations.
This temple is also popularly known as "Visa Temple" because many devotees come here with the wish of going abroad.
Its customary to go around the temple (known as Pradakshina) eleven times and pray to god for a specific wish. Once this wish comes true, the recipient has to go again and take 108 Pradakshina.
Chilkur Balaji temple is one of the most famous temples in Hyderabad area. The nice concept that is implemented in darshan of the lord Balaji, is that all people must stand in queue with utmost discipline. There are no VIP passes and there is no Hundi for donations. When people wish from the god here, they have to do 11 pradakshinas and ask their wish with the witness of Lord Anjaneya. When the wish gets realized, they need to do 108 pradakshinas. The 11 pradakshinas have a significant meaning according to the temple priests. When people wish anything from god, mind has to think about only god and ones self i.e 11(1-1) signifies that god takes care of everybody and everybody should understand that. There is a Shiva temple in the complex.
 KEESARAGUTTA

A thousand ‘’Shiva Lingas’’. All dating back to times beyond memory. Keesaragutta, a unique
hillock with a thousand gods, is well known as the place where Lord Rama worshipped Shiva
ages and ages ago. The temple here with over a thousand years of history has a unique sand
sculpture i   

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Thorrur    is   well known for a 200 year old Ellamma temple and is a popular temple shrine for devotees and visitors in the village. The bonalu festival is a major annual festival which is celebrated at the Ellamma and Pochmma temples. Devotees from many places in the mandal and district throng during the Bonalu festive season and perform pujas to Goddesses Ellamma and Pochamma. The famous bonalu jatara is feast to watch. Other prominent Temples in Thorrur include Mallana Temple (Mallikarujuna swami), Ranganayakula Temple, Pochhamma Temple, Hanuman Temple, and Berrapa Temple.n the sanctum sanctorum.


                          
                        WARANGAL TEMLPES




Mailardeva Aalayam Temple

Location: Ayinavolu, Warangal
Deity: Lord Shiva
This temple has another name - Mallikarjunaswamy Aalayam. It was built by King Kakati Rudradev and received royal patronage. The Sivalinga is white in colour and stands on a broad panavattam-platform. Just above the linga, is a six-foot high image of Mailardeva flanked by His consorts Balija Medalamma and Gollaketamma. The image reveals the rudra - fierce aspect of Siva. He holds his four hands like potent weapons, like Trisula, Khadga, Dhamaru and Padma. It lies at a distance of 14 km to Warrangal.

Thousand Pillar Temple
Location: Warangal
Deity: Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Surya.

Architecture:This is a 12th century temple and it is the main attraction of Hanamkonda and built by Rudra Devi. It has the Kakatiya style of architecture. The temple is star shaped and has three shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva (Rudreswara), Vishnu (Vasudeva) and Surya. It is built on one metre high platform on the slopes of the Hanumakonda hill. It has a majestic monolithic Nandi in black basalt with a polish look and the 1000-pillared hall. (The hall does not exist in its entirety). Small lingam shrines surround the garden. The temple is famous for its richly carved pillars, screens and detailed sculpture.

Rudreswara Temple

Location: Palampet near Warangal
Deity: Rudreswara (Shiva)

The Kakatiyas built this temple in the 13th century AD. This temple is an art gallery in itself with beautifully carved works, exquisite ceilings and columns adding to the grand architecture. There is a man made lake here and many other temples.

Ghanpur Temples
Location: Warangal
Deity: Lord Shiva.

The Kakatiya temple resembles the Palampet temple. Many small shrines and mandapams surround it is now ruins. Ghanpur temples are a group of temples and are worth a visit because of their architectural skills and are popularly known as Kota Gullu.

History: Constructed by King Ganapatideva, the ruler of the Kakatiya dynasty from 1199-1260. The Ghanpur Temples consist of about 20 temples. All vary in size and in design. There are several mandapams and are constructed within a double walled stone enclosure. The main temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The most striking feature of the temples is the Sabha mandapa porches. The two mandikas or salabhanjikas found in the northern side of the portico are very impressive in appearance. The porticos on the eastern and southern sides are embellished with mythical figures of Gaja Kesari, half man half lion riding an elephant, horse-head lion on elephant.

Mallikarjuna Temple Situated on Shri Shaila mountain by the banks of Patal Ganga, this temple is also known as Kailash of the South. Mallikarjuna constitutes one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines and is one of the greatest Shaivaite shrines in India. The presiding deities of Mallikarjuna temple are Mallikarjuna (Shiva) and Bhramaramba (Devi).

Bhadrakali Temple
This Devi temple is located on the hilltop between the cities of Hanamkonda and Warangal. The deity is called Grant Mother Goddess. The image is seated with a fierce look in her eyes and on her face. The goddess wears a crown and has eight hands holding various weapons.

Bhadrakali Temple in Warangal
 is around 4 km from the famous thousand pillar temple. Bhadrakali Temple is located in Hanamkonda and the diety worshiped is goddess “Bhadrakali”. This temple is located on the top of the Hill in hanamkonda.

The Goddess Bhadrakali is refered popularly as "Grant Mother Goddess" by the devotees and they highly esteem the goddess. The image of the goddess is made out of square shaped stone of 2.7 X 2.7 meters in a sitting posture with a fierce looking eyes and face. The statue is seen wearing a crown and has eight hands with various weapons in her hands.

Goddess Bhadrakali is worshipped by the devotees as their main deity in the Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh. Goddess Bhadrakali is the ferocious form is known as Goddess Shakti. Bhadrakali is the consort of Lord Veerabhadreshwara Swamy. Also in this temple Ammavaru is a Shakti Peetha which is dedicated to Mother Goddess.



Sammakka Saralamma Jathara at Medaram

 is declared as a State Festival in 1996 by the Government and is one of the well known and most popular festivals in the state and this is also one of the largest Jathara or Tribal fair in the entire world. People from different states in India and also people of Andhra origin settled in different parts of the world visit Sammakka Saralamma Jathara held at Medaram in Warangal District.

Sammakka Saralamma Jathara is held one in every two years with lot of enthusiasm and with reverence for three days with around 6 million people attending this fair for over three days in this village Medaram in Tadvai mandal inside the deep forests which in nearby Etunagaram taluk and in the adjacent river called Jampanna vagu which is around 90 km from Warangal City. The fair starts on 27 January 2010 till 30 January 2010 in Magha masam or Magh month.

People from the nearby states like Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Orissa and Karnataka apart from the thousands of devotees coming in from different parts of the World. Sammakka Sarakka Jatara or the Medaram Sammakka Sarakka Jatara is regarded as the second largest religious gathering after the Maha Kumbh Mela. The main part of this festival or the celebration is to commemorate the valiant fight between a mother and daughter which depicts Sammakka and Sarakka against the cruel and wicked rulers.

The most important and major ritual in this fair is offering of Bangaram which represents Jaggery by the devotees to the Goddesses. The belief is that since a person cannot offer gold as per their weight to the goddess they offer jaggery to the goddess in place of Gold because the goddess like sweet and also since it is full of iron it is good for health. The vibrant and colorful bullock carts are the main attractions in the fair and one never forgets to have a holy dip or Pavitra Snanam in Japanna Vagu which the devotees consider as auspicious during the occasion



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1.SRI BHADRAKALI DEVASTHANAM, WARANGAL TOWN.
This temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali, the Giant moyher Goddess, with fierce looking eyes and face. The Diety is believed to be worshipped bt the Historic ruler pulakesin-II of Chalukya Dynasty in the year 625 A.D. after his win over the 'Vengi' region of Andhra Desha. The minister of Kakatiya Ganapathy Deva namely 'Hari' has constructed the tank and road to the temple. Every tourist to Warangal will certainly make a visit to this historical temple to have the blessings of the Mother Goddess.
2.SRI MALLIKARJUNA SWAMY DEVASTHANAM, KOMURAVELLI.
This temple is dedicated to Lord Sri Mallikarjuna swamy a fierce looking diety along with Kethamma and Medalamma on the both sides of the main diety. The temple is located in a cave on a small hillock at a distance of 110 Kms from warangal. Lakhs of piligrims congregate on the eve of Makara Sankranthi as Brahmotsavam starts. The clay moulded diety of Lord Mallikarjuna swamy is believed to be made 500 years ago. The temple is renovated and mandapamas and choultries etc., are constructed by Endowments Department. The 'pedda patnam' celebrated on Maha Sivaratri day attract pilgrims in lakhs. It is located at a distance of 85 kms from the state capital on Karimnagar - Hyderabad - Highway (Rajiv Rahadari).
3.SRI MALLIKARJUNA SWAMY DEVASTHANAM, AYINAVOLU.
This temple is believed to be built prior to Kakatiyas around 700 A.D. and developed by Kakatiya rulers. The Unique Keerthi Toranams of Kakatiya style can be seen on the east and southern side of the temple. The presiding diety is Lord Mallikarjuna swamy with fierce looking eyes and sword versel of bood, Dharmarukm and Shulam in his four hands. This temple is located at a distance of 12 kms from warangal city on Warangal Khammam Road. The rock engraved temple with spacious prakaram is a famous tourists spot.
4.SRI SAMMAKKA SARALAMMA JATHRA, MEDARAM.
It is famous tribal Jathra in the midst of dense forest. Lakhs of pilgrims pour into this spot biennially to have the blessings of mother Goddesses Sri Sammakka and Saralamma who have attained 'Martydom' at this sacred place in the battle held with the forces of Kakatiyas ruler Prathaparudra. Since then the Jathra is being celebrated biennially. The Government of Andhra Pradesh declared this holy jathra as State Festival.

5.SRI VEERA BHADRA SWAMY DEVASTHANAM, KURAVI.
This temple is believed to be constructed by the famous ruler 'Bheema Raju' of Vengi Chalukya Dynasty and renovated by the Kakatiya ruler 'Betharaju-I. The reference of this temple has also made by the famous traveller 'Marko-Poli' as it stood as the capital of Vengi Chalukya Dynasty. The presiding diety is Lord Veerabhadra swamy is fierce looking Diety with three eyes and ten hands. The annual jathra Brahmotsavams will be celebrated during the mahasivarathri Festival.
6.SRI SWAYAMBU TEMPLE, FORT WARANGAL.
It is a historic temple in which Lord Swayambhu was worshipped by the famous Kakatiya Ruler 'Prataparudra' every day during his life time. The presiding Diety is Lord Siva called as swayambhu (Lieterally means self incarnated God). The temple is very adjacent to the ruins of Kakatiya Capital at Fort Warangal. There will be flow of pilgrims, tourists during all seasons from all over India and abroad to witness the ruins of Kakatiya Dynasty.

7.SRI RUDRESWARA SWAMY TEMPLE, HANAMKONDA.
The temple decorated with one thousand pillers temple, and popularity known as Thousand pillars temple. The Kakatiya ruler 'Rudra Deva' built this historic monument in the year 1163 A.D. and named after him as 'Sri Rudreswara swamy temple 'Trikootalaya", The presiding diety is Rudreswara. The remaining two "Sanctum sanctorums" are dedicated to 'Lord Durya' and 'Lord Vishnu'. The gains 'Nandi' as in Lepakshi in front of the temple is unique in sculptural beauty. It is under control and maintenance of the Archaeological Department.


8.RAMAPPA TEMPLE, PALAMPET
The temple is built in the year 1213 A.D. by 'Recherla Rudraiah'. This historical temple attracts tourist from India and abroad as it is known for its architectural and sculptural beauty. The sculptures were encraved according to the postures mentioned by Jayapa Senani in his famous work 'Nruthya Ratnavali'. The postures pertaining to Bharata Natya, Shrunga, Bharunga, Rathi, Perini Nritya etc., are encraved on the pillars and top-beams of 'Mukha Mandapam', The mythological episodes such as 'Gopika Vastrapaharanam, Tripura samharm, Daksha Samharam, Ksheera Sagara Madhanam, Girija Kalyanam etc., stand for the highest standards of Kakatiya Sculpture. The 'Nagini' and other eleven devanarthakis are arranged as supporting beams on both sides of each entrance. The aesthetic sense which scaledinnumerable heights in Kakatiya sculpture is clearly evident in these twelve postures of deva narthakis. The Mudras and Bhangimas have highly inspired the dance master Dr.Natraja Ramakrishna in giving shape to the historical classical dance 'Perini Siva Thandavam'. The Ramappa lake adjacent to the temple covering natural plant and zoo fauna will certainly become a feast to the eyes of every tourist.



9.SRI SOMESWARA LAXMINASASIMHA SWAMY TEMPLE, PALAKURTHY.
It is located at a distance of 50 Kms from Warangal on a hillock in the out skirts of Palakurthy Mandal head quarters. It is also the birth place of famous poet palakurthy Somanadha Kavi of 12 the century. His samadhi can be seen here. This historic temple is dedicated to Lord Siva and Vishnu who incarnated in two adjacent caves at a height of 120 meters on the hillock. The 'Pradakshina Path' encircling the two caves is quite natural. There is a dillapidated 'Surya' Temple and Koneru can also be witnessed at this place. This place once flourished which the adherents of 'Veera Saiva' sect of Hiduism has lost prominence in cource of time presently it is a famous pilgrimage centre in warangal district. Pilgrims mostly from Karnataka and Maharashtra. Mainly the Veera Saivas will certainly make a visit once in year to have the blessings of presiding deities and Somanadhakan.
10.SRI RAMACHANDRA SWAMY TEMLE, JEEDICAL.
It is located at distance of 10 kms from Jangoan. The temple is an ancient one and believed that, Lord Sri Rama visited this temple on his way to 'Lanka' (Sri Lanka) after separation from Sita Devi. People also believe that, Rama has killed the 'Maricha' who was in the guise of 'Maya Ledi' or the Magis deer. A boulder namely 'Ledi Banda' can be seen here. "Jeedigundam" and "Palagundam" are the two pushkarinis for the holy dip of the pilgrims.





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