BEST TEMPLES IN INDIA

Ayyappa Swamy

2011-05-14T05:27:00.000-07:00

Ayyappa Pooja

Ayyappan is a Hindu deity and Lord Ayyappan is worshiped in a number of shrines across India at Kulathupuzha and Kerala he is worshiped as a child at Achenkovil in conjunction with his consorts Pushkala and Poorna and at Sabarimala as an ascetic a celibate meditating in solitude for the benefit of all mankind.The name Ayyappan is used as a respectful form of address in Malayalam and the famous mantra Swamiye Sharanam Ayyappa can be directly translated as Give me shelter Lord Ayyappa He is considered to be born out of the union between Mohini, and Shiva.The most famous Ayyappa shrine in India is the one at Sabarimala with over 50 million devotees visiting it every year making it the second largest pilgrimage in the world.

Lord Ayyappa Names
Ayyappa is known as “Hariharan Puthiran” because he is the son of both Hari(Vishnu) and Haran(Siva). His most common name is Manikandan because soon after his birth his parents (Mohini & Shiva) tied a necklace with a bell (mani) around his neck (kandan).

Ayyappan is a famous South Indian Hindu deity. Lord Ayyappan is worshipped in a number of shrines across India at Kulathupuzha, in Kerala, he is worshipped as a child; at Achenkovil in conjunction with his consorts, Pushkala and Poorna; and at Sabarimala as an ascetic – a celibate meditating in solitude for the benefit of all mankind.

Different names of Loard Ayyappan Dharmasasta, Hariharasutan, Manikandan, Sathanar, Sastan, Cattan (from Sanskrit Sasta), Ayyanar, Natrayan, Nattarasan, and Bhutanathan.
Lord Ayyappan is a symbol of religious unity and communal harmony. Being born out of Mohini (the female incarnation of Lord Vishnu) and Lord Shiva, answered Rajasekara’s prayer and ordered Dharmasastha to take the avathar of Ayyappan.

Ayyappan took the form of a baby with a golden chain and bell around his neck and placed himself near the Pamba river. King Rajasekara who was returning after hunting in the forest adjoining the banks of River Pampa, along with his men, heard a child crying from somewhere in the forest. Surprised, he went round and reached the banks of River Pampa. There he saw a beautiful and divine child (i.e. Ayyappa) kicking its legs and crying out, and was in a dilemma whether to take the child to the Palace or leave it there itself.

As graced by the Bhagwan King Rajasekara completed building of the temple with 18 steps to reach there. When the King was thinking how to put Dharmasastha’s figure in the temple for darshan to devotees, he recalled the words of the Bhagwan, the River Pampa was a holy river like River Ganga, Sabarimala was a holy place like Kasi.

Dharmasastha sent Parasuraman to Sabarimala who created the figure of Lord Ayyappa and installed it on the day of Makarasankranthi, the day on which the Makara Jothi appears.

Every year 4.5 to 5 crore peoples comming to Shabarimala irrespective of caste or creed and adorn themselves with garlands and irumudis, chants slogans on Lord Ayyappa, bathe in holy river Pampa, climb up the eighteen steps & get the grace of Ayyappa.

The most famous Ayyappa shrine in India is the one at Sabarimala with over 50 million devotees visiting it every year, making it the second largest pilgrimage in the world

The asura princess Mahishi was burning up with anger at the trick the gods had pulled on her brother, the asura king Mahishasura. As Mahishasura was blessed with invulnerability to all men, the gods had sent goddess Durga, to fight and kill him. Thus, Mahishi began performing a fearsome set of austerities, and pleased the creator god Brahma. He granted her the boon of ruling the universe and being invulnerable except to a being that had the combined strength of both Shiva and Vishnu. Since such a person did not exist, she thought she was safe and began conquering and plundering the world.

The gods implored Shiva and Vishnu to save them from this catastrophe. Vishnu found a possible solution to the problem. When Vishnu had taken on the Kurma Avatar, he also had to manifest himself as Mohini, the enchantress, to save the nectar of immortality from the demons who were not willing to share it with the gods. If he became Mohini again, then the female Mohini and the male Shiva could have the divine child who would combine their powers and beat Mahishi.

Some versions give a slightly more detailed version of the union of Shiva with Vishnu. One version tells that the asura Basmasura had so pleased lord Shiva with his austerities that Shiva gave him a boon of anything he wished. So Basmasura asked for the ability to burn to ashes anything which he placed his hand over. No sooner had Shiva granted this, than Basmasura ran after the god, threatening to turn him to ashes.

Shiva called to lord Vishnu for help. He hid himself in a certain tree as Basmasura ran here and there searching for the god. Vishnu became aware of the events, and decided that he would take the female form Mohini, "the Enchanting", and try to trump the asura's powers. When Basmasura saw Vishnu in this form, he was bewitched by her beauty. He earnestly tried to court her. So Vishnu instructed Basmasura to hold his hand over his head, and vow fidelity. With this act, Basmasura was reduced to ashes.

Vishnu found Shiva and explained the whole affair to him. Shiva asked if he too could see Vishnu in this female form. When Vishnu appeared thus, Shiva was overcome with passion, and united with "her" (Shiva's seed caught in Mohini's hands, per one version of the story). The two gods thus became "HariHara Murthy", that is a composite form of Shiva and Vishnu as one god.

From this union lord Ayyappan was born. He combines in himself the powers of Vishnu and Shiva, and is a visible embodiment of their essential identity. Lord Vishnu gifted the new-born deity with a little bejeweled bell necklace, so this god is called Manikanthan Swamy. The Tamils call him Ayyanar, and he is also called Shastha or Shasthappan by most South Indian communities.

In most Tamil versions of the story, the legend ends with the birth of the god, and with his passage around the region. But in Kerala, the story continues with Ayyappan's adoption by the Pandalam Raja, and the subsequent encounter with Mahisi

Shiva in Bangalore

2011-05-13T23:14:00.000-07:00

Open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day for your scalping pleasure. Shiv Mandir, located on old airport road in Bangalore, is the epitome of crass tourist traps. My travel bud and I had a few extra hours to burn before leaving for the airport, we’d already done the city tour and partaken of the sights we were interested in. In a local guide book we found a very well written review for what looked like a historic temple devoted to Lord Shiva. Upon mentioning our interest in this destination, our driver, Raghu, tried to dissuade us. This is a classic case of why you should listen to your driver.

After fighting the cross town traffic for 30 minutes we arrived in front of a rather nondescript entrance. A doorway, steps off the city road, in a newly built neighborhood should have been my first clue this was not in the temple circuit realm of Tamil Nadu.

Signs marking the way to the big statue led us past stalls filled with garish religious trinkets. Sellers yelled out “please have a look”, “we won’t be here as you exit”.
Finally a ticket booth with a large courtyard beyond. Wait, a ticket booth for a temple? No, a ticket booth for entrance into the attraction. For just Rs 100 per person we could take in all of the events described to us. But, we had to buy the ticket here or else it was Rs 160 inside. Now I was sure this was a trap.

We waved off the attraction tickets explaining we only wanted pictures. Fine, but we did get hit for Rs 29, Rs 4 for our shoes and Rs 25 for my still camera.

Past the booth was a row of brass urns each filled with tokens and labeled with individual names. In my haste to get past this and to the big Shiva statue I didn’t catch the significance. Up a flight of stairs and now the statue was within sight.

Another ticket booth. The kids below were right, now the tickets were Rs 160. I snapped a few pics and then tried to explain we weren’t interested nor going to pay money to see the statue. The attendant waved us on.

We walked to the flight of stairs back down into the courtyard where water was being shuffled around (much like the Golden Temple) in an attempt to keep the floors clean. A fair amount of locals were mulling about but not paying the requested fee so we jumped into line with them. Damn, another checkpoint! This time I asked the attendant directions to the exit but it didn’t matter at this point. We were staring right at the 65 foot high Lord Shiva. Snap! snap! Done…I had what I came for.

We found our way to the shoe rack (no tip since I prepaid). On the walk back to reconnect with Raghu, I was amazed at what appeared to be an even longer parade of stalls selling everything from Buddhist prayer beads to ice cream. In the car I learned the complex was nearly new having been built in 1995. Ugh, another trap fallen for

Shiva literally means “auspiciousness, welfare”. He is the third god of the Hindu Triad and is the destroyer of all evil. He represents darkness (tamas), and is said to be the ‘angry god’. However, according to Hinduism, creation follows destruction. Therefore Shiva is also regarded as a reproductive power, which restores what has been dissolved. As one who restores, he is represented as the linga or phallus (Shivalinga), a symbol of regeneration.

He has a 1,008 names, including Mahadeva (the great god), Mahesh, Rudra, Neelkantha (the blue-throated one), and Ishwar (the supreme god). He is also called Mahayogi, or the great ascetic, who symbolises the highest form of austere penance and abstract meditation, which results in salvation.

Shiva is believed to exist in many forms. His most common depiction is as a dark-skinned ascetic with a blue throat, usually seated cross-legged on a tiger skin.

Shiva’s hair is matted and coiled on his head, adorned with a snake and a crescent moon. Ganga is always depicted flowing out of his topknot. Shiva has four arms and three eyes. The third eye, in the middle of his forehead, is always closed and only opens to annihilate an evil doer. A garland of skulls, rudraksha beads, or a snake hang from his neck. Shiva also wears snakes as armlets and bracelets. The serpent race, despised and feared by all other creatures, found a place of honour on Shiva’s sacred person, simply because he was moved by their plight.

In one hand, Shiva holds his trishul, the Pinaka. The trishul usually has a damaru or waisted drum tied to it. In another hand, he holds a conch shell and in the third, a rudraksha rosary, a club, or a bow. One hand is usually empty, raised in a gesture of blessing and protection. The other points to his feet, where the devotee is assured of salvation. He wears a tiger or leopard skin around his waist, and his upper body is usually bare, but smeared with ashes, as befits an ascetic. His third eye is believed to have appeared when Parvati, in a playful mood, covered his eyes with her hands. Immediately, the universe was plunged into darkness and there was chaos. To restore order, Shiva formed another eye on his forehead, from which emerged fire to restore light.

The light from this eye is believed to be very powerful, and therefore destructive. Shiva opens his third eye only in anger, and the offender is burnt to cinders.

The name Shiva does not appear in the Vedas. However he is identified with the Vedic god Rudra, lord of songs, sacrifices, nourishment, the healer of diseases and provider of property. According to the Shiva Purana, Shiva is said to have five faces, corresponding to his five tasks, the panchakriya: creation, establishment, destruction, oblivion, and grace. His five faces are associated with the creation of the sacred syllable Om.

Kapaleeswarar Temple

2011-05-10T01:08:00.000-07:00

Visiting to temples can serve many purposes. It just depends on your preference. Like if you are curious to know about the ancient culture of Hindus you can visit temples. If you are give some spiritual touch to your tour then you can also visit the temple. Also if you want to understand ancient India with all its political, cultural principles then also you can tour to the temples. So if any of these topics are your interest then in your Chennai temple tour list you can add a visit to the Kapaleeswarar temple in Chennai.

Kapaleeswarar temple was built in the 7th century by the Pallava Nayanmars. Nayanmars are said to be the devotees of Lord Shiva who worship him by singing hymns in the temple. They are more powerful such that whatever they desire, that will be fulfilled easily. The Kapaleeswarar temple is built in such a way that it is made very attractive for the people who visit the temple. Kapaleeswarar temple is the biggest temple in the Chennai. It was built in such a way that it becomes one of the biggest attractions for the devotees. The view of the temple from outside will be very excellent to see. There is also a Pond in the temple which is known as the Kolam or Theertham which is useful for sacred activities. Some people also consider taking bath in that Kolam or Theertham as a sacred thing.

Every single temple in India has its own significance. Similarly Kapaleeswarar temple also has its own importance and significance. It is necessary that people should know more about the Kapaleeswarar temple before visiting the temple. To tell in general there are now people from all over the world who come to Chennai to visit the Kapaleeswarar temple to get glory for their life. Kapaleeswarar temple is the most powerful temple and whatever thing that is demanded from the lord Shiva is fulfilled easily. It will be more beautiful to visit the temple because the construction part is made more attractive. When there is a function time then the temple will be fully filled with the devotees.

Actually in the puranas it is said that the Lord Shiva and Brahma made their conversation in the Mount Kailash about the discussion on creation of three lokam. But when Lord Brahma dint agree for that, Lord Shiva cut and threw his head off the ground. Now the intention of Lord Brahma is to convince Lord Shiva and ask apology for his mistake. For this reason he came to Maylai and created a Lingam for Lord Shiva and started making the necessary rituals and pooja to cool Lord Shiva. It is said that after these efforts of Lord Brahma finally Lord Shiva was convinced and Lord Brahma was given apology.

In the old puranas it is said that the Lord Shiva was discussing to the Lord Brahma, the Lord of creation about the creation of the three Lokas but the fact is that the Lord Brahma refused to accept and agree what Lord Shiva said. Ultimately Lord Shiva got angry and he plucked our one head from four of his heads. After this incident Lord Brahma went to Lord Shiva and asked for forgiveness by begging to him. Then he requested the Lord Shiva to stand in the Mayilai in the name of Kapaleeswarar just because he was wearing a necklace made of skulls. Here a skull stands for the Kapala. This is the reason why this particular name comes for the Lord Shiva.

The Kapleeswarar temple is situated in Kutchery Road, Mylapore. Mylapore is located in the city of Madras. So you can tour to this temple either by auto rickshaw or 'call taxis' or the deluxe cabs. If you are hiring auto rickshaw, which is the cheapest mode of transport, you need to negotiate the fare carefully. The standard charge for auto rickshaws is Rs.8 for every kilometer you travel. The call taxis charge higher but they are very prompt service and they will pick you up from your doorstep. You can also tour by deluxe cabs. If you prefer you can drive the deluxe cabs yourself.

There are many bus facility available from all the parts of the Chennai to the Mylapore. It is necessary that we should catch the local city bus from Tambaram or Koyambedu to reach the Kapaleeswarar temple if we are from any other part of the Tamil Nadu. Even the trains are also available for reaching Mylapore. There are also bus available that will reach the most nearest spot of the Kapaleeswarar temple. There will always be a big crowd of the devotees in the Kapaleeswarar temple always waiting to get the glory for the Kapaleeswarar.

Parthasarathy Temple

2011-05-10T00:54:00.000-07:00

HISTORY:-

Temples are the places of worship of the Hindus. Since Hindus form a large part of the population of Chennai, it is but natural that of all the religious places of Chennai, temples are largest in number. Many of the temples of Chennai/Madras city are so popular that thousands of devotees throng them to pray and worship everyday. Lets have a quick glance of temples of Chennai city.

Parthasarathy Temple

To add some variety to your temple journey visit the Parthasarathy temple in Chennai. Though the common features of ancient temples are very much prevalent in this ancestral temple but it has some striking features, which makes the temple outstanding among others.

Journey to the Parthasarathy temple in Madras is very easy as it is situated in the heart of the Chennai city. Madras is the earlier name of the present Chennai city. Parthasarathy temple is in the Peter's Road, which is at Triplicane. You can visit this temple either by bus or auto rickshaw or by hired luxurious cabs. If you are going by auto rickshaw be careful about the fares. The standard charge for the auto rickshaws Rs. 8 for every kilometer you travel. Even if it is metered it is better to negotiate the fare first. The same concept applies for the luxurious cabs.

The Parthasarathy temple in Chennai has its origin back in 8th century. It was generally built by the Pallavas and later reformed by the Vijayanagar Kings during 11th century. The literal meaning of 'Parthasarathy' is the charioteer. According to the great Indian epic 'Mahabharata' 'Partha' meant Arjuna while sarathy is meant as charioteer. In the epic it is said during the great battle of Mahabharata Lord Krishna was the charioteer of Arjuna. In the epic Arjuna or partha was a brave warrior and Lord Krishna was a good friend, philosopher and guide to the Partha or Arjuna.

Though the Parthasarathy temple is devoted to the various incarnations of Lord Vishnu the main deity is 'Lord Krishna' one of the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Also the other exquisite feature of this Parthasarathy temple is the colored gopuram. 'Gopuram' is said to the pyramidical shaped temple top which is a stereotyped feature of the South Indian temples.

Aranmula is famous for Sree Parthasarathi temple, also called Aranmula Parthasarathi temple. It is one of the famous temples in Kerala, dedicated to Lord Krishna. Parthasarathi deity is named for recognizing Krishna as a charioteer in Kurukshetra War. The temple is situated on the banks of the river Pampa

It said that the temple of Parthasarathi was constructed near Sabarimala. Experts estimate the temple to 1700 years old. It is a popular saying that Lord Krishna crossed river Pampa here. The famous boat race of Aranmula vallamkali is celebrated to commemorate Lord Krishna’s crossing of the river. This festival is also viewed as anniversary celebrations of Sri Krishna deity installation at Parthasarathi temple.

Aranmula Vallamkali CelebrationsThe annual boat race, Aranmula vallamkali attracts thousands of tourists all over the world. This event is organized by authorities of Kerala Tourism. The snake boats are center of attraction in this festival. These are peculiar boats resemble snakes and are about 100 feet long. About 40 such boats come to racing spot and participate in the event, accommodating more than 100 people.

The boat race of vallamkali is organized in a grand way. Songs called “Vanchipattu” are specially dedicated to the event. They are sung throughout the races. Participants row up and down the river with great enthusiasm. The boats are decorated with colorful flags, silk banners and golden umbrellas to make this a spectacular show. All this provide a mystical air to the festival of Aranmula vallamkali.

The festival is more than just a boat race. Temple is thronged with devotees glorifying Lord Krishna. On the day of race, rituals and offerings are paid to Lord Krishna in the early morning. People seek blessings of Lord Krishna for the race. The race starts at afternoon with men and singers shouting and singing in a tune, showing their happiness

Shiridi

2011-05-07T06:03:00.000-07:00

SHIRIDI MAIN TEMPLE

The Shirdi Saibaba Temple, located at Shirdi, Maharashtra, India attracts millions of devotees of all religions, castes and creed who come to pay homage to Shri Sai Baba. The temple is a beautiful shrine that was built over the Samadhi of Shri Sai Baba.

Shirdi is a small village in Kopargam taluk, in Ahmadnagar District of the Maharastra State. When Baba was physically present at the age of 20 in Shirdi, it was a small village of 80 thatched houses with mud walls. Today it is a big town with palatial modern buildings and shops. Thursday is the day Saibaba is specially.

worshipped. On this day devotees from all over India visit Shirdi for Darshan of Saibaba. The Temple opens for devotees at 5.15 a.m. (0515 hrs) with Kakad Aarti and remains open till the end of Shejarti.

For more on Puja timings. For devotees across the globe, there are arrangements to get Pujas conducted on their behalf and the prasad sent to them. Shirdi is well connected by road. There are also a few religious places of tourist interest in and around Shirdi. Shirdi Saibaba Temple is managed by Shri Sai Baba Sansthan since 1922. The trust ensures that a strict code of conduct is maintained in the temple premises.

About Shree Shirdi Sai Baba

Chandbhai, the headman of a village called Dhoopkhede (in Aurangabad, India), once lost his horse and was looking for it. Suddenly he heard a voice say "You look tired. come here and rest a while". He turned around and saw a young Fakir . The fakir smiled at him and said "What are you looking for in this jungle, Chandbhai". Chandbhai was surprised and he wondered how the fakir knew his name. Slowly, he said "I have lost my horse. I have looked for it everywhere, but cannot seem to find it". The fakir told him to look behind a clump of trees.

Chandbhai was pleasantly surprised to find his horse grazing peacefully behind those trees. He thanked the fakir and asked his name. The fakir said "some people call me Sai Baba."

Sai Baba then invited Chandbhai to have a smoke with him. He got the pipe ready, but there was no fire to light it with. Sai Baba thrust a pair of tongs into the ground and brought out a burning coal. Chandbhai was wonderstruck. He thought "this is no ordinary person" and invited Baba to come to his house and be his guest for a few days.

Next day Baba went to Chandbhai's house and found everybody in a very joyful mood and festivities going on all around. He found that Chandbhai's wife's nephew was getting married. The bride was from Shirdi and the marriage party was going to Shirdi. Chandbhai invited Baba to accompany the marriage party to Shirdi. At Shirdi they camped in a field next to Khandoba's temple.

After the wedding, Saibaba stayed on at Shirdi. At first he lived under a neem tree and begged for food whenever he needed it. He then went to Khandoba's temple, intending to stay there, but the temple priest met him at the entrance and told him to go to the mosque. That is how Baba, started staying at the Mosque which was later called Dwarkamayi.

Baba preached at Shirdi all his life and performed numerous miracles to convince people that God exists. He healed people's diseases, provided moral and material comfort to his devotees. Baba helped bring Unity and Harmony between all communities. He said that God is one, but called by different names. He said follow your own religion and seek the truth.

One day a rich millionaire named Booty came to Sai Baba and said he was going to construct a stone building for Shri Krishna. Baba helped him plan the building. Before the building was completed Baba fell very ill. On the 15th of October 1918, he breathed his last. His last wish was to be buried in Booty's building.

Booty's stone building came to be known as the Samadhi Mandir. Shri Sai Baba was buried here and a beautiful shrine was built over it. To this day, people flock to Shirdi to pay homage to Shri Sai Baba.

HOW TO REACH SHIRIDI:-

Sai Baba's place Shirdi (Maharashtra State) is a very sacred, powerful and important place of pilgrimage in India. One can visit this holy place easily. It is a well-developed town connected by bus routes. There is an important Railway Station, Kopergaon, though which the Karnataka Express from New Delhi to Bangalore passes. A number of trains from Bombay and Delhi also pass through Manmad station. Shirdi is only about 58 kms. from Manmad and buses and taxis are easily available to reach there. The distance of Shirdi from some important

cities is as under:-

Bombay -         266 kms.
Nasik -             90 kms.
Hyderabad -   610 kms.
Surat -             373 kms.
Nagpur -         618 kms.
Jalgaon -        233 kms.
Ahmednagar - 83 kms.
Delhi -            1166 kms.
Pune -            207 kms.
Sholapur -     312 kms.

There are arrangements for boarding and lodging at the Shirdi Sai Sansthan but since the crowd of people on all days, especially on Thursdays is very large, find it difficult to get accommodation. Besides, there are large number of good hotels to cater to the needs of all classes of devotees.

They have to seek the same in hotels, lodging places and private houses. Although there are arrangements for selling breakfast, lunch and dinner packets at the sansthan, yet due to the heavy rush most people have to eat outside in the market or in the restaurants

Simhachalam

2011-05-07T05:34:00.000-07:00

SIMHACHALAM TEMPLE

Simhachalam temple is well connected from Vizag city centers and there is a local station stop for trains. Long distance express trains usually do not stop here. From Vizag Railway station it is 45 minutes drive by road and 30 minutes from airport. Frequent buses available locally for hill top. There is a Trekking route available for trekking lovers from Madhavadhara side, two hours climbing to temple premises with steep natural stone steps and a beautiful view of Vizag city and at the other side the temple view from hill top. Simhachalam - the hill of the lion is located at a distance of 18 km from Visakhapatnam refers to the 11th century temple of Lord Narasimha - an incarnation of Vishnu. Millions of devotees from round the world visit this temple every year. The presiding deity here is Varaha Lakshminarasimha, combining the iconographic features of Varaha and Narasimha. The image resembles a Shivalingam covered with sandal paste. It is only once a year, during the Chandana Visarjana that the sandal paste is removed, and the image is seen by pilgrims.

SIMHSCHALAM TEMPLE OUT LOOK

The artwork here has elements of similarity with that of Konark. Elephants, flowers and plants are portrayed in plenty. The outer walls of the sanctum depict images of a royal personality (said to be King Narasimha) in various postures. The Kalyana Mandapa within the temple has 16 pillars with bas relief depicting the incarnations of Vishnu. SIMHA: Lion achala: hill Atop the hill is a famous temple said to be the abode of narasimha swami, and hence the hill itself is called (nara)simhachalam. [edit] Legend Hiranyakasipu was a Rakshasa king. He was in fact one of Vishnu's Dwarapalakas or gate keepers in Vaikuntha, Jaya and Vijaya. They had to take birth in the mortal world thrice because of a curse given by Sanaka, Sanandana, Sanathana and Sanathkumara, who were not allowed to take darshan of Mahavishnu by them. The other palaka was born as his brother Hiranyaaksha..

SIMHACHALAM TEMPLE GOPURAM

Hiranyakasipu wanted to become immortal and hence performed austerities (tapasya) to propitiate Lord Brahma. However, Lord Brahma said that was not possible so Hiranyakasipu asked Lord Brahma to grant him a boon so that he could not be killed by any animal or a man neither in the morning nor in the night, by any weapons, neither in sky nor on the earth. Hiranyakasipu wanted the entire world to worship him. But, Prahalada, his son, was a devotee of Lord Narayana and always expressed his bhakti towards Him. In spite of warning him several times, Hiranyakasipu could not alter Prahlada's devotion. This made Hiranyakasipu angry and he made numerous attempts to get Prahlada killed. One of them was to throw him off the top of a mountain. However, Vishnu rescued him by moving the mountain and made a small path for Prahaladha. It is said that in the place where the Lord stood to protect Prahaladha is the place where the temple is built.

Simhachalam temple is well connected from Vizag city centers and there is a local station stop for trains. Long distance express trains usually do not stop here. From Vizag Railway station it is 45 minutes drive by road and 30 minutes from airport. Frequent buses available locally for hill top. There is a Trekking route available for trekking lovers from Madhavadhara side, two hours climbing to temple premises with steep natural stone steps and a beautiful view of Vizag city and at the other side the temple view from hill top.

Simhachalam - the hill of the lion is located at a distance of 18 km from Visakhapatnam refers to the 11th century temple of Lord Narasimha - an incarnation of Vishnu. Millions of devotees from round the world visit this temple every year. The presiding deity here is Varaha Lakshminarasimha, combining the iconographic features of Varaha and Narasimha. The image resembles a Shivalingam covered with sandal paste. It is only once a year, during the Chandana Visarjana that the sandal paste is removed, and the image is seen by pilgrims. The artwork here has elements of similarity with that of Konark. Elephants, flowers and plants are portrayed in plenty. The outer walls of the sanctum depict images of a royal personality (said to be King Narasimha) in various postures. The Kalyana Mandapa within the temple has 16 pillars with bas relief depicting the incarnations of Vishnu.

There is a rest house available for staying and performing puja, mirages , functions etc. For booking one can telephone to 2715276. Narasimaha Lodge and one Kalyana Mandap are available at the complex. Catering facility is also available. This is one of the famous temple in Andhra Pradesh. After a visit to the temple one can buy many Puja photos, items and devotional songs from the local market.

Temple History It has Sri Varahalakshmi Narasimha Swamy as the presiding deity. Simhachalam temple is known as the second richest temple (after Tirupati) earning a revenue of Rs. 520 million. The statue of the deity gives "nijaroopa darshan" (holy appearance in true form) for only 12 hours in a year i.e on Akshaya Tritiya day, the rest of the time the statue is covered with sandalwood paste. The darshan described as chandana yatra or chandanotsavam falls every year in Vaisakha masa (May).

The deity at Simhachalam, the lion-man incarnation of Lord Mahavishnu is usually covered with sandalwood paste. The original shape of the deity in the tribhanga posture has two hands with the head of a lion on a human torso. An inscription dated as far back as 1098 AD of the Chola king Kuloththunga provides some clue as to its antiquity.

Another inscription shows a Queen of the Eastern Ganga of Kalinga(ancient Orissa) (1137-56 AD) covering the image with gold while a third inscription says the eastern Ganga King of Orissa Narasimha Deva built the main/central shrine in 1267 A.D. With more than 252 inscriptions in Oriya and Telugu describing the antecedents of the temple, it is a historically important monument.

Sri Krishna Deva Raya after defeating the Gajapati ruler of Orissa Gajapati Prataparudra Dev visited the shrine twice in 1516 AD and 1519 AD and offered numerous villages for maintenance of bhogam (worship) along with valuable jewellery of which an emerald necklace is still in the temple. For the last two centuries the family of the Raja of Vizianagaram have been the temple's trustees. This temple was build in the style of Orissa temple architecture. [edit] Recent Developments In October 2007, the Government of Andhra Pradesh approved a master plan for the development of the region into Divyakshetram on similar lines of Tirumala.

Draksharamam

2011-05-07T05:06:00.000-07:00

Drakshrama is located in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh state in India. This place is very famous for one of the pancharama temple, Draksharama Bheemeshwara Swamy and located in a green belt due to river Godavari. The temple (along with Kumararama Bheemeswara Swamy temple at Samarlakota has been constructed by the East Chalukyan king during Nineth century. The temple also consists one of the Shakti peetha, Sri Manikyamba. Irrespective of the kind, people who perfom puja here will be free of their sins.

IMPORTANCE OF DRAKSHARAMAM:-

Daksha vatika was the name in use earlier for this place. Kaksha Prajapathi performs a yagna without calling his daughter Parvathi and Shiva. Parvathi attends the function, she gets ill treated. She jumps into fire without tolerating the insult. Later the name Daksha Vatika got changed to Draksharamam.

Once upon a time Draksharama was considered as a Buddhist complex. The speciality of this Shiva Lingam is that, the early morning tender Sun light falls on the Linga. There are nearly 800 ancient scripts on the walls of the temple.

The celeberations in this Devalayam started during 14th century in the period of Reddy Kings. On the Eastern door (Dwara) Goddess Gogulamma, Western gate Nookambika, Northern side Moodhambike and at Southern side, Ghattambike can be seen.

Shiva Lingam is nearly 9 ft hight and the top part is seen at the first floor. There are other small temples inside the main temple premises. To name a few, Praakara Bhairavudu, Viroopa, Natarajeshwar, Vaamana, Visheshwara, Dancing Ganapati, Dundhi Ganapathi, Goddess Kanakadurga and Goddess Annapurna. To the right side of Bheemeshwara Swamy temple, Kashi Vishweshwara Swamy temple (South facing) is situated.

For performing puja (Abhisheka), water from Sapta Godavari is used as it is considered sacred.
Devotees come in huge number during Kartika Masam (November-December) for performing puja in this temple. Grand celeberations can be witnessed during Janmadinotsav (Birthday) i.e during Margashira Shudha Chathurdashi.

There is a choultry in the front side of the temple where free food is served for visitors. Travellers can relax here and refresh. Well maintained toilet and bathroom facility available. The maintenance of the temple is taken care by the Government of Andhra Pradesh. Photography is restricted inside the Garbha Gruham, allowed outside the temple premises.

Dormitory facility available at a very nominal cost which is available at a distance of half kilometer from the temple. Bigger one INR 200 per day and smaller one is INR 100 per day. The temple timings are given below.

Daily Dharma Darshan:

6.00AM to 7.00AM and night 7.00PM to 8.00PM

Wednesdays: 6.00AM to 11.30AM and 3.00PM to 8.00PM

Rest of the days: 6.00AM to 12 noon and 3.00PM to 8.00PM

There is a pond nearer to the temple which is called Sapta (seven) Godavari Kundam (pond).

HOW TO REACH

Draksharama is situated just 6 Kms away from Ramachandra Puram in East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh. Only bus facility is available to reach. Nearest Railway stations are Kakinada,Rajahmandry,and Samarlakota junction is one more nearest railway station where people can plan to get down in case they want to visit other places in this area. Few trains give stop at Annvaram also Get proper information about the stoppage of trains in these stations as all the trains will not stop. Excellent bus facility is available from Kakinada and Ramachandrapuram.

People travelling by train from any part of the country, get down at Samarlakota . If they get train upto Kkinada, get down at Kakinada.People can reach can reach Kakinada by bus also The distance between Kakinda and Samarlakota only 12 kms from Kakinda Draksharama is 28 Kms on the way to Kotipalli. There are frequent buses available to Kotipalli.

Visitors travelling by bus have several options. Travelling from Kolkata and other Northern part of India, have to take National Highway 5 and reach Annavaram after Visakhapatnam. After Annavaram take left turn at Kathipudi to proceed either to Samalkot or Kakinada. People coming from Hyderabad and other parts of the country, take right diversion at Ravulapalem before reaching Rajahmundry where green direction boards are installed on Highway. Ramachandra puram is only 45minutes journey from this point. From Ramachandrapuram, continue in the road going towards Yanam to reach Draksharama. Draksharama is at a distance of 470 Kms from Hyderabad
Additional places of interest around Draksharama include Samalkot (Pancharama, Kumararama Bheemeshwara temple), Annavaram, Thalupulamma Thalli and Rajahmundry. Tourists better plan their stay either at Kakinada, Samalkot or Rajahmundry. Travellers can also make Rajahmundry as the center place for their trip.

Dwarapudi photo's

2011-05-07T03:47:00.000-07:00

DWARAPUDI NATARAJA SWAMI

DWARAPUDI SIVALINGAM

DWARAPUDI TEMPLE ENTRENCE

DWARAPUDI AYYAPPA STEP'S

DWARAPUDI MAIN TEMPLE

DWARAPUDI KUMARA SWAMI

Vaishno Devi

2011-05-07T03:29:00.000-07:00

Introduction:-

The holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi which is situated in the folds of might ‘Tirkuta’ Hills' attracts Lakhs of devotees since ages owing to the unflinching faith of the people who throng the Shrine from all parts of India and form abroad. The Vaishno Devi temple, which is also recognized as one of the “Shakti Peeths” of goddess ‘ Durga’, is situated at a distance of 61 Kms from Jammu, which is the winter capital of J&K state. The devotees (popularlyknown as 'Yatries' traverse part of the distance i.e. 13 Km. on foot. The on-foot yatra starts from the base town of Katra, which is at a height of 1700 ft. from the sea level.

The holy cave of goddess Vaishno Devi is situated at an altitude of 5200 ft. Thus by traveling on foot a distance of 13 Kms, a yatri covers a vertical height of about 3500 ft. People who visit the shrine constitute a heterogeneous profile comprising of wealthy & poor, aged & young, males & females from within and outside the country. At the culmination of their pilgrimage the yatries are blessed with the ‘Darshans’ of the deity in her three manifestations as three Pindies, located inside the sanctum– sanatorium, open for the yatries through out the year in all seasons. In the last two decades especially after 1986 when the management of this Shrine was entrusted to an autonomous Board viz. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, the influx of yatra has experienced a steady rise.

This is owing to the fact that the Board, Which is pro-yatries, has carried out massive developmental & procedural improvements for the smooth conduct of yatra. The emphasis of the Board has always been on pumping-back its incomes for further improvement of facilities for the yatries as also to fulfill the other social commitments to help the weaker sections of the society. As of date the Shrine Board has created a massive infrastructure including pedestrian track, electrification, accommodation, toilets, blankets stores, cloak rooms etc and many of its vital projects are in the offing / conception.. Out of the millions of devotees who throng the place, a large number of yatri are repeaters who visit place every year. The Shrine of goddess ‘Vaishno Devi’ is reached by an arduous climb. The efforts a pilgrim puts in to traverse this distance kindles in him a sense of mission. The scenic beauty, the landscape around and the constant chanting of ‘Jai Mata Di’, leaves a mystic effect on the yatries, making complete transformation of one’s body and soul. The devotee's mind is freed from all kinds of pride and ego, and he is completely lost in a reverie of gratitude to the divine.

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi's shrine in Jammu is one of the oldest shrines in India. The Goddess Vaishnavi is a manifestation of the collective spiritual strengths of Mata Maha Kali, Mata Maha Lakshmi and Mata Maha Saraswati. According to the Durga Sapatshati, the Goddess was born with extraordinary beauty and strength and is an amalgamation of the 'Tejas' of these three 'Devatas'. The deities have natural pindies that represent the creative, preservative and destructive aspects of the Supreme Power. Reference to the shrine is found in the Vedas and other ancient scriptures.

Vaishnavi, after immense hardships reached the foot of the Trikuta Hills and after setting up her ashram there she began to meditate. As predicted by Lord Rama, her glory spread far and wide and people began to flock to her Ashram to seek her blessings. As the time passed, a Tantrik named Gorakh Nath who had a vision of the episode between Lord Rama and Vaishnavi in the retrospective time frame, became curious to find out whether Vaishnavi has been able to attain a high level of spirituality or not. He, therefore, sent his most able disciple ‘Bhairon Nath’ to find out the truth. Bhairon Nath on locating the ashram started observing Vaishnavi secretly and realised that though a ‘Sadhvi’ she always carried bow and arrows with her and was always surrounded by langoors (apes) and a ferocious looking lion. Bhairon Nath was enamored by Vaishnavi’s extraordinary beauty and losing all good sense he began to pester Vaishnavi to marry him. Meanwhile a staunch devotee of Mata Sridhar organised a Bhandara (Community meal) in which the whole village and Guru Gorakh Nath along with all his followers including Bhairon were invited. During the course of Bhandara Bhairon Nath attempted to grab Vaishnavi but she tried her best to daunt him. On failing to do so, Vaishnavi decided to flee away into the mountains to continue her ‘Tapasaya’ undisturbed. Bhairon Nath however chased her to her destination.

The goddess after halting at Banganga, Charan Paduka, and Adhkwari, finally reached the holy cave Shrine. When Bhairon Nath continued to follow her despite the goddess trying to avoid a confrontation, the goddess was compelled to kill him. Bhairon Nath met his ultimate fate when the goddess, just outside the mouth of the cave, beheaded him. The severed head of Bhairon fell with a force at a distant hilltop. Bhairon Nath upon death realised the futility of his mission and prayed to the deity to forgive him. The almighty 'Mata' had mercy on Bhairon and gave him a boon that every devotee of the goddess shall have to have the Darshans of Bhairon after having the Darshans of the goddess and only then shall the yatra of a devotee be complete. Meanwhile, Vaishnavi decided to shed off her human form and assuming the face of a rock she immersed her self into meditation forever.

OUM SAKTHI

2011-05-07T03:15:00.000-07:00

Even a whole life time spent in Thiruvannamalai will not reveal all the power spots of this Sacred Mountain! Actually

SACRED SPOTS IN THIRUVANNAMALAI

In humility Nandhi wishes to serve and offer the little he can to guide all to the Supreme Mountain of Enlightenment. There are still many places needing to mentioned and this page will be updated constantly. We do not wish to put up pictures of ashrams as we do not wish for comparisons though however, there are a galaxy of amazing saints who lived here in meditative fires and their samadhis are in every corner, some a ashrams. If you have any pictures of sacred spots to contribute, we are grateful! Please email us explaining a bit about the photo and why you consider it sacred and if you wish, your name/website if you have one

Every stone in Thiruvannamalai is a sacred. A pilgrimage to Arunachala begins with a slow walk around the mountain around the ancient mountain. It is important to ensure that our mantras are like a garland, mind single-pointed in focus and we surrender to Lord Arunachala, the mountain every step of the way. He will eagerly take us into His realms of Supreme Self in this process.

The ideal time to begin the walk- mid night.

Ideal day- New Moon. New Moon is being spirit- being Lord Siva.

Before getting started, begin with your prayers to Ganapathy at the main entrance of the Main Temple.

Start with the "Girivalam":

The initial walk through the town of Thiruvannamalai is a bit irritating with scanty preparation of the street for pilgrims. The road slowly clears up as we reach Sri Ramana Maharishi's Ashram.

There is a powerful Dakshina Murthy just outside this sacred ashram. Of course, Sri Ramana's Ashram is potent in ancient grace as is all the ashrams located around the Mountain.

Around the Mountain are 8 lingams- visit and worship each of these lingams. Pay your worship at the innumerable jiva samadhi's of saints.

Nandhi was guided to the ancient primal temple called Aadi-Annamalayar which is located near the middle of Girivalam. Residing here is the ancient Guru to all Gurus as Adi Siva.

Picture here- Behind the sanctum sanctorum of the temple of Aadi Annamalayar. Ideal spot to meditate!

Coming outside the the first circle of the temple, walk around and behind is a row of lingams- each an ancient Siva Siddhar. The One facing the sanctum sanctorum is Adi Siva. His Nandhi is below-

Walk around this ancient center of worship at least once, so to always have this Light to digest in your life

As we resume walking again, stop by the temple of Ardhanadeswara- Siva and Sakthi as One.

Ardhanadeswara also is the awakened third eye, the power behind manifestations of spiritual and material realities.

Be blessed by harmony and fulfillment in life!

As we enter the main temple, pay our worship to the large Nandhi

When going around, seek the grace of all the ancient masters, the Sivan Adiyars and feel the sacred guidance. Look above through the two horns and visualize the Siva Lingam there. Receiving the first darshan through Nandhi before the darshan of Lord Siva at the sanctum sanctorum is auspicious.

DWARAKA THIRUMALA

2011-05-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

“Dwaraka Tirumala” is an ancient holy place and a popular pilgrim center in Andhra Pradesh of South India. Dwaraka Tirumala is nearer to 'Eluru', the head quarters of West Godavari District, which is 42 KM away from Eluru. Dwaraka Tirumala is situated at 15KM distance from Bhimadole Junction, which is in between Vijayawada and Rajahmundry State Highway and Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam main Railway line.

About the Temple: -

Dwaraka Tirumala” is an ancient holy place and a popular pilgrim center in Andhra Pradesh of South India. Dwaraka Tirumala is nearer to 'Eluru', the head quarters of West Godavari District, which is 42 KM away from Eluru. Dwaraka Tirumala is situated at 15KM distance from Bhimadole Junction, which is in between Vijayawada and Rajahmundry State Highway and Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam main Railway line

This pilgrimage centre is called "Dwaraka Tirumala" after the great saint, "Dwaraka" who located the self manifested idol of Lord "Sri Venkateswara" after severe penance in a ‘Valmikam’ (ant hill). The devotees call Sri Venkateswara as Kaliyuga Vaikunta Vasa. This place is also called “Chinna Tirupati”.

As per Sastras North Indian rivers like Ganges and Yamuna are considered to be more and more holy as they go up to the origin and south Indian rivers like Krishna and Godavary are more and more holy as they go down the river to its mouth to the Sea. It is why there are numerous shrines and holy bathing ghats, at close intervals, on both sides of the great grand rivers Krishna and Godavary in their lower regions.

The devotees who wish to go and offer their donations, or tonsures or any other offerings to Lord Venkateswara, Lord of Tirumala Tirupati, called as “Pedda Tirupati”, due to some reason, if they are unable to go there, they can offer their donations, prayers and worship in Dwaraka Tirumala temple.

DWARAKA THIRUMALA POOJA.

DAILY POOJA - SEVA:-

A) Suprabhata Seva: Devotees can participate in Suprabhata Seva every day morning 4.00 AM.

The ticket cost is Rs.100/- per person. (Two laddu is free)

B) Astottara Satanamarchana: This Pooja is celebrated at Utsava Murtulu.This Pooja is celebrated everyday from 9 A.M to 12 Noon. (2 persons allowed for Seegradarsanam)

The ticket cost is Rs.130/-

C) Kumkuma Puja: This Pooja is celebrated at Sri Ammavarlu. The Pooja is celebrated everyday.

The ticket cost is Rs.58/- for single person.

D) Gopuja: 116/- (2 persons allowed for Seegradarsanam and 2 Laddu + 1 Pulihora Free)

WEEKLY POOJA - SEVA:-

A) Snapana: Snapana is celebrated only on Fridays between 6-00 AM to 8-00 AM.

The ticket cost is Rs.301/-

YEARLY POOJA - SEVA:-

A) Saswatha Kalyanam : On payment of Rs.15,000/- one can have Nitya Arjita Kalyanam on a required day every year and the same will be intimated in advance to take part in Kalyanam. In their absence the Kalyanam will be celebrated on their Name and Gotram and Prasadam will be sent to them by post.

B) Saswatha Sahasra Namarchana on Every Saturday: On payment of Rs.10,000/- one can have the permanent worship on Every Saturday on their Name and Gotram and Prasa dam will be sent by post.

C) Saswatha Astottara Satanamarchana on Every Saturday: On payment of Rs.7,500/- one can have the permanent worship on Every Saturday on their Name and Gotram and Prasadam will be sent by post.

D) Saswatha Astotharam: On payment of Rs.1,500/- one can have the permanent worship on a required day in
every year on their Name and Gotram and Prasadam will be sent by post.

BHADRACHALAM SRIRAM

2011-05-06T23:03:00.000-07:00

The Sree Seetha Ramachandra Swamy shrine at Bhadrachalam, the most famous temple in the country dedicated to Lord Rama, is situated on the left bank of the Godavari river. It is a place of pilgrimage for Hindus, considered to be one of the greatest holy shrines in South India with a very rich and unique historical background. The Temple was constructed in the 17th Century by the local Tahsildar, Kancharla Gopanna, popularly known as Bhakta Ramadas, a fervent devotee of Lod Sree Rama.
The puranic and historic facts relate that Lord Rama long after he had shed his mortal coils manifested himself to save his devotee Bhadra Maharshi whom he promised 'moksha' after intensive prayer. That is why the village is named after Bhadra as Bhadradri or Bhadrachalam. Srirama appeared in a dream to a woman called Pokala Dammakka and informed here about the existence of vigrahas on Bhadragiri hills. To her surprise she found the "Vigrahas" and put up a modest structure. This was the origin of the present temple.

ANNAVARAM DEVASTHANAM

2011-05-06T21:52:00.000-07:00

Sri Satyanarayana swamivari Devasthanam is maintaining two different types of Darshan methods for the convenance of the piligrams to witness the deity.

Sarva Darshanam
Seegradarshanam

Sarvadarshanam means 'Darshan for all'. Sarva darshanam is free and allowed between 6:00AM to 12:30PM and 1:00PM to 9:00PM.

Seegradarshanam means 'Darshan with less waiting time'. Piligrams who want to avail seegradarhan, have to purchase a ticket costing Rs. 25/- per head. One packet (100Gms) of bhogam prasadam will be provided for Seegradarshanam ticket. Timings for the seegradarshan is same as sarvadarshanam but allowed through a different queue.

S.No	Details	Time
1.	Sri Swamy Vari Suprabhata Seva	3:30 AM
2.	Abhishekam & Archana	4:00 AM to 5:15 AM
3.	Balabogam	5:15 AM
4.	Panchaharathulu & Neerajana Mantra Pushpamulu	5:30 AM
5.	Swamy Vari Sarva Darshanam	6:00 AM to 12:00 PM 12:30 PM to 9:00 PM
6.	Ashtothara Sathanama Poojas & Sahasranamarchanas	08:00 AM to 12:00 PM
7.	Abhishekams are been performed by the Devotees Rs. 100/- per each tickets in Yantralayam	08:00 AM to 12:00 PM
8.	Sri Vari Nitya Kalyanam	09:30 AM
9.	Rajabhoga Mahanivedana	12:30 PM to 1:00 PM
10.	Darbaru Mandapam who are having tickets Rs. 40/- respectively.	06:00 PM to 07:00 PM
11.	Sri Swamy Vari Darbaru Seva	7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
12.	Sri Ammavarla Ekanta Seva	8:30 PM to 9:00 PM
13.	Temple Doors Close	9:00 PM to 3:30 AM

Devastanam administration has taken all measures for the piligram's comfortable stay on the Ratnagiri. Visitors will be offered diffrent kinds of accomodation ranging from Normal rooms to A.C Suits in various choultries and guest houses on the hill.

For the convenience of the casual visitors devastanam provided lockers to keep their luggage .

Advance reservation fecility is available for all accomodations except Prakash Sadan. Reservation will be done by paying one day rent + 50% of additional amount for the guest house of their choice.

Note :The Devotees are requested to pay in advance 1 day Rent + 50% additional amount for the Reservation of the Choultries of their choice

Sl.No.	Choultry's Name	Rent Per day in Rs.
1.	Sri Seetha Rama Choultry	Rs. 150
2.	Sri Centenary Choultries	Rs. 300
3.	Sri Vana Durga Choultry	Rs. 150
4.	T.T.D Choultry	Rs.75
5.	Satya Niketan (Annavaram Town)	Rs.150
6.	Satya Surya Choultry	Provided for Sahaja Hospital

Sl.No.	Guest House Name	Rent Per day in Rs.
1.	Sri Satyadeva Guest House	Rs. 250
2.	Donar Cottage	Rs. 150
3.	Eswar Lake View Guest House(Full Suit)	Rs. 3000
4.	Vinayaka Guest House(Full Suit)	Protocol
5.	Main Guest House	For VIPS
6.	Paying Guest House	Rs.150
7.	6 VIP Rooms	Rs.700
8.	T.T.D. VIP Rooms	Rs.150
Prakash Sadan VIP Cottages
1.	Ordinary Room	Rs. 450
2.	Corner Room	Rs. 500
3.	Special Room	Rs. 550
4.	A.C. Room	Rs.700
5.	Double Room	Rs.1500

Sl.No.	Choultry's Name	Rent Per day in Rs.
1.	Sri Seetha Rama Choultry Halls	Rs. 1175
2.	Sri Seetha Rama Stage	Rs. 1000
3.	Niruti Mandapam- Full	Rs. 3000

Sun rise clock

In the Temple Complex :
The temple sree veera venkata satyanaryana swamy in the main temple on the ratnagiri hill.

The temple Sri sita rama ,as keshatra palakulu .

The shrines of vana durga and kanaka durga near by.Godess Vanadurga held in great venaration and devi is said to be seen even to this day in the nights going about the holy precincts perpetually guarding the lord.

The temple of gramadevatha (Village deity ) is in the village at the foot of the hill.

Adopted Temples :

Sri Bhuvaneswari temple ,Kovvuru, West Godavari District.

Sri VenuGopala Swamy Temple ,Gedhanapalli

Sri Malleswara Swamy Temple.

Donor Cottage

Sri Veera Venkata Satyanaryana Swamy Vari Devasthanam Annavaram has Constructed 125 rooms Cottage(Harihara Sadanam ) on 50 % donation scheme collecting from the donors with the following condition.

Conditions:-

Donor has to pay 50% of expenditure on each suit / room (Approximately 5.00 Lakhs). Suit / Room will be allotted to the donor/authorized person for 30 days in a year, on rush days room will be allotted only to Husband / wife, parents and children of the donor.
The donation scheme shall be applicable for 25 years form the date of allotment. Further information can obtained from the devasthanam personally or by phone No.91-08868-239223

VIJAYAVADA DURGA DEVI

2011-05-06T21:41:00.000-07:00

SRI DURGA MALLESWARA SWAMY VARLA DEVASTHANAM,

BRIEF NOTES

Goddess Kanaka Durga manifested herself (Swayambhu) on the hillock known as Indrakeeladri situated on the left Bank of River Krishna at Vijayawada. The origin of this shrine is known to be of 8^th century. The temple was constructed during the Regime of Mogalaya rulers. According to Sthalapuranam, Mogalaya Ruler Thanisha with the assistance of his Ministers Akkanna and Madanna managed the temple with head quarters at Kondapalli.

His Holiness Sri Sri Sri Sankara Bhagavatpadulu (Adi Sankaracharya) visited this temple during 8^th century and worshipped the deity and installed “ SRICHAKRAM” at the feet of Goddess. This temple is of Smartha Agama Sampradaya. Sub-temples of Lord Sri Malleswara Swamy varu, Sri Nataraja Swamy temple are located on north east corner of Goddess. Sri Subrahmanyeswara Swamy Temple is located on north side of main temple. This temple is one of the 10 major temples of the state and one of the popular pilgrimage centre, and has been acquiring importance day by day.

GRANDEUR OF SRI KANAKADURGA KSHETRA

In good olden days a Yaksha named 'KEELA' had been performing awful penance about holiest goddess Durga. Goddess Durga was pleased by his penance and appeared to him. She asked him to beg a boon. Keela was so happy by the words of goddess Durga and begged like this, "O holy Mother! you should always be in my heart. This is the one and only my desire". Listened goddess Durga and gave the boon with showering the lunar lights of smile and said, "My Son! You remain here at this holiest planes of river Krishna in the form of mountain. In Krithayuga, after the assassination of demons, I will remain in your heart".

As such, by the order of goddess Durga, Keela had been waiting in the form of mountain for goddess Durga. After sometime, in the Krithayuga goddess Durga killed Mahishasura who was a disaster for World. Then goddess Durga shined on the Keela mountain with eight arms in the form of MAHISHASURA MARDINI as she had given boon to keela. On this mountain, goddess Durga had been glowing with the lighting of crores of suns, with golden colour. Since that, Indra and all the deities praised her chanting "KANAKA DURGA" and they had been worshipping her daily. This mountain has attained the name "INDRAKEELADRI" from those times, since all the deities are visiting this mountain. Likewise, since goddess Durga shined on this mountain with golden colour glowing, the name 'KANAKACHALA' also attained by this mountain. Holy Indrakeeladri mountain became holiest after prevailing goddess Durga on this. Then Brahma Deva had a sacred intution that Lord Siva also should prevail on this mountain. For this holy purpose, he had performed 'Sata Aswamedha Yaga'. By this, lord Maheswara pleased with his devotion and rested in the form of 'Jyothirlinga' on this mountain. By the first time, Brama Deva worshipped lord Siva with Jasmin flowers (Mallika) with great devotion. Since Lord Siva was worshipped with Jasmin flowers by Brahma Deva, he has attained the name. 'MALLIKESA'. After this, in Dwaparayuga Arjuna, middle one of the Pandavas, awfully penanced about Parameswara, seeking 'Pasupatastra'. Parameswara wanted to test Arjuna and fau,ght with him. Finally Lord Siva pleased with the devotion and dauntlessness of Arjuna and offered him Pasupatastra. From that day 'MALLIKESA'had attained the name 'MALLIKESWARA' since he faught with Arjuna with greatest bravery. Days were passing on and on. In Kaliyuga, Jagadguru Sri Adi Sankaracharya observed that the Malleswara Jyothirlinga was in bad invisible condition and he reÂinstalled Malleswara Swamy at the Northern Part to the temple of Goddess Durga. From that day onwards, Malleswara Swamy also has been worshiping by all the devotees. Since goddess Durga has been prevailing at the Southern direction to Lord Malleswara, this Indrakeeladri renowned in the World as power prominent centre the "KANAKA DURGA KSHETRA"

The temple of Kanaka Durga the Goddess of power, riches and benevolence and the presiding deity of Vijayawada, is swarmed by lakhs of pilgrims for worship during the "Navarathri" festival which is celebrated with Religious fervour, pomp and festivity. The small but ancient temple of Kanaka Durga , a top the Indrakeeladri hill on the banks of the Sacred river Krishna in Vijayawada abounds with legends of historical interest.

Indrakeeladri is unique in that it has been the chosen abode of Kanaka Durga and Her consort Malleswara as Swayambhu (the self-existent one). Here Durga is one the right side of Malleswara as against the tradition of Goddesses taking their position on the left of their consorts. This shows that Shakthi is predominant on the Indrakeeladri.

Legend has it that the demons acquired great powers by appeasing the Gods and began harassing the sages on the earth. Goddess Parvathi assumed various forms to kill these demons. It was kausiki to kill Sumbhu and Nisambhu, Mahisasura Mardini to kill Mahishasura and Durga to kill Durgamasura. "Kanaka Durga because she was aglow with golden hues, and prayed Her to stay on earth and bless them. Kanaka Durga asked Keeludu an ardent devotee to take the form of hill to enable Her stay on him. Thus Keeladri became the abode of Durga. She took the form of Mahisasura Mardini with eight arms holding different weapons, riding on a lion and trampling Mahishasura on the hill of Indrakeeladri. Her consort Shiva took his place on an adjacent hillrock as Jyothirlinga. He was worshipped by Lord Brahma with jasmines (Mallelu) whereby he got the name of Malleswara Swamy. As celestial beings like Indra visited the place, the hill came to be called Indrakeeladri.

Here it was according to another legend, that Arjuna performed penance and fought with Lord Shiva, who had appeared in the guise of Kiratha to win pasupathastra, the most powerful weapon. So this place is also called phalguna theertha.

When Indrakeeladri came in the way of the River Krishna the Gods requested the hill to allow the river to pass through it to join the sea. Keeludu obliged and gave a small passage for the river. But the ferocious Krishna made the passage larger than permitted and carried a part of the hill four miles downstream to Yanamalakuduru, where there is now a hillrock called "Thelukonda" or floating hillrock. According to another legend, Kanaka Durga borrowed the nose-stud of the Krishna and to avoid returning it jumped up the hill. Krishna vowed to take back her ornament by raising her level to the hill top by the end of kaliyuga

Adi-Sankaracharya visited the temple and installed the Srichakra and initiated workship of Kanaka Durga in vedic ways.

Hiuan Tsang, a Chinese traveler wrote that he has seen many stone inscriptions in the vicinity of the temple that revealed historic events.

INDRAKEELADRI, VIJAYAWADA.

THIRUPATHI

2011-05-06T06:27:00.000-07:00

Tirupathi Balaji Temple is the holiest place and one of the largest ancient shrines in the world. It is located in the Eastern Ghat in Chittoor district. This temple dedicated to the Hindu God Venkateshwara (Vishnu). The temple of Shri Venkateswara has acquired unique sanctity in Indian religious lore. It is believed that in this Kalyuga, one can attain Mukti only by worshipping Shri Vendateswara.

The ancient and sacred temple of Shri Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak, and lies on the southern banks of Shri Swami Pushkarini. It is by the Lord’s presidency over Venkatachala, that He has received the appellation, Venkateswara (Lord of the Venkata Hill). He is also called the Lord of the Seven Hills.

History of the templeThere is ample literary and epigraphic testimony to the antiquity of the temple of Lord Shri Venkateswara. All the great dynasties of rulers of the southern peninsula have paid homage to Lord Shri Venkateswara in this ancient shrine. The Pallavas of Kancheepuram (9th century AD), the Cholas of Thanjavur (a century later), the Pandyas of Madurai, and the kings and chieftains of Vijayanagar (14th-15th century AD) were devotees of the Lord and they completed with one another in endowing the temple with rich offerings and contributions. It was during the rule of the Vijaranagar dynasty that the contributions to the temple increased. Shri Krishnadeva Raya had statues of him and his consorts installed at the portals of the temple, and these statues can be seen to this day. There is also a statue of Venkatapati Raya in the main temple.

Pilgrimage at Tirupati1) Padi Kavali Maha Dwara

2) Sampangi Pradakshinam

3) Ranga Madapam

4) Tirumala Raya Mandapam

5) Tirumala Raya Mandapam

6) The Aina Mahal

'Dalit Govindam is yet another revolutionary social movement to root out the evils that beset society. It is a great endeavour to bring Dalits and other underprivileged people into the mainstream of society. The project envisages taking out processional deities to Dalit localities, singing bhajans and arranging spiritual discourses. The Dalit Govindam demonstrates Devasthanam's firm determination to endeavour for the well-being of the Dalits. And It has evoked an overwhelming response from the community wherever it was organised,' he adds.

KANIPAKAM

2011-05-06T05:50:00.000-07:00

Took the left after the Chittoor Toll Gate to see the Swayambu Varasiddhi Vinayaka in water. An amazing sight, though it was not for long, the queue was just too long.
Think it was Steinbeck who observed that the nature of people reflects the land. This area of AP is rough and tough and so were the people. They had no time for niceties.

Was perturbed by the high charge (INR 51—almost the same amount as the Special Darshan at Tirupati), which we had to take as we hardly had any time. Also, it was a bit startling to find a hundi every 10 feet!

Andhra Pradesh is rich in historical monuments. It posseses many holy temples with architectural beauty, which attract large numbers of pilgrims and tourists from inside and outside the country.

In Chittoor district are two sacred places not only for Andhra Pradesh but also for India. Tirupati and Tirumala here is Lord Venkateswara, who is also worshipped as `Balaji' by the north Indians. Tirumala lies in the midst of the Seshachalam hills, which are 2,000 feet above the sea level. It has also worldwide importance as a major tourist centre.

Srikalahasti is also a famous pilgrim centre and the temple here is dedicated to Lord Siva known as Vayulingam and considered as Dakshina Kasi.Apart from those two temples there is another famous temple in chittoor district that is Sri Vara sidhi Vinayaka Temple which is significant for its purity and rich heritage.

Bramhostavams:

The annual Brahmotsavam commences from Ganesh Chaturthi. It goes on for 20 days with all traditional pomp and gaiety. The utsavamurthi (Festive idol) is taken out in procession on all the days colourfully decked on different vahanams (Carriages). The soulful participation of the devotees is praise worthy. The float festival attracts pilgrims from all over the country.
Below this the images of the Bramhostavam in the following order.

Gramotsavam
Hamsa Vahanam
Peacock Vahanam
Mooshika Vahanam
Shasha Vahanam
Vrishabha Vahanam
Gaja Vahanam
Rathotsavam(Chairot)
Thiru Kalyanam

Vadayathu Utsavam
Details of Daily Sevas

Suprabatham, Binduteerthaabishekham (4.00 A.M to 5.00 A.M):
Rs.551/- 2 persons allowed. Devotees will be given 5 laddus, ½ Kg of pulihora, 1 shesha vastram, 1 blouse piece, 1 silver dollar.

Result: This Seva is for awaking the swamy, its pleasure to have the first Darshan of Swamiji. This can be experienced only by having first Darshan at early Morning.

Paalabhishekam(7.30 A.M to 8.00 A.M ,12.30 P.M to 1.00 P.M, 2.00PM to 2.30PM , 3.30PM to 4.00 PM and 5.45PM to 6.15 PM):
Rs. 150/- 1 or 2 persons allowed. Devotees should get minimum of 2 litres of milk.

SankataHaraGanapati Vratham(9.00 A.M to 12.00 Noon):Rs. 151/- 1 or 2persons are allowed. Devotees will be given 2 laddus.

Result: In Ganeshaporanam, this vratham has prominent role. This vratham was performed by Lord Krishna and Bramha. This Vratham can be performed by the couple those who don’t have children, for Business Development, for overcoming all the frustrations and especially for Court Case Salvations.

Special Abhishekam(5.30AM to 6.00AM, 9.00A.M to 10.00A.M , 11.00A.M to 12.00 noon,1.00PM to2.00PM and 6.15PM to 7.15PM):Rs. 500/- 2 persons allowed in the first instance along with children and 3 persons will be allowed later. Devasthanam will supply Pooja samagri.

Pavalimpu Seva (EkanthaSeva) (9.30 P.M to 10.00 PM):
Rs.150/- 2 persons allowed, Devotees should get the pooja samagri.

Result:Sri Ganapathi and Ammavaru will be rested in Addala Mandapam in the temple. The newly married couples, couples to have the children, the couples with problems in married life can perform this seva and can get the problems solved.

Nithya Kalyanotshavam:(11.00 AM to 12.00 PM)
616/-, 1 person or couple will be allowed per ticket. The devotees will be given shesha vastram, 1 blouse piece, 2 laddus and 2 vadas.

Result:The persons who are having KujaDosham (Objections for their Marriage) can get their problems by performing this seva.
Vunjala Seva:(6.30 PM to 7.30 PM)
250/-, 1 person or couple will be allowed per ticket. The devotees will be given 1 seshavastram, 1 blouse piece, 2 laddus and 2 vadas.

Result:They devotees will be having chance to keep the lord on their Shoulders and can go round the Temple and they send the lord to Sleep by swinging in the Cradle.