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Time table for C09 scheme, C08 scheme Vth sem and C05 scheme Vth sem Regular and Backlog Examinations- November-2010

2010-10-24T00:36:00.000+05:30

Time table for C09 scheme, C08 scheme Vth sem & C05 scheme Vth sem Regular and Backlog Examinations- November-2010 has been released today u can download it from the below link

Time Table

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Raktha Charitra Story and Review

2010-10-22T08:06:00.003+05:30

Raktha Charithra - 1

For many film makers Raktha Charitra is a new text book n Professor RGV came back in a different format. (A )must watch Film.
Rating : 3.25/5
Director : Ram Gopal Varma
Music Director : Mani Sharma
Producer : Madhu Mantena, Sheetal Vinod Talwar
Starring : Vivek Oberoi, Surya, Priyamani and others...

What’s it about: The story of Rakta Charitra is pretty simple and almost known to everyone. Nagamani Reddy (Kota Srinivasa Rao) gets a local backward caste leader Veerabhadraiah killed out of pure jealousy. The revenge drama unfolds as Veerabhadraiah’s elder son starts killing anyone who is close to the Reddy’s. He also tries to keep his younger brother Pratap Ravi (Vivek Oberoi) away from the feuds. However, Bokka Reddy (Abhimanyu Singh) gets Pratap’s brother killed. Enraged Pratap Ravi is sucked into the quagmire of revenge resulting in him being left to take hiding in jungles with only vengeance in mind. The rise of Pratap Ravi from a vengeful son to a political leader is the story of

Rakta Charitra – Part 1

What is Good: From the moment it starts, we are sucked into the blood bath that is done in the name of loyalty and to an extent, fear. There are many characters, and we relate to each one of them easily within the first few minutes. The men are either loyal or jealous or afraid, but they are extremely true to their specific emotion.
The film seems like it looks down upon women showing them as mere spectators of what’s happening around them. But their silence is brutal; their support to their men is obsessive. If women can be so emotionally aggressive, almost all the men’s characters are justified. As a result of such justification and terrific characterization, almost all the actors shine.
Vivek Oberoi shows his calbire as an actor. Kota Srinivasa Rao fits right into the character of a villainous politician, even though he played such roles a zillion times. Shatrughan Sinha does the role of ‘over the top’ and self appraising actor-turned-political leader extremely well. Zarina Wahab as Ravi’s mother is intense. Sudeep and Ashwini Kaleskar have small but interesting roles to play.

However, it is Abhimanyu Singh who wows everyone in the role of Bokka Reddy. He plays the embodiment of all vices as if he is one such character in real life. He’s so good as the villain that you don’t feel like looking at him when he’s on the screen.
The metaphors that Ramgopal Varma uses for the police, the guns, justice, revenge, lost innocence etc. are plenty in Rakta Charitra. Those who want to find them will definitely find them.
The movie however doesn’t come across as brilliant as it could have been.
What is bad: Director Ramgopal Varma was so enchanted by this riveting drama that he chose to be the narrator himself. His voice is as good and as loud as Nutan Prasad’s narrative for a famous crime based TV serial. While the film’s tone is more like a documentary, it jumps situations and timelines for the sake of screenplay convenience. It seems the screenwriters were trying to avoid telling if the film is set in modern times or the 1980s. There are no mobile phones, yet the settings look ultramodern in urban scenes! The hero uses scooter, but the village settings don’t blend with the tone of the film, giving it a very hypocritical texture. This might result in making the audience disconnected with the story.
Rakta Charitra doesn’t glorify violence, but killing people never looked so easy and yet so excessive on Telugu screen. The only laughing moments come in the way Abhimanyu Singh looks at women. The only song in the movie looks like it has been hurriedly shot, and carries the flavor of ‘Khallas’ from Ramgopal Varma’s film ‘Company’. All other songs are in the background and almost all lyrics contain the words Rakta Charitra. Obviously those who will be looking for any kind of entertainment from this movie will be highly disappointed.
The movie doesn’t explain why Pratap Ravi’s brother is in jungles. In one scene Pratap Ravi, who is wanted in the village, drives along with his entourage of rowdies just hiding under a rug, and kills a very important leader just like that. Ramu doesn’t give any logic to such scene, as he might have thought that the emotion of killing will carry the scene. May be he is right!
echnical Departments: : Amol Rathod’s camera work is exceptional, and is supported by the film’s editing very well. One important aspect is that the continuity is noticeably realistic, inspite of having numerous characters on screen. The screenplay is brilliant at the beginning, when characters are introduced. It takes a backseat as RGV’s visual technique guides the film. Background music is justified. Costumes are realistic, but the setting should have been taken care of.
Ramgopal Varma the director is as good as he can get. A situation where the hero’s one eye is visible, and the other eye is covered with a sickle just tells how much importance he gives to visual style. However, his inattention to certain details like those mentioned above is visible too. All said and done only someone like Ramgopal Varma has the guts to make a film like this and he should be appreciated completely for it.
Final Point: Rakta Charitra has unexpectedly least entertainment value for a typical viewer of Telugu cinema, yet it never bores you. As expected it is a documentary style film, and has more violence than one can imagine. Watch it at your own risk, but this is an unforgiving film and you won’t forget it too soon.
P.S: The sneak peek of Rakta Charitra - Part II at the end of the Part 1 was so enthralling, especially with Surya on screen that no one moved till it ended!

Ram Gopal Varma is back after a long hiatus into the Telugu circuit and he chose his favorite genre of violence, intensity and bloodshed. Let us see how far RGV is successful in convincing audiences. Let us peep into good and bad in the movie:
StoryNoted MLA Narasimha Reddy (Kitty) has got a trusted aide in the form of Veerabhadriah (Rajendra Gupta) in Anandapuram area.

However, Narasimha’s relative Nagamani Reddy (Kota) is unable to take this for reasons of caste and losing his presence. He plants a seed of friction and in no time, Narasimha Reddy gets Veerabhadriah killed. This enrages Veerabhadriah’s elder son Shankar Ravi (Sushant) and he gets into a killing spree and operates from forests.
Veerabhadriah’s younger son Pratap Ravi (Vivek) who is away from all this gets to know of this and before he realizes, Shankar Ravi also gets killed. He vows revenge on his father and brother’s killers and in this process, Narasimha Reddy, Nagamani Reddy and others are brutally killed. Nagamani Reddy’s son Bukka Reddy (Abhimanyu) who is insane to the core is unable to take this and he becomes Pratap’s main enemy.

Meanwhile, the rise of Pratap as opposite force to Bukka Reddy is noticed by Shivaji Rao (Shatrughan) who sets a new party and he decides to lift Pratap to put an end to Bukka Reddy. What happens after that forms the rest of the story.

Performances:
Vivek Oberoi is an apt choice, his eyes deliver the sufficient emotion of revenge and his body language is intense. He has done full justice to his role.

Abhimanyu Singh is a complete show stealer. His menacing looks and his cold blooded performance will give some spine chilling moments.

Shatrughan Sinha was contained and it must be said that traces of real life N T Rama Rao are quite prominent in his gestures and dialogue delivery.

Kota was perfect, Radhika was naturally appealing, Zarina was neat, Tanikella was impressive and he made his presence felt, Rajendra Gupta was adequate, Sushant was brief, Ashish Vidyarthi was alright, Subhalekha Sudhakar was standard, Subrat Dutta was good, the others did their bit as required and added value.
Highlights:Symbolism shots with respect to showing a cycle in Shivaji Rao (Shatrugan Sinha)’s place (recalling TDP and NTR), usage of left had, addressing as ‘brother’ are impressive.

Showing a dog barking after the death of Naga Mani Reddy (Kota) depicts ‘kukka chaavu’..That’s impressive.

Ram Moorthy (Tanikella) saying to Pratap Ravi ‘to shave beard as a politician should look clean at face although dirty at heart’

Bukka Reddy’s introduction scene

Disappointments:RGV’s voice over is overflowing. It’s not a radio drama to explain everything with a voice over. Whatever RGV is saying in voice, is being conveyed visually! It disturbed the mood to some extent.

Pratap Ravi stays in forest as per the dialogue. But he stays in a dusty hill area that hardly looks like a forest. It may sound trivial, but when such observations linger in mind, some audience gets distracted from the mood.

Why Dabbunnoda song? The context is not convincing.
Challenges:The subject chosen is quite hard hitting so one needs to have some background information before actually connecting to the film.

Facing criticism with respect to Shivai Rao’s (a replica of NTR) characterization and converting it into publicity element.

Facing criticism and questions with respect to ‘pedda sir’ (implying YSR) and again converting it into a publicity element

Mood is suddenly dropping down at the conclusion point of the movie. Waiting till Part-2 to get completeness in feeling is a challenge for audience and it’s challenge for maker to sustain interest for 1 month till Part-2 release.

Analysis:“Goodness or badness can never be anyone’s property. They are situational.
If a man is hunger free, he showers only goodness. But if any sort of hunger (be it lust, power craving or greed or vengeance) hits him, he spells badness”.
Rakta Charitra is a fiction based on historical facts.
It’s rather powerful to say that it’s a true depiction of human emotions.
It’s a tour to extreme human beings.

Ramayan or Mahabharat or any chronicled history in dramatic form depicts the extremities of emotions in every character. For example if Karna is known for generosity, its shown with eccentricity of chopping off his own armored skin to offer for a beggar. If Bheeshma is known for sacrifice, its shown in extreme point of choosing life time celibacy to keep himself and his legacy far from kingship. Any drama holds grip only when the characterizations are strong. This fact was known for dramatists right from Veda Vyasa and Valmiki. Similar path is now chosen by Ram Gopal Varma is depicting a historical fact in dramatic form.
He has shown Bukka Reddy as a determined rapist (!) and dedicated murderer (!).The incidents canned around this characterization are extreme in imagination. Pratap Ravi is shown as a bad guy, but for a true reason (since he is chosen to be the hero of the plot).

Ram Gopal Varma is a master of movie making and an expert storyteller. This is seen here yet again. As such, the storyline can be understood in few words and there is nothing unpredictable about it but then it is the way Ramu takes off with each scene and how he gets the viewer into the film which counts.

His screenplay techniques and shot compositions are one of those dexterities he possesses. Perhaps a layman might find the visual appeal to be dim but then there are few flashes of his brilliance which are seen on and off. The focus was more on the emotion of the protagonist and the villain so that is a challenge to handle for more than two hours.

On the other hand, it is not a typical Varma characterization where most of the actors give hard expressions, talk less and convey more. Here the characters speak sufficient and sometimes little verbose!! But still there is a rhythm in their performance and it connects to the regular audience.

Worth Watch Movie

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Nava Ratri History

2010-10-08T16:14:00.000+05:30

Navratri, Navaratri, or Navarathri (Sanskrit: नवरात्रि, Bengali: নবরাত্রি, Gujarātī: નવરાત્રી, Kannada:ನವರಾತ್ರಿ,Telugu :విజయ దశమి, Malayalam: നവരാത്രി, Marathi: नवरात्रि, Tamil: நவராத்திரி) is a Hindu festival of worship of Shakti and dance & festivities. The word Navaratri literally means nine nights in Sanskrit, nava meaning nine and ratri meaning nights. During these nine nights and ten days, nine forms of Shakti/Devi are worshiped.

Significance

The beginning of spring and the beginning of autumn are two very important junctions of climatic and solar influence. These two periods are taken as sacred opportunities for the worship of the Divine Mother. The dates of the festival are determined according to the lunar calendar. Being the oldest religion in the world, Hinduism has numerous belief systems.
In Hinduism the adherents believe in one omnipresent Deity but may worship Her/Him in any of the numerous manifestations that are prevalent all over India. Navaratri represents celebration of Goddess Durga, the manifestation of Deity in form of Shakti [Energy or Power]. Dasahara, meaning ‘ten days’, becomes dussehra in popular parlance. The Navaratri festival or ‘nine day festival’ becomes ‘ten day festival’ with the addition of the last day, Vijayadashami which is its culmination. On all these ten days, the various forms of Mother Mahisasura-mardini (Durga) are worshipped with fervour and devotion.

Traditions of Navaratri

Navaratri is celebrated five times a year. They are Vasanta Navaratri, Ashadha Navaratri, the Sharada Navaratri, and the Poushya/Magha Navaratri. Of these, the Sharada Navaratri of the month of Puratashi and the Vasanta Navaratri of the Vasanta kala are very important.

1. Vasanta Navaratri: Basanta Navrathri, also known as Vasant Navratras, is the festival of nine days dedicated to the nine forms of Shakti (Mother Goddess) in the spring season (March–April). It is also known as Chaitra Navratra. The nine days of festival is also known as Raama Navratri.
2. Gupta Navaratri: Gupta Navratri, also referred as Ashadha or Gayatri or Shakambhari Navratri, is nine days dedicated to the nine forms of Shakti (Mother Goddess) in the month of Ashadha (June–July). Gupta Navaratri is observed during the Ashadha Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon).
3. Sharana Navaratri: This is the most important of the Navratris. It is simply called Maha Navratri (the Great Navratri) and is celebrated in the month of Ashvina. Also known as Sharad Navaratri, as it is celebrated during Sharad (beginning of winter, September–October).
4. Poushya Navaratri: Poushya Navratri is nine days dedicated to the nine forms of Shakti (Mother Goddess) in the month of Pousha (December–January). Poushya Navaratri is observed during the Pousha Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon).
5. Magha Navaratri: Magha Navratri, also referred as Gupta Navratri, is nine days dedicated to the nine forms of Shakti (Mother Goddess) in the month of Magha (January–February). Magha Navaratri is observed during the Magha Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon).

Vasanta Navaratri

This is celebrated during Vasanta Rutu (beginning of summer) (March- April). This is also known as Chaitra navaratri as it falls during the lunar month of Chaitra.

he Story Behind the Origin of Vasanta Navaratri

In days long gone by, King Dhruvasindhu was killed by a lion when he went out hunting. Preparations were made to crown the prince Sudarsana. But, King Yudhajit of Ujjain, the father of Queen Lilavati, and King Virasena of Kalinga, the father of Queen Manorama, were each desirous of securing the Kosala throne for their respective grandsons. They fought with each other. King Virasena was killed in the battle. Manorama fled to the forest with Prince Sudarsana and a eunuch. They took refuge in the hermitage of Rishi Bharadwaja.
The victor, King Yudhajit, thereupon crowned his grandson, Satrujit, at Ayodhya, the capital of Kosala. He then went out in search of Manorama and her son. The Rishi said that he would not give up those who had soughts protection under him. Yudhajit became furious. He wanted to attack the Rishi. But, his minister told him about the truth of the Rishi’s statement. Yudhajit returned to his capital.
Fortune smiled on Prince Sudarsana. A hermit’s son came one day and called the eunuch by his Sanskrit name Kleeba. The prince caught the first syllable Kli and began to pronounce it as Kleem. This syllable happened to be a powerful, sacred Mantra. It is the Bija Akshara (root syllable) of the Divine Mother. The Prince obtained peace of mind and the Grace of the Divine Mother by the repeated utterance of this syllable. Devi appeared to him, blessed him and granted him divine weapons and an inexhaustible quiver.
The emissaries of the king of Benares passed through the Ashram of the Rishi and, when they saw the noble prince Sudarsana, they recommended him to Princess Sashikala, the daughter of the king of Benares.
The ceremony at which the princess was to choose her spouse was arranged. Sashikala at once chose Sudarsana. They were duly wedded. King Yudhajit, who had been present at the function, began to fight with the king of Benares. Devi helped Sudarsana and his father-in-law. Yudhajit mocked Her, upon which Devi promptly reduced Yudhajit and his army to ashes.
Thus Sudarsana, with his wife and his father-in-law, praised Devi. She was highly pleased and ordered them to perform Her worship with havan and other means during the Vasanta Navaratri. Then She disappeared.
Prince Sudarsana and Sashikala returned to the Ashram of Rishi Bharadwaja. The great Rishi blessed them and crowned Sudarsana as the king of Kosala. Sudarsana and Sashikala and the king of Benares implicitly carried out the commands of the Divine Mother and performed worship in a splendid manner during the Vasanta Navaratri.
Sudarsana’s descendants, namely, Sri Rama and Lakshmana, also performed worship of Devi during the Sharana Navaratri and were blessed with Her assistance in the recovery of Sita.

Sharad Navaratri

Commences on the first and ends on the tenth day of the bright half of the lunar month Aswayuja/Asvina.
‘The Navaratri festival has to be celebrated during the bright fortnight of the month of Asvina, in the order of pratipada, etc, until the navami ends,’ says the Dhaumya-vacana.
Navaratri in the year 2010 starts on 8th October 2010 and ends on 16th October 2010 with Vijayadashami celebrated on 17th October 2010.

Devasthanam's Dasara festivities

ri Kanaka Durga Devi, the chief deity of the temple is portrayed as blessing the visiting devotees in various forms (avatars) during the ten day festival. A symbolic representation of the 10 forms of triumph of good over evil, this form (known as 'Alankaram') of the day is chosen as per the astrological star of each day, in accordance with the lunar calendar. This year, the devotees are being blessed according to the following schedule of Alankarams:

Day 1 -SRI SWARNA KAVACHALAKRUTA DURGA DEVI
Day 2 - SRI BALA TRIPURA SUNDARI DEVI
Day 3 - SRI ANNAPURNA DEVI
Day 4 - SRI GAYATRI DEVI
Day 5- SRI LALITHA TRIPURA SUNDARI DEVI
Day 6 - SRI SARASWATI DEVI
Day 7 - SRI MAHA LAKSHMI DEVI
Day 8 - SRI DURGA DEVI
Day 9 - SRI MAHISHASURA MARDHINI DEVI
Day 10 - SRI RAJA RAJESWARI DEVI
Note: Alankarams may change according to Thidis and nakshatrams every year

Forms of Shakti

Nine forms of Shakti are worshipped during the Navaratris. The Devis worshipped depend on the tradition of the region.

Durga, the inaccessible one
Bhadrakali
Amba or Jagadamba, Mother of the universe
Annapurna, The one who bestows grains (anna) in plenty (purna: used as subjective)
Sarvamangala, The one who gives joy (mangal) to all (sarva)
Bhairavi
Chandika or Chandi
Lalita
Bhavani
Mookambika
Rituals
The Navratri commences on the first day (pratipada) of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Ashvin. The festival is celebrated for nine nights once every year during the beginning of October, although as the dates of the festival are determined according to the lunar calendar, the festival may be held for a day more or a day less.
Navaratri is celebrated in different ways throughout India. In North India, all three Navratris are celebrated with much fervor by fasting on all nine days and worshipping the Mother Goddess in her different forms. The Chaitra Navratri culminates in Ram Navami and the Sharad Navratri culminates in Durga Puja and Dussehra. The Dussehra of Kulu in Himachal Pradesh is particularly famous in the North.
The last four days of Sharad Navratri take on a particularly dramatic form in the state of West Bengal in East India where they are celebrated as Durga Puja. This is the biggest festival of the year in this state. Exquisitely crafted and decorated life-size clay idols of the Goddess Durga depicting her slaying the demon Mahisasura are set up in temples and other places. These idols are then worshipped for five days and immersed in the river on the fifth day.
In Western India, particularly in the state of Gujarat, Navratri is celebrated with the famous Garba and Dandiya-Raas dance. Since the past few years, the Government Of Gujarat has been organising the "Navratri Festival Celebrations" on a regular basis for the nine days of Navratri Festival, in Gujarat. People from all over Gujarat and even abroad come to participate in the nine days celebrations. It is also popular throughout India and among Indian communities around the world including UK and USA.
In Goa, zatra begins during Navratri, entire Antruz (Ponda) is highly ornated. The Saraswat temples are beautifully decorated and the idols are taken out for worship. The idols are dressed and adorned with flowers, sandalwood paste, turmeric and kumkum. Devotees come during Navaratri to get the special darshan and what mostly a devotee awaits is the Kaul Prasad, which is as something given from the Gods and Goddess itself. The Deities are emblazoned with flowers and devotees or priests continue to worship the deity without even changing the flowers on them. At the end of the festive night the flowers are distributed as Prasad for the devotees.
In South India, people set up steps and place idols on them. This is known as golu. Photos of typical Golu displayed in Tamil Nadu style at a home in Nerul, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India is shown by the side.
Navratri is divided into sets of three days to adore three different aspects of the supreme goddess or goddesses.

First three days
The goddess is separated as a spiritual force called Durga also known as Kali in order to destroy all our impurities.
Second three days
The Mother is adored as a giver of spiritual wealth, Lakshmi, who is considered to have the power of bestowing on her devotees inexhaustible wealth, as she is the goddess of wealth.
Final three days
he final set of three days is spent in worshipping the goddess of wisdom, Saraswati. In order to have all-round success in life, believers seek the blessings of all three aspects of the divine femininity, hence the nine nights of worship.
In South India, Saraswati pooja is performed on the 9th day. Eight day is traditionally Durgashtami which is big in Bengal. The 10th day is Ayudha Pooja when everyone gives their tools of the trade—pens, machinery, books, automobiles, school work, etc. a rest and ritually worships them. They start a fresh from the next day, the 10th day which is considered as 'Vijaya Dasami'. Many teachers/Schools in south India start teaching Kindergarten children from that day onwards. Students also pay homage to their respective teachers as they are considered the third god (Maata, Pita, Guru, Daivam - Mother, Father, Teacher & God). On this tenth day of Navratri in October - the holiday of Dussehra, an effigy of Ravana is burnt to celebrate the victory of good (Rama) over evil.
During Navratri, some devotees of Durga observe a fast and prayers are offered for the protection of health and prosperity. A period of introspection and purification, Navratri is traditionally an auspicious and religious time for starting new ventures.
During this vowed religious observance, a pot is installed (ghatasthapana) at a sanctified place at home. A lamp is kept lit in the pot for nine days. The pot symbolizes the universe. The uninterrupted lit lamp is the medium through which we worship the effulgent Adishakti, i.e. Sree Durgadevi. During Navratri, the principle of Sree Durgadevi is more active in the atmosphere.
Navratri is celebrated in a large number of Indian communities. The mother goddess is said to appear in 9 forms, and each one is worshipped for a day. These nine forms signify various traits that the goddess influences us with. The Devi Mahatmya and other texts invoking the Goddess who vanquished demons are cited.
During the eight or ninth day, Kanya Poojan, pre-pubescent girls are ceremonially worshiped.

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Mahesh Khaleja Genuine Review& Story

2010-10-07T12:54:00.000+05:30

just finished d movie

completely a disaster movie..

trivikram yena director lekaa inkevarina teesara anpinchindhi..
dialogue levu punches levu..correct comedy ledhu..mahesh babu slang..chala chotla irritating ga untundhi..completely a disaster..highly disappointed with trivi..

dialogues edo jalsa ni modify chesi rasinattu untay..

evadu chusthee antu movie start ayetapudu oche dialogue indra ne gurtuku testadi..

first half lo emiii undadhu asalu
introduction ye chetta bottle water kosam 15 mins fight
sare ankunte taxi taxi pata...pata ayinapatnunche bore kodtuntee..koddi sepatki inkopata..aah boom shakanaka pata asal enduku ipotaledhoo inka ani time chuskovalsi ostadi..thu
okkatante okka pata kuda baga teeyaledu..infact songs ochinapudalla irritation ekkuvitundhi..yuck

first half lo 3 songs all worst

2nd half lo saar devudipotadu..hilarious...

mahesh babu devudee ani manani convince cheyatanki trivikram try chestuntadu..2 times ante okay..oka scene lo ekanga doctor chanipoyindhi ani confirm chesaka kuda..mahesh babu nene gankaa devudini iteh yi papa bathuktadi anagane bathuktadi[theatre lo mahesh baba ki jai ho ani arpulu]

ivi chaladu anattu..madhya madhya lo anavasarapu fightlu..

madhyalo anushka lip lockpataa

mahesh vi maximum close up shots ye ...brands promotion bagane jargindhi

anushka ento chendalanga undhi

annitiki minchi mahesh nene devudini ani convince ayye scene okati

avi chaladu ani climax ki elthe malli rao ramesh buildup lu..last ki malla mana frustration ni parakastha ki cherche oka scene...nene devudini iteh vedu chachipovali anaganee...

chettuki katti unna chaku lantidhi oodi vachi prakash raj ki kuchkuni sachipotadu mokam pina pasupu kunkuma padtayiyii scene nijanga trivikram cinema yena ani doubt ni strong chestadi..

yet another sure shot flop for mahesh babu.. 5 years in a row.. no hit7

on a final note: mahesh babu trivikram ki kuda sucessful ga flop ni ichadu
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Mahesh Khaleja Review

2010-10-07T12:37:00.001+05:30

It’s like a Rain in the land of unending drought ….It’s like a Train in the station with awaiting crowd…

Yes it’s the Khaleja for millions of Mahesh’s fans…who eagerly are counting not just the weeks and months…but years to see their “idol” on the silver screen!!

And expectations were on the top for Trivikram directing it and seductress Anushka pairing up with him…

Now finally all is history as the movie is out and so let’s check out how well it fared…

Plot -Mahesh plays Bruce Almighty

Actually there would be many expectations that surround the comeback movie of Mahesh…and everyone has their own thought on the plot…but the actual one in mind of Trivikram is a kind of natural fantasy in lines of “Bruce almighty” or say our own “Baba”…Of course which just takes time to digest for a while…

It’s a story of Taxi Driver…who is treated as God who came to their rescue due to some signs…And how hero believes he has mission to accomplish and finally does the task is all the movie about

Actors:

MaheshBabu, Time has not withered his charm by an inch but in fact he appears even more handsome now. . It’s common usage in AP to call someone as “Mahesh Babu” to treat them as handsome. I guess not many disagree with that and it is happy to see this magnetic beehive back in town to allure all those female bees who are missing him for a while. This time he was in more ease…especially Trivikram stitched many comedy scenes around him and also on him…So this elevated his dialogue, diction and comedy timing…and in one word he has given his natural best…But Dance moves should be more better…he justifies them in only last song.

It’s always tough for his leading lady to match the glow of prince…And I guess till date only Sonali only suited him well. No doubt Anushka looked pleasing...But there is lot of inconsistency in her outfits...she looks gorgeous in few...and ranges from normal and bad in others…Over all she is ok.

Among all others Only Rao Ramesh (Villager aka Astrologer who sees God in Mahesh) and his voice gets registers more and character takes u back to Maghadheera.

And then you have Shafi who with his shouting breaks the intensity and nullifies the good that is possible...like in Chatrapathi…

And of course Prakash Raj... is the main villain but limited…he loses his hand in climax fight like he loses his ears in Pokiri fight. Brahmanandam, Ali and Sunil have limited appearances and provide us spontaneous laughs and disappear…

Dhaivam Maanusha Rupena

“Dhaivam Maanusha Rupena” is the exact theme around which the story is weaved…We treat any fellow man who helps us in need as a God…And in fact Hero in every film is an implicit God as he resolves a problem and that message is inherently told. So here the hero rescues a village from a serious problem and thus an implicitly divine… But shouting aloud the implicit fact is something that could not be registered soon with audience...at least in first go!

Movie Flow and the direction…

First half is simple and sweet. As in Malliswari, Hero, Heroine and comedian are “desert”ed…Yeah this time it is real desert and things go wrong because of heroine who is treated as Iron lady. Though the director repeats the formula, the entire episode is hilarious…and colorful.

Second half starts off on very serious note with intervention of Shafi and making Mahesh the God. But the seriousness is diluted by light narration.

Trivikram comfy zone is obvious that it comprises of his witty one liners and light narration…He entirely depended on the same and we definitely enjoy the scenes at the moment. And this time Mahesh alone handles the comedy department so well. But we are not connected with the theme.

Fights...Songs…etc etc

All the fights start off with a witty dialogue prelude and that is accepted well.

Songs are good on screen just like the music. I liked “Pilichey pedavula paina” and “Makatika…” more. “Sada Siva …” is not as expected might be because it is a transformation song…which comes as a surprise moment. Manisharma excels after long gap.

Styling by Yashbhatt is awesome …And Mahesh magnified his work. Cinematography is cool. There are few locations but are good.

Things that went wrong with the expectations

It’s primarily the expectations that are piled upon the combination and it is not easy to keep them live every time...

The Basic plot is made believable partially only because of Hero’s characterization. Hero behaves very normally and is in the same mindset of audience that he is just the man but possesses divinity and decides to help the needy. But the surrounding situations exaggerate the proceedings testing our patience…

Screen play is shattered…as things are made clear in the pre climax…And funny part is inclusion of Rajasthan in the plot when the problem is in the small village in Andhra Pradesh…this confuses the audience…

Second half should have been racy enough with some action elements and more of characters as the comedy become monotonous after a while with minimal characters.

And all the characters appear on screen as if they are all running around same bush.

Final Say …Do watch it for Mahesh…

Yes it is Magic of Mahesh…His body language and the characterization looks simple but are superb. He has more dialogue this time and he entertains the audience in every moment…And he is there in almost every scene…So complete Paisa Vasool...

So fans of the combinations and Permutations of these four people “Mahesh-Trivikram-Anushka-Manisharma “should watch this for sure…for comedy and songs

And it’s basic plot and screenplay …that disturbs few…and so decision is up to you if you have to choose between many other movies like Robo and Brindavanam

Rating:

3. for good theme and Mahesh… While negative is narration and second half which could be made far better!!Seriously it is tough to rate a movie...and please go by positives and negatives mentioned..and judge it..:) For tollywood Updates sms as ON TELUGUBUZZ to 9870807070

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yadagirigutta

2010-10-03T16:09:00.000+05:30

Visiting hours
Temple is opening at 4.00 a.m. early morning and it will be closed by 9.30 p.m. In peak days like Sunday/Saturday /Festival Days the temple would be opened one hour earlier than the schedule time

Kalyanamu : 08-00 am to 11-00 am
Jodu savas : 05-30 pm to 07-00 pm
Athi sheegra Darshnam : will be allowed from 07-15 am to 07-00 pm And from 08-15 pm to 09-00pm by collecting fees at Rs 100/- with (2) laddu prasadam. V .I.p Darshan on peak day is arranged at Rs-150/- with two laddu prasadams
The following are the argita sevas
Suprabhata Seva Rs 51.00 from 4.00 am. to 4.30 am. Each one
Nijabishekam Rs 250.00 from 5.30 am to 6.30 am. . Each one
Nijabishekam Rs 500.00 from 5.30 am to 6.30 am. . Couple
Sahasra Namarchana Rs 216.00 from 6.30 am to 7.15 am. Each one
Kunkumarchana Rs 100.00 from 8.30 am to 9.00 am. Each one (at Yaga Shala)
Kalyanothsavam Rs 1016.00 from 10.00am to 12.00pm Five Members
Jodu Seva Rs 316.00 from 6.00 pm to 6.45pm. Two members
Pavalimpu Seva Rs 51.00 from 9.00 pm to 9.30pm.

Route

If you are planning to spend more than one day at yadagirigutta, then you may see the srrounding tourist attractions also. you can visit all these places in one day also if your planned schedule works in time, as these all locations very near to Yadagirigutta.

Road Ways:

Main Route and good convinient route for Yadagirigutta from Hyderabad is NH 202 (Hyderabad - Warangal Highway), Approx 60KM from Hyderabad ( Route Stations are : Hyderabad - Uppal - Ghatkeshar - Bibinagar - Bhongir - Raigir - Yadagirigutta)

Other route from Hyderabad / Secunderbad is via Taranaka - Kushaiguda - Keesara almost same distance (Route Stations are : Hyderabad / Secunderabad - Taranaka - Moulali - ECIL X Road - Kushaiguda - Keesara - Bommalramaram - Madhapur - Thurakapally - Mallapur - Yadagirigutta) - Advantages of this route is tourist can visit Keesaragutta Temple on the way and enjoy the beauty sarounding greenary of Rural area, mountains and up&down roads - Risk of the route : if you are travelling on your own vehicle to be noted that you can't find petrol pumps freequently and workshops for vehicle repairs.

From Vijayawada Tourists (on NH9): take a right turn at Chityal town towards Bhongir, 14 Km from the Bhongir. Approx 60Km from Chityal too. ( Route Stations are : Chityal - Ramannapet - Valigonda - Bhongir - Raigiri - Yadagirigutta)

Railway Line:
Near by Railway Stations is Raigir on the main Railway track of SCR (Hyderbad - Kazipet - Newdelhi & Hyderabad - Warangal - Vijayawada line) 3 Km from Yadagirigutta for Passnger Trains.
for Express Trains Near by Railway Stations are Bhongir (14 Km) & Aler (14 KM)

Vistable Places Near by
1. Pathagutta (Old Temple of Sri Laxminarasimhaswamy) - 2 KM
2. Surendra Puri - 2 KM
3. Bhongir Historical Fort - 14 KM
4. World Famous Jain Temple, Kolanpaka - 25 KM

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Warangal - Thousand pillars temple

2010-10-03T15:56:00.000+05:30

About Warangal
Warangal or Orugallu or Ekasila Nagaram (Telugu: వరంగల్) pronunciation (help·info) is a city and a municipal corporation in Warangal district in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is located in the Telangana region of the state. Warangal is 145 km northeast of the state capital of Hyderabad. Warangal is the administrative seat of Warangal District. It is the fourth largest city in Andhra Pradesh with a population of nearly 13 lakhs.Warangal is cool and serence city.

Warangal district has an area of 12,846 km², and a population of 2,818,832 (1991 census). The district is bounded by Karimnagar district to the north, Khammam district to the east and southeast, Nalgonda district to the southwest, and Medak district to the west. Warangal is located northeast of Hyderabad,India. Warangal is known for its granite quarries (notably the black and brown varieties), grain market (for rice and chillies), cotton, and tobacco.Places of interest

1000 pillar temple at Warangal
Thousand Pillar Temple: This temple is one of the finest examples of Kakatiya architecture and a testimony to the Vishwakarma Brahmin's excellence in sculpture. Built by Rudra Deva built in 1163 in the style of Chalukyan temple art, it is star shaped and triple shrined. Recently, when the archeological department was conducting excavations, they found a water well below the kalyanamandapam, which leads to the conclusion that the foundation of this wonderful structure was built on water!
Warangal Fort: Warangal fort or Kila Warangal, which dates back to the 12th and 13th century, is about 2km from the Warangal railway station.

The fort was mostly destroyed by invaders and only the ruins can now be seen. The fort had three protective walls, remnants of which can still be seen today. The first is a mud wall that stands today up to about 20 feet high and several kilometers in circumference, encircling the fort. The second is a wall made of granite rock. The fort has four famous stone gateways, about 30 feet high and still standing, a masterpiece carved from a single rock. They are called Kirti Toranas (gateways of glory) of the Kakatiyas. They have become a widely recognized symbol of Andhra Pradesh tourism.

One of the Kirti toranas of Kakatiya Dynasty
Planetarium and Musical Garden: There is a planetarium and a beautiful garden near the Bhadrakali Temple. The garden has awesome sound and light shows with water fountains. This place is popular with the locals and tourists aside.
Ramappa Temple also known as Ramalingeswara Temple, is situated in Palampet village, 70 km from Warangal. This is a beautiful monument dating back to 1213 A.D. It displays the glory and richness of the Kakatiya kingdom and is one of the finest specimens of Hindu temple architecture of the time.

Bhadra Kali Temple:
Situated on a hilltop between Hanamakonda and Warangal, it is noted for its stone image of the Goddess Kali. The temple is located on the banks of the "Bhadrakali" Cheruvu (lake).
Sammakka Sarakka Jatara: (see 'Festivals' above)It is a biennial event held once every two years. People from almost all over the state come to worship these deities.
Siddeshwara Temple:Which was built in 3rd century, it is one of the paschima dwaramukha temple (west facing entrance.
File:Jain temple Warangal.jpg
Jain Temple at Kolanupaka
Jain Temple at Kolanpak or Kolanupaka : The 2,000-year-old Jain temple of Mahavira is a famous place of worship for Jains in the country. The temple is embellished with beautiful images of Tirthankaras. The 5 ft high image of Mahavira is carved entirely out of jade. Kolanupaka is off the town of Aler which lies almost exactly midway (75km) between Warangal and Hyderabad. This was the second capital town of Kalyani Chalukyas during the 11th century. During this period the village was a religious centre for Jains and ranks among the great Jain centers of southern India. The State Department of Archaeology and Museums established the Kolanupaka Museum which exhibits some exquisite artefacts from the numerous historical monuments of Kolanupaka.
Pembarti village: known for it's brassware, lies on the Warangal-Hyderabad highway, 15 km from Jangaon and 10km before Aler town on the Secunderabad-Vijayawada railway route. It has a quaint little railway station made famous in the Telugu movie hit Varsham(Rain).
Sri Veeranarayana Temple: This temple was built in the Chalukyan style around 1104.
Pakhal Lake: A man-made lake built in 1213 by the Kakatiya king Ganapathideva by harnessing a small tributary of the Krishna River. It is located 50 km from Warangal and covers an area of 30 km².
Vanavigyan Kendra: Situated on Hunter Road between Hanamakonda and Warangal.
[Komaravelli ]: Komaravelli is a holy place where devotees worship Komaravelli Mallana Swamy. Komaravelli is situated just before 10 km from Siddipet on the way Hyderabad/Secunderabad highway. There is no railway here and it can only be reached by road.
Bussapur: A village in Govindaraopet mandal, has a 178 meter long suspension bridge on the Laknavaram lake. The local fair begins in the first week of January and lasts until "Ugadi" every year. In the last week of the fair, devotees walk on fire, a ritual called "Aggi Gundalu".
Laknavaram Lake:Laknavaram lake is a beautiful lake located at Laknavaram at a distance of about 90km from Waranagal. It is an idyllic spot for young souls looking for a day off in the forest. Laknavaram lake is popular for it's 'hanging bridges' connecting three islands. The lake is surrounded on all sides by green hills.

Transport

Air : There is an airstrip at Mamnoor on the south-eastern outskirts of Warangal. The nearest international air port is located at Shamshabad 160 km away, near Hyderabad.

Rail : Warangal is well connected to all the major cities in India by rail. Kazipet, about 13km from Warangal is a major railway junction on the Bangalore/Hyderabad-New Delhi route while Warangal is a major station on the Hyderabad/New Delhi-Chennai route. Aptly, Warangal is called the gateway to south India although Nagpur may seem more suitable for that title.

Road : There are two major bus stations (hubs); Warangal and Hanamakonda. Long-distance deluxe buses ply from Warangal to Bangalore, Madras, Hyderabad, Tirupathi, Anantapur, and Hubli; and standard express buses to Guntur via Vijaywada, Cherial, Jangaon, Kodad, Karimnagar, Nizamabad, Adilabad, Suryapet, Palampet, Jagtial, Narasampet, Parkal, Khammam, Bhadrachalam, Basara, etc.

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Vishnu - Venkateswara Swamy Temple - Godugupet, Machilipatnam

2010-10-03T15:54:00.000+05:30

Masulipatnam or Bandar or Masula (in short), is a city on the south eastern or Coromandel Coast of India.

Situated on one of the mouths of the river Krishna at the Bay of Bengal, Machilipatnam is the administrative center of Krishna District in the state of Andhra Pradesh.

It was a 17th century port for French, British and Dutch trade. It is a small fishing town; has a carpet-weaving industry; other products include rice, oilseed, and scientific instruments.

The town is a railway terminus and an educational center. Masulipatam is a station of the Church Missionary Society.

Machilipatnam is known for its Kalamkari textiles and paintings created using vegetable dyes. As a kalam (pen) is used in the technique of painting, it was called "Kalamkari Painting". During the 17th century, western traders were attracted by this art.
History
Machlipatnam derived its name owing to the construction of a gateway to the town decorated with eyes of a fish (also called machili).

Machilipatnam was founded in the 14th century by the trading Arabs who found their way from the red sea to southern India to the spot of eastern peninsula.

Machilipatnam was a flourishing seaport on the east coast during the time of the Satavahanas and in the 17th century AD, it was a centre of French, British, and Dutch trade.

It is one of the earliest known British settlements in the subcontinent of India, its importance being due to the fact that it was the bandar or port of Golconda. It was the British East India Company's first trading post on the coromandel coast. An agency was established there in 1611. During the wars of the Carnatic, the English were temporarily expelled from the town, which was held by the French for some years.

In 1759 the town and fort were carried by storm by Colonel Forde, an achievement followed by the acquisition of the Northern Circars (q.v.). In 1864 a great storm-wave swept over the entire town and is said to have destroyed 30,000 lives.

Machilipatnam is well known for its Kalamkari painting. The art was introduced during the reign of Qutub Shahis when the entire Telugu country was under their control. Weavers form a large portion of the inhabitants, though their trade has greatly declined since the beginning of the 19th century. Their operations, besides weaving, include printing, bleaching washing and dressing. In former days the chintzes of Masulipatam had a great reputation abroad for the freshness and permanency of their dyes.

The port is only a roadstead, where vessels anchor 5 m. out. A branch line from Bezwada (present day Vijayawada) on the Southern Mahratta railway was opened in 1908.

Once a flourishing port, the port of Machilipatnam today is in desperate need for modernization. It has not seen any ships in the last decade. In its heyday, the port used to handle export of different items weighing more than 2.7 lakh tonnes and imports of 37,000 tonnes. Much needs to be done to bring the city back to its glory.

In January 2006, Government of Andhra Pradesh revealed plans for reviving the Machilipatnam port at a cost of Rs. 1200 crores. It has allocated 6000 acres of land for the project.

Masulipatnam and Cambay, a book by Sinnappah Arasaratnam and Aniruddha Ray, published by Munshiram Manoharlal, talks about the pre-colonial history of the two port towns, Masulipatnam and Cambay. It was published in India in 1994.

Geography

Machilipatnam is located at 16.2° N 81.2° E on the southeast coast of India and in the east corner of Andhra Pradesh. The city has an average elevation of 3 meters (20 feet)

Climate

Machilipatnam gets annual rainfall due to the southwest monsoon. The climate is tropical in nature with hot summers and moderate winters. The hottest months are between April and June.

The average normal rainfall in the district is 102 cm. Machilipatnam is frequently hit by cyclones due to low pressure created by the southwest monsoon. On 8th December 2004, a high capacity S-Band Doppler radar meant for cyclone warning was installed, commissioned and operationalized at the city. It was purchased from a German manufacturer, Gematronik. With the installation of the radar, the state will be better equipped to track down cyclones by the onset of monsoon, according to an official from the State Met Office talking to the The Hindu newspaper. This facility will monitor 960 km long coastline of the state. The radar's information is posted real-time on the Indian Meteorological Department website. Similar radars were installed in other coastal cities forming a S-Band Cyclone Detection Radar Network.

Layout

For administrative purposes, Machilipatnam falls into Bandar revenue division of the Krishna District. It is a municipality with 34 panchayats and 28 villages. The city area covers an area of 27 km² (10 mi²).

Administration

It is governed by the Collector & District Magistrate of the Krishna district.

Economy

Machilipatnam has many small scale industries. Fashion Gold (also called rold gold) oranaments are made here.

Agriculture is the most important occupation, paddy being the main food crop produced.

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a unit of the Union Defence Ministry, of Government of India, has a manufacturing unit here. BEL is involved in design, development and manufacture of sophisticated, state-of-the art electronic equipments that are used by Indian Defence Services and para military organisations.

Arts and Crafts

Kalamkari floor spread, block-printed and mordant-dyed cotton (kalamkari) from Machilipatnam. This spread, in the Muslim style, was used for gatherings such as community dinners.The Kalamkari fabrics of Machilipatnam and Kalahasti with their intricate designs, are used in clothing and wall hangings. Kalamkari refers to dye-painted cloths and the technique used to create them. Their name derives from kalam, the Persian word for a pen-like tool used to draw outlines on the cloth, and kari (work). Fabrics are outlined with a cotton-tipped bamboo stick and dyed in vegetable or mineral colours. The process involves washing, rinsing, soaking and bleaching muslin, and applying mordants and dyes using natural substances like indigo for blue, madder for red, mango bark and dried myrobalan fruit for yellow, palm sugar and rusted iron for black. The dyeing process is very elaborate and can take several days to complete. While some pieces are hand-drawn, large canvas and sheets are block-printed. Kalahasti is noted for its wall hangings depicting mythological tales and characters, while Machilipatnam for the block-painted large prints used for sarees. The work done in Machilipatnam, often using block printing in conjunction with hand painting, features more decorative floral and vegetal designs that appealed to local kingdoms and to an extraordinary export trade. This culminated in European demand for Machilipatnam chintz, which derives its name from the Hindi word chint (spotted). Kalahasti, is known for the distinctive temple hangings, chariot decorations and canopies of typically feature Hindu stories, and the images are often identified with text in Telegu, the regional language.

Demographics

According to the census of 2001, the population of Machilipatnam is 183,370. Males number at 91,400 and Females at 91,970.

Culture

People in Machilipatnam practice Hinduism, Islam and Christianity. Hindus and Christians usually speak Telugu and the Muslims tend to speak Urdu. Women of all cultures and faith communities in Machilipatnam typically wear the traditional Indian dress, the sari - sometimes Shalwar Qamis. Kuchipudi, a popular classical dance form originated at Kuchipudi, 25km from Machilipatnam. The dance form is in practice in Machilipatnam.

Tourism

Machilipatnam is a city with a rich history of foreign conquests, business and trade.

The beaches in Machilipatnam are long, broad, pristine, with pale blonde sands. Manginapudi Beach, a beachside fishing hamlet, located at a distance of 11 km from Machilipatnam, is well known for its scenic beauty and also as a historic port city. During its heydays this port served as a gateway to India. The beach has a natural bay with shallow waters. The unique feature of this beach is that instead of sand it contains black soil. Thousands of piligrims take a holy dip in the sea, at the beach, during an annual Hindu festival called Maghapoornami.

A full fledged dance school at the beach, offers courses that train students in the Kuchipudi, popular dance form.

Carting the visitors with the old lighthouse, Dattashram on the banks of sea coast is a piligrimage site. Dattashram has an ancient Shiva temple and Datta temple that was recently built. Manginapudi is popularly known as "Datta Rameswaram" due to the consecration of 9 wells to bath, as in Rameswaram. Panduranga Swamy temple at Chilakalapudi, near the city, close to the Manginapudi Beach, is a famous piligrimage site. It is a temple of Lord Vishnu, said to be similar to the temple at Pandaripur. The Machilipatnam Church built in 19th century by an English man, with massive prayer halls is a tourist destination.

Ghantasala, 21 km from Machilipatnam, it has the remains of an old Buddhist stupa. Agastheeswara Temple, 36 km from Machilipatnam, is a temple of Lord Shiva, a piligrimage site. Lord Shiva at this temple is called by the name, Ekaratri Mallikarjunaswamy. An annual festival is celebrated at this temple when the deities are taken out in procession. Gudivada, North west of Machilipatnam, visitors are attracted by the old ruins of the stupas. Further up the coast of Machilipatnam there are five temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. These ancient temples are located at Amravati, Samalkot, Bhimavaram, Draksharama and Chebrolu.

Transport

Vijayawada, 65 km from Machilipatnam, connects the city by road and rail with the rest of India.

Sports
Cricket is the most popular sport in Machilipatnam. A Ranji Trophy match was organized at the Andhra Jateya Kalashala Ground located in the city.

Famous people
- Pingali Venkayya, considered the designer of the Indian national flag.
- Dr Pattabhi Sitaramayya, 1880-1959, a freedom fighter and historian of the Indian National Congress.

Temples:

Lord Pandu Ranga temple,Tri Shakthi Peetam in batchupet,Saibaba temple in batchupet, Haiyagreeva temple in batchupet,Venkateswara swamy temple in batchupet,Lord shiva temples in batchupet,gandhi bomma centre, beach,kozzilipet, etc.,Ayyappa temple having gold kavacham.,Famous Vinayaka temples.,54 feet saibaba idol near district court centre

Veerabhadra temple (Lepakshi)

2010-10-03T15:45:00.001+05:30

The temple, a wonderful example of the Vijayanagara Architectural style and art and a master piece of art work done by the Vishwakarma Brahmin Stapathis who sculpted this temple. This was built in the 16th century and sits on a mount. The presiding deity is Veerabhadra.

In the exquisite shrine is a wealth of magnificent sculpture in the intricate mandapams. One mandapam has pillars with life-sized images of dancers, musicians and other sculptures, created by the artisans of the Vijayanagar empire. The huge granite Nandi Bull is carved out of a single stone. The ceilings have breathtakingly beautiful mural paintings

Facts to File

How far : 480 km from Hyderabad.

How to go :
Air : Nearest airports are Bangalore (100 km)and Tirupati.
Rail : The nearest railhead is Hindupur (16 km) between Hyderabad - Bangalore railway line.
Bus : Regular buses and taxis from Hindupur and Ananthapur.

Where to stay : Hindupur Tourism Complex (8 cottages and restaurant) offers excellent accommodation, Abhya Griha rest house at Lepakshi, AP Tourism Motel Travellers' bungalow at Hindupur and PWD travellers' bungalow at Demakepalli. Budget Hotels at Ananthapur.

What to see: Veerabhadra Temple, the mural paintings in the temple and the monolithic Nandi. This shrine is one of the finest temples of AP in architecture and painting. Lepakshi is easily accessible from Tirupati. Known as the Ajanta of AP, Lepakshi excells in its myriad artistry. The presiding deity is Veerabhadra.Architecture
The flat stuccoed granite ceilings of the Vijayanagar Empire provided a suitable background for frescoes as seen at Lepakshi. This temple is a notable example of the Vijayanagar style of architecture, and is built on a low rocky hill, which is called Kurmasaila so called because the bill is like a tortoise, in shape. An inscription on the exit of the outer wall of the temple records that one Virupanna constructed it in the 16th century.

The beautiful sculptures on the prakaram attract the pilgrims' attention. These include 14 forms of Siva, like Dakshinamurthi, Ardhanareeswara, Tripurantaka etc. The hall of creepers is another excellent work of art, which has provided perennial inspiration to textile designers over the years. About 500m, North-East of the temple stands India's largest monolithic Nandhi, measuring about 8.25m long and 4,60m high.
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Undavalli caves,Vijayawada

2010-10-03T15:44:00.000+05:30

About Undavalli Caves

The Undavalli caves, a classic example of the rock cut architecture of India are located in the Undavalli Village in Andhra Pradesh. These are four storied caves that overlook the river Krishna and from the hill top you can see other specimens of rock cut architecture in this region too. Displaying fine examples of the Rock cut architecture of the Buddhists, these caves in Andhra Pradesh are a major tourist attraction. Belonging to the 4th and 5th century ad, the Undavalli caves is well known for a 5 meters long statue of Lord Buddha in a reclining position. There is also a sculpture of Lord Vishnu made from a single Granite block. Dedicated to Anantapadmanabha Swamy and Narisimha Swamy, these caves are related to the Vishnukundin kings of 420 to 620 A.D.

How to reach Undavalli Caves

Undavalli is situated at a distance of 8 kilometers west from Vijaywada. There are buses and taxis that are available from these places to reach the Undavalli caves. The nearest railway station is also at Vijaywada. To travel to the Undavalli Caves, the nearest airport is at Hyderabad, 280 kilometers away.

SRI UJJAINI MAHAKALI TEMPLE,secunderabad

2010-10-03T15:43:00.000+05:30

In the year 1813, a Military Battalion in which one Suriti Appaiah, a Doli Bearer was transferred to Ujjaini. At the time Cholera broke out in a virulent firm, and thousands of people died. Suriti Appaiah and his associates went to Mahakali Devasthanam at Ujjaini and prayed that if the people are saved from the epidemic, they would install the idol of Mahakali, Secunderabad.

Accordingly after return from Ujjaini, Sri Suriti Appaiah and his associates have installed the idol of Goddess Mahakali made of wood at Secunderabad in July 1815.

During construction of sanctum sanctorum a stone idol named as Manikyalamma was found and that the said idol was also installed besides Sri Mahakali Ammavaru.

In the year 1964, a stone idol of Goddess Mahakali was installed. Later on Sri Suriti Appaiah with the help of Philanthropic persons has developed the Devasthanam. Subsequently Endowments Department has taken over the Management of the Devasthanam. Sri Suriti Krishna the great grandson of the Founder has been recognized as Member of the Founder’s Family who is also taking keen interest for the proper Management of the Devasthanam.

The Ujjaini Mahakali Devasthanam is published U/s.6(a)(ii) of the Act 30 of 1987 (30/87) and it is under the administration control of the Commissioner, Endowments Department, Hyderabad.

One Sri Ammanabolu Nagabhushanam a philanthropic devotees and prominent businessmen of Secunderabad constructed Kalyana Mandapam by the side of the Devasthanam. Several devotees have been contributing for the development of the Devasthanam. By such contribution a Rudrakshe Mandapam made of Silver has been arranged in Garbhalayam. The Garbhalaya Dwaram is covered by ornamental Silver Sheets, etc.,

There are several oldest temples in Andhra Pradesh in which exist famous goddess temples like “Kanakadurga“ at Vijayawada , ”Bhadrakali” at Warrangal etc. “Sri Ujjaini Mahakali” temple in Telangana region at Secunderabad which is 191 years old. It is visited and prayers offered to the goddess by unending large number of devotees everyday in general and in particularly thousands of devotees in Ashada jathara on principal days which falls on Sunday and Monday. There is no doubt about granting the wishes of devotees by the goddess and devotees fulfilling the vows.

Tirupathi,Andhra Pradesh

2010-10-03T15:41:00.000+05:30

Significance: Tirupati/Tirumala is a pilgrimage center of great significance and is visited by hundreds of thousands of pilgrims throughout the year.Venkateswara, or Srinivasa or Balaji as the presiding deity Vishnu is known, is enshrined in this temple, located on a range of the Eastern Ghats, called the Seven Hills.It is an ancient temple and its glory has been sung by the saints of the yesteryears.

Said to be the richest temple in India, this temple is a vibrant cultural and philanthropic institution with a grand history spanning several centuries. It attracts pilgrims from all over the country and it is not unusual for pilgrims to stand in line for hours together to obtain a glimpse of the presiding deity for a few fleeting seconds.

TTD, or Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam manages the affairs of the temple, the well being of the pilgrims, the upkeep of the environs in and around the Tirumala hills and sponsors several undertakings that are religious, charitable, social and educational in nature.

References to Tiruvenkatam abound in early Tamil literature(Tolkappiam and Silappadikaram) . Explicit reference to the Lord of Tiruvenkatam is found in the works of the early Tamil Saint Poets Poigai Alwar, Bhuthathu Alwar and Pay Alwar as well as in the poems of the later Alwars. The great religious leader Ramanuja Acharya is said to have visited here in the 11th - 12th century AD.

References to Venkatachalam are also found in several of the Puranas. Tirumalai constitutes one of the 108 Sri Vaishnava Divya Desams - sacred shrines in the Sri Vaishnavite tradition. Krishna Deva Raya of the Vijayanagar Empire is said to have visited this temple 7 times. An image of his is also found in the temple. The Venkatesa Itihasa Mala and the Varaha Purana contain several legends connected with Tirumalai.

Location: Tirupati is a town in the Chittoor district of the Southern portion of Andhra Pradesh and is at a convenient train journey away from Chennai (formerly Madras) in Tamilnadu. Tirumalai, on the last of the seven Hills, is home to this temple and is connected by a well maintained and picturesque mountain road constructed by the Tirumala Tirupati Devastanam.

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Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple - Srisailam

2010-10-03T15:39:00.000+05:30

FACTS TO FILE

How far : 232 km from Hyderabad

How to reach : A.P. Tourism package tour, APSRTC buses at 7 a.m. and 3 p.m., or private taxis.

When to go : Best to go between July and February.

What to see : Sakshi Ganapathi Temple, Srisaila Mallikarjuna and Bhramarambha temple, Sikhareswaram and Srisailam dam, with permission the Srisailam wildlife sanctuary which covers over five adjoining districts which has tigers, spotted deer, a variety of lizards and giant squirrels.

Where to stay : A.P. Tourist Saila Vihar rest house and Devasthanam Guest Houses, cottages and choultries.

SRISAILAM ON THE NALLAMALAIS - THE TAIL OF ADISESHA

The ancient and sacred temple of Srisailam is of great historical and religious significance. Situated on the south bank of the river Krishna, in the Nallamalai forest, on a 457 meter high hill is the Bhramaramba Mallikharjunaswamy temple, one of the 12 Jyothirlingas in the country. One of the state's three famous Linga Kshetrams (Draksharamam and Nagarjunamo are the other two), it is also known as "Sri Mallikharjunam" and "Sri Parvatham". The temple is also the seat of Mahakali in the form of Bhramaramba.The most appealing feature of this temple is that any one of any cast or creed can touch the deity and worship here.

Till 1957 the place was not easily accessible to the pilgrims as it involved a walk of 64 kms through dense forests and hilly terrains. Now there is a 60 km long motarable road to the top of the 1563-foot high plateau, from Dornal on the Kurnool-Guntur road. It is a pleasant drive on a road lined with green and flowering trees. Passing through the small town of Dindi one reaches Mannanur from where the Rajiv Gandhi reserve forest starts and so does the climb on to the Nallamalais. After about 10 km drive on the elevated plane one can see the majestic white gopuram of the Srisailam temple. The 512 meter long Srisailam dam across the river and the hydroelectric project is surrounded by natural beauty. One requires special permission to go on to the main dam. Buses and trucks are allowed to go on a road bridge that runs parallel to the dam.

LEGENDS

As the legend goes, Vrishabha, the sacred bull of Lord Siva performed penance here. Siva and Parvati apeared in the form of Mallikharjuna and Bhramaramba. A massive fort, with six meter high walls encloses the temple. A cluster of minor shrines within the temple compound include the Sahasra Linga, Panchapandava temples and Vatavriksha.

Hiranyakasipu of Kretayuga is believed to have conducted pujas here. It is said that Srirama and Sita visited the shrine and installed Sahasra Lingas (thousand lingas). The place is also associated with Pandavas who installed idols of Siva. Several devotees have attained salvation by performing pujas here while several saints have sanctified the place by doing penance. The greatness of the place has been described in "Srisaila Kandam" of Skanda Puranam.

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Srikurmam - Lord vishnu Temple - Srikurmam

2010-10-03T15:36:00.000+05:30

Srikurmam is the only Vishnu temple in Andhra Pradesh where Lord Vishu is worshipped in the tortoise (kurma) form. Generally, Vishnu`s incarnation as the tortoise (kurma) is not popularly worshipped. It is dedicated to the Lord Vishnu in the Kurma Avathara (incarnation).

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu is one of the most favourite deities of people all over India. Various incarnations of Lord Vishnu such as Varaha, Narasimha, Vamana (Trivikrama), Rama and Krishna are worshipped in Andhra Pradesh. But the one in the form of tortoise is the unique one in the Srikurmam temple of Andhra Pradesh. The tortoise form is generally not popular for worship in any part of India. But in the Srikurmam the tortoise incarnation of Lord Vishnu is worshipped and hence it is unique and rare shrine and several devotees are attracted towards it.

Architecture: The Srikurmam temple of Andhra Pradesh is well known for its beautiful architecture. This temple has 200 pillars and the `gopuram` i, e, the entrance gate has six stories. The gopuram was built by following the traditional South Indian architectural style. The Srikurmam village got its name from the name of this unique temple. In this Vishnu temple, many inscriptions in Devanagari script can be found which can be traced back to the11th to the 19th century A.D. The activities of the kings of the eastern Ganga dynasty can be visualised from these inscriptions. These kings ruled in ancient Kalinga.

Inside the temple complex, many sacred tanks can be found. The famous Sundareshvara temple is also situated near Srikurmam, which is dedicated to Lord Siva and is situated at Pippala village. The Karpureshvara temple is also not far from Srikurmam, which is situated at a place where the Vamshadhara River joins the sea.

A number of inscriptions state this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu as the Avathara of Srikurmam - tortoise, and the deity is called Srikurmanatha. The temple has beautiful pillared mantapas and some sculptures are made in granite. The Vimana is built in Chola style. The outer gates beyond the prakara were added much later. The temple was originally Saivite, but was changed to Vaishnavite by Sri Ramanujacharya. This is the only important temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the whole of India.

Legend: Naraharitirtha wanted to become a sanyasin and remonstrated with his master that nothing useful was gained by his trying of acquiring a kingdom. His master told him to go to the Gajapathi kingdom to acquire the images of Rama and Sita, so that their worship could be restored. Narahari went to Kalinga and was received with great enthusiasm by the people who made him their ruler. He ruled Kalinga for twelve years as a regent for the minor prince. When the prince attained majority Narahari returned the kingdom to him and took the idols of Rama and Sita as Gurudakshina, and gave them to his master. The latter worshipped the images for 80 days and handed them to his disciple Padmanabhatirtha, who in turn worshipped them for six years and gave them back to Naraharitirtha.

Having acquired the images, Naraharitirtha went around preaching. One night he dreamt that an idol of Lord Vishnu was submerged near a tank in the town. He made arrangements to bring it out and establish proper worship. The inscriptions vouch this story and epigraphs found at the Srikurmam temple also support it. The presiding deity Lord Vishnu is called Srikurmanatha. There are several sacred shrines within the temple. The Lord first appeared here to bless king Swetamahipathi. His bones were thrown into the Swetapushkarani tank and these got converted into tortoises or kurmas, and hence unclean persons are forbidden to touch the water from the tank.

There is a famous Kshetramahatmyam in this temple told by Rishi Dattira. The Sthalapurana states that the sage heard Lord Hari in his dreams giving details about the greatness of Srikurmam. King Suta ruled Swetachala. The queen was a pious lady and once the king approached her on a Suddha Ekadashi day, which she dedicated to prayer and meditation. The queen prayed that her vrata should not be broken, and Lord Srikurmanatha, ordered Ganga to flow between the king and the queen. The king was thus separated from the queen, and he continued living on the banks of the Vamsadhara River. One day Narada met him and told him he could bring blessings upon himself by doing penance. The king went where Vamsadhara River joined the sea, and prayed to the Lord for darshan. On the way he saw a sacred spot and created a tank known as the Ksheera Samudram. Mahalakshmi came and resided here. The spot is called Srikurmam or Kurmagundam.

Sri Vasavi temple-Pengonda

2010-10-03T00:18:00.000+05:30

As per Lord Shiva’s wish Brahma took his lineage from Brighu vamsa as Baskaracharya and reached the shores of River Godhavari and ordered the divine architect Viswakarma to establish a city. Brahma was ordained to be the preceptor of Vysyas and was known as Sri Baskaracharya. He was the teacher and guiding star of the community. Vysyas Look his advice on religion, cultural and social matters. Viswakarma, built the city of Penugonda on the banks of Godhavari with assistance from Kuber. The land (country) was divided into Ashtadasa mandala (18 units) for the purpose of administration. The units were called Dharma, Dhanatha, Panchala, Nirvathya, Jagannadha, Ksheera, Kasara, Yala, Gantasala, Thriguna, Ganna, Bhima, Vishala, Kalinga, Narasinga, Veeranarayanna, Achanda & Thandlur. It was their firm belief that these eighteen divisions prospered under the eighteen hands of Adhisakthi Parvathi.

The city of Penugonda had I2 pradhana marga and 16 upamarga. They were straight like Suns rays. The southern side of the state was bounded by sea with a natural harbour. The Vysya community consisting of 714 gothras lived and prospered in the region, blessed with kubhera kataksham, arable lands and cattle wealth. (Dhanam, Dhanyam and Coh-sampath) A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess was situated in the centre of the city. The presiding deities were worshipped as sri Nagareswara andSri Vindhyavasini. Another temple for Sri Janardhana and his consort Sri Konakamala Devi was established nearby.

The city had a number of buildings, main entrance had huge Carved out of wooden doors and a threshold . The Figure Gajalakshmi beautifully carved out of mahaghani wood adorned the cornice.Single Door with Decorations to match the threshold and side panels was moving on hinges.Two small triangle shaped dug outs on either side of the door way on the walls were provided for two oil lamps to be lit in the evenings.Sitouts (thinnai) were provided on the either side of the enterance for the people to sit and chat. Some of the houses were tiled and some had one storey or two. A kind of architectural system known as Vastu sastra was religiously followed in constructing a house. The main door had an opposite door provided leading to the backyard and served as crossventilation. The kitchen was provided inAgni moola i.e., onSouth West corner.

The house was divided carefully into one, two or three (quadrangles) square portions with an opening in the centre allowing plenty of sun, lightand air- Living rooms were constructed on either side of the central opening. A special varanda(servicepath) led to the second and third portions known as koodam in Tamil and kottam in Telugu. Deities or pictures of Gods and Goddess were placed facing East in a secluded area and worshipped. A small octagonal structure beautifully got up called 'Thulasi kota' or 'Thulasi Brivandan' which means the abode for the Thulasi plant was erected on the eastern side of the house or in the backyard. A cow shed with milch cows and calves was a must during the hey days of Penugonda. The cow was worshipped as Kamadhenu and Lakshmi. The chief lady of the house used to adorn the cow with turmeric paste and vermilion on its face, hump, tail and on four legs. The lady used to offer fruits like banana, wet raw rice and jaggery in a fray to the cow and offer pooja. The cows were individually christened as Lakshmi, Saraswathi, Parvathi, Gangà, Yamuna and the like. They were accustomed to come before the lady of the house to receive a fruit or Agathi keerai when called individually.

The life of Vysyaa in Penugonda commenced when they were delivered by the sacred cow, kamadhenu on the banks of Pulasyatheertham, on the Predetermined day. kamadhenu was an universe by herself and afforded all comforts to the community who came out of Mount Kailash.

After the arrival of vysyas under the leadership of Samadhimuni at Penugonda Sri Baskara Charyulu blessed them as husband and wife according to their (poorvajanma) previous birth.The clan spread far and wide into eighteen mandalas.

Vudhvaha was the first administrator of the city state of Penugonda, created by divine architect Viswakarma with liberal help from Kubher.

The city of Penugonda with paved streets and well managed water system depicted the economic prosperity of the land. The two tall temple gopurams of Sri Nagareswara and Sri Janardhana exhibited the amity and tolerance between the two great religions Saivism and Vaishnavism. The sculptures and the style of construction were oriental and according to the agamasastra and Hindu way of cultural life.

The port on the south of the state presented a wonderful sight, having a number of vessels of different dimensions and various patterns.moored side by side. The flags fluttering on them represented their countries origin. The whole country was endowed with agriculture, horticulture and cattle wealth. The farm products and milk products were plenty and the country was Sowing with milk and honey. Rathnapuri and Vishala were the centres of commercial importance. They had many merchants who were dealing in spices of exportable quality, (even Gods liked them) precious and semi-precious gems of alluring nature. High rise buildings of the rich and the famous were the land marks of the town.

The chieftain Kusumasreshti was the devotee of Sri Nagareswara and Sri Vindhyavasini. Kusumarya was 16th in the line of succession to Samadhimuni, His rule was considered as a golden era. He was well supported by his council of ministers. Kusumagupta's ships sailed the southern seas. He was married to Kausambi and lived happily. They were childless. Their preceptor Baskaracharya advised them to perform a putrakameshti yagam. The yagna was performed for seven days.

Kusumarya was the central figure of the epic Vasavi Charithra, who was born and reborn to fulfil the curse. The boon he had was to be father of Ahimsa Jothi vasavi, the incarnation of Goddess Parvathi.

On the seventh day of yagna. Goddess Sarvani appeared, presented a kalpaga twin fruit to Kosumarya and disappeared. On the advice of preceptor Baskaracharya he gave the twin fruit of love and affection to his wife Kausambi. She consumed the fruit with all reverence. The loving care of the husband and the effect of the divine fruit made Kausambi a mother of twins - a boy and a girl. The year was Nala and the month was visaka and the day was Suddha Dhasami. On Friday and under the natal star punarvasu IVth pada the twins were Born. As the Vysya custom would have it the naming ceremony (Namakarnam) was performed on he 11th day. Kusumarya offered the brahmin Pandits and the poor food, clothing and gold coins behoving his status. Akashvani, the divine voice christened the boy as Virupaksha and the baby girl as Vasavi. The children grew up under parental care.

Virupaksha was initiated to Gayathri japa by Sri baskaracharya at the age of eleven. He had his guru kula vasam (schooling) under the guidance of the preceptor. Virupaksha was taught dharmasastra, political science and martial arts like sword fighting and horse riding.

SRI KAALAHASTI

Sri Kalahasti is one of the most sacred Siva kshetras. It is in Srikalahasti mandalm of Chittoor district. It is about 60 kms from Tirupati . The presiding diety is Srikalahasteeswara. The temple is connected by train and it halts at Srikalahasti railway station. The A.P.S.R.T.C has provided number of buses from different routes to reach Kalahasti. Private taxis also take the pilgrims to the devasthanam.

History of the temple in Brief

SriKalahasti is named after the staunch devotees of Lord Shiva. They were the Spider(Sri), the Serpent(Kala) and the Elephant(Hasti). Appeased with their unflinching devotion, Lord Shiva gave them a boon that their names be merged with the Vayulinga and called as SriKalahasteewara. There are several other legends connected to the glory of the temple. Prominent among them is of Parvati who was cursed by Lord Shiva to discard her heavenly body and assumed the human form. To get rid off the above curse Parvati did long penance here. Pleased with her deep devotion Lord Shiva again restored her body hundred times better than her previous heavenly body and initiated various mantras including Panchakshari. Consequent of this, Parvati gained Shiva Gnanam and came to know as Gnanaprasunamba. Cursed to became a ghost Ghanakala prayed at Srikalahasti for 15 years and after chanting Bhairava Mantra many times Lord Shiva restored her original form. Mayura, Chandra and Devendra were also freed from their curses after taking bath in Swarnamukhi and prayed at Srikalahasti. To Bhakta Markandeya, Lord Shiva appeared in Srikalahasti and preched that a Guru alone could make esoteric teachings and, therefore he is Brahma, Vishnu and Maheswara. At Srikalahasti, Lord Shiva tested the unshakable devotion of Kanna (Later became Bhaktha Kannappa) before the sages gathered at Srikalahasti. With his divine power, Lord Shiva created a Tremour and the roof tops of the temple began to fall. All the sages ran away from the scene except Kannappa who covered the Linga with his body from any damage. In another incident, Kannappa plucked out one of his eyes and placed in the eye of Linga which was oozing with blood and tears. When the tears and the blood were still trickling from another eye, Kannappa decided to remove his second eye and placed one of his feet on the spot of the right eye of the Shiva Linga. Before he could pull out his second eye with the arrow, Lord Shiva appeared and restored his eye while granting him a boon to occupy a place close to him.

Importance of the temple

Srikalahasti is a very sacred Kshetram where the Lord Shiva's consort Parvati did penance and gained with his blessings a body hundred times better than her previous heavenly body and learned Panchakshari Mantra to become Gnanaprasunamba. It is the place where Sri(Spider), Kala(Serphant) and Elephant(Hasti) were granted boons by Lord Shiva to merge their names with Vayu Linga and called the place as Srikalahasteeshwara. In this holy place Ganakala, Mayura, Chandra and Devendra washed off their sins after taking bath in Swarnamukhi and offerrd prayers. Bhakta Markendeya was taught by Lord Shiva that a Guru could make esoteric teachings and therefore he is Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara. Bhakta Kannappa was granted a boon by Lord Shiva in this Kshetra who occupy a place close to him. Mahasivaratri is an important festival when, Lakhs of people offer prayers to seek the blessings of the Lord to attain Mukti.

Sri Narasimha swamy Temple - Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam

2010-10-03T00:14:00.000+05:30

The Historic Temple at the Simhachalam, built in the 11th Century, where the Lord Varaha Narasimha Swami's temple is located, resembles the rich cultural heritage Visakhapatnam holds. Located on the Hill top, at a height of 244 mts, popularly called the Hill of the Lion Lord, is the temple of Lord Vishnu in the avatara of Sri Narasimha Swami varu. This great temple built in the 11th century by the King Sri Krishnadevarayam, is one of its kind in the country. Inscriptions on the temple date back to 1098 AD.

Millions of devotees from round the world visit this temple every year especially during the Chandanotsavam Festival Season. On the annual ritual Chandanotsavam day, the Lord is covered with a new fresh layer of Sandalwood.

History says that Prahlada - a devotee of Lord Vishnu was being tortoured by his father. Lord Vishnu in the avatara of Lord Nrusimha kills Prahlada's father and saves the child.

Dharmapuri Sheshachari wrote the Narasimha Satakam - a collection of poems on the Lord.
Reaching Simhachalam

One can reach Simhachalam from almost any where in Vizag. If you get down at the Waltair Railway Station, you can visit Simhachalam by Bus ( 6A ) or hire a Cab.

Busses numbered 6A and 40 start from the Dwaraka Bus Station ( APSRTC Complex ).

If starting from Gajuwaka, you can get Bus numbered 55. And if you want to start from Maddilipalem, get the bus numbered 540.

If you like to have a more comfortable journey, hiring a cab is always a good idea.

Reaching the Hill Top

You can take up the steps path to reach to the Temple. However, if you and also take up a bus. Simhachalam Devasthanam runs Simhadri Bus Service to take you to the hill top from the foothill. Busses will be available for every 10 minutes and ticket costs Rs. 6/- per adult and Rs. 3/- for a child. The fares are nominal and is worth to go on bus if you are not a professional driver since the roads to the hill are narrow and curviest.
Fares for using Private Vehicles to reach hill top
Scooter Rs. 5/-
Car Rs. 20/-
Jeep Rs. 25/-
Lorry Rs. 75/-
Empty Lorry Rs. 50/-
Empty Van Rs. 30/-
Loaded Van Rs. 40/-
Mini Bus Rs. 75/-

Chandanotsavam at Lord Lakshmi Nrusimha Swamy Temple, Simhachalam

Simhachalam is one of the best places in India which resembles the rich Culture and Heritage. Simhachalam Hill Ranges are the host for one of the most unique temples of Lord Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swami is India.

The Chandanotsavam or the Nijaroopa Darshanam Day, is the annual ritual conducted at the temple. It is only on this day that devotees would have a chance to see the actual shape of the lord ( Nirjaroopam ). On normal days, the Lord in the temple is visible with a layer of Chandanam (Sandalwood paste) covered. This process is conducted on the Vaisakha Suddha Tadiya as per the Telugu almanac. It is on the Chandanotsavam day that the Lord's Sandalwood paste is removed and is covered with a fresh layer of Sandalwood paste brought from Andhra Pradesh and Orissa. The ceremonial process would take some time and during the process of removal of the sandal paste, the sanctum sanctorum doors will be closed. Abhishekam and special pujas will be performed after the diety is fully uncovered. This happens at around 3:00 PM. Heriditary Trustee of the temple, Ananda Gajapathi Raju will be the first person to have the darshan of the Lord on this day at around 4:00 PM.

Millions of people from round the world, particular from the coastal states of Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu vist the Temple to take the darshan of the Lord in his true form.

As like any other Chandanotsavam Day, authorities of the Temple have taken additional steps to make this festival day an easy one for the Devotees. The Executive Officer of the Devasthanam oversees and ensures that all facilities were implemented so that devotees can take the darshan of the Lord easily. Special Queues will be setup for both Tickets and the Prasadam's. An estimated 50 Lakh laadoos will be sold and thus the Devastanam has made arrangements for the production of the same. About 3 Lakh people will be provided with free food (Anna-Danam) on this day alone.

The Visakhapatnam City Police will look at all Security arrangements and Special Police teams will be deployed to make sure no brench of security takes place. APSRTC is running special Buses from many parts of the state. Special City buses will also be run from various parts of Visakhapatnam to Simhachalam.

A representative from the Government of Andhra Pradesh will generally be presenting the slik-woven clothes to the Lord on this day.

On the Chandanotsavam Day, special tickets in the denominations of Rs. 30, Rs. 100, Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 will be sold at the temple premises. Of course, there is always a Dharma Darshanam, or a free Darshan that generally draw huge crowds.

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Pancharamam

2010-10-03T00:13:00.000+05:30

Pancharama is the name given to those five temples which are dedicated to Lord Shiva. These places are distributed over three districts, East Godavari, West Godavari and Guntur of Andhra Pradesh in India. All Hindus consider visiting these temples as very sacred. Pancha means five and Aarama is peace. Aarama is something related to Buddhism which is actually aims at pleasant state of mind. So Pancharama means five pleasant and peaceful places.

There are two stories related to Pancharama temples. One story related to Pancharama temples is in Bheemeshwara Puranam written by Shree Nathudu. The Story goes like this...

Devatas and Asuras (Rakshasas) stirr the sea to get nectar (Amrit). After getting the Amrit, Devatas meet Lord Vishnu to avoid distributing the nectar to Asuras as it may lead to problems. Lord Vishnu takes the birth as Mohini and distributes Amruth only to Devtas. Asuras get angry and worship Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva gets satisfied by their worship and blesses Asuras with lot of powers.

With these powers Asuras start torturing people and Devtas. Again Devtas worship Lord Shiva to avoid this. Lord Shiva gets angry and starts punishing Asuras. During this war, a Shivalingam worshipped by Thripurasura (Tripurasura) remains un damaged even though all Asuras die. Lord Shiva (Mahadeva) makes this Lingam into five pieces and makes this installed in five different places. These five places (Prathishtapana) are now famous as Pancharama.

The second story begins from Hiranya Kashipu and his son Simuchi. The son of Simuchi, Tharakasura worships Lord Shiva and gets his Atma Linga. Then, Tharakasura starts troubling people and Devatas. As per blessings, Tharakasura dies only by a boy. Devatas go to Lord Shiva to find solution for finding a solution to punish Tharakasura. Lord Kumara Swamy Avtar thus happens and and boy kills Tharakasura. After when Tharakasura dies, the Athmalinga gets divided into five. Each one gets installed by Devatas in five different places. These places are called Pancharama Kshetras.

Below are the details of Pancharama Kshetras and the five faces of Lord Shiva

1. Amararama is installed at Amaravati in Guntur district of Andhrapradesh. The name of Lord Shiva is Amareshwarudu and considered incarnated as, Aghorarupam, installed by Lord Indra.

2. Draksharama located at Draksharamam in East Godavari District of Andhrapradesh. The lord Eshwara is called Bhimeshwarudu (Daksharama) and seen as Thatpurusha Mukha Swarupam.

 Draksharama

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 Samalkot) 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 Daksharama

 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, Rajahmundry. Samalkot (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 Annavaram 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 Samalkot. If they get train upto Kakinada, get down at Kakinada. People can reach Kakinada by bus also. The distance between Samalkot and Kakinada is only 12Kms. From Kakinada, 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.

3. Kumararama is available in Samalkot, East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh. The temple is called with same name as Daksharamam - Bheemeshwarudu. But Lord Shiva is seen here as Vamadeva Mukha Swaroopam. This Shiva linga is installed by Kumara Swamy.

Samalkot

This city is located in East Godavari district of Andhrapradesh in India. In Telugu (local language) the name is pronounced as Samarlakota. This town has the main railway junction connecting the broad gauge line between Chennai - Kolkata (and other places in North and South) to the district head quarters, Kakinada. Though this place is on the main lane of the broad gauge railway, it won't come in the National Highway 5 (between Chennai and Kolkata) path. Samalkot is famous for the Shiva temple which is considered as one of the Pancharama temples.

How to reach:

Samalkot is on the main railway path of broad gauge connecting Chennai and Kolkata. The station is after Rajahmundry if travelling from Vijayawada side. For travellers coming from Kolkata side, this station is after Annavaram (this is the main station and there are some more small stations in between Samalkot and Annavaram). Though Samalkot is the main Raiway junction, not all the trains stop in this station. So, select your journey and plan depending upon the train you are travelling by.

People travelling by bus from North have to reach Visakhapatnam and travel towards Rajahmundry in NH-5. After Annavaram ( approximately 120Kms by road) proceed in NH-5 upto Kathipudi and take left turn near an overhead bridge on Highway. Take the right turn before reaching the place called Pithapuram. And again after 8 Kms take right turn. Samalkot is 15 Kms from this turn. The distance between Annavaram and Samalkot is 40 Kms. It is 12 Kms from Kakinada. For travellers coming from Vijayawad side, have to reach Rajahmundry. After Rajahmundry, proceed in NH-5 to reach a place called Prathipadu. At prathipadu take right turn to reach Samalkot which 20Kms away.

Importance of Samalkot

The very famous Pancharama Shri Kumararama Bheemeshwara Swamy temple is situated in Samalkot. The temple is just beside the railway station. So no transportation is needed for people travelling by rail to reach the temple. This temple is dedicted to Lord Shiva (Adhi Devudu). This was known as Purva Chalukya Bhimavaram because the Eastern Chalukyans ruled this place. Now, a canal of Godavari river flows between Bhimavaram and Samalkot. The temple was built by Chalukya Kumara rama (son of Vikramaditya) during the end of 9th century. He got this temple constructed to register his victories in more than 300 wars.

The temple premesis almost resemblance the other Pancharama temple at Draksharama which is also called Bhimeswara Alayam. There are carvings of Apsaras on pillars in the temple. A mantapam supported with one hundred pillars can be seen. Eka Shila Nandi is kept at the temple entrance opposite to Shiva lingam. Darshan of Shiva lingam is at the first floor. Steps are available at both the side. Goddess Shri Bala Thripura Sundari (Tripura Sundari) statue can be seen at temple premesis. To the East side, there is a mantap called Koneti. Pushkarni (Pushkarini) lake can be seen here. The main entrance to the temple is called Surya Dwaram.

 here are quite a good number of devotees visiting this temple. The total maintenance activities are taken care by the Government of Andhrapradesh. Several parts of the temple are in a very bad shape and renovation activities are going on. Along with this activity, a garden is also being made for visitors to make this place a picnic spot. During November-December (Karthika and Margashira masam) months daily Abhisheka is carried out. There will be Utsavam (Kalyana Mahotsam) during February-March (Magha Bahula Ekadashi day) time. Till Maha Shivarathri grand celebrations in the temple can be seen. There will be a car festival during Sivarathri. Lord Bhimeswara Swamy is installed (Prathishthapana) by Kumara Swamy (son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati) and hence the temple is called KumaraRama. Temple timings are from morning 6.00am to 12.00 noon and after noon 4.00pm to 8.00pm. 

Additional places of interest around Samalkot include Draksharama, Annavaram, Thalupulamma Thalli and Rajahmundry. Budget hotels are available in Samalkot to stay. Travellers can also make Rajahmundry as the center place for their trip.

4. Somarama is at Bheemavaram situated in West Godavari district of Andhrapradesh. Lord Eswara is called Someshwarudu (Somarama) in this temple and considered as Sadyojatha Mukha Swarupam, Siva linga is installed by Lord Chandra.

Bhimavaram

Gunupudi Bheemavaram is located in West Godavari district of Andhrapradesh in India. This place is well known for the temple Soma Rama which is considered as one of the Pancharama temples. The temple here is called Sri Someshwara Janardhana swamy. Very good bus and train facility is available to Bheemavaram from all other places of India. One more Pancharama Kshetra called Palakollu is located just 20Kms away. One more major city of West Godavari called Narsapur is 45Kms away from here and one of the tributory of Godavari called Vasishta Godavari meeting the sea is very nearby. This place is called Antarvedi. Very frequent buses run towards Narsapur from all other parts of Andhra Pradesh (by APSRTC). The temple is situated nearly one kilometer from bus stand. Take a cycle rikshaw or auto to reach there. One more temple called Goddess Maullamma is situated in the city itself. As per the local people, this temple has got lot of power and by visiting there, all wishes come true. The face of Shiva lingam in this Pancharama temple is called Sadyojathamukha Swaroopam. Mass marriages (especially during Shivarathri) are being conducted at this temple premesis. The local people say that couple getting married at this Pancharama place have a peaceful understanding life.

Importance of Bhimavaram

The attraction of Bhimavaram is spiritual as the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Sri Someswara Janardhana swamy which is considered as one of the Pancharama Kshetras is situated here. The main contribution for temple construction was made by the King Chalukya Bheema during 4th century. The Shiva lingam is called someshwara as it is believed that this lingam has been installed by Lord Chandra. The colour of the linga is believed to change during full moon day and Amavasya. Over and above the Garbhalayam, Goddess Annapurna temple is situated, which is the speciality of this temple and cannot be seen anywhere else in India. This resembles the fact that Lord Shiva holds the Goddess Ganga on his head. 

To the South of the Garbha Gruham, Goddess Adilakshmi can be seen and wedding hall at ground and first floor are constructed. Marriages are conducted both in the new hall and also in Goddess Annapurna mantapam.  To the East side of this temple, there is a Pushkarini pond which is also called Soma Gundam. Inside the temple, Lord Anjaneya Swamy, God Kumara Swamy, Navagraha, Sun God, Lord Ganesha can also be seen. In front of the main entrance, 15ft pillar is constructed. The temple timings are from 5.00am to 11.00am and 4.00pm to 8.00pm.

In the center of the city, the temple of Rain Goddess (Varala Thalli) Maullamma is situated. The statue is 8ft hight. Each Fridays special poojas are performed at this temple. Yearly grand celeberations are held during Maha Shivarathri festival.

Reaching Bhimavaram

ne more route to reach Bheemavaram from Visakhapatnam is to proceed upto Kathipudi on NH5 and take left turn. Reach Kakinada in this route and proceed towards Rajole via yanam and Amalapuram. From Rajole make your journey towards Palakollu and then to Bhimavaram. From Kakinada, one can reach Bhimavaram via Ramachandrapuram, Ravulapalem and Palakollu also. There are only two bridges to cross River Godavari one at Yanam and the other near Ravulapalem. So, tourists have take either Yanam or Ravulapalem route.

People travelling by bus from Hyderabad, Vijayawada and other parts of the country can travel upto Tadepalligudem on NH5 and take right diversion to reach Bhimavaram.

Only few trains reach Bheemavaram. Trains running from Kolkata side take left diversion at Nidadavole to travel towards Bhimavaram. After Bheemavaram, trains reach the main broad gauge before Vijayawada through Kaikalur. Travellers willing to visit Palakollu can reach by bus. Few trains proceed towards this place to reach Narsapur which is the final station in this route. Confirm before booking the tickets for stops at these stations. The total time of journey from Visakhapatnam to Bhimavaram is 8 hours by bus. Private bus transportation exists between Narasapur and Bheemavaram via Palakollu.

Additional places of interest around Bhimavaram include Palakollu, Draksharama, Annavaram, Thalupulamma Thalli, Rajahmundry, Antarvedi, Ryali and Vadapalli. Very good South Indian food is available in the town.

Bhimavaram is 20 Kms from Palakollu. Palakollu is on the National Highway 214 located at interior Andhra Pradesh called Kona seema. This National highway starts at kathipudi (on National Highway 5) after Annavaram coming from Vizag and ends at National Highway 9 in between Vuyyuru and Machilipatnam. Excellent bus service available to Bhivaram from all parts of Andhra Pradesh moving towards Narsapur or Palakollu. Continuous buses available between Palakollu and Bhimavaram. Though the distance between Palakollu and Bhimavaram is only 20Kms, it takes 45minutes to reach.  People travelling by road from Kolkata and Orissa side, have to reach Visakhapatnam and proceed in NH5 upto Ravulapalem. After Ravulapalem, take left turn where the boards points towards Narsapur. Palakollu is just 45minutes journey from this place via Siddhantam and Martair (Marteru). The distance between Ravulapalem and Vizag is 230Kms and 70Kms from Rajahmundry. From Palakollu proceed towards Bheemavaram which is only 20Kms. 

5. Ksheeraramam is situated at Palakollu, West Godavari Districtof Andhra Pradesh. Rama Lingeshwarudu (Kshirarama) is the name given to the Lingam installed in this place and Lord shiva is Eshanya Mukha Swarupam, installed by Sri Rama.

Palakollu

Palakollu is located in West Godavari district of Andhrapradesh in India. Thhis place is famous for Lord Shiva (Eshwara) temple which is considered as one of the Pancharama temples. The temple here is called Sri Kshira Rama Lingeshwara swamy. Excellent transportation facility available to reach Palakollu. Very good service available for trains and buses from other places of India. One more Pancharama Kshetra called Bhimavaram is located just 20Kms away from Palakollu. One more major city of West Godavari called Narsapur is 25Kms away from here. Very frequent buses run towards Narsapur from all other parts of Andhra Pradesh (by APSRTC). The temple is situated very nearer to Bus station and no additional transportation is needed. The temple is located beside a very narrow road. Palakollu is 20Kms from Bay of Bengal.

Importance of Palakollu

he main attraction of Palakol is the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Sri Ksheera Rama Lingeswara which is considered as one of the Pancharama Kshetras. The height of the temple is 120fts and constructed during Chalukya period by Chalukya Bheema. The construction took place during 9th century. The lingam, which is white in colour, is believed as the tallest. There are 72 pillars made of black stone. Inside the Garbhalaya (Garbha Gruha), Gokarneshwara and Vigneshwara (Ganapati) alayas are situated at the left with Kshiralingam located at the center. To the right, Subramanya Swamy and Janardhana Swamy alayas with Nandi at the centre are situated. Gostani river flows through the town Palakollu and there is a sangam place near Narsapur with river Godavari. From here the river enters the sea at Antarvedi. Once upon a time this place was a thick forest with natural greenary.

The Shiva Lingam (Moola Virat) can be seen from all the four sides through windows in the Garbha Gruharam. Additionally, Sun God, Kashi Vishweshwara, Goddess parvathi, Goddess Lakshmi, Nagareshwara Lingam, Dundi Vigneshwara, Veera Bhadra, Sapta Matruka, Kanaka Durga, Brahma, Saraswathi, Kumara Swamy, Kartikeya, Mahishasura Mardhini, Naga sarpa, Nataraja, Dattatreya, Kala Bhairava, Nageshwara, Shaneeshwara, Shankara, Radha Krishna can also be seen in the temple. There is a belief that the Shiva lingam is installed by Lord Vishnu. People say that, staying one day in Kshirarama is equivalent to staying one year in Varanasi.

The Prakara is designed by Sri Velupathi during 10th century. The art of temple construction resembles those constructed during Chalukya period. Gopuram is constructed by Sri Alladu Reddy during 14th Century. During 17th century, Kalyana mantapam (choultry) and Ashtha Bhuja Lakshmi Narayanaswamy alaya have been constructed.

How to reach Palakollu

Highway 214 located at interior Andhra Pradesh. The highway starts from kathipudi (on National Highway 5) near Annavaram and ends at National Highway 9 between Vuyyuru and Machilipatnam. Very frequent buses available to Palakollu from all parts of Andhra Pradesh moving towards Narsapur or Bhimavaram.

People travelling by road from Kolkata and Orissa side, have to reach Visakhapatnam and proceed in NH5 upto Ravulapalem. After Ravulapalem, take left turn where the boards points towards Narsapur. Palakollu is just 45minutes journey from this place via Siddhantam and Martair (Marteru). The distance between Ravulapalem and Vizag is 230Kms and 70Kms from Rajahmundry.

There is an Alternate way to reach Palakollu from Visakhapatnam. Proceed upto Kathipudi on NH5 and take left turn. Reach kakinada in this route and proceed towards Rajole via yanam and Amalapuram. From Rajole make your journey towards Palakollu. From Kakinada, one can reach Palakollu via Ramachandrapuram and Ravulapalem also. There are only two bridges to cross River Godavari one at Yanam and the other near Ravulapalem.

People travelling by bus from Hyderabad, Vijayawada and other parts of the country can travel upto Tanuku on NH5 and take right diversion to reach palakollu.

Not all the trains reach Palakollu. Trains running from Kolkata side take left diversion at Nidadavole to travel towards Palakollu via Bhimavaram (junction). Some trains proceed towards Vijayawada from here via Kaikalur. After Palakollu, trains reach the last station Narsapur. Confirm before booking the tickets for stops at this station. Tourists get down at Bhimavaram and take private vehicle or travel by bus to reach Palakollu. The total time of journey from Visakhapatnam to Palakol is 7 hours by bus. Private bus transportation exists between Narsapur and Bheemavaram via Palacole.

The temple timings are, 5.30am to 11.30am and 4.00pm to 8.30pm. Additional places of interest around Palakollu include Bhimavaram, Draksharama, Annavaram, Thalupulamma Thalli, Rajahmundry, Antarvedi, Ryali and Vadapalli. In the temple premesis choultry facility is available for tourists to stay. Photography is allowed inside the temple premesis but for Garbha gruham. Very good South Indian food is available in the town.

There is a saying that all these temples are installed by Gods (Devatas) and visiting all in one day (especially during Karthika Masam, i.e., during November-December month) is very sacred. During this season special bus arrangement is made by APSRTC (Andhra Pradesh Road Transport corporation) to visit all the temples in one day. Contact any of the nearby APSRTC offices for details during these months.

Annavaram,East Godavari

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Annavaram temple of Lord Sri Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Swamy is located at a distance of 125 KM from Visakhapatnam and 80 KM from Rajahmundry. National Highway number 5 passes through Annavaram. The bypass road (NH - 5) goes straight and to visit the temple take right turn in the junction near the Annavaram. It takes two and half hours from Visakhapatnam and from Rajahmundry side it will take 2 hours. Separate pooja halls are available for offering special pujas.

Annavaram railway station is located at main Chennai – Howrah (Kolkatta ) railway line. Many trains stops here and from the railway station the temple is 3 KM. While going towards Chennai side this temple falls in right side and can be seen from the moving trains. Railway station and moving trains are visible from the temple also.
There are so many parking places for private vehicles on the hill surrounding the temple. Well equipped lodge facilities available. Free darshanam is with normal que and special darshanam with additional fees of either INR 25/- or INR 116/- are also available.

Prasadam counter is available on the national highway for those who are not able to visit the temple.
This temple is located at a hill top. Vehicles are allowed to climb up the hill. At the top of the hill guest houses for staying are available. Many mirages are preformed here so during this seasons you may have to book in advance if you a plan to stay here. There is a facility of quick Darshan in busy seasons. The main status is covered in two floors. The ground floor is for Pada darshan or to view the feet of the god. The first floor is the upper part of the Lord Venkata Satyanarayana Swamy.

From this hill top you can get a panoramic view of the surrounding green fields and villages. There is a river water barrage with boating facility and it can be visited while going up or while returning from the temple, available nearer to the main entrance of the hill. This place is called Pampa Sarovara. Boat ride gives a memorable experience to the visitors.
Inside the main temple complex photography is not allowed. However, around the temple there are so much of panoramic view available for viewing and enjoying the nature's beauty.
From Anavaram
Vizag 125 KM
Rajahmundry 80 KM
Some more places near Annavaram having importance of tourism include Samalkot, Thalupulamma Thalli and Draksharama. Travellers interested in visiting Simhachalam in Visakhapatnamcan reach as APTDC has arranged bus service directly from Annavaram to Simhachalam (upto hill top nearer to the temple).

Markandeshwara Temple at Kallur Near Raichur

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The name Markandeshwar is associated with Maharishi Markandeya, a great devotee of Shiva. The Markandeshwar Mahadev temple is located in the town of Shahbad Markanda, which is situated in the Kurukshetra district of Haryana in North India. Shahbad Markanda lies on the banks of the river Markanda, a tributary of the Ghaggar, and supposed to be a part of the ancient Vedic Saraswati River basin system. The river derives its name from Maharishi Markandeya as well and several ancient ashramas of Rishi Markandeya can be seen along the banks of the river in the neighboring districts.
Story of Maharishi Markandeya
Markandeya was an exemplary son, who was destined to die at the age of 16. He grew up to be a great devotee of Shiva and on the day of his destined death he continued his worship of Shiva in His form of Shivalingam. The messengers of Yama, the God of death were unable to take away his life because of his great devotion and continual worship of Shiva. Finally, Yama came himself to take Markandeya's life away and sprung his noose around the young sage's neck. By mistake, the noose landed around the Shivalingam and out of it, Shiva emerged in all his fury attacking Yama for his act of aggression. After defeating Yama in battle to the point of death, Shiva then revived him, under the condition that the young Markandeya would live forever. Thus, the Maha Mrityunjaya Stotra is attributed to Maharishi Markandeya.
History of the temple
The Markandeshwar Mahadev temple is supposed to be the place where the young Markandeya was praying to Shiva in order to win over his destiny. This is where Shiva fought with Yama and blessed Maharishi Markandeya with the boon of immortality. The original temple dated back to pre-Mahabharat times and was founded in the third millennium B.C. The current structure is more recent and dates back to the early 20th century.

Mookambika Temple at Kollur Near Mangalore

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Sree Mookambika Devi Ashtakam
Namasthe Jagadatri Sadbrahma Rupe
Namasthe Haropendra Datryadivandye
Namastheprasanneshtadhanaikadakshe
Namasthe Mahalakshmi Kolapuresi

Vidhikrithi Vasa Harirviswmethath
Sijathyathi Patheeyathath Prasidham
Kripalokana Devathe Shakthirupe
Namasthe Mahalkshmi Kolapuresi

Thuayamayayapyapthamethathsamastham
Dritham Leelaya Devi Kukshu Hi Viswam
Sthithambudhirupenasarvathrajanthou
Namasthemahalakshmi Kolapuresi

Yayabhakthavargahi Lakshyanthaetho
Thouyatraprakamkripapoornadrishtya
Athogeeyasedevilakshmeerithithuam
Namasthemahalakshmikolapuresi

Punarvakpaduthuadiheenahimooka
Naraistharnikamkhaluprarthaseeyath
Nijeshtayathethasyamookambikathuam
Namasthemahalakshmikolapuresi

Yaduaditharoopathparabrahmnastham
Samuthapunarviswaleelodyamstha
Thadahoorjanasthamhigowreemkumarim
Namasthemahalskshmikolapuresi

Hareesadidehothejomayapra
Sfurachakrarajyakyalingaswaroope
Mahayogikolarshi Hridpadmagehe
Namasthemahalakshmikolapuresi

Namasankachakrayabishtahasthe
Namasthambikegowripadmasanasthe
Namaswarnavarneprasannesaranye
Namasthemahalakshmikolapuresi

Location

Kollur, Kundapur Taluk, Karnataka State, India.

About 135 Kms from Mangalore, one of the major city in Karanata State. The nearest railhead is Udupi.

Kollur is well connected to Mangalore, Bangalore (Capital of Karnataka State) and Mysore. Regular buses are there from Udupi. Also Kollur is well connected with tourist centers such as Mangalore and Shimoga in Karnataka and Kannanur in Kerala.

Significance

The main statue in the temple is the Shiva Linga called the Jyothirlingam. This Jyotirlingam in front of the image of the Goddess Mookambika is of great antiquity.
The great hindu religious leader Sri Adi Sankara was associated with this temple and is said to have spontaneously composed the classic work Soundarya Lahiri here. Sri Adi Sankara is said to have installed the metal image of the Goddess behind the Jyotirlingam. The idol that was installed by Adi Shankara is confined in a copper roofed and gold crested temples.
This well known temple is visited by pilgrims from all over India and overseas.
At the foot of the Western Ghats. It is is situated at the banks of the never drying river Sauparnika. It is a belief that an eagle (Garuda) called Suparna performed penance on the banks of the river and attained salvation hence the name Sauparnika. It is a pleasant experience to take a dip in the holy river and then head for the darshan of the goddess.
Kollur is one of the seven pilgrimages which were created by Parashurama. While the other pilgrimages created by Parashurama are devoted to Lord Shiva, Lord Subramanya and Lord Ganesha, this is the only one devoted to Goddess Parvathi.
There are couple of places worth visiting in the neighboring of the temple. One of them is Arasina Makki, a famous waterfall. The Kutachadri range is a beautiful place and attracts a large number of mountaineers and trekkers.
Kollur is regarded as one of the Seven Muktistala pilgrimage sites in Karnataka.

Nandi Temples At Nandi Hills Near Bangalore

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60 kms north of Bangalore is the summer resort called Nandi Hills. Also known as Nandidurga, it was one of the summer retreats of Tipu Sultan.

Nandi Hills was popular with the British too who built bungalows and laid out gardens here.

Today of course, it's a hot favourite among Bangaloreans who find this an ideal get-away for weekends. The 1478-m high Nandi Hills is the originating point of many rivers.

And the forests surrounding the hills, abound with wild animals. Around the Nandi Hills are several smaller hills, which can be visited on foot.

How To Get There
By Air
The nearest airport is Bangalore.
By Rail
The nearest railhead is Chikkaballapur.
By Road
Nandi Hills is connected by road to Bangalore and Chikkaballapur.
Places To Stay
Hotel Mayura Pine Top Nandi Hills.
Kolar District.
Guest House of the Horticulture Department.
PWD Accommodation.
Climate
Summer
Max: 29°C Min: 23°C.
Winter
21°C Min: 11°C.
General Information
Location
60 kms north of Bangalore, Karnataka.
Altitude
1478 m above Sea Level.
Main Attraction
Tipu's Drop, Yoga Nandishvara Temple.
Best Time
Throughout The Year.
Languages
Kannada, Hindi, English.

Iskcon Temple Bangalore

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Sri Sri Radha Krishna Chandra Temple is accredited for having the ISKCON's largest temple complex in the world. Being made by the Iskcon cult, the magnificent shrine is commonly known as Iskcon Temple. Located on west of Chord Road in Bangalore, the colossal shrine sprawls on seven-acres of 'Hare Krishna Hill'. This outstanding temple is one amongst the best shrines constructed by the ISKCON. Iskcon Temple can be reached easily by taking regular buses, local vehicles or by hiring taxis from the city of Bangalore.

The huge shrine was started under the global project of ISKCON to memorialize the birthday of its founder, Sri Prabhupada. In May 1997, Bangalore Iskcon Temple was inaugurated by Mr. Shankar Dayal Sharma (former President of India). Ever since, the temple has been visited by far more than 5.1 million visitors. In the vein of other Iskcon Temples round the World, the shrine is mainly dedicated to Radha-Krishna.

The beautifully ornamental arches and illuminated water jets escort to the richly decorated Rajagopuram (main shrine). The main shrine comprises the stunningly beautiful idols of Sri Sri Radha-Krishna. Apart from the main shrine, the temple also comprises four additional shrines dedicated to Sri Sri Krishna Balrama, Sri Nitai Gauranga, Sri Prahlada Narasimha and Sri Srinivasa Govinda respectively. The main hall that embraces the three shrines, including the main one, is a huge hall of 10,000 sq feet. The ceiling of the hall is festooned with remarkable paintings made by the Russian painters.

Architecture
Built in neo-classical style of architecture, the temple bands together conventional architecture with ultra-modern services. The ardent devotees like Madhu Pandit Dasa (President and Project director) and Jagat Chandra Dasa designed the structure of this remarkable shrine, mingling the elements of traditional South-Indian with contemporary style of architecture. The elaborate temple complex is divided into various sections and sub-sections.

The splendid structure of the temple is worth-seeing because the celestial grandeur cannot be bounded in words. Lush green gardens in the campus appear mesmerizing to the onlooker. The temple complex also has an open amphitheatre, where various festivals and concerts are observed. The festival of 'Janmashtami' is the major festival that is celebrated here with loads of enthusiasm and devotion.

Shata Koti Nama Japa Yajna
In 2000, this religious program was started to promote world peace and harmony with an intention to chant 1 Billion holy names of Rama and Krishna. The venue for this 'Nama Japa' is 'Harinama Mandapa', which can be found ahead of the first temple of Prahlada Narasimha. Here, one can see two sets of 108 granite steps, where the devotee can chant the 'Hare Krishna Mahamantra' at each step. Following the chant of 'Mahamantra' for 108 times, the devotee can enter the Narsimha Temple.

FOLK Program
This is an unusual program in which, bachelors between the age group of 19 and 29 can take part. The "Friends of Lord Krishna" (FOLK) has been organized to create an understanding of the Vedic culture among the youth of Bangalore. It is held on Saturdays and Sundays, where classes, discussions and practical sessions on Vedic philosophy and lifestyle are undertaken.

Free Prasadam for All
The temple offers a bowl of 'Kichri' (made of rice and pulse) to its each visitor. The vast kitchen of the shrine is equipped with modern equipments and has the capacity to provide food for two thousand visitors per hour. Besides prasadam, the kitchen is also used to prepare variety of delicacies that are offered to the Lord. Recently, they have started a bakery, which has become popular for its egg less cakes and biscuits all over the Bangalore.

Cow Protection Program
Following the knowledge of the Vedas, the temple also promotes protection of cows. Being the primary element, Cows are essential for a prosperous and healthy society. Bangalore Iskcon 'Gaushala' retains not less than 40 cows. The milk of these cows is used in the making of various dishes and delicacies.

Multivision Cinema
The Multivision Cinema at ISKCON Bangalore is accredited for being the first show combining visual projection and animatronics in India. Visualized by the devotees of the United States, the cinema comprises 14 projectors in the company of laser Disc players, the surround sound processors and the animatronics mechanisms. The 40-minute cinema ends on a spiritual note and is organized everyday at regular intervals.

Dakshinakriti
This is another scheme to encourage and preserve the conventional art and craft of South India. It supports and promotes the skilled artisans and craftsmen by providing them a channel for their work. The products made under this project are accessible at "Dakshinakriti" (the temple's sculpture showroom).

Srila Prabhupada Museum

The museum attempts to create, a sense of awareness, among the mass of people, about the contributions made by Swami Prabhupada. This architectural marvel is dedicated to the founder of the entire Iskcon movement.

Bhaktivedanta Book Trust
Bhaktivedanta Book Trust is engrossed in translating and publishing Srila Prabhupada's multifarious works in the Kannada language. Various well-known writers of Kannada language are drawn in to translate the books.

Goloka Seva Trust
This project involves promotion and maintenance of the valuable art of incense (agarbatti) creation, by means of pure natural ingredients. This trust produces more than 73 types of incense specifically meant for worship. Their products are available at the temple counters for the visitors.

VASAVI DEVI PENUGONDA

2010-10-02T23:36:00.000+05:30

Penugonda the abode of Vasavi, situated in West Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh , India is well connected by Road and Rail.

Penugonda, the abode of VASAVI, is situated on the banks of the GAUTAMI RIVER which was one of the seven tributaries of the Sacred Godavari and it is the place where GREAT SAINTS performed YAGNA and penance. It is here the great saint Pulasthya was successful in achieving the simultaneous visual manifestation of the three deities, Brahma, Vishnu and Maheswara. Penugonda is also the place where God KUMARASWAMY (Skanda) performed penance and Guru Bhaskaracharya envisioned the manifestation of Brahma. Later on, Penugonda become the abode of Lord Lakshminarayana who went on to be known as Konakomala Jamardhana and Parvathi Parameswara who went on to become Gowrinageswara. Penugonda, Currently located in West Godawari Dt of AP known as Kasi of Arya Vysyas.

The Vysya community consisted of 714 Gotrajas who lived happily in Penugonda Kingdom under the able rule of King Kusuma Shresti and Queen Kusumamba. King Kusuma Shresti who was 16th in the line of kings who succeeded SAMADHIMUNI was childless. As per Guru Bhaskaracharya’s advice they performed ‘PUTRAKAMESTI YAGNA’.

Goddess PARASHAKTHI appeared from the HOMAKUNDAM and blessed the couple with payasam. Kusumamba consumed the payasam with devotion and on VAISHAKA SHUDDHA DASHIMI day, she gave birth to twins a boy, named Virupaksha who was an incarnation of God Nandikeswara and Vasavi, an incarnation of Goddess ADIPARASHAKTI. Virupaksha attained proficiency in Dharmashastra, politics and martial arts.

Vasavi was taught Fine Arts and Music. From her childhood, she was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. She was a teenage girl of exceptional beauty. She decided to dedicate her life to Lord Shiva and remain unmarried as Gowrabalika.

King Kusumashresti was a tributary King to Emperor Vishnuvardhana who visited Penugonda.

The Emperor received a rousing welcome by the King Kusuma Shresti and the people of Penugonda looked at him with awe and reverence.

Vishnuvardhana was captivated by the astounding beauty and glamour of Vasavi and decided to marry her at any cost.

His desire was like a death blow to Kusuma Shresti.

King Kusumashresti called a meeting of the elders of 714 Gotra and discussed the matter in detail. Under the guidance of Guru Bhaskaracharya, they all decided to give importance to the views of Vasavi.

Royal couple, Guru Bhaskaracharya, Vasavi and Virupaksha had a secret meeting. Vasavi at this stage told that she wanted to uphold the dignity and honour of womanhood and was born with a purpose to preach non-violence (Ahimsadharma) to the world. She exhibited her original form of Adiparashakti and vowed that she would remain a virgin.

On hearing that Vasavi had declined to marry him, Vishnuvardhana deiced to marry her even by waging a war on Penugonda. In order to prevent bloodshed and to uphold the dignity and honour of womanhood, Vasavi decided to end her AVATAR by offering herself to the God of fire – AGNI.

Out of the 714 Gotrajas, 102 Gotrajas supported her view and decided to enter the sacred fire alongwith her. Fearing persecution from Vishnuvardhana, the remaining 612 Gotrajas ran away from Penugonda to save their lives. Malhara, a great sculptor built 103 Homakundas for the sacred occasion.

On MAGHA SUDDHA BIDIGE day, Vasavi entered the Sacred Fire along with the 102 Gotraja

Vasavi emerged from the sacred fire as ‘KANYAKAPARAMEWARI’, and displayed her original form of ‘ADIPARASHAKTHI’ with eighteen hands – ASTA DASA BHUJA and preached Universal and Social Religiousness, Spirituality, Love, Sacrifice and Non-Violence and laid the foundation for Global Unity through non-violence and dharma rakshana

This day is celebrated as ‘ATMARPANA DAY’ on a large scale across all ‘VASAVI TEMPLES’. The 102 GOTRAJA COUPLES who entered the sacred fire along with Vasavi were pardoned of their curses of 16 generations and given MOKSHA by VASAVI.

This astonishing news reached Emperor Vishnuvardhana who was on his way to Penugonda and his head broke into thousands of pieces and died.

The sons of the 102 Gotra Couple who entered fire went to KASI to perform last RITES and brought 102 SHIVALINGAS and installed these SHIVALINGAS at prominent place in Penugonda city. To this date, this street is known as LINGALA VEEDHI.

Virupaksha was crowned as the King of Penugonda by Raja Raja Narendra, son of Vishnuvardhana and provided excellent facilities to the citizens to lead a happy life.

Bharath Ratna Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, Past President of India, has indeed very rightly described Goddess VASAVI as the FIRST ever known embodiment of NON-VIOLENCE in the world. Her path of non-violence was later tread by Jesus Christ, Goutam Buddha, Mahatma Gandhi, Satya Sai Baba, Potti Sriramulu of AP and Martin Luther King.

Penugonda, the abode of Goddess Vasavi is to ARYA VYSAS, as Buddha Gaya is to Buddhists, as Shravana Belagola is to Jains. Mecca and Madeena is to Muslims and Jerusalem is to Christians.

(Courtesy from www.vasavipenugondatrust.com)

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Badrinath Temple,Uttarakhand

2010-10-02T23:35:00.000+05:30

The Abode Of Lord Vishnu
Cradled in the twin mountain ranges of Nar and Narayan is the holiest of the four main shrines, Badrinath along the left bank river Alaknanda. With the splendid Neelkanth mountains as the backdrop, it is an important destination on the scared itinerary of every devour Hindu. Once the spot was carpeted with 'badris' or wild berries and hence was famous as 'Badri Van'.

Badrinath is considered the holiest of the four important shrines in Garhwal. The town is at an altitude of 3,133 m. above sea level, situated on the left bank of river Alaknanda and exactly between the two mountains Nara and Narayan. The shrine is dedicated to Vishnu, the preserver and falls in the religious itinerary of every devout Hindu.

The present temple was built about two centuries ago by Garhwal Kings. It is a conical structure, 15 m. tall and has small cupola of a gilt bull and spire. There are 15 idols in the temple complex, each sculpted in black stone. The principal idol represents Vishnu in a meditative posture and is flanked by Nara-Narayan. Legend dates it prior to the Vedic age though it is believed to have been re-established by Adi Shankaracharya, an important Hindu saint in 8th century A.D. Some of the other images include Laxmi (Vishnu's consort), Garud (Vishnu's mount), Shiva & Parvati and Ganesha.

The temple has been renovated several times due to damages by avalanches. It looks fairly modern now due to the colourful "Singh Dwara" or the main entrance gate. It has three parts- Garbha Griha (the sanctum sanctorum), Darshan Mandap (for pujas) and Shobha Mandap (for devotees to assemble). The revered shrine is still alive with myriad legends from mythology. Its sanctity is emphasised in the ancient scriptures as "There are many sacred spots of pilgrimage in the heavens, earth and the nether world, but there has been none equal to Badri, nor shall there be".

Mythological Legend
Legend has it, when the Ganga was requested to descend to earth to help suffering humanity, the earth was unable to withstand the force of its descent. Therefore the mighty Ganaga was split into twelve holy channels. Alaknanda was one of them that later became the abode of Lord Vishnu or Badrinath.

The temple of Shri Badrinathji on the banks of the Alaknanda river, dates back to the vedic times. Situated at an altitude of 3,133 mts., the present temple is believed to have been built by Adi Guru Shankaracharya- an 8th century's philosopher-saint, who also established a 'math' here. Also known as 'Vishal Badri', Badrinath is one of the Panch Badris.

Panch Badris or Five Badris
Besides the main temple of Badrinath there are four other smaller badri temples. These are collectively called the panch badris or five badris. Very few pilgrims however, visit the other four Badri temples.
Yogadhyan Badri (1920 m.)
Closest to the main temple of Badrinath lies this tiny, sleepy hamlet which remains unnoticed by most pilgrims and is the winter home for the idol at Badrinath. Pandukeshwar is also an important archaeological site. Some years ago, four ancient metal foils engraved with a description of several kings in the region were discovered here. Believed to be over 1500 years old, these foils are kept at Joshimath, 30 km downstream.
Bhavishya Badri (2,744 m.)
The bhavishya or future badri is situated at Subain near Tapovan, about 17 km east of Joshimath. According to Hindu belief, when evil is on the rise in this world, the two mountains Nara and Narayan at Badrinath will close up on each other and destroy the route to the present Badrinath. This would also mark the end of the present world and the beginning of a new one. Lord Badrinath will then appear at the Bhavishya Badri temple and be worshipped here instead of at the present one.
Bridha Badri or the 'Old Badri'
Bridha Badri or the 'old Badri' is the third temple about 7 kms short of Joshimath, on the main Rishikesh-Badrinath motor road at Animath. It is believed that Badrinath was worshipped here before its enshrinement by Shankaracharya at the main Badrinath seat. The temple of Bridha Badri is open throughout the year.
Adi Badri
Adi Badri is the farthest from the other four badris. It is approachable from Karnaprayag by a motorable road enroute Ranikhet. The temple complex has 16 small temples with intricate carvings.

Seven of these temples belong to the late Gupta period. Local tradition assigns these buildings to Shankaracharya. The main temple is distinguished by a pyramid shaped raised platform, with a black stone idol of Vishnu.

Pilgrimage Attractions in Badrinath
Badrinath Temple
On the right bank of Alaknanda lies the sacred spot perched at an altitude of 3,133 metres above the sea level. Encircled by a beautiful valley, the 15mtrs. High temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it is built in the form of a cone with a small cupola of gilt bull and spire. Built by Adi Guru Shankaracharya - the philosopher-saint of the 8th century, the temple has been renovated several times due to damage by avalanches. Its colourful 'Singh Dwara' or the main entrance gate gives it a new, modern look.

The temple divided into three parts - the 'garbha griba' or sanctum sanctorum, the 'darshan mandap' where the rituals are conducted and the 'sabha mandap'where devotees assemble.The complex has 15 idols. Especially attractive is the one metre high image of Badrinath, finely sculpted in black stone. It represents Lord Vishnu seated in meditative pose.
Tapt Kund
Devotees take a holy dip in the natural thermal springs on the banks of the river Alaknanda, before entering the Badrinath Temple. The water of the kund is believed to have medicinal properties.
Hemkund Sahib (43 kms.)
Near the Valley of Flowers is the holy lake Hemkund- an important pilgrimage of the Sikhs and Hindus. Along its shores is the sacred Sikh Shrine where Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru unified with God after prolonged mediation in his previous birth.
Nearby is the Lakshman Temple where Lakshman - the brother of Lord Rama performed his penance. The reflection of surrounding snow-clad peaks in its placid waters offers a scenic sight.
Brahma Kapal
A flat platform on the bank of river Alaknanda where Hindus perform propitiating rites for their deceased ancestors.
Neelkanth
A Pyramidical-shaped snowy peak towering above Badrinath, popularly known as the 'Garhwal Queen'.
Mana Village (4 kms.)
Inhabited by Indo-Mangolian tribe, it is considered to be the last Indian village before Tibet on this route. Nearby are Vyas Gufa- the rock cave of saint Ved Vyas, the writer of Mahabharata; Bhim Pul- a natural bridge over the Saraswati river and Vasundhara Falls- a 122 mts. high waterfall- all forming and important part of the pilgrimage to Badrinath.
Mata Murti Temple (3 kms.)
On the right bank of Alaknanda stands the temple dedicated to the mother of Sri Badrinathji.
Alka Puri (15 kms.)
The source of Alaknanda river from the glacier snouts of Bhagirath- Kharak and Satopanth glaciers.
Satopanth (25 kms.)
A three cornered lake with a circumference of about 1 km., situated at an elevation of 4,402 mts. above sea level. It is named ater the Hindu triad- Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh, who are believed to occupy one corner each of the lake. The trek is hazardous with dramatic landscapes. An experienced guide is advisable. Govindghat (25 kms.)
The confluence of Alaknanda and Lakshman Ganga rivers. It has an imposing Gurudwara named after Guru Gobind Singh.
Joshimath (44 kms.)
The winter home of Shri Badrinathji is situated on the slopes above the confluence of Alaknanda and Dhauliganga. It is one of the four 'maths' established by Adi Guru Shankaracharya.
Panch Prayag
The five important confluences- Deoprayag, Nandprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag and Vishuprayag, form the Panch Prayag.
Deoprayag
The confluence of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers. Ancient stone scriptures are found here. Important pilgrim spots are Shiv Temple and Raghunath Temple.
Rudraprayag
The confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. The temples of Rudranath and Chamunda Devi are noteworthy.
Nandprayag
The confluence of Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. The Gopalji Temple is worth a visit.
Karnaprayag
The confluence of Alaknanda and Pindar rivers with temples of Uma and Karna.
Vishnuprayag
The confluence of Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers. An ancient temple of Lord Vishnu stands here by a pool called Vishnu Kund.
Srinagar
The old capital of Garhwal, it is an important cultural and educational centre. Places to visit include Kamleshwar and Kilkeshwar temples and the Shankar Math.

Accessibility
Airport
Jolly Grant (317 kms.)
Railhead
Rishikesh (300 kms.), Kotdwar (327 kms.)
Road
Well connected to Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun, Kotdwar and other hill stations of Garhwal and Kumaon region.manoj@9030196542 to vote me sms as ON MANOJPAI to 9870807070 pls sms

Mundeshwari Temple in Bihar

2010-10-02T23:32:00.000+05:30

Ma Mundeshwari Temple in Kaimur District of Bihar was recently in news due to the planned renovation and restoration by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Newspaper reports suggested that Mundeshwari Temple was built in 108 A D. Since then rituals and worship have been taking place at the temple without a break. Thus making it the oldest functional temple in the world.

The use of the term ‘oldest’ is a bit risky when talking about temples associated with Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism). Simply because no one has been able to clearly state how old Sanatana Dharma is. Say this temple is the oldest and immediately another person will be come with something much older.

So the safest option is to say that Ma Mundeshwari Temple in Kaimur District of Bihar is one of the oldest Hindu temples in the world.

Ma Mundeshwari Temple is situated atop the Kaimur Hill (608ft). The temple is in an octagonal shape. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple has an idol of Devi – Mundeshwari. There is also a ‘Chaturmukha Shivling’ in the sanctum sanctorum. A clear indication that Shiva and Shakti were worshipped here. Also an indication that the temple might be part of the Tantric cult which is quite popular in the Eastern part of India.

Apart from Shiva and Shakti, the temple also has idols of other popular gods in the Hindu pantheon including Ganesha, Surya, Vishnu and Mother Goddess. Temple materials and idols can be found scattered near this very rare octagonal shaped temple.

Experts believe that the temple was built during the Shaka Era.

Interestingly, the present caretaker of the temple is Muslim, yet another example of the religious harmony at the grassroots level in India. The temple attracts devotees during festivals like Ramnavami and Shivratri.

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M.MANOJ.PAI

Time table for C09 scheme, C08 scheme Vth sem and C05 scheme Vth sem Regular and Backlog Examinations- November-2010

Raktha Charitra Story and Review

Raktha Charithra - 1

Rakta Charitra – Part 1

Nava Ratri History

Significance

Traditions of Navaratri

Navaratri is celebrated five times a year. They are Vasanta Navaratri, Ashadha Navaratri, the Sharada Navaratri, and the Poushya/Magha Navaratri. Of these, the Sharada Navaratri of the month of Puratashi and the Vasanta Navaratri of the Vasanta kala are very important.

Vasanta Navaratri

This is celebrated during Vasanta Rutu (beginning of summer) (March- April). This is also known as Chaitra navaratri as it falls during the lunar month of Chaitra.

he Story Behind the Origin of Vasanta Navaratri

Sharad Navaratri

Devasthanam's Dasara festivities

Forms of Shakti

Rituals

First three days

The goddess is separated as a spiritual force called Durga also known as Kali in order to destroy all our impurities.

Second three days

The Mother is adored as a giver of spiritual wealth, Lakshmi, who is considered to have the power of bestowing on her devotees inexhaustible wealth, as she is the goddess of wealth.

Final three days

he final set of three days is spent in worshipping the goddess of wisdom, Saraswati. In order to have all-round success in life, believers seek the blessings of all three aspects of the divine femininity, hence the nine nights of worship.

Mahesh Khaleja Genuine Review& Story

Mahesh Khaleja Review

yadagirigutta

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Veerabhadra temple (Lepakshi)

Undavalli caves,Vijayawada

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Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple - Srisailam

Srikurmam - Lord vishnu Temple - Srikurmam

Sri Vasavi temple-Pengonda

Sri Narasimha swamy Temple - Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam

Pancharamam

Annavaram,East Godavari

Markandeshwara Temple at Kallur Near Raichur

Mookambika Temple at Kollur Near Mangalore

Nandi Temples At Nandi Hills Near Bangalore

Iskcon Temple Bangalore

VASAVI DEVI PENUGONDA

Badrinath Temple,Uttarakhand

Mundeshwari Temple in Bihar