A2Z Mandir

Category: Andhra Pradesh Temple

Andhra Pradesh, known as the “Land of Temples,” is home to some of India’s most iconic and spiritually significant temples. These architectural marvels, such as the world-famous Tirupati Balaji Temple and the ancient Srikalahasti Temple, showcase intricate carvings, towering gopurams (temple towers), and centuries of history. These Andhra Pradesh Temples not only draw millions of devotees every year but also serve as cultural and architectural treasures that highlight the rich traditions of South India. Whether you seek blessings, spiritual solace, or an exploration of art and history, Andhra Pradesh’s temples offer a divine and unforgettable experience.

  • Harmony in the Hills: Alipiri Padala Mandapam – Tirupati’s Hidden Gem

    Harmony in the Hills: Alipiri Padala Mandapam – Tirupati’s Hidden Gem

    Alipiri Padala Mandapam, also known as Alipiri, is a significant location situated at the base of the seven hills in Tirupati, the revered city of Sri Venkateswara Swami, in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. Alipiri serves as one of the two routes for pilgrims to reach Tirumala on foot. For a considerable time, it was the sole route used in modern times, until the restoration and reopening of the original Srivari Mettu, situated about 20 km away, in 2008. While Alipiri involves a longer journey with its 3550 steps, Srivari Mettu is shorter with 2388 steps.

    Alipiri also marks the starting point of two roadways that lead to Tirumala through the Seven Hills. This significant role as an entry point has earned it the title “The Gateway to Tirumala Venkateswara Temple.” In the past, pilgrims used to ascend all Seven Hills on foot via the stepped path due to the absence of alternative transportation. These pilgrims, often from distant places, would prepare meals, rest, and then proceed with their climb after a period of respite.

    As per the temple’s ancient tale, Sri Venkateswara Swamy engages in a daily ritual. After the Ekanta Seva at Tirumala, he embarks on a journey to meet his beloved consort, Padmavathi Devi, in Tiruchanoor. Along this path, which follows the Alipiri footpath route, he deposits his footwear at Alipiri Padalu. This charming narrative gives rise to the name Alipiri Padala Mandapam.

    Pilgrims who wish to partake in the Padala Seva, Ekantha Seva, and Abhishekam rituals are required to pay a nominal fee for these sacred services.

    Today, the entire stairway has been covered with a protective roof to shield pilgrims from sun and rain, supplemented by ample lighting. Pilgrims who undertake the journey on foot are granted special privileges as a mark of their devotion to the Lord.

    The term “Alipiri” derives its meaning from “resting place,” which reflects its historical significance. The Padalamandapam Temple hosts various Vaishnavite festivals, including Vaikuntha Ekadasi and Rathasapthami. Another significant event is the Metlotsavam festival, which occurs once every three months. Organized by the Dasa Sahitya project under the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, this festival involves groups of devotees embarking on a trek to Tirumala while singing spiritual songs.

    Several temples enrich the Alipiri Padala Mandapam complex:

    • Sri Lakshmi Narayana Swamy Temple: This sub-temple within the complex is dedicated to Lord Lakshmi Narayana. It lies to the east of Padala Mandapam, and the temple entrance and deity face westward. A sub-shrine dedicated to Andal is also present.
    • Srivari Padala Mandapam: This temple is devoted to Lord Venkateswara and is a significant stop at Alipiri. The presiding deity is Padala Venkateswara Swamy. Legend has it that after Ekantha Seva at Tirumala, Lord Venkateswara would descend the hill through the Alipiri Steps path to visit his consort Padamavati at Tiruchanur. He would leave his footwear at this spot, giving rise to the name “Padala Mandapam.” Devotees embarking on the Tirumala Yatra from Tirupati start their journey by carrying “Srivari Padukalu” (representations of the Lord’s footwear) on their heads.
    • Sri Vinayaka Swamy Temple: This temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha is located along the 2nd Ghat Road between Tirupati and Tirumala. Devotees traveling by road offer prayers here before commencing their journey.

    An ancient footpath named Alipiri Metlu starts from Alipiri and leads to Tirumala. Pilgrims fulfilling their vows to Lord Venkateswara undertake this path, covering a distance of 12 km through a total of 3550 steps. The path is adorned with four Gopurams (Temple Towers) and is entirely covered, passing through the seven hills of the Seshachalam range.

    To enhance security, a security zone was established in Alipiri in 2009 to screen vehicles and pilgrims entering Tirumala. This measure was implemented to safeguard the hills against potential threats from terrorists and anti-social elements.

  • Ahobilam Temple: Enchanting Journey Through the Glorious History

    Ahobilam Temple: Enchanting Journey Through the Glorious History

    Ahobilam is a sacred town nestled in the picturesque hills of the Eastern Ghats in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It holds immense significance as the center of worship for Narasimha, the lion-headed avatar of Lord Vishnu. The town is adorned with nine Hindu temples and several shrines dedicated to Narasimha.

    The main Narasimha Swamy temples in Ahobilam were initially constructed or expanded by the Vijayanagara emperors during the 15th and 16th centuries. Unfortunately, the temples faced destruction when the Mughals attacked in 1578. Nevertheless, they were later restored and expanded, showcasing a blend of architectural styles from different periods.

    According to legend, Ahobilam is the place where Lord Vishnu, in his Narasimha form, vanquished the demon Hiranyakashipu to protect his ardent devotee Prahlada. The iconic moment of Narasimha emerging from a rock pillar is depicted in various sculptures and murtis across the temples. Additionally, Garuda, the divine eagle and vehicle of Lord Vishnu, prayed to witness the avatar of Narasimha, and as a result, the deity settled in nine different forms across the hills of Ahobilam.

    The Lower Ahobilam Temple, built in the Vijayanagara style, features a Sanctum, a Mukhamantapam, and a Rangamantapam adorned with exquisite sculptures. Intricate carvings of Yakshas, Yalis, horses, and divine figures embellish the massive composite pillars in the Rangamantapam. Within the sanctum, the peaceful form of Narasimha Swami is worshipped alongside Utsava idols of Prahlada Varada, Pavana Narasimha, and Jwala Narasimha, who has ten hands and is flanked by Sreedevi and Bhoodevi. The temple also houses a small idol of the first Jeeyar, Sri Adivan Satakopa Swami.

    In proximity to the Narasimha temple in Lower Ahobilam, there is a shrine dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, illustrating the moment when he sought blessings from Narasimha before his marriage with Padmavathi.

    As per the history of Ahobilam, after slaying Hiranyakashipu, Narasimha’s intense anger was soothed when he received darshan from Prahlada. Despite the attempts of other gods, only Mahalakshmi, who took the form of a girl from the Chenchu tribes, was successful in calming Narasimha’s fury. They got married, and his anger subsided.

    The Upper Ahobilam Temple consists of mukha mantapa and maha mantapa, facing east, while the garbha griha faces north due to the orientation of the natural cave. The main shrine, carved out of a large egg-like rock with mandapas, houses the self-manifested idol of the fierce form of Narasimha, known as Ugra Narasimha or Ahobila Narasimha. There is also a shrine dedicated to Chenchulakshmi adjacent to the main deity. The exteriors of Upper Ahobilam are adorned with exquisite sculptures. Daily worship and rituals are performed to the utsava murthy of Jwala Narasimha here. A nearby tank supplies water to the residents of Upper Ahobilam.

    In conclusion, Ahobilam holds a rich heritage and remains a significant pilgrimage site where devotees worship Lord Narasimha in all his divine forms, seeking his blessings and protection.