Sri Lakshmi Venkateswara Swamy Temple -Kadapa in A.P

Good morning.(19th July )

 Sri Lakshmi Venkateswara Swamy Temple -Kadapa in A.P


The Devuni Kadapa is a part of the Kadapa City and a historical site. It is also known as Patha Kadapa, meaning Old Kadapa. It is famous for its temple of Sri Lakshmi Venkateswara.




About the temple

The Devuni Kadapa is also known as Tirumala Tholi Gadapa Devuni Kadapa - Shri Lakshmi Venkateswara Swamy Devasthanam. The place Kadapa is named after the word Gadapa which is originated from the word “Devuni Gadapa” meaning “entrance for Lord Venkateswara Swamy”. The idol of the Lord Venkateswara has been established by Kripacharya, hence the ancient name of devuni kadapa is also mentioned in puranas as “Kripavathi Kshetram”. Pilgrims visit Lord Venkateswara here because first they have to pray Annamacharya and potuluri Veerabramhendra Swamy. This temple is very famous in Kadapa district, people from various places visit this temple, and this temple is generally crowded on Saturdays.

Shri Lakshmi Venkateshwara temple stands as an outstanding example of Vijayanagar architecture. The very sight of the temple,with great sculpture and carvings adorning it, takes us back to the Vijanagar era. There is a sculpture of dancing Vigneshwara, a master piece of those times, in the mukha mandapam.

 Shri Lakshmi Venkateshwara temple is popularly known as Hanumanth Kshetram as there is an idol of Anjaneya behind that of Lord Venkateshwara in the sanctum sanctorum. It is believed that sage Kripacharya had installed the idol of the presiding deity. It is believed that allapaka Annamacharya visited this place and all the Sankaracharyas of Advaita mutt, heads of Ahobilam mutt and Mahakavi Kshetrayya also visited this place. Recently this temple has been undertaken by the Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanam. This temple additionally has goddess Shri Padmavati Thayar, that usually pilgrims visit after visiting Lord Venkateswara. The place where Devuni kadapa is seen now, is additionally called Patha kadapa (old kadapa). Utsavas and each pooja are done, the same way, as in Tirumala. Pilgrims from numerous countries and states in India who would like to go to Venkateswara swamy temple in Tirupathi will visit Devuni Kadapa temple, generally. Devuni kadapa temple is extremely crowded at the time of Utsavas. Devuni Kadapa is an archaeological treasure.


About the Deity

The main deity is Shri Lakshmi Venkateshwara Swamy (Lord Vishnu). Maha Vishnu is in Vishnu form, and is standing.

Shri Vasavi Kanyaka Parameshwari ,Penugonda,West Godavari ,Andhra Pradesh

Good morning.
(18th July)


Shri Vasavi  Kanyaka Parameshwari located at Penugonda,West Godavari district in Andhra Pradesh is the Goddess or ‘kula devatha’ (family deity)  of the Arya Vysya community,  as mentioned in the Vasavi Puranam. Penugonda is the birth place of ‘Vasavi Matha” and hence the temple is known as Penugonda Vasavi Kanyaka Parameswari temple of Shri Vasavi Kanyaka Parameshwari who is the sacred goddess of Vysyas.  Among the numerous temples of Goddess Vasavi,  Penugonda is the place wherever the primary temple of Shri Vasavi was designed . The good saint Pulasthya is said to have performed penance here and achieved the vision of Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara at the same time.

Penugonda was a part of Vengidesha, which was ruled by the Chalukya king, Vishnu Vardhana. The couple had spent many happy years of their married life, but didn't have any children. They performed the Putrakameshti Yagam and were blessed by Goddess Sarvani with twins, a boy and a girl. The twins were born in the month of Vaisaka at twilight when Uttara and Kanya Nakshatras coincide. They named the boy ‘Virupaksha’ and the girl ‘Vasavamba’.

 Sri Baskaracharya was the teacher and guiding star of the community. The Vysyas took his advice on religion, cultural and social matters. Under his guidance, Vasavi learnt all the fine arts and mastered philosophical subjects and Virupaksha learnt horse riding, martial arts, Vedas, fencing and other qualities to rule the country. Once, Vishnu Vardhana went on a trip to extend his empire. On the way, he visited the city of Penugonda and was welcomed by King Kusuma Sresti. The people looked at him with awe and reverence. In the crowd, Vishnu Vardhana spotted the beautiful Vasavi. He was besotted after Manmatha (God of Love) threw his sweet arrows on him. His eye sought the enchanting figure of Vasavi again and again. He made up his mind to marry her and sent his ministers to talk to Kusuma Sresti.

 Kusuma Sresti was neither in a position to accept nor to deny. He could not show any anger or a disturbed mind and told the ministers that the Vysya community has certain norms to follow regarding the marriage of their daughter. The minister’s response was that the king wanted to marry Vasavi and that it should take place. Kusuma Sresti consulted with the Vysya elders to discuss the situation. They all decided to give utmost importance to the views of Vasavi. She expressed her desire to be a virgin throughout her life with the intention to meditate. King Vishnu Vardhana was angered when he heard of the denial of Kusuma Sresti to give his daughter. As a result, he sent a big army to attack Penugonda and to get Vasavi. There was a big battle and the brave Vysyas defeated Vishnu Vardhana's army by using the techniques of Sama, Dhana, Veda and Dhanda.

 At this stage, Vasavi decided to enter the Homakundam to stop the atrocities. She indicated that she would be the first one to enter the homokundam and others could follow her. On the banks of Godavari, 103 Agnikundas were constructed and filled with sandalwood, ghee and herbs. Everyone decided to act in accordance with Vasavi. Couples of 102 Gothras (castes) joined Vasavi to plunge into the holy fire. All the people realized that Vasavi was the incarnation of Goddess Parvathi. Vasavi smiled and revealed her true self, the Vishwa Roopa Darsan of Kanyaka Parameswari, the incarnation of Dharmaraksha and Ahimsa. When Vasavi entered the homakundam of raging fire, suddenly the fire turned into a cool breeze and Agni Deva came out with folded hands and said that he could not bear Vasavi who was hotter than him. Vasavi told Agni Deva that she did not want to perform Agni Pariksha, she would grow cooler towards him and he could transport her and the others to Kailash through her transplanetory powers. She performed Agni Pravesam to reach Kailash and the others followed her. After the sudden demise of Vishnu Vardhana, his son Prince Rajaraja Narendra visited the land of Penugonda with a retinue of peace loving citizens. Vasavi was worshipped as Kanyakaparameswari and the first temple for Vasavi was built in Penugonda.

Thousand Pillar Temple, Hanamkonda, Warangal City.

Good morning.(17th July 2017)

Thousand Pillar Temple is located in Hanamkonda part of the Warangal City. Thousand Pillar Temple is a popular pilgrimage center, where thousands of devotees of all faith come here to pay their homage. The temple has an old and long history and dates back to the Chalukyan era.

The Thousand Pillar Temple of Warangal is built in the form of a star with one thousand ornately carved pillars, and reflects the splendour of the Chalukya kings. Built in a typical Chalukyan style of architecture by King Rudra Deva in 1163 A.D., the temple constitutes of three concentric shrines, dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Surya.


Temple Architecture 

The Thousand Pillar Temple has been built at the base of the Hanamkonda hill. As the name suggests, there are one thousand intricately carved pillars of wide range and different sizes. The pillars of the main temple are firmly interwov

en and form its parapet. Apart from the ornately carved pillars, the temple also has delicate smokescreens, brilliant stonework, and detailed and elaborate sculptures that will leave you enthralled.

The combination of the three shines of the temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Surya is known as Trikutalayam. Of the three shrines, Shiva’s shrine has been positioned facing the east while other shrines face south and west. This was so, because the Kakatiyas were great devotees of Lord Shiva and wanted early morning sun rays to fall directly on Shiva Lingam.

On the fourth side of the Thousand Pillar Temple is Shiva’s sacred bull, Nandi. It has been carved out of a monolithic black stone, which is an impressive piece of art. Adding to its exclusivity, the Nandi in the Thousand Pillar Temple faces east, unlike most Nandis in Indian temples that face west. Enclosed within these four corners is the ‘Natya Mandapam’ where dancers performed. The pillars that support this innermost chamber of the temple are large and made of multiple blocks of stone.

Several small shrines devoted to the lingam, i.e. Lord Shiva, enclose the huge lawn of the Thousand Pillar Temple. Neatly carved rock-cut elephants built on both the sides of the temple entrance are wonderful icons. Presently, the temple is being sustained by the Archaeological Survey of India which has recognised it as one of the protected monuments.

Yadagirigutta Temple, Telangana

Good morning,(16th July)

Yadagirigutta Temple.


Shri Lakshminarasimha Swamy temple or Yadagirigutta temple is a popular Hindu temple of Shri Narasimha Swamy, an incarnation Lord Vishnu. In Tretayugam, there lived a sage by the name of Yadarishi, son of the great sage Rishyasrunga and Santa Devi who did penance inside a cave with the blessings of Anjaneya (Hanuman) on this hill between Bhongir (Bhuvanagiri) and Raigiri.  Pleased with his deep devotion, Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu appeared before him in five different forms as Jwala, Yogananda, Gandabherunda, Ugra and Lakshmi Narasimha. They later manifested themselves into finely sculpted forms that later came to be worshipped as Pancha Narasimha Kshetram.

There are puranas and traditional accounts of this Shrine which are widely popular among the devotees. There is a  mention about the origin of this temple in the Skanda Purana, one of the famous 18 puranas.

Glowing bright atop the sikharam of garbha griha (sanctum sanctorum) of this cave temple is the golden Sudarshana Chakra (about 3 ft x 3 ft) of Lord Vishnu (whose reincarnation is Lord Narasimha). The temple as well  as the weapon are easily identified from as far as 6 km. It is said that many years ago, the chakra moved in the direction from which the devotees came, like a compass guiding them towards the temple.

Lord Narasimha is believed to have been worshipped by sages (rishis). The region of Yadagirigutta is reputed to be a "Rishi Aradhana Kshetram" or the place of worship for sages.

As the belief goes, Lord Narasimha has taken on the role of a "doctor" and is known as "Vaidya Narasimha" by his devotees at this shrine to cure many chronic diseases and the role of a ' giver of good things ' to those who are under the influence of bad planets, witchcraft and black magic. Numerous instances are cited of the Lord appearing in the dreams of the devotees, administering medicines and operating on the patients and blessing them with good health. Many devotees recount vivid dreams in which the Lord came to heal them from chronic or terminal illnesses, as well as mental and emotional problems. A mandala (40 day) pradakshina is very popular, performed by many devotees to get cured of chronic ailments or diseases. Often, the legend goes, that the Lord himself imparts mantropadesham to selected few devotees in their dreams.

Another Legend has it that Shriman Narayana, pleased with Yada's penance, sent Shri Anjaneya to direct the rishi to a holy spot, where the Lord appeared to him in the form of Shri Lakshmi Narasimha. This spot is marked by a temple located at the foot of the Yadagiri hillock, and is located about 5 km from the present temple. There the sage worshipped the Lord for many years.

After Yadarishi attained moksha, a number of tribals, hearing about the Lord's presence, came to worship him at this temple. But, not being very learned, these devotees began to engage in improper worship, because of this, Shri LakshmiNarasimha moved into to the hills. The tribals searched for many years to find their Lord.  After many years had passed, the Lord appeared in the dream of a devout lady among the tribe, directing her to a large cave wherein he revealed himself to all, in five majestic forms.  Hence this temple is called as "Pancha Narasimha kshetram" (Pancha - Five)

The poojas in this temple are performed according to Pancharatra Agamam. The pooja vidhanam (pooja procedure) was set by Late Shri Vangeepuram Narasimhacharyulu,  who composed Yadagiri Suprabhatam, Prapatti, Stotram, Mangalashasanam and served as Sthanacharya of this temple.

Kondagattu Anjaneya temple, Telangana.

Good morning.(15th July)

Kondagattu Anjaneya temple.

The district of Karimnagar hosts the enthralling Kondagattu temple. It is one of the most famous temples in Telangana. Located in the lap of beautiful hills, breathtaking valleys & refreshing water springs the town Kondagattu is blessed by nature and is very scenic. The locals believe that the temple was built three hundred years ago by a cowherd. The presiding deity of the temple is Sri Anjaneya Swamy. The temple resides in the hillock of Kondagattu village of Mallial mandal. The holy shrine of Sri Anjaneya Swamy is located at a distance of 35 Kms from Karimnagar town.

The temple offers a breathtaking view surrounded by caves and Rayuni fort on its north. The caves and the fort also offer a pleasant holiday spot. The story of the temple, according to locals dates back to about 300 years ago, when a cowherd, Singam sanjeevudu after losing one of his buffalo, came to this hilly area while searching for it. He soon fell into deep sleep after a tiresome search. It is believed that Lord Anjaneya Swamy appeared in his dream and told him the whereabouts of the lost buffalo, and when Sanjeeva woke up to start searching in the instructed direction, he found an enlightening idol of Anjaneya Swamy. He then built a small temple for Lord Anjaneya. There is a popular belief that people who do not have children get blessed with one by offering 40 day prayers to Anjaneya Swamy here.
The temple is surrounded by Bojjapotana caves and Kondalaraya fort. There is a Dharmagundam (holy water tank) where devotees take bath. The ancient Kondagattu hanuman temple always gets packed with Hanuman devotees to its full capacity during Hanuman Jayanthi. The view of saffron colored dresses of devotees at Kondagattu during Hanuman Jayanthi is a delight to eyes.

Bhadrakali temple, Warangal

Good morning.(14th July 2017)

Bhadrakali temple in Warangal is among the oldest temples India that are dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. Located atop a hill, between the city of Warangal and Hanamkonda, by the side of Bhadrakali Lake, it is an ancient temple which was originally built during the Chalukyan reign in 625 AD.

Bhadrakali temple regained its magnetism after it was renovated in 1950s by Sri Ganapathi Sasthri and a few other locals. Although now it bears only a few traces of its glorious past, this temple is one of the most popular shrines and is visited by lakhs of devotees every year.

Along with historical importance and religious significance, natural rock formations around the temple also make this temple a must visit. However, as photography is not allowed inside the shrine, Warangal Bhadrakali temple photos cannot depict its mystical beauty. If interested, devotees can take photos outside the main temple.

In this temple, the main deity is Goddess Bhadrakali who is shown in sitting position. She is shown with eight hands, each carrying one weapon and is wearing an alluring crown. The idol is 2.7 meters and is made out of stone.

A fierce lion, the sacred vehicle of the Goddess is placed opposite to the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. There are many other shrines inside the temple as well. In Maha Mandapam, separate shrines for Lord Shiva, Hanuman temple, Subramanya Swamy and Navagrahas along with images of Uma Maheshwara images on stone are placed. These are said to be among the oldest idols of the deities, which have been carved out of stone. Shrine of Lord Vigneshwara, which is built outside the main temple, is comparatively recent.

The deity in the temple is called Goddess Bhadrakali, yet the image of the Goddess is believed to be transformed by the holy mantras into Tripura Sundari, a rare form which signifies the supreme feminine power of the universe. The word Tripura Sundari literally means ‘beauty of the three worlds’. This state comprising of Goddess Kali form is regarded as a greatest manifestation of Prakriti.

A captivating feature of this temple is the Bhadrakali Lake, which is a man-made lake built during Kakatiya reign to serve as source of water for irrigation and other necessities. This lake, spread around 2 and half km, is surrounded by hills and dotted with various natural rock formations nearby. It presents a peaceful setting that adds on to the spiritual aura of the Bhadrakali temple.


Architecture and History of Bhadrakali Temple

Built in the style of Chalukyan architecture, Bhadrakali temple is an ancient temple which was built to mark their conquest of Vengi region. The Ekanda Shila statue and the pillars in the temple present a glimpse of Chalukyan reign, while the intricate carvings on the pillars represent the brilliant craftsmanship of Kakatiya reign.

Kakatiya Kings has also considered Goddess Bhadrakali as their ancestral deity hence had contributed to the temple as well. It was during the Kakatiya reign that the Bhadrakali Lake was built. A lake connecting temple was also constructed during their rule. However, with the fall of Kakatiya reign, the importance of Warangal Bhadrakali temple also lessened.

After many decades, in 1950s Bhadrakali temple was again revived. This was started by Sri Ganapathi Sastri, an ardent devotee of Goddess Kali, who had migrated from Karnataka to Warangal in 1940s. Upon seeing the remains of Bhadrakali temple, he had decided to settle next to the temple which was then just a secluded area. He started the task of renovating the temple, with the help of other locals such as Sri Mudumbai Ramanujacharya & Sri Maganlal Sameja. Many others also contributed in the renovation of this temple.

After the renovations, animal sacrifices were stopped in this Bhadrakali Temple. Even the idol of the deity was slightly modified. It is said that the deity had a fierce form originally which was later softened by a few changes. Goddess face was turned a smiling and calming face. Holy chants were also written of deity’s tongue at the time of renovations. Although Bhadrakali temple is renovated to a large extent, ancient pillars near the Garbha Griha are symbolic of its great history.

Now, worship based on vedic rituals are performed every day at the temple by the temple priest.

Gnana Saraswati Temple, Adilabad,A.P.

Good morning.(13th July 2017)

The Gnana Saraswati Temple located in Basar Village on the left bank of river Godavari situated in Adilabad Dist. of A.P.is having Pouranik and historical importance. This is the only one and unique temple of Goddess Gnana Saraswati in South India.

The history of the temple goes back to the times of ‘MAHABHARATHA’ which is nearly five thousand years old. The Goddes Saraswathi is known for initiation of “ AKSHARABYASA” and is also called as Sri Gnana Saraswati.

According to some myth, Maharishi Vyas and his disciples and sage Viswamitra decided to settle down in a cool and serene atmosphere after the Kurukshet

ra War. In the quest for a peaceful abode, he came to Dandaka forest and, pleased with serenity of the region, selected this place. Since Maharishi Vyasa spent considerable time in prayers, the place was then called “Vasara” and turned into Basara due to the influence of the Marathi language in the region.

It is also believed that this temple is one of the three temples constructed near the confluence of the Manjira and Godavari rivers.

Historically, ‘Bijialudu’ a Karnataka king, who ruled the province of Nandagiri with Nanded as his capital in the sixth century, constructed the temple at Basara.

According to the Hindu Mythology Saraswati is the diety of education. In Hindu tradition every child before joining the school and most of the pupil seek the blessings of the Goddess Saraswati. “Education is a permanent asset to receive or lead a rosy future or devonity”. So that pupil in large scale perform Aksharabyasam.

“Education is a permanent asset to receive or lead a rosy future or devinity”. So that pupils in large scale perform Aksharabyasam. It is believed that in the midst of the koneru Saraswathi Theertha was located. Eight directions appeared even today. It was mentioned in Brahmanda Purana getting that if one bath in Koneru he/she libarates from the various sins committed by him/her.

For the people, who observed deeksha, Madhukaram (Bhiksha or seeking alm) is inevitable and certain Brahmin family members are ever ready to offer Bhiksha to such people.
Deeksha can be observed for seven days, eleven days, twenty one days or forty one days and even for more days. Goddess Saraswathi will appear in the dream of the sadhaka (devotee) and shower her kindest blessings to him. It is a well known experience of many devotees hailing from many places.

Komuravelli Mallanna Temple, Warangal , Telangana.

Good morning.(12th July 2017)

Komuravelli Mallanna Temple otherwise known as Komuravelli Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple is a Hindu temple located on a hill called Indrakeeladri in Komuravelli village,located in Warangal District, of Telangana state. It is located near Siddipet on SH – 1 Rajiv Rahadari. The main deity is Mallanna or Mallikarjuna Swamy who is an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The deity is also called as Khandoba by the Maharashtrian people. The temple is located about 95 kilometers from Hyderabad.


One day Lord Mallikarjuna came in a dream of a shepherded and informed him that he made the hill Indrakeeladri and enshrined in it in a Putta Matti(Soft earth ) to fulfill the desires of the devotees. There is a staunch belief among the devotees that their desires are fulfilled by worshipping the deity Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Devasthanam is located in Komuravelli on the Karimnagar - Hyderabad Highway which is also known as Rajiv Rahadari. Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Devasthanam temple is dedicated to fierce looking diety Lord Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy along with Kethamma and Medalamma on both sides of the deity. Devotees often refer this deity as Komuravelli Mallanna. This is one of the most frequented and famous temples in the Telangana region. People from all over the state visit this temple on different occasions.Komuravelli 'Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Devasthanam' is one of the prominent Siva temples in the northern Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh. It is next to Rajarajeshwara Swamy Temple-Vemulawada and Mukteshwara Swamy Temple-Kaaleshwaram in popularity. The pilgrims often refer to the god as 'Komaravelli Mallana'. The temple is located in a cave on the 'Indrakeeladri' hillock at a distance of 110 Kms from warangal. The uniqueness of this temple is that the lord Shiva appears here in 'vigraha rupam'(statue) other than the usual 'linga rupam'. The temple is maintained by the Endowments Department of the state government. Every year Lakhs of pilgrims visit this temple on the eve of Makara Sankranthi because at this time of the year the Brahmotsavam starts in Komauravelli.It is believed that the deity of Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy which is a clay molded is made around 500 years back. As the devotees started visiting the temple and as the rush increased the committee of the temple started developmental activities in the temple and made arrangements for the devotees and also built and renovated mandapamas and choultries, rest rooms, water facility etc. Pedda Patnam which is celebrated on the Maha Sivaratri usually attracts lakhs of pilgrims.Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Devasthanam made provisions for the devotees to do online reservations for various pujas, offerings for annadanam and various other sevas. It is believed that the lord has married 'Gollakethamma' from Yadava community and 'Medalamma' from the Linga Balija community and settled here. So, both the goddesses are equally worshiped here. As a sentiment, the people from both Yadava and Balija communities head all the important rituals.

Jogulamba,Alampur Telangana.

Good morning.(11th July 2017)


Alampur is a sleepy town situated on the banks Tungabhadra River, in the state of Telangana. Alampur is considered as the western gateway of Srisailam. Here the marvelous temple and remains of some ancient temple signify Badami Chalukyan architecture. The region was ruled by many South Indian dynasties. The principal deities at the Jogulamba temple are Jogulamba and Balabrahmeshwara. Goddess Jogulamba is considered the 5th Shakti Peetha among 18 shakti peetams in the country. Here Goddess Jogulamba is seen seated on the Corpse with scorpion, frog, and lizard on the head. She is seen in a naked avatar with her tongue stretched outside, an avatar of fierce goddess that grants Siddhi in Yoga and hence called Jogulamba. This word is a changed form of Yogula Amma in Telugu which means Mother of Yogis.

According to a popular legend there was a great saint in 6th century called Rasa Siddha who had the power to convert base metal into gold and he was considered close to chalukya king Pulakesi II, instrumental in constructing any temples called ‘Nava Brahmas’. According to the legend, the nine names of Siva are actually the names of medicinal herbs put forth by Rasa Siddha and there are nine temples here. They are the Swarga Brahma Temple Padma Brahma Temple, Vishva Brahma Temple Arka Brahma Temple, Bala Brahma Temple, Garuda Brahma Temple, and Taraka Brahma Temple. The Siddha Rasarnavam is a tantric work, which states that if upasana is performed as per the prescribed Tantra, then Mercury oozes from the Linga of Bala Brahma, Thighs of Subramanya, Navel of Ganapati, and Mouth of Mother Jogulamba, which can be converted into Gold by using the medicinal herbs.

Keesaragutta Temple ,Rangareddy,Hyderabad

Good morning.(10th July 2017)


Keesaragutta Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Siva and his consorts Bhavani and Sivadurga at Keesaragutta in Rangareddy district. It is about 40 km from Hyderabad and 10 km from ECIL. It is located on a small hillock. The temple draws thousands of devotees on Shivaratri.

Lord Ramalingeswara in the sanctum sanctorum graces in a Linga form of a small size. Lord Sri Rama had worshipped this Swayambumurthi. The temple also has shrines separately for Lord Lakshmi Narasimha and Lord Rama with Mother Sita. This is Shiva-Vishnu temple and ensures all benefits to the devotees. The temple was built by Akkanna and Madhanna who were ministers during the Nawab rule. All Shiva related festivals are grandly celebrated in the temple. Lord Ramalingeswara is the hope of his devotees.


The history of Keesara goes back to early Christian era. In fact it is the oldest inhabited place of Hyderabad city. The history of Hyderabad starts from the history of Keesara. Keesara was once the capital city of Vishnukundins dynasty. The ruins of old fort can be seen on the hill the name literally translates to “The temple of a core lingams situated on the hillock of Lord Hanuman”.

Legend has it that Sri Rama installed the Siva lingam here to atone for the sin of killing Ravana, a Brahman. He selected this beautiful valley surrounded by hills and verdant greenery for the purpose and ordered Hanuman to bring a Sivlingam from Varanasi. Hanuman was late in arriving with the Siva lingam and as the auspicious hour was nearing, Lord Siva himself appeared before Sri Rama and presented a Sivilingam for installation. Hence the lingam in the temple is called Swayambhu Linga. It is also called Ramalingeswara as Lord Sri Rama had installed the lingam.

Hanuman returned with 101 lingams for selection from Varanasi and felt aggrieved at not having his lingam installed. Hence he threw them all over the area. Even to this day several lingams are found scattered all over the place outside the temple.

To mollify Hanuman, Sri Rama ordained that precedence would be given to him for worship at the temple. He also said that the hillock where the lingam was installed would bear his name kesarigiri i.e, Hanuman, the son of Kesari. Over a period of time, it has become corrupted and is now known as Keesara and the hill as Keesaragutta. Ever since, the rituals follow the command of Sri Rama.

The popular temple of Shiva and lingas, Keesaragutta Temple is located here. There is also Laxmi Narasimha Temple built during the time of Qutub Shahi period. There is Sri Ramalingeshwara temple here on a hillock and the Veda Pathasala run by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams.

Saptashrungi Devi Temple of Devi / Shakti ,Nasik ,Maharashtra.

Good morning.

Saptashrungi Devi Temple of Devi / Shakti in the form of Parvathi at Nasik -Maharashtra.

This temple is one among the 51 Shakti peethas located on the Indian subcontinent and is a location where one of Sati's limbs, her right arm is considered to have fallen when grief-stricken and agitated Shiva was carrying her dead body round the world on his shoulders, and Vishnu had cut her body into pieces with his Sudarshana Chakra.

 

About Saptashrungi Devi Temple

 The Devi is said to be swayambhu (self-manifested) on a rock on the sheer face of a mountain. She is surrounded by seven (sapta-in Sanskrit) peaks (shrunga-in Sanskrit), hence the name- Sapta Shrungi Mata (mother of the seven peaks). The image of Devi is huge-about 10 feet tall with 18 hands, holding various weapons. The idol is always coated with Sindoor, which is considered auspicious in this region.

It is said that,  when the demon king Mahishasura was creating havoc in the forests, the devatas and people urged Durga to kill the demon. Then the 18 armed Saptashrungi Devi,  took the form of Durga and slayed Mahishasura, and since then she is also known as Mahishasura Mardhini. Mahishasura was in the form of a buffalo.  At the foot of the hill, from where one starts climbing the steps, there is the head of a buffalo, made in stone, which is believed to be of demon Mahishasura.

In the epic Ramayana war, when Lakshmana was lying unconscious in the war field, Hanuman came to Saptashrungi hills in search of medicinal herbs to restore his life.

Saptashrungi mountain was a part of the forest called Dandakaranya mentioned in the Ramayana. It is mentioned that Lord Rama, along with Seeta, and Lakshmana had come to these hills to pray to the goddess and seek her blessings.

In the hill of Markandeya, named after Sage Markandeya, there is a cave which is said to have been the abode of the sage.  This hill is located to the east of Saptashringi and a deep ravine divides the two hills. While staying in this cave, Markandeya is believed to have recited puranas (Hindu scriptures) to entertain the Devi.

Another local myth is that,  a tiger resides in the garbagriaha (sanctum sanctorum) every night and  keeps a watch on the temple but goes away before sunrise.
The holy flag of Goddess Bhagawati,  flutters in the north of Saptashringa Garh. Hoisting of the flag is a privilege of a particular family. The ritual of flag hoisting on a specific day is witnessed by thousands ofdevotees.  People believe that the Goddess fulfills their wishes. So this place is frequented by devotees throughout the year.

The Devi is decorated with a high crown (like a papal tiara), and a silver nose-ring and necklaces which are the ornaments used every day.  Her attire is in the form of a robe with a blouse, which are changed with new dresses every day.  Before she is dressed for worship she is religiously given a formal abhisheka or bath.  Warm water is reported to be used for two days in a week. The courtyard in front of the temple,  has a trident or Trishula decorated with bells and lamps. There are other precious ornaments of the goddess which are normally kept at Vani in safe custody,  but are used to decorate the deity on special festival days. The Devi's image is painted bright red with ochre called sindoor, which is considered auspicious in this region. However, the eyes are not touched by the colour but are made of white porcelain, shining very brightly.

Sri Tadbund Veeranjaneya Swamy Temple, Tadbund, Secunderabad , Hyderabad

Good morning.(8th July 2017)


The temple of Sri Tadbund Veeranjaneya Swamy Temple, an ancient and famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman is situated in Sikh Village, Tadbund, near Secunderabad in Hyderabad district of Telangana state.

About The Temple

The temple has a large expansive Mukhamandapam hall with Granite Grabhalayam, Vimana Gopuram and Maharaja Gopuram. Numerous people from many places come to the shrine to do Mandala pradakshinas and Mandala Abhishekam for 40 days. These devotees choose to halt at the temple grounds for 40 days and do pradakshinas and poojas. For the convenience of these devotees choultries were constructed.

This shrine also has a Ashwatha Vruksham (Raavi Chettu), Shami Vruksham (Jammi Chettu), Bilvadala Vruksham, Maaredu Vruksham, Nimba Vruksham (Neem Tree) and Usiri (Amla) chettu etc, in the Devasthanam buildings which are revered by the devotees.

About The Deity

Sri Veeranjaneya Swamy the chief divinity of this shrine is a “Swayambhu” i.e., not created. Idol of Sri Vinayaka Swamy is also Swayambhu is to the left of Sri Veeranjaneya Swamy is on the same large rock inside the garbha gudi. This is the foremost of its kind where Sri Veeranjaneya Swamy along with Sri Ganesha is present on the same rock and is being worshiped by the devotees.

Navagrahas namely Surya, Chandra, Angaraka, Budha, Guru, Shukra, Shani, Rahu and Kethu are also present in the temple premises. Shani Trayodashi is celebrated in the temple when the tithi Trayodashi happens on Saturday. Great numbers of devotees believe this day as an auspicious day and pray to Lord Shani to get relief from all types of Shani-doshas.

As Sri Anjaneya Swamy was acknowledged as one of the personifications of Lord Shiva, Sri Shiva Lingam along with Goddess Parvathi, Vinayaka, Vishnu and Surya which is known as Shiva Panchayathanam was sanctified in the temple grounds. Many devotees worship this Shiva Panchayatanam every day.

Nagaraja, which is said to signify Subramanya Swamy in the form of snake, is also seen in the Shrine. There had in the beginning been a huge ant-hill below raavi chettu inside the temple grounds in which snakes used to live in the past. Nagendra in black granite stone in installed at the same place in the temple premises and is being worshiped by most of the devotees.

Ushtra i.e., Camel is the vehicle (vahanam) of Sri Anjaneya Swamy. As it is stated in the History of Sri Anjaneya and in Sri Anjaneya Mangalashasanam, Camel vahanam in Block Granite stone covered with silver plate is seen in front of Sri Veeranjaneya Swamy inside the temple Grounds.

Sri Suvarchala Veeranjaneya Swamy is revered as Utsava vigrahas in the temple. Suvarchala, the Daughter of Surya (Sun God) is the Consort of Sri Veeranjaneya Swamy according to 1 legend. Sri Anjaneya Swamy had to wed Suvarchala Devi to complete his studies i.e., Nava Vyakaranas out of which four has to be Studied by Gruhasthas (married people) only. As Sri Anjaneya Swamy devoted his entire life for Sri Rama seva, both Sri Anjaneya Swamy and Suvarchala Devi practiced celibacy (Brahmacharya), in spite of being married.

Shri Durga Devi temple, Guhagar ,Ratnagiri ,Maharashtra

Good morning.(7th July 2017)

Shri Durga Devi temple, Guhagar is an ancient temple located at Guhagar, a taluka place in Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra state in India. It is considered to be the Kuladevata or clan goddess of many Chitpavan families from Konkan region.It is located in Warla Pat (Upper Side ) of Guhagar Gaon.


The Temple is old with full of greenery along with Bhakta Niwas in nearby location. It is considered to be oldest temple and has been renovated in recent past. During Navratri festival the Temple is full of Devotees who come to offer their Offering to Shree Durga Devi from across India location.

This is one of the pleasant sea-side temples, to visit during Summer and Winter season. One can find all required amenities in nearby location. Puja's can be performed on request.

According to Hindu myth, goddess defeated the ill energies in one night and saved Guhagar from the possible destruction. During her war with enemy, a pearl from one of the ornaments was broken. Goddess ordered one of her devotees to collect the broken pearl from a tree near seashore. Even today the said pearl is in the ornamental collection of the goddess and occasionally it is kept in the main hall for display purpose.Another story tells us that once upon a time a person with rash on his body due to some allergy, came to the temple. He was suffering from unbearable pains. He sat in the temple premises for three consecutive days without food and water and was just chanting the name of goddess. On third day the goddess came in the form of an old lady. She gave him some oil for application on the rash and in further three days period, the rash along with pains got vanished.

The goddess also killed a devil named 'Mahishasoor'and hence got the name 'Mahishasoor Mardini'.

Datta kshetra Audumbar ,Sangli, Kolhapur , Maharashtra.

Good morning.(6th July 2017)


Datta kshetra Audumbar is a small Village near Sangli in Kolhapur district Maharashtra.

On the banjs of Krishna river Audumbar kshetra  is known for the shrine of Lord Dattatreya. It is said to have been built in honour of Narasimha Saraswati Swamy  who was a great saint and who is   the second  incarnation of Dattatreya. His greatness has been extolled in Shree Guru Charitra written by  Gangadhar Saraswathi. All the devotees of Lord Dattatreya treat Shree Datta Kshetra Audumber with similar respect as that of other places of Lord Dattatreya like Ganagapur and Narsoba Wadi.

Audumbar is the place where swamy left his padukas.This is a glory of place where people are blessed by knowledge and are freed from their troubles. This place is overgrown with audumbar trees .

Maa Bhuvaneswari devi Temple is situated on the other bank of Krishna river where a poor Brahmin boy was blessed.

The story goes as follows in adhyaya 17 of Shree Gurucharitra.. . Narasimha was born to a poor Brahmin couple, Madhava and Amba, in about 1304. Even after his thread ceremony he could not recite any of his lessons and so faced lot of insult from his elders and teachers.
So he left his home and came to Audumbar on the bank of the Krishna and prayed Maa Bhuvaneswari for three days and nights without taking any food.
But the goddess remained unmoved by his severe penance upon which he cut off his tongue and laid it at her feet. Taking pity the goddess advised him to go to Audumbar and pray Narasimha Saraswathy swamy. The boy taking the command and went to Sri Guru and fell at his feet. He received the blessings of the Swamy and became a scholar.

As per vision from Lord Dattatreya to Sage Bramhanand of Girnar, he discovered and renowned this divine holy place Audumber where Datta Avatar Narasimha Saraswati performed Chaturmas Anushtan (Four holy months).
The identity of Narasimha Saraswathi having been known, thousands of people began to flock to the place for darsan. At the end of Chaturmasa, when the sage prepared to leave, the people requested him to stay.

The outer mandap is of very recent construction. The shrine is situated at a lovely spot on the banks of the Krishna. Devotees can have darshan of Nijaroopa darshan of swamy padukas in the mandir in morning hours.

 Rudrabhisheka will be performed to padukas at about 7 to 8 a.m. and the padukas will be covered with alankara after abhisheka.

Bhagwant Temple-Barshi Village, Solapur

Good morning.(5th July 2017)

Bhagwant Temple-Barshi Village in Solapur district.


Barshi is famous for the Bhagwant temple. Bhagwant temple is dedicated to Shri Vishnu.

 The uniqueness of this temple is that, this is the only one temple of Shri Vishnu all over India,
 having Shri Vishnu’s name as Bhagawant. The temple is built in Hemadpanthi style in the year 1245 A.D. There are four entrances to the temple from all the four directions, but the main entrance is east-facing.
There is one Garudakhamb (Dwajasthambam) in front of Garbhagraha. The idol of main deity Shri Bhagwant, is in black stone having Shanku (Conch), Chakra and Gada in the hands and picture of devotee  king Ambrish below the right hand. Shri Lakshmi is on the back of Bhagwant idol.  Shivlinga is there on the forehead and marks of footsteps of Bhrigu Rishi are seen on the chest of the diety.  There are old records showing the grants released by Shri Nanasaheb Peshve in the year 1760, by East India company in 1823 and by British Government in 1784. The temple management is looked after, by a Panch Committee.  Badves carry out the work of daily rituals of the temple.

The daily rituals include Kakada Arti, Nitya pooja, Mahapooja in the morning, Dhuparti in the evening and Shejarti in the night.  Large no of devotees visit during the Chaitri, Maghi, Aashadi & Kartikai (Hindu Months) Ekadashi.  During the Aashadi & Kartikai Ekadashi,  the deity Bhagwant riding on Garuda is taken in a large procession, throughout  the entire town. A Chabina is taken out on every full moon day.

Every morning at 5.00 am., Lord Bhagawanta wakes  up with the Kakad arati adorations to the accompaniment of the sound of the holy instruments. They bring the offerings of sugar, fruits, milk, curds and butter. The traditional honour of the Kakad of Bhagawant Mandir is with Shri Dattatreya Krishnath Patil. The priest is particular about continuing this convention. It was Shri Bhaurao Tatya Patil who took up the onus of Bhagawant Kakad way back, a tradition that has been passed down the generations.

At the time of Kakad arati, the Lord is first adored with ghee lamps and then the priest changes the cloth and offerings of fruits and sugar are made. The Lotus feet of the Lord are washed with warm water. Incense is waved, milk offered in silver vessel and then a pancharati performed.

After this,  Shri Ganapati and Shri Varuna are worshipped with blowing of conch. The priest puts a blob of butter in Lord’s mouth. Then he is anointed with milk, curds, ghee, sugar and honey. Lord Bhagawanta is given a bath with water showered out of his silver pail. This water is considered equal in merit, to Bhagirathi and sprinkled upon the devotees assembled.  After this, follows the karpur arati and hymns and praises are sung by the devotees.  After the Lord has been bathed and put on new clothes, he is given an offering of khichadi. This is being taken care of by the local business community.

In the afternoon, the Brahmins of town, Deshpande, Joshi, Patil, Deshmukh etc. provide the naivedya/repast for Lord Bhagawanta. The priests bring this from the homes of the respective families. Many offerings are  made to the God, on occasions such as Gudi Padva, Dasera, and Diwali.

Vajreshwari Temple,Bhiwandi city ,Thane district ,Mumbai.

Good morning.


 Vajreshwari Temple ia located  at Bhiwandi city on the banks of river Thansa in Thane district which is around 75kms from Mumbai.

The town, earlier known as Vadvali, was renamed Vajreshwari in honour of the presiding deity of the temple.

The region of Vadvali is mentioned in the Puranas (Hindu scriptures) as visited by Avatars (incarnations) of Vishnu (Hindu god of preservation): Rama and Parshurama. The legend has it Parshurama had performed a yajna  at Vadvali and the hills of volcanic ash in the area are its residue.

Vajreshwari also known as Vajrábái and Vajrayogini, is considered as an incarnation of goddess Parvati or Aadi-Maya on earth. Her name literally means "the lady of the Vajra (thunderbolt)".
There are two legends about the goddess' origins, both associated with the Vajra.

1000 of years ago, a Rakshasa (demon) named Kalikala or Kalikut troubled the rishis (sages) and humans in the region of Vadvali and waged a war against the devas (gods). Distressed,  the gods and sages headed by Vashishta,  performed the Trichandi yagna, a fire offering to the Goddess, to please her.  An aahuti (offering of ghee in yajna) was not granted to Indra (king of devas).  Enraged, Indra hurled his Vajra - one of most powerful weapons in Hindu mythology- at the yajna. The terrified gods and sages prayed to the Goddess to save them. The Goddess appeared in all her glory at the site and not only swallowed the Vajra and humbled Indra but also killed the demons. Rama requested the Goddess that she should stay in the region of Vadvali and be known as Vajreshwari. Thus, the Vajreshwari temple was established in this region.

Another legend says that Indra and other devas went to goddess Parvati and requested her to help slay demon Kalikala. Goddess Parvati assured that,  she will come to their aid at the right time and ordered them to fight with the demon. In the battle, Kalikala swallowed or broke all weapons thrown at him. Finally, Indra threw the Vajra at the demon, which Kalikala broke into pieces and from the Vajra, emerged the Goddess, who destroyed the demon. The devas extolled her as Vajreshwari and built her temple.
In 1739, the younger brother and military commander of Peshwa Baji Rao I,Chimaji Appa , had set a camp in the Vadvali region on his way to capture  the Portuguese held Bassein Fort of Vasai.  But the fort was unconquerable, and so Chimaji Appa prayed to the Goddess Vajreshwari that if he could conquer the fort and defeat the Portuguese, he would build a temple to the goddess.  That night, Goddess Vajreshwari appeared in the dreams of the Chimaji Appa and told him that he could conquer the fort.  Based  on the words of the Goddess, the fort fell and defeat of Portuguese in Vasai was complete.  To celebrate his victory and to fulfill the vow taken in front of Goddess Shri Vajreshwari, Chimnaji appa ordered the new Subhedar (governor) Shankar Keshav Phadke to build the Vajreshwari temple.

The saffron idol of the Goddess  Vajreshwari, appears with the sword in her right hand and a mace in the left hand. The idols of the  goddess Renuka (Parshurama's mother) with a sword and a lotus in her hands, goddess Saptashrungi Mahalakshmi of Vani and a tiger, goddess Vajreshwari's vahana or mount, are seen to the left of goddess Vajreshwari.  On her right are the murtis of goddess Kalika (the village goddess) with a lotus and a kamandalam (water pot) and Parshurama armed with a parshu (axe).  The goddesses are adorned with silver jewellery, crowns and stand on silver lotuses and are sheltered by silver umbrellas.

Jyotiba Temple ,Wadi Ratnagiri, Maharashtra,

Good morning.(3rd July)


Jyotiba Temple is a sacred place of Hinduism near Wadi Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, India. The idol of the temple is known by the same name Jyotiba and is held by the locals to be an embodiment of three gods: Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesha, and Jamadagni. An annual fair takes place on the full moon night of the Hindu calendar of Chaitra and Vaisakha months. Jyotiba temple is a famous Hindu religious destination located in the Panhala range of Maharashtra. It is believed that the Jyotiba is created from the souls of three Hindu trinity Gods, Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

It is located to the north of Kolhapur, surrounded by green Panhala range mountains. Jyotiba Temple is 17 km north-west of Kolhapur. According to the Hindu tradition, the original Kedareshwar temple was built by Navji Saya. In 1730, Ranoji Scindia also known as Ranoji Rao Scindia built the present temple in its place. This shrine is 57 ft x 37 ft x 77 ft high including the peak. The second temple of Kedareshwar is 49 ft x 22 ft x 89 ft high. This shrine was constructed by Daulatrao Sindhia in 1808. The third one is Ramling temple, which is 13 ft x 13 ft x 40 ft high including its dome in 1780 by Malji Nilam Panhalkar.

History and Legends

After defeating Kolhasur, a demon & other devils; the goddess of health, wealth & prosperity Goddess Mahalaxmi (Ambabai) decided to settle in Kolhapur (Karveer). For the complete defense of her empire, she elected four guards at the four sides of Kolhapur (Karveer). Among these four guards the most important are Jyotiba; to whom Mahalaxmi elected on the northern side. Jyotiba is even called as Kedareshwar.

According to Hindu Methodology, Jyotiba helped Mahalaxmi in her fight with the demons. Legend says that the three gods took the form of Jyotiba (Dattatreya) to destroy the evil Ratnasur. He founded his kingdom on this mountain. He belongs to the Nath path. He was born in the hands of Vimalmbuja, the wife of the sage Pougand, on Chaitra Shukla.

Sri. Kanakaditya (Name of Sun God), Ratnagiri

Good morning.

Kasheli, a very small village in Rajapur Taluka of Ratnagiri district, is the prime attraction for devotees due to a famous and ancient temple of Sri. Kanakaditya (Name of Sun God). Kasheli is at a distance of approximately 30 kms from both Ratnagiri and Rajapur. The temple is having a bright historical background. The deity of God Aditya (one of the names of God Sun) was brought from Prabhas Pattan Sun temple before 800 years.


The black stone idol of Sun God is enshrined in mud and laterite stone architecture.
 Prabhas Pattan is Lord Krishna’s place. There are so many legends about the temple. Once one boatman was traveling from Veraval port towards South direction. The deity of Aditya was there in the same boat. When the boat was passing through the Kasheli region, the boat had stopped automatically. The boatman tried a lot to sail the boat into the sea. But he failed to do so. Then he has decided to place the deity of God Aditya at the Kaseli port. He had placed the deity into a black cave (approximately 400 sq. feet). Immediately after this, the boat had got the motion for sailing. A great devotee of God Sun, Kanaka, was living at Kasheli. She got the enlightment from God Sun about the deity. Then she had formally constructed a small temple of Aditya with the help of villagers, hence the temple is known as Kanakaditya. The cave is called as “Devachi Kholi” ( God’s room).

Sri. Kanakaditya is very famous spiritual place from Ratnagiri district.
The temple trustees are celebrating five days festival of Ratha-saptami every year. Many spiritual programs like Kirtan, Pravachan, Aarati, Palakhi etc are organized during the festival period.

King Shilahar of Panhalgad (a hill fort) had donated kasheli village to Shri. Govind Bhat Bagawat in the service of Brahmins. Govind Bhat was the worshiper of Kanakaditya deity. Progeny of Govind Bhat are the current care takers of the temple.

Sundar Narayan Temple, Panchavati at Nashi in Maharashtra.

Good morning.(1st July 2017)

Sundar Narayan Temple is located in Panchavati at Nashi in Maharastra state.

In 1756, the Sundar Narayan temple was built by the  Gangadhar Yashwant Chandrachud.

 The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Vishnu with Goddess Shri Lakshmi and Goddess Shri Saraswathi who are placed in the sanctum of the temple.

The main deity is Lord Vishnu – also called Narayana. To the left and right are Shri Lakshmi and Shri Saraswathi respectively. Fine designs are carved on the stones of the temple. On the road leading towards Godavari river, there is Badarika Sangam pond.  It is said that the king of Devgiri bathed and performed rites in this pond. We also find a mention of this pond in the holy book Dyaneshwari.

One remarkable thing about this temple is that,  it is built at such an angle,  that on 21st March, rays of the rising Sun first fall exactly upon the idols.

There are small carvings of Hanuman, Narayana and Indira on the walls. The east-facing temple has three porches with balcony seating, lobed arches and globular domes. The temple presents imposing architecture especially the vaulted niche, which strikes a chord with the Mughal sculpture.

Its a Lord Vishnu's temple and the reason for the name  "Sunder" is that,  he once became ugly by the curse given by Jalandar's (wicked demon) wife Vrinda .  Due to the curse,  Lord Vishnu turned black and ugly. He then took bath in Godavari and thus was relieved from the curse.  Hence Lord Vishnu is called as Shri Sundar Narayan here.

Shree Manudevi Temple ,Adgaon Village, Jalgaon , Maharashtra.

Good morning.

Shree Manudevi Temple is in Adgaon Village in Jalgaon district-Maharashtra.

Located in the lush ranges of Satpuda hills on River Tapi is the Shree Manudevi Temple.  The approach to the temple is through a 1500 mtr paved road of gravel. From there, it is an interesting 1500 mtr trek through lush green surroundings to the temple.
The temple is 500 mtr high. The temple is enveloped by hills on three sides. In front is a beautiful waterfall 400 feet high. Six to seven months a year, the waterfall has fierce running water that touches the foot hills of the Satpuda. A lake has now been built here.


History and Mythology

The temple was discovered around 1251 A.D/B.C. Excavations indicate that this is an ancient temple dating back thousands of years. The massive trees at the approach to the temple are said to be a manifestation of that.
Lord Parshurama himself, welcoming devotees for the darshan of Shree Manudevi.

There is a rich folklore and historical tradition regarding this holy shrine.

Myth of Shree Manudevi

In the Bhagwath Puranas the triad of Vishnu, Shiva and Brahma faced a serious problem. Rakshasas were menacing the people of earth. The trinity met in a cave in the Satpuda ranges. This cave is the Shree Manudevi temple and its surroundings.

While deeply meditating on a solution, their breathing and the environment that was made in the cave by their power and meditation, gave rise to an illumination of Shakti (power inherent in a goddess) as lightening. These rays culminated into Goddess Manudevi. She is the combined strength, power and intelligence of the Trinity.

The Devtas prayed to Goddess Manudevi, telling her -“O Adishakti, we are in a crises. The Asura Mahishasur is menacing the earth. O Goddess, we ask to you to eliminate him by taking an angry form of your personality. Help us in enforcing peace on earth”.

The Goddess Manudevi promised to kill the Asura soon. She assured them that she would start her offensive against the Asura immediately in the form of Sapthashrung deva.

The Goddess ravaged the forces of the Asura and reached River Tapi. A battle was fought in the area called Shiragadh. Here, she is worshipped as Shiragadh’s Ashta Bhujaa Devi. From here, the Goddess proceeded to Nandra (Bajara). A temple of her as Ashta Bhujaa Devi is here as well.
From there, she proceeded to Paatna, where a great battle was fought with the demons. Weary, the Goddess rested in here and here she came to be known as "Paatna Devi". The serene form of Manudevi was represented in Ashta Bhujaa Devi.

The final battle took place on the Sapthashrung Mountains. The Goddess battled the Asura for seven years. It was a battle between adharma and dharma. The Goddess transitioned into Sapthashrunga Devi. This is the enforcer form which is fearsome to the evil. In this form, she killed the Mahishasur and his forces. Folklore says that this place became the Devi’s home - Khandesh.

Khandoba temple-Jejuri, Pune

Good morning.

Khandoba temple-Jejuri

At a distance of 48 km from Pune Junction, Jejuri is a town and municipality situated to the southeast of the Pune city. The town of Jejuri is renowned for one of the most pious temples in Maharashtra known as Khandoba Temple and is one of the popular tourist places in Pune.

Jejuri Khandoba Temple is dedicated to Khandoba, who is also known as Mhalsakant or Malhari Martand in the region. Khandoba is the important god worshipped by Dhangar, the oldest tribes in Maharashtra. It is believed that Khandoba is a god of Sakamabhakti, the god who fulfills all the desires of his devotees. Jejuri is popular for its old Deep Mala.

The Khandoba temple in Jejuri is built on a hill and offers good views all around. One has to climb a series of almost 200 steps to reach the sanctum sanctorum. There are various stone images of elephants on either sides of the main gateway of the temple. The entire flat plateau above the hill is surrounded by a stone pavement in the center, of which stands the Khandoba shrine.

The idol of Sri Khandoba enshrined inside the temple is simply beautiful. There are three weapons housed in Jejuri Temple, a sword, a damaru and a paral. They are very exquisite and also have historical importance attached to them. A Sword Competition is held every year at the temple, on the occasion of Dussera. The one, who lifts the sword of the temple high up, for the maximum time, is declared as the winner. It attracts people from all over the state on the occasion of Bandara festival.

Temple story:-

The Khandoba temple was built on a hill top with a fort around. The heroes were the bees and the villain was Aurangazeb. We can see a small niche housing a sivalinga and it is called as Savalaksha Bhunga, meaning that a bee worth a lakh and a quarter of coins. The story begins with Aurangazeb raiding the temple during one of his campaigns when he conquered another fort, Daulat Mangal Fort which is near to this place. He saw the Jejuri fort (which was enclosing the temple) after conquering Daulat Mangal fort. He wanted to conquer the Jejuri Fort. He reached with his army to this fort but found that sturdy gates were closed. So he wanted to break the walls of the fort and come inside. He then ordered to make a hole in the wall by putting a dynamite exactly at the place where the Savalaksha Bhunga lies now. Does Khandoba like this kind of thing to happen? Suddenly there emerged from the hole lot of honey bees one after the other in quick succession. The honey bees attacked the army of Aurangazeb with great noise covering each soldier's body completely. So the soldiers told about this to Aurangazeb. Aurangazeb was completely paralyzed. Then one of the Hindu soldier told him that Lord Khandoba is very powerful and ever vigilant to protect his devotees. He then suggested that by appearing in front of him alone, the trouble would be removed. So Aurangazeb order at once an offering of One lakh and a quarter coins to God Khandoba. When the offering was made, the honey bees disappeared soon. So Aurangazeb did not know how it happened, but realized that God was so powerful and bowed down in front of Khandoba

Amba Devi Temple, Amaravati, Maharashtra

Good morning.

Amba Devi Temple-Amaravati

Shri Amba Devi temple is situated at the heart of the city of Amaravati, Maharashtra, which is 155 km from Nagpur.  The presiding deity is Amba Devi (Goddess of Shakti). According to legends, it is believed that Shri Krishna married Rukmini after abducting her when she came to pray at the Amba Devi temple. Goddess Amba is popular amongst the devotees from Vidarbha.

The temple is dedicated to the main deity of the district “Goddess Amba”, who is another incarnation of Goddess Durga.  Amravati district is believed to have been named after the presiding deity, which translates as “The Eternal City” or “The City of The Immortals.”

Shri Amba Devi temple is so ancient that one cannot find even a single mention of it in the old gazetteers. The temple is held in great reverence by Hindus and people from different corners of not only Maharashtra, but the whole of India, who come all the way to Amravati to pay respects to the Goddess.

One of the major attractions of the temple is the Navratri festival, when the whole temple gets beautifully decorated.  People belonging to, even the neighboring cities flock to the festival during this time, to catch a glimpse of the Goddess.  During Navratris, a huge mela (fair) is organized on the grounds of the Ambadevi temple, in which the devotees participate with full enthusiasm. The nearby hotels provide a solution to the accommodation problem faced by the pilgrims.

There is a very interesting legend associated with the Amba Devi temple of Amaravati.  It goes that king Bhishma's daughter Rukmini fell in love with Lord Krishna, after hearing the tales of his courage. However, her brother Rukmiya, fixed her marriage with his friend, king Shishupal of Chedi.  It is said that Rukmini was kidnapped by the Lord Krishna, just a day before her marriage with Shishupal, when she came to visit the Ambadevi temple.

Varada Vinayak temple,Mahad Village ,Khalapur

Good morning.( 27th June 2017)

Varada Vinayak temple is located in Mahad Village
On NATIONAL HIGHWAY NO.4, NEAR MUMBAI PUNE EXPRESS HIGHWAY, KHALAPUR-410203

This is a famous Ganesha temple in India. A nandadeep or

lamp has been lit in this Hindu temple continuously since the 1892. It is one of the Ashtavinayak temples of the Hindu deity Ganesha.

The idol of this Indian temple, Varada Vinayak is supposed to have originated itself and was found in the adjoining lake in 1690 AD. The temple was built in 1725 AD by Subhedar Ramji Mahadev Biwalkar. The temple has a beautiful pond. The idol of this Hindu temple faces east. There is an oil lamp in this shrine which is said to be burning continuously since 1892. This temple also has the idols of Mushika, Navagraha Devtas and a Shivalinga. There are 4 elephant idols guarding the 4 sides of this Hindu temple. In this Ashta Vinayak temple, devotees can enter the Garbagriha and pay their homage and respects to the idol personally.

According to the temple legends,King Bhima of  Koudinyapur had no child. He and his wife met sage Vishwamitra when they went to the forest to do penance. Vishwamitra gave the king a mantra, Ekashar Gajana mantra to chant and thus his son and heir, prince Rukmaganda was born. Rukmaganda grew up into a beautiful young prince.

Once on a hunting trip, Rukmanganda stopped at the ashram of the  Rishi Vachaknavi. The Rishi's wife, Mukunda fell in love at the sight of the handsome prince and asked him to fulfill her desires. The virtuous prince flatly refused and left the ashram. Mukunda became lovesick. Sensing an opportunity, King Indra took the form of Rukmaganda and made love to her. Mukunda became pregnant and gave birth to a son Gritsamada.

When Gritsamada came to know about the truth of his birth, he cursed his mother to become an unattractive and thorny berry-bearing "Bhor" plant. Mukunda in turn cursed Gritsamada, that a cruel rakshas (demon) will be born to him. Suddenly they both heard a heavenly voice saying, "Gritsamada is the son of Indra", shocking them but too late to alter their respective curses. Mukunda was transformed into the Bhor plant. Gritsamada, ashamed and penitent, retreated to the Pushpak forest where he prayed to Lord Ganesha (Ganapati). Lord Ganesha was pleased by Gritsamada's penance and offered him a boon that he will have a son who would not be defeated by anybody other than Shiva. Gritsamada asked Ganesha to bless the forest, so that any devotees who pray here would be successful and urged Ganesha to stay there permanently . Gritsamada built a temple there and the Ganesha idol installed there is called Varadavinayaka. Today the forest is known as Bhadraka.