The story of Yadagirigutta Lakshmi Narasimha temple is one of penance and devotion.
In Treta Yuga, there lived a sage named Yadarishi, the son of the illustrious sage Rishyasringa and Santa Devi. With the blessings of Anjaneya (Hanuman), Yadarishi performed intense penance inside a cave on a hill located between Bhongir (Bhuvanagiri) and Raigiri, which is now in the Nalgonda district of Telangana, India. His deep devotion pleased Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who appeared before him in five distinct forms: Sri Jwala Narasimha, Sri Yogananda, Sri Gandabherunda, Sri Ugra, and Sri Lakshmi Narasimha. These five forms, known as Pancha Narasimha Kshetram, are worshipped in the temple today, having manifested into finely sculpted idols.
Another legend recounts that Sriman Narayana, pleased with
Yadarishi's penance, sent Anjaneya to guide the sage to a holy spot. At this
spot, the Lord appeared as Sri Lakshmi Narasimha. This location, marked by a
temple at the foot of the Yadagiri hillock, is about 5 km from the current
temple site, where Yadarishi worshipped the Lord for many years.
After Yadarishi attained moksha, the temple became known to
local tribals, who, though devout, engaged in improper worship due to their
lack of knowledge. As a result, Sri Lakshmi Narasimha moved deeper into the
hills. Despite their efforts, the tribals could not find Him.
Many years later, the Lord appeared in a dream to a devout
woman from the tribe, guiding her to a large cavern where He revealed Himself
in five majestic avatars. This miraculous event reaffirmed the divine presence
on the Yadagiri hillock, cementing the site’s sanctity and leading to the
establishment of the temple as it is revered today.
Temple Information
Yadagirigutta Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Yadagirigutta, a town in the Nalgonda district of the Indian state of Telangana. The temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in Telangana and attracts devotees from all over the country.
The temple is situated atop a hill known as Yadagiri, which is believed to
be the home of Lord Narasimha. The deity here is worshipped in the form of a
self-manifested idol, which is said to have been unearthed by a devotee named
Yadava Maharshi.
The architecture of the temple is noteworthy, featuring a blend of Dravidian
and Kakatiya styles. The temple complex includes several shrines dedicated to
various deities, along with mandapams and prakarams for devotees to offer their
prayers.
Yadagirigutta Temple is especially crowded during festivals like Narasimha
Jayanti, Vaikunta Ekadasi, and Brahmotsavam, during which special rituals and
celebrations take place.
Devotees believe that visiting this temple and seeking the blessings of Lord Narasimha can bring prosperity, health, and protection from evil forces.