The original murti worshipped in Machavaram Hanuman Temple,
popularly known as Sri Dasanjaneya Swamy Temple, was created in during the 16th
century by Sri Vyasatirtha during the reign of Vijayanagara rulers. The temple
is located around 5 km from Vijayawada Railway Station in Andhra Pradesh.
The small shrine is located at the side of a busy road. Hanumanthudu
or Anjaneyulu, as he is lovingly called here, is a wish fulfilling deity.
The original murti was lost due to the actions of invaders.
During the 18th century the murti was rediscovered a road contractor
and it was installed under a peepal tree. The murti still is found under the
very same peepal tree.
The murti of Dasanjaneya is about two feet tall and is ardha
shila. He sits on his knees in front of Sri Rama. His both hands are seen
folded with the palms offering pranamam to Sri Rama. Hanuman is depicted as the
eternal Dasa of Sri Rama.
The earring of Hanuman murti here is big in size. He wears
ornaments in his arms, chest and legs. The yagnopaveetham with three strings
is clearly visible. He has a tuft. The tail is raised above the head and has a
bell tied at the end of the tail.
The most important festival in the shrine is the Hanuman
Jayanti observed in the May month (Jyeshta Krishna Paksha Dashami). Hundreds of
devotee visit the Hanuman temple during Hanuman Deeksha observed for 41 days
starting from Chaitra Purnima (full moon day in Chaitra month (April)).
Ramnavami and Dhanur Masam (December 16 to January 14) are
of great importance in the temple.
The temple attracts scores of devotees on Tuesday.
The main offering in the temple is betel leaves.