The Hemachala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, also known as the Mallur Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Mandir, is a revered Hindu shrine located in Mallur village, within the Mulugu District of Telangana. This ancient temple, believed to have a history spanning over 4000 years, is perched atop a mountain approximately 1500 feet high, necessitating worshippers to climb around 150 steps to reach the divine murti.
The Miraculous Murti of Narasimha
At the heart of the temple lies the extraordinary murti of
Bhagwan Narasimha, renowned for its miraculous nature. The deity stands at an
impressive 10 feet tall, with a lotus-like body that feels astonishingly soft,
akin to human skin. A gentle touch leaves an impression on the murti, which
promptly returns to its original form once the pressure is removed. This unique
quality makes it a focal point of devotion and wonder.
Historical and Mythological Significance
The temple is not just a place of worship but also a site
steeped in rich mythology and history. The sage Agastya is said to have named
the hillock Hemachala. Legend has it that the demon king Ravana gifted this
place to his sister, Shurpanaka. Additionally, it is believed to be the
battleground where Bhagwan Ram vanquished nearly 14,000 demons led by Khara and
Dushana.
The Dwajasthambam and Surrounding Features
The temple complex features a towering dwajasthambam,
standing nearly 60 feet tall, symbolizing the temple's spiritual prominence.
Adjacent to the temple is a rock-formed statue of Ugra Anjaneya Swamy. The
local villagers venerate Anjaneya Swamy as the guardian deity (Kshetrapalaka)
of the surrounding fields. The temple's vicinity is blessed with a continuous
water flow from the top of the hills, adding to the serene and sacred
atmosphere.
The Mystery of the Murti
One of the most captivating aspects of the temple is the
mysterious murti of Bhagwan Narasimha. It is said that pressing the murti can
sometimes cause blood to ooze out, a phenomenon that has led the priests to
cover it constantly with sandalwood paste to prevent bleeding. This murti is
believed to be a ‘Swayambhu’, meaning it emerged from the underground on its
own, adding to its divine aura and significance.
Temple Timings and Beliefs
The temple operates with strict timings, closing at 5:30 PM
daily. This practice stems from the belief that Bhagwan Narasimha Swamy wanders
around the temple and the forest after this time, ensuring the sanctity and
mystical ambiance of the area is preserved.
In conclusion, the Hemachala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple
stands as a testament to ancient spirituality, steeped in mythology and revered
for its miraculous deity. It continues to draw devotees and visitors, intrigued
by its historical significance, mystical phenomena, and the serene environment
it offers.