Sri Kambada Narasimha Swamy Temple located in Sathanur
village of Mandya, Karnataka is dedicated to the Narasimha Avatar of Bhagavan
Vishnu. Known for its unique, self-manifested (Udbhava Murthy) pillar idol of
Lord Narasimha, the temple holds significance for its "Kambada" (pillar)
form.
Historical Background
An inscription found at the temple reveals important
historical details. During the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire, when Gangayya
Dandanayaka Basavarasa and Kumpada Nayaka served as local chieftains
(Palegars), Singannayya donated land for the chariot festival (Rathotsava) of
Kambada Tirumala Swamy at the request of Veerasankara, who was associated with
them.
The inscription further states that the temple was
consecrated around the 15th century, on the auspicious day of Bhadrapada Shukla
Panchami in the Bahudhanya year.
Temple Legend (Sthala Purana)
According to the temple’s sacred legend (Sthala Purana), the revered sage Srimandavya Rishi performed intense penance at this very site. It is believed that he invited the Lord to reside here and be a part of the joys and sorrows of the people. Following this divine invocation, the deity was consecrated at this location.
The temple is beautifully situated atop a hill, accessible
by climbing approximately 70 to 75 steps.
In the sanctum (Garbhagriha), the Lord appears in a stone
form, symbolizing His eternal presence and His vow to protect devotees.
Tradition also holds that there once existed a cave on the
hill, which served as a shelter and meditation site for sages and ascetics.
Apart from Narasimha Swamy, Anjaneya Swamy is also
worshipped in the temple. Goddess Lakshmi and