Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple

The Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu in his incarnation as Narasimha. It is located in the town of Antarvedi in the East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, India. The temple is situated at the confluence of the Godavari River and the Bay of Bengal.

History of Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple:

Early Origins:

• Possible Vedic Era: Some legends claim the temple site holds significance since the Vedic period, associated with a sacrificial altar established by Lord Brahma. This earned the place its name, Antarvedi, meaning “between altars.”
• Presence of Lord Neelakanteshwar: Another legend speaks of a pre-existing shrine dedicated to Lord Neelakanteshwar, worshipped by Lord Rama and Arjuna during their pilgrimages.

Temple Construction:

• 15th-16th Centuries: While precise dates are debated, most sources cite the 15th or 16th centuries as the period when the main Lakshmi Narasimha temple was built. The Pallava kings or later, the Peddapuram Reddy kings, are attributed to its construction.
• 1823 Reconstruction: The current structure is believed to be a reconstruction from 1823, undertaken by Kapanati Krishnamma of the Agnikula Kshatriya clan.

Mythical Tales:

• Ant-hill Discovery: A popular legend speaks of a cow regularly shedding milk upon an anthill. Villagers, digging out of curiosity, found a stone sculpture of Lord Narasimha, leading to the construction of the Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple at that spot.
• Narasimha Rao’s Role: Another narrative credits a wealthy man named Sri Narendra Lakshmi Narasimha Rao with rebuilding the temple after finding it in ruins. He arranged for timber transport from Bhadrachalam, overcoming obstacles with prayers to the Lord.

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Legend of Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple:

1. Brahma’s Rudra Yaga: One legend states that the site of the temple was chosen by Brahma for a “Rudra Yaga,” a grand sacrifice to appease Shiva. This act earned the place the name “Antarvedi,” meaning “inner altar.” While performing the yagna, Brahma faced disruptions, leading to the abandonment of the ritual and the later manifestation of Narasimha.

2. Raktavilochana’s Terror: Another legend tells the tale of Raktavilochana, a fearsome demon who terrorized the region. He gained immortality through a boon from Shiva, where every drop of his blood multiplied into another demon. Vashishtha, a hermit residing in Antarvedi, invoked Narasimha to vanquish Raktavilochana, who ultimately met his demise at the hands of the Lord.

3. Kesavadasu’s Discovery: According to another legend, the idol of Lakshmi Narasimha was miraculously discovered by a cowherd named Mandapati Kesavadasu. His cow’s unusual behavior led him to find the idol buried in an anthill, which became the site of the temple.

4. Kurmavatara Appearance: Yet another legend narrates the story of a fisherman who found a stone statue of Kurma, Vishnu’s tortoise avatar, in the waters near the temple. Guided by a dream, he brought the statue to the temple complex, where it rests alongside the Lakshmi Narasimha idol.

5. Wish-fulfilling Powers: The temple is also famous for its wish-fulfilling powers. Devotees believe that sincere prayers and offerings to Lakshmi Narasimha can bring blessings and fulfill desires, leading to countless stories of answered prayers and miracles.

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Myths of Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple:

1. Brahma’s Penance and Neela Kantheswara:

• Legend says Lord Brahma committed an offense against Lord Shiva and sought to absolve himself by performing a “Rudrayaga” (auspicious fire sacrifice).
• He prepared the site like a stage (“Vedik”), hence the name Antarvedi. This act pleased Lord Shiva, who manifested as “Neela Kantheswara” and resided there.
• The idol of Neela Kantheswara can still be seen within the temple complex, representing Brahma’s atonement and Shiva’s benevolence.

2. Sage Vashishtha and the Vasishta River:

• Prior to Brahma’s arrival, Sage Vashishtha is said to have created a branch of the Godavari River here and established an ashram.
• This branch still flows alongside the temple, named the Vasishta River, adding to the spiritual energy of the site.

3. Raktavilochana’s Penance and Lakshmi Narasimha:

• Raktavilochana, son of the demon Hiranyaksha, performed penance for over ten thousand years on the banks of the Vasishta River, seeking blessings from Lord Shiva.
• Pleased by his devotion, Lord Vishnu appeared as Lakshmi Narasimha, a half-man half-lion form, granting him liberation.
• The main idol of the temple depicts this magnificent form of Lord Vishnu, signifying the power of perseverance and divine grace.

4. Lord Rama’s Worship and Liberation:

• Another legend says Lord Rama worshipped Lakshmi Narasimha here during his exile, seeking help to defeat the demon king Ravana.
• Impressed by Rama’s devotion, Lakshmi Narasimha blessed him with victory and liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
• Devotees believe that taking a dip in the Vasishta River and offering prayers at the temple can lead to similar blessings and freedom from karmic cycles.

5. The Five Sacred Sites:

• Antarvedi is considered one of the five sacred “Panchanarayanakshetras” dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Narasimha form.
• Visiting all five is believed to bring immense spiritual merit and fulfill one’s desires.
• This association further heightens the temple’s significance for Vaishnava devotees.

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Significance of Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple:

Religious Significance:

• Powerful Deity: Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, a fierce avatar of Vishnu, is the presiding deity. Worshipped for protection, granting wishes, and removing obstacles, He draws devotees from far and wide.
• Mukti Kshetra: Considered a Mukti Kshetra, meaning “field of liberation,” the temple grants spiritual liberation and salvation to those who visit with devotion.
• Fulfillment of desires: Devotees believe praying here fulfills wishes related to health, wealth, education, and progeny.
• Sacred confluence: The Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple sits at the confluence of the Bay of Bengal, River Godavari, and Raktakulya River, making it a holy site with immense spiritual energy.

Historical Significance:

• Ancient origins: Estimated to be over 800 years old, the temple traces its origins to the Chola dynasty and was later renovated by subsequent rulers.
• Mythological associations: Legend links the temple to several Hindu epics, including Lord Vishnu’s slaying of Hiranyakashipu and Sage Vashishtha’s Rudra Yaga.
• Architectural marvel: The Dravidian-style architecture with intricate carvings and sculptures narrates religious stories and showcases cultural heritage.

Cultural Significance:

• Festivals and traditions: Vibrant annual festivals like Rath Yatra (chariot procession) and Dole Pournami (full moon festival) attract large crowds, showcasing traditional music, dance, and rituals.
• Local pilgrimage center: The Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple plays a vital role in the cultural life of the region, drawing pilgrims and tourists throughout the year.
• Preserves Hindu mythology: The temple complex embodies and narrates stories from Hindu mythology through its architecture and sculptures, keeping traditions alive.

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Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple Timing and Rituals:

Timings:

• Darshan Timings:
  • Morning: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM
  • Afternoon: 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM
  • Evening: 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM
• Temple Opening and Closing:
  • Opens at 6:00 AM
  • Closes at 8:30 PM

Rituals:

• Suprabhatam: 6:00 AM – Wake-up ritual for the deity with hymns and prayers.
• Abhishekam: 6:30 AM – Ritual bathing of the deity with milk, honey, ghee, and other offerings.
• Archana: 7:00 AM – Offering prayers and wishes to the deity.
• Alankaram: 8:00 AM – Adorning the deity with new clothes and ornaments.
• Nivedana: 9:00 AM and 6:30 PM – Offering of food to the deity.
• Maha Nivedana: 11:30 AM and 8:00 PM – Grand offering of food to the deity.
• Special Poojas: 12:30 PM to 1:00 PM – Special rituals performed upon request for specific purposes.
• Sudarshana Homam: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Fire ritual dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s discus, Sudarshana Chakras.

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Places to visit near Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple:

1. Draksharama Bhimeswara Swamy Temple: Located about 34 kilometers from Antarvedi, Draksharama Bhimeswara Swamy Temple is another ancient and significant Shiva temple. It is one of the Pancharama Kshetras and is known for its unique architecture.
2. Rajahmundry: Rajahmundry, situated approximately 80 kilometers from Antarvedi, is a historic city on the banks of the Godavari River. You can explore places like Dowleswaram Barrage, Kotilingala Ghat, and the ISKCON Temple in Rajahmundry.
3. Kakinada: Kakinada, located around 100 kilometers from Antarvedi, is a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches. Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary, Uppada Beach, and Hope Island are some of the attractions in and around Kakinada.
4. Papikondalu: Papikondalu, a scenic hill range on the Godavari River, is accessible from Rajahmundry. You can take a boat ride to experience the breathtaking landscapes and enjoy the serenity of the Papikondalu region.
5. Annavaram Satyanarayana Swamy Temple: Annavaram Satyanarayana Swamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Satyanarayana, a form of Lord Vishnu. It is located approximately 140 kilometers from Antarvedi and is known for its spiritual significance.
6. Maredumilli: Maredumilli, around 140 kilometers from Antarvedi, is a forest area known for its biodiversity. It offers opportunities for trekking and exploring nature trails. The Maredumilli Eco Tourism Project is a popular attraction in the region.
7. Konaseema: Konaseema, known as the “God’s Own Creation,” is a lush green region with coconut groves and backwaters. It is located in the East Godavari district and is about 60-70 kilometers from Antarvedi. Explore villages like Kothapalli and enjoy the scenic beauty.

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FAQ:

History and Significance:

• Who is Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy? Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy is a form of Vishnu, the supreme god in Hinduism. He is depicted as a lion-headed man, with Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, seated on his lap.
• Where is Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy located? Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy is located in the Antarvedi village of West Godavari district in Andhra Pradesh, India.
• When was the temple built? The temple is believed to have been built in the 10th century AD by the Eastern Chalukya dynasty.
• What is the religious significance of the temple? The temple is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus from all over India. It is believed that a visit to the temple can bring good luck, prosperity, and fulfillment of wishes.

Architecture and Design:

What is the architectural style of the temple? 

The Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is built in the Dravidian style of architecture, which is characterized by its pyramidal towers, intricate carvings, and vibrant colors.

What materials are used in the construction of the temple? 

The temple is constructed from granite blocks.

What are some of the notable features of the temple? 

The temple features a three-tiered gopuram (gateway tower) that is decorated with intricate carvings of Hindu deities and mythological scenes. The main shrine of the Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple houses a 10-foot-tall idol of Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy. The idol is made of panchaloha (five metals), and is said to be self-manifested.

Visiting the Temple:

How do I get to Antarvedi? 

Antarvedi is located about 40 kilometers from Eluru, the district headquarters of West Godavari district. It is easily accessible by road, train, or bus.

What are the opening hours of the temple? 

The Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is open to the public from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm.

Are there any festivals or events associated with the temple? 

The main festival celebrated at the temple is the Narasimha Jayanti, which is held in the month of February or March. The festival is a nine-day celebration that includes prayers, rituals, and cultural performances.

Additional Information:

Are there any guided tours available for the temple? 

Yes, there are guided tours available in English and other languages. These tours can provide valuable insights into the history, architecture, and significance of the Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple.

What are some other things to do in the area? 

The Antarvedi area is home to a number of other historical and cultural attractions, including the Antarvedi Beach, the Antarvedi Bird Sanctuary, and the Antarvedi Fort.

Where can I find more information about the temple? 

The official website of the Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple provides detailed information about Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple and other attractions in the area.

How to reach Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple:

By Air:

• The nearest airport is Rajahmundry Airport (RJA), which is approximately 115 kilometers away from Antarvedi. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other transportation options to reach the temple.

By Train:

• The nearest major railway station is Rajahmundry Railway Station. From Rajahmundry, you can hire a taxi or use local transportation to reach Antarvedi.

By Bus:

• Antarvedi is well-connected by road, and there are buses that ply from major cities and towns in Andhra Pradesh to reach the temple. You can take a bus to the nearest town or city, like Rajahmundry or Amalapuram, and then hire a taxi or use local buses to reach Antarvedi.

By Car:

• If you are driving, you can use navigation apps or maps to find the best route to Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple. The temple is accessible by road.

Google Maps: