Balkampet Yellamma Temple Hyderabad

The Balkampet Yellamma Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Yellamma, located in Balkampet, Hyderabad, Telangana, India. The temple is situated on a hillock and is surrounded by a large tank. The main deity of the temple is a swayambhu murti (self-manifested) of Yellamma, which is said to have been discovered by a shepherd boy in the 15th century.

Balkampet Yellamma Temple History:

The Balkampet Yellamma Temple boasts a rich and fascinating history, spanning over 700 years. Here’s a summary of its key points:

Origins:

• Estimated Age: 15th century AD (some sources say 500 years)
• Discovery: Legend says a farmer named Ramakrishna Reddy unearthed a stone idol of the goddess Yellamma while ploughing his fields.
• Significance: Yellamma is considered an incarnation of Shakti, the divine feminine force. Some believe she’s the same as Renuka, wife of sage Jamadagni and mother of Parashurama.

Development:

• Early Temple: After the discovery, a small temple was built on the same spot where the idol was found.
• Renovations: The temple underwent several renovations over the centuries. The current structure dates back to the early 20th century.
• Endowment: In 1978, the temple came under the administration of the Endowments Department of Telangana, leading to further development and maintenance.

Key Features:

• Main Deity: YELLAMMA, considered to be “Swaymbhu” (self-manifested) and resides in water.
• Other Deities: Shrines dedicated to Pochamma Devi, Ganesha, Nagadevata, and Rajarajeshwari Devi are also present.
• Festivals: The temple celebrates two major festivals – Ammavvari Kalyanam (marriage of the goddess) and Bonalu (offering cooked rice).
• Water: Water flowing from the main idol is believed to have healing powers, attracting many devotees.

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Legend of Balkampet Yellamma Temple:

1: Yellamma and the Woman

• Renowned warrior Parashurama, enraged by his mother’s actions, set out to kill her.
• Renuka, seeking refuge, reached Balkampet and approached a woman for help.
• The woman, moved by compassion, hid Renuka in her house.
• Parashurama, upon reaching the house, demanded Renuka be revealed.
• Despite pleas, the woman refused, protecting Renuka.
• In a fit of rage, Parashurama beheaded both the woman and Renuka.
• Later, remorseful, Parashurama promised to honor the woman’s sacrifice.
• He installed a rock with Renuka’s image at the spot, later known as Yellamma.
• The well nearby, where the woman hid Renuka, is believed to have healing powers.

2: Yellamma, the Self-Manifesting Goddess

• In the 15th century, a well was being dug in Balkampet.
• Workers encountered a large, immovable rock with a goddess figure carved on it.
• Recognizing it as divine, they built a temple around the rock, enshrining it as Yellamma.
• The well beside the temple is believed to have sprung up miraculously and possess healing properties.

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Significance of Balkampet Yellamma Temple:

Historical Significance:

• Dates back to the 15th century: The temple’s origin dates back over 700 years, with a self-manifested idol (Swaymbhu) discovered during a well excavation. This adds to its historical and cultural value.

Religious Significance:

• Dedicated to Goddess Yellamma: This temple is one of the most prominent shrines dedicated to Goddess Yellamma in Hyderabad. She is considered a powerful mother goddess, associated with health, prosperity, and protection.
• Important festivals: The temple hosts two major festivals – Ammavari Kalyanam (Goddess’ wedding) and Bonalu (offering cooked rice to the deity). These attract large crowds and showcase vibrant cultural traditions.

Spiritual Significance:

• Peaceful atmosphere: Devotees find the temple to be a source of peace and solace, offering a space for prayer and reflection.
• Miracles and blessings: Many devotees believe in the miraculous powers of the goddess and seek her blessings for various aspects of life.

Social Significance:

• Community gathering: The temple serves as a place for the local community to come together, celebrate festivals, and share their faith.
• Charitable work: The temple trust engages in various charitable activities, supporting the underprivileged and contributing to society’s well-being.

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Myths and Beliefs of Balkampet Yellamma Temple:

Myths:

• The legend of the hidden treasure: There is a legend that a treasure is hidden somewhere within the temple complex. This has led to many treasure hunters trying to find it, but none have been successful.
• The curse of Yellamma: Another legend says that Yellamma cursed a king who disrespected her. The curse is said to have brought misfortune upon the kingdom, and people believe that appeasing Yellamma can ward off such curses.
• The talking idol: Some devotees believe that the idol of Yellamma speaks to them in their dreams or through visions. They interpret these messages as guidance or blessings from the goddess.

Beliefs:

• Yellamma is a reincarnation of Sati: It is believed that Yellamma is a reincarnation of Sati, the consort of Lord Shiva. Sati immolated herself in protest against her father Daksha’s insult to Shiva. Yellamma is seen as a powerful protector and wish-granter, especially for women and children.
• The wish-fulfilling powers of the trishul: The temple’s main idol of Yellamma holds a trishul (trident) in her hand. Devotees believe that touching or worshipping the trishul can bring good luck and fulfill their wishes.
• The healing powers of the turmeric water: The temple offers turmeric water to devotees, which is believed to have healing properties. Devotees often pour this water over themselves or their loved ones seeking good health.
• The significance of Tuesdays and Fridays: Tuesdays and Fridays are considered especially auspicious days to visit the temple. Devotees throng the temple on these days to offer prayers and seek blessings.

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Balkampet Yellamma Temple Timing and Rituals:

Timings:

• The temple is generally open from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM every day.
• However, darshan timings might be slightly different depending on the day of the week:
  • Weekdays: 6:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM
  • Weekends and Tuesdays: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM

Rituals:

• The most common rituals performed at the temple are darshan (seeing the deity), pooja (offering prayers), and aarthi (waving a flame in front of the deity).
• Devotees can also offer various prasads (offerings) to the goddess, such as flowers, fruits, and sweets.
• Some specific rituals performed at the temple include:
  • Sri Yellamma Pochamma Abhisekam: This is a sacred bath ritual performed on the idol of the goddess.
  • Sri Yellamma Pochamma Archana: This is an offering of flowers and mantras to the goddess.
  • Chandi Homam: This is a fire ritual performed to appease the goddess and seek her blessings.
  • KumKuma Archana: This is an offering of vermillion powder to the goddess.
  • Nitya Aarathi: This is a daily aarti performed to the goddess.
  • Nitya Homam: This is a daily fire ritual performed to the goddess.
  • Nitya Kalyana: This is a daily wedding ceremony performed for the goddess (except on Sundays and Tuesdays).
  • Odibiyyam Offering: This is an offering of cooked rice and lentils to the goddess. Devotees are required to bring the Odibhiyam themselves.
  • Aksharabhyasam: This is a ceremony performed to initiate children into the learning of the alphabet.
  • Annaprasana: This is a ceremony performed to celebrate a child’s first feeding of solid food.

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Balkampet Yellamma bhavishyavani, or prediction for the year 2024 is as follows:

• The temple will see a significant increase in the number of devotees visiting in the coming year.
• The temple will also see a number of major renovations and improvements.
• The goddess Yellamma will bless her devotees with good health, prosperity, and happiness.

Here are some specific predictions for the year 2024:

• The temple will see a record number of devotees visiting during the Bonalu festival in July.
• The temple will be renovated and expanded to accommodate the increasing number of visitors.
• A new shrine to the goddess Yellamma will be built.
• The temple will become a major center for spiritual learning and meditation.

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Places to visit near Balkampet Yellamma Temple:

1. Kukatpally Housing Board (KPHB) Colony: Explore the nearby KPHB Colony, which is a bustling residential and commercial area with shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment options.
2. Shilparamam: Located in HITEC City, Shilparamam is an arts and crafts village that showcases traditional Indian arts and crafts. It’s a great place to explore local culture and buy handmade crafts.
3. Jalavihar Water Park: If you’re looking for some fun and water activities, Jalavihar Water Park, located in Necklace Road, is a popular destination for families and friends.
4. Hussain Sagar Lake: Take a stroll around Hussain Sagar Lake and enjoy the scenic beauty. You can also visit the Buddha Statue located on an island in the middle of the lake.
5. Birla Mandir: Visit the Birla Mandir, a stunning temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. It is situated atop Naubath Pahad and offers panoramic views of the city.
6. Necklace Road: This picturesque road runs along the Hussain Sagar Lake and is a great place for a leisurely walk, with several cafes and eateries offering beautiful views.
7. Lumbini Park: Located on the banks of Hussain Sagar Lake, Lumbini Park is a lovely garden with musical fountains, making it a pleasant spot for relaxation.
8. Shri Jagannath Temple: Another temple worth visiting is the Shri Jagannath Temple, located in Banjara Hills. It is a replica of the famous Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha.
9. Begumpet: Explore the Begumpet area, known for its shopping options, restaurants, and the historic Begumpet Airport.
10. HITEC City: If you are interested in the tech scene, HITEC City (Hyderabad Information Technology and Engineering Consultancy City) is a major IT and business district with modern infrastructure.

FAQ:

1. What are the timings of the temple?

Balkampet Yellamma temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

2. What are the important days to visit the temple?

The most important days to visit the temple are Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. However, the temple is open every day and is always worth a visit.

3. What are the festivals celebrated at the temple?

The two main festivals celebrated at the temple are Bonalu and Ashadamasam Kalyanavostavam. Bonalu is a regional festival celebrated in Telangana and parts of Andhra Pradesh, and it is a time for devotees to offer prayers and thanks to the goddess Yellamma. Ashadamasam Kalyanavostavam is a festival that celebrates the marriage of the goddess Yellamma.

4. What are the facilities available at the temple?

The temple has a number of facilities for visitors, including a prasadam (offering) counter, a flower shop, and a parking lot. There is also a small pond inside the temple complex.

5. How can I reach the temple?

The temple is located in Balkampet, Hyderabad, and is easily accessible by road. The nearest bus stop is Balkampet X Roads, and the nearest metro station is LB Nagar.

6. What are some of the things to do near the temple?

There are a number of things to do near the temple, including visiting the nearby KBR Park, shopping at the nearby malls, or trying out the local cuisine.

7. Where can I stay if I am visiting the temple?

There are a number of hotels and guesthouses located near the temple, as well as a few Airbnbs.

8. What are some of the things to keep in mind when visiting the temple?

• Dress modestly and respectfully.
• Remove your footwear before entering the temple.
• Do not touch the idols.
• Photography is not allowed inside the temple.
• Be prepared for crowds, especially during festivals.

9. What are some of the things to offer to the goddess Yellamma?

Some of the things that you can offer to the goddess Yellamma include flowers, fruits, coconuts, and incense sticks. You can also offer prayers and sing bhajans.

10. What are the benefits of visiting the Balkampet Yellamma Temple?

The Balkampet Yellamma Temple is a powerful place of worship, and many people believe that visiting the temple can bring blessings and good fortune. The temple is also a peaceful and serene place, and it can be a great place to relax and connect with your spirituality.

How to reach Balkampet Yellamma Temple:

By Air:

• Nearest Airport: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD)
  • After arriving at the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other transportation services to reach Balkampet Yellamma Temple. The temple is approximately a 45-60 minute drive from the airport, depending on traffic conditions.

By Train:

• Nearest Railway Station: Secunderabad Junction or Hyderabad Deccan Railway Station
  • From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation like buses or auto-rickshaws to reach the Balkampet Yellamma Temple. The travel time may vary based on the specific location of the railway station.

By Road:

• Local Transportation:
  • Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services are readily available in Hyderabad. You can hire any of these services to reach the temple.
  • If you prefer public transportation, you can use the city bus services. Balkampet Yellamma Temple is well-connected by road, and you can find buses heading in that direction from various parts of the city.

Google Maps: