Andhra Mahavishnu Temple

Overview

Sri Andhra Vishnu was a legendary warrior by name Vishnu. He became famous as a very valorous saviour of his small kingdom Trilinga Desa, Telugu desa or Andhra desa (The Telugu region between Draksharamam, Kaleswaram and Srisailam).

About the temple

Following his reign, people came to believe that he had an amsa of the divine savior Maha Vishnu himself. Perhaps in his honor, people had dedicated a new temple now located at Srikakulam, Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh. The deity of the temple is known as Andhra Vishnu or Srikakulandhra Vishnu. The main sanctum of the temple survived at least since the time of the Satavahana emperors, perhaps from 2nd or even 3rd century BC. In that respect, it is perhaps one of the most ancient temple sites in the country. Available evidence seems to suggest that Andhra Viṣhṇu ruled before the time of the Satavahanas. This temple has many attractions and historical links. As many as 32 inscriptions, including those issued by Krishnadevaraya, appear on the walls of the temple. The presiding deity has some striking peculiarities. The deity holds a sankha in right hand and a chakra in left hand as against usual practice of vice versa. Likewise, Krishna does not find place in dasavatara (the ten incarnations of Vishnu) here. The list includes, Matsya, Koorma, Varaha, Narasimha, Vamana, Parasurama, Rama, Balarama, Buddha and Kalki. The present temple is said to be existing from 1010 A.D., and was reconstructed twice before now. The Cholas are stated to have reconstructed the temple by bringing the idol found in river Krishna bed during their rule. Later, the temple was reconstructed in 1992 during Krishna Pushkarams. However the temple was in a neglected state of affairs though it had a property of about 200 acres of fertile land

Legend and stories

Legend has it that King Andhra Vishnu constructed a huge wall that connected Sri Sailam, Bheemeshwaram and Kaleshwaram. All these are historic temples in Andhra Pradesh. It is believed that lord Shiva himself resides within these walls. Andhra Vishnu is believed to have fought a giant called Nishambu for three centuries before he killed him. The temple was built by King Andhra Vishnu and named after him. The presiding deity is Lord Sri Maha Vishnu.

Festivals

In addition to the regular poojas Sahasra Naamaarchana, Astotharam are the special poojas performed here. As Sravana Nakshatra is the birth star of Lord Venkateswara Swamy Nijaroopa Darshan and Abishekam are performed on that day before 9 AM. Mukkoti Ekadasi is celebrated here with lot of perfection. This temple is Parihara Sthalam for Aslesha, Revathi and Jyesta Nakshatras and for Budha Graha doshas. It is believed that those who do bath in river Krishna and visit this temple on Mukoti Ekadasi will get relieved from all their sins.

Significance

This temple is a major pilgrimage site for Hindu Vaishnavites across the country. It is one of a kind temple. The main festival of the temple town is when the marriage of Lord Vishnu and Andal is performed through a procession. Thousands of people flock to this sleepy town to witness the grandeur. It is one of a kind of divine experience. They say that if one looks into the lord’s eyes straight he can conquer all enemies without any fear for life.

Accessibility

Road

Government RTC buses are available from all places in Andhra Pradesh to Srikakulam village in Krishna district to access the temple.

Rail

The nearest railway station is Repalle Railway Station which is 28 km away from the temple. Govt RTC buses run from here to visit the temple.

Air

The nearest airport is Vijayawada Airport which is 46 km away from the temple. Bus and taxi services are available to access the temple.

Address

Andhra Mahavishnu Temple,
Srikakulam village,
Ghantasala Mandal in Diviseema,
Krishna District,
Andhra Pradesh.
Phone: 08671-255238