AHOBALAM

Among the rulers who frequented this kshetra, the Kakatiyas take precedence over others. Of them, King Pataparudra stands first and his devotion to the Lord is best, and tops the list. According to the story prevalent, besides donating several useful and valuable things to the temple he decided to present a Siva Linga, and was to be a gold one at it. Will not metal or stone, if used, considered beneath his imperial status? So he wanted to cast a gold Sivalinga, but when made, the figure of Narasimha emerged. He changed the pattern, size, shape etc. And lo! nothing but the shape of Narasimha was emerging every time. He was perturbed, not that he disliked, or discredited the outcome - the image of Narasimha, but the failure that dogged him persistently upset him. He lost mental peace. When sat in deep meditation as the only way out, Lord Narasimha appeared before him and said, "Dear king, do you wish to make distinctions between Siva and Vishnu. It is futile. Both are one - inseparable, they never desire segregation, nor find peace in isolation. Hence stop distinguishing one from other. Go to Upper ahobalam and worship: you will regain your composure. "What a lesson! How affectionate is the Lord!! Could he lag behind any other in Karunya!!! Though appears dreadful externally, he is affection solidified, and what is more, is mobile and runs to rescue at any time with a mere single call. That is his glory! And hence adoration by all!! Later the king added many more to the shrine in token of his devotion.

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