Gangapuram - Channakesavaswamy Aalayam

This kshetra has a long legend and its principal actors belong to both Dwaparayuga and Kaliyuga. Its past is splendid, and Skanda Purana embodies an elaborate account of it, and Gangapura Mahatmya cites it. This was also the centre of Jainism and many Jain icons were found during the recent excavations. According to historical version, once Virahombala, a Chalukyan emperor was so captivated by the unearthly charm of the Channakesava idol in the temple at Gandakadri, decided to carry it to his capital, when Virasena, the lawful owner and king of the place objected to it. Thereupon Hombala prayed to Surya Bhagawan, the Pratyaksha daivam and got his consent. Realising the intensity of the desire of Virahombala, Virasena gladly parted with the enchanting icon. After installing in a befitting temple, he married the daughter of Virasena. 

Another version differs in this aspect and proves that he married Suprabha by Rakshasa vivaha -forceful marriage on abduction. And he was blessed with four valorous sons,. among them Bhuvanaikamalla and Tribhuvanamalla played spectacular roles in history. Virahombala built a magnificent temple with the help of his illustrious sons. It is built on a high plinth with a sturdy compound adorned with mahadwaras and over them multi-storied imposing towers. The courtyards are vast and they contain mini-shrines for many parivaradevatas. This magnificent temple bears resemblance to the world famous Belur and Sonlanathpur Channakesavaswamy temples, the crest-jewel of temple architecture and touchstone of superb sculpture. Should it not match that bewitching beauty of Venugopal, who charmed the king at first and enslaved him to devotion life long? The viewers drink in the beauty of the sculpture with their eyes. Many great literary men immortalized its glory in many genres of literature. The historical evidence differs with literary accounts, yet they agree in the essentials.

It lies in Gangapuram in the Palamur district of Andhra Pradesh, commanding transport facilities.

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