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Khammam
- Sthambhadri Lahshminarasimha Aalayam
This ancient kshetra has many names, like Sthambhadri Sthambagiri and I3haradwajasram. Khammam Mettu is the Telugu
equivalent of the Sanskrit word Sthambhadri, which in course of time shortened into Khammam, the present district
headquarters town of the same name. 'this hill temple has a fantastic legend and it is said that Lord Narasimha emerged
here from a sturdy pillar. The icon was installed by Maharshis in the dim past and is exercising its hold on devout people
through the demonstration of a wide variety of miracles. The adored are relieved of the worries and troubles harassing them
for long.
This hill lies to the south eastern side of the town and possesses an elegantly built modest sized temple embodying all the
essential parts. It enjoyed the patronage of Kakatiya kings and they lavishly spent on its construction and maintenance by
making endowments adequate from time to time. The Principal image is quite attractive and the craftsmanship, highly
commendable. There are two thirthas - one on the hill and the other at the foot of the hill. Devotees normally bathe in them
before entering the temple.
The river Munneru flows to the west of the town and its ancient name was Moudgalya. There lies on its banks the famous
Kunti Malleswaraswamy temple. This shrine contains the - icon of Veerabhadraswamy, who is as popular as the main image
and special traditional offerings are made to this deity.
During the Vaisakha masa starting from Eakadasi to Purnima, the annual Kalyanotsav of the Lord is celebrated with unusual
pomp and splendour. Lakes of theists assemble and offer special pujas, like Thiruvaradhana, Vubhayaveda, mantrapatana
etc. And they spread over rive days, when the hill turns into mini Vaikunta.
'This lies in the Khammam town on the Khajipet and Vijayawada broad guage railway line. And being the headquarters town
of AT, it commands all transport facilities.
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