Gorantla Madavaraya Temple, Andhra Pradesh

Address

Gorantla Madavaraya Temple, Andhra Pradesh

Gorantla, Anantapur district,

Andhra Pradesh 515231

Moolavar

Lord Vishnu

Introduction

Madavaraya Temple is e dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located at Gorantla Town in Anantapur district in Andhra Pradesh, India. The temple is situated on the banks of Chitravathi River. The temple is situated on Hindupur to Kadiri route.

Puranic Significance

The temple was built by King Narasimha of the Saluva dynasty of the Vijayanagara Empire in 1354 A.D.

Special Features

The temple is oriented towards the east and features an unfinished Rajagopuram (entrance tower). Immediately after the Rajagopuram, on the left side, there is a substantial stepped well.

The Sanctum Sanctorum comprises the Sanctum, Antrala (vestibule), Maha Mandapa (grand hall), and a pillared Mukha Mandapa (front hall). The pillars of the Mukha Mandapa are adorned with intricate sculptures depicting various mythological animals, celestial beings, scenes from the Dasavathara (the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu), episodes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata epics, and stories from the Puranas (ancient Indian texts). Notably, the central pillars of the Mukha Mandapa feature sculptures of Yali, which are mythical lion-like creatures.

Within the Sanctum, there is an idol of Madavaraya, presumably a significant deity revered in the temple. This temple’s architectural and sculptural elements showcase the rich heritage and artistic traditions of the region.

References

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2021/05/madavaraya-temple-gorantla-andhra-pradesh.html