Motupalli Veerabhadra Swamy Temple - Andhra Pradesh

Address

Motupalli Veerabhadra Swamy Temple – Andhra Pradesh

Motu Palli, Prakasam District

Andhra Pradesh 523184

Moolavar

Veerabhadra Swamy

Introduction

Veerabhadra Swamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Veerabhadra, fierce form of Lord Shiva located at Motupalli village in Prakasam District in Andhra Pradesh, India. The Temple is situated on the shores of Bay of Bengal.

Puranic Significance

The Kothanda Rama Swamy Temple in Motupalli was originally built during the Chola dynasty’s rule and underwent extensive renovations during the Kakatiya period.Motupalli, also known as Mohanagiripuram,played a significant role as a bustling port engaged in trade with South Asian countries, particularly during the medieval period. Archaeological excavations conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in Motupalli have uncovered various artifacts, including Chinese ceramics and copper coins from the Ming dynasty, as well as coins from the Chola era, bronze items, and pottery. The temple’s pillars and walls bear several inscriptions in Telugu, Tamil, and Sanskrit languages. These inscriptions, dating back to the reign of Ganapathi Deva (1199 – 1260 A.D), document tax exemptions for goods imported and exported through the port of Motupalli and the concessions granted to sea merchants during that time.

Special Features

The temple has earned the esteemed status of being recognized as a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). It is prominently oriented to the east. As you explore the temple, you’ll come across a Balipeedam, a Nandi Mandapa (housing the Nandi idol), and a Lingam, all of which face the Sanctum. Notably, there is no idol placed within the Sanctum itself. The Vimana (tower) above the Sanctum comprises three tiers, adding to the grandeur of the temple’s architecture. Additionally, you’ll find a four-pillared Mandapa situated to the left side of the Nandi Mandapa. The temple’s structural layout encompasses a Mukha Mandapa (front hall), Ardha Mandapa (semi-hall), Maha Mandapa (great hall), Antrala (vestibule), and the Sanctum.

References

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2021/05/veerabhadra-swamy-temple-motupalli-andhra-pradesh.html