Sri Mahanandeeswara Swamy Temples - Mahanandi

                                                        Sri Mahanandeeswara Swamy


Mahanadi Temple is the abode of Sri Mahanandeeswara Swamy(Lord Shiva) and Goddess Sri Kameswari Devi. Lord Mahanandeeswara, the presiding deity of the temple is in the form of Shiva Lingam which is believed as SWAYAMBU Linga. This holy temple is situated in Mahanandi village in the east of the Nallamala Hills.

Located to the east of Nallamala Hills, Mahanandi is a picturesque village surrounded by thick forest. Within 15 km radius from Mahanandi, there are nine Nandis (Bulls) known as Nava Nandis. Mahanandi is famous for the Mahanandiswara Temple and foremost shrines of Nava Nandis. The nine Nandi temples are Mahanandi, Shivanandi, Vinayakanandi, Somanandi, Prathamanandi, Garudanandi, Suryanandi, Krishnanandi and Naganandi.
The 7th century Mahanandiswara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is very famous and sacred place. Though the initial structure was built by Chalukyas in 7th century, several additions were done in 10th and 15th centuries. The gopuram over central sanctum is built in Badami Chalukyan style of architecture and other structures in the temple are in Vijayanagara style. According to the legend, the local kings known as Nandas ruled here in the 10th century AD and they built a number of temples and worshipped their ancestral deity the Nandi, hence the name Mahanandi.
The remarkable feature here is the crystal clear water in Pushkarini which flows throughout the year. The water is so clear and pure that even a needle at the bottom can be seen clearly. There are nearly three pools in Mahanandi Temple. Two pools lie outside the temple. The third pool which lies within temple premises has uninterrupted water flow which originates from the basement of Garbha Gruha where main deity (Shiva Ling) is placed. This 60 square feet tank has a Mandapam at its middle and the inlet and outlets of tank are built in such away, the water level always remains at five feet high. Thus devotees can have a dip in this holy tank. Here devotees are allowed to offer prayers to Shiva Ling and touch the water underneath the Lingam in the main Sanctum Sanctorum. There is a huge Nandi statue outside the Mahanandiswara Temple.

Legend of Sri Mahanandeeswara Swamy:-

A legend says that milk for ablution was being transported daily to the temple and specifically, the milk of a black colored cow was sent to the king. The cow was allowed to graze in the forest. But it was noticed that the black cow was giving less milk. Finally, a cowherd found out that after grazing the cow allowed her milk to flow freely on an anthill. From this mound, a young child emerged who was Lord Krishna.
The next morning, the king followed the cow and hid behind the bush to catch a glimpse of the Lord. The cow circled the anthill. Suddenly Lord Krishna appeared and accepted the offering of the cow. The king moved forward but scared the cow who accidentally stepped on the anthill in fear. The child vanished but the imprint of the cow’s hoof remained on the anthill. The king prayed for forgiveness. The Lord appeared and said that the anthill would dry up and would become a Swayambhu Lingam. The prints of the cow’s hoofs are still visible on top of the Lingam.

Mahanandi Temple History:-

India is an abode of Maharshis with their tapas and teachings. The ancient rishis selected the kshetras or thirthas which are the divine places for meditation (tapas).
Kshethra and thirtha are having separate meanings in their value. Kshethra is sacred with the statue or murthy (Deva or Devatha) and the Thirtha is sacred with water (Thirtha) which flows through that place.
But this place Mahanandi is sacred and powerful both with the Murthy and the Thirtha (Water).
This is situated in Kurnool District within the distance of 15 Kms from Nandyal Town in Andhra Pradesh. This is one of the Kshethras in the Southern doors of Srisailam.
Once there lived a Rishi in the Nallamala forest named “SILADA”. He built a small cottage and lived in it with his wife. He was always interested in Dhyana or Tapas. He was eating Silas (stones) as his usual food. So he was named ‘Silada’. He had no children. So his wife requested him for children. He wanted to fulfil her request and so meditated on Sarveswara for a long time. Sankara stayed there in the disguise of a hole. Silada knowing about it, felt very happy.
After some days Paramasiva appeared before him and asked him what boon he wanted. Silada forgetting his wife’s desire. Requested Paramasiva to allow him to serve him forever. But the Omni Scient (Sarvajana) knew that he had forgetten his wife’s desire so He wanted to fulfil that one also. So he told him that he would fulfil the desires of both (Couple). He blessed the Rishi and disappeared.
Immediately a male child appeared in the hole or cave. He gave the boy to his wife. Both of them felt extremely happy (joy). So they named him “Mahananda”. Day by day the child was growing up. Gradually he received a good education including the spiritual education from Gurus after Upanayana (Initiation rite among Hindus). He asked his parents to allow him to do Tapas about Siva. They felt very happy and blessed him.

Mahananda meditated deeply upon Siva. In a short time Parameswara appeared before him with his pariwar (Attendants). The boy did Pranams to Siva in joy and praised him in many hymns.
Parameswara was pleased and ready to give him boon. The boy requested siva to allow him to be his Vahana (Vehicle). Parameswara agreed to it and fulfilled his desire. Pointing out the hole, Siva told him. “My dear son! Once I was born in this hole. The place will soon be changed into a powerful and holy river which flows forever. This holy place will become a sacred and famous Kshethra on your name. it is true.”
Saying those words Parameswara transformed him as his Vahana (bull) and went to Kailasagiri. In that place the hole can be seen now in ‘Mahanandi Kshethra’, the most sacred and powerful place.
Once Nanda King, the son of Uttungabhoja of Pandava Race ruled this place residing at Nandyal town. There is a village named Gopavaram (then named Gopitavaram). A Shepherd had a herd of cows. The cows used to graze in the forest everyday. One of the cows in the cattle used to enter into a bush and ooze (discharge slowly) the milk from her udder on the grass and return home with its empty udder everyday. The shepherd wanted to know the reason and followed the cow carefully on the next day. The cow entered into the bush as usual. The shephards were observing its movements hiding behind the bush. The cow stood on the grass which covered the hole (ant’s nest). A child came out of the hole and drank the milk of the cow. The cow returned and came home with cattle.
The shephards were talking about the event here and there. The spies heard the matter and told the same to the king. The king felt very happy and decided to see the situation. The next day he went to the forest on a horse back only with a servant.
He followed the cattle of the cows observing the movements with special attention. The cow entered into the bush, stood on the hole and oozed (discharged-slowly) the milk from her udder. The king wanted to see the same clearly and walked towards the cow slowly. The cow was frightened and ran away. Its hoof was sunk in the hole while running in a hurry. The child was vanished. The king went home with a great surprise.
In the night he felt a dream. Parameswara appeared before him and told him in the dream. "I my self drank the milk from the hole. Construct a temple there. I would stay in the places called Navanandis (Navanandulu) within a circle of 80 Kms. Ganga Devi also would serve me with her brightness. Your glory will be eternal."
On the next day the king went to the hole. It was turned into Rock Pallus (Symbolie of Siva). He was very surprised and saw the Siva Linga deeply. It was clear that the hoof of the cow was sunk in the hole. The same can be seen even now.
The king constructed a temple there. He dug a pond in its opposite direction. Within a short time it became the endless flow with clear water. He named it Rudra Gunda. He also dug two ponds in both northern and eastern sides. There was plenty of water. He wanted that they must be famous on the names of thrimurthis. So he named the ponds Brahma Gunda and Vishnu Gunda. Even now we can find the water within the depth of 2 feet whenever we want in this place. The ponds are full of water in all the seasons and the water is supplied for 2000 acres for fertile lands even for plantation crop.
He named the place “Mahanandi” as it was the first and great Kshethra among Navanandis (Navanandulu).

Architecture of Mahanandi Temple :-

 The temple is at the foothill where a mineral spring flows into the fields from underneath the Linga, into the tank in front of the temple. The temple is surrounded by mandapas on all sides. The Vimana over the sanctum is in Nagara Style Architecture. It has a Shikara at the top. The architectural peculiarities show that the temple dates back to ancient times and it was repaired and rebuilt through the ages by many kings. This temple is famous for its curative powers found in the warm tepid mineral water found in the tank in front of the temple. It is a sixty feet square with a mandapa in the centre. The inlets and outlets of the tank are so arranged that the depth of the water remains constant at five feet for the devotees to swim in. The source of this water has never been traced. The water is said to come from five springs called Srisailadhara, Narasimhadhara, Daivodhinidhara, Nanditirtha and Kailasatirtha. There are two pools of fresh water as well, known as Pushkarni or Kalyani.
 The sanctum contains a Linga and is made from rough uncut rocks, with two sockets. Here the Linga is seen just above the earth's surface without the three Peethams underneath. A huge Nandi is at the front of the shrine and hence it is called Mahanandi Tirtha. The tank that lies behind is known as Rudra Gundam and there are two more tanks called Vishnu Gundam and Brahma Gundam. Close to the main shrine is another shrine dedicated to the Goddess. The Srichakra, in front of the deity, is said to have been installed by Adisankara himself. The Mukha Mandapa of the goddess is a recent construction.
 Behind the main shrine, there are three small shrines, each consisting of a Shiva Lingam. It is stated that if these are worshipped, they will take an individual beyond the Sthoola, Sookshma and Karana Dehas to the Turiya stage.

Mahanandishwara Temple:-

Thimmapuram village, well-known as Mahanandi village and is home to the famous 1500 year's old Mahanandishwara Temple. Mahanandi is situated at about 20kms from Nandyal in Kurnool District of Andhra Pradesh. Mahanandi is a beautiful temple town and the existence of the famous Mahanandishwara Temple, with presiding deity of Lord Siva, makes this place religiously significant. This temple town is located at the east of Nallamala Hill ranges with nine temples of Nandi (Nandi- bull which is considered as the vehicle of Lord Siva) situated within a range of 15kms of radius.
Mahanandi is one of the nine Nandis, surrounding which there are eight temple of Nandis. They are: Prathama Nandi situated near the Nandyal railway station, Naga Nandi is inside Anjaneya temple to the west of Nandyal, Soma Nandi which lies towards the east of Nandyal near Atmakur, Surya Nandi is located four miles east of Nandyal and six miles west of Mahanandi, Vishnu Nandi also known as Krishna Nandi is located about two miles from Mahanandi, Vinayaka Nandi is situated towards northwest of the main temple, Shiva Nandi is nearly 13kms from Nandyal and Garuda Nandi lies to the west of Mahanandi temple. All the nine temples of Nandiswara are equally sacred but of all these temples, Mahanandi receives more name and fame.

After having a darshan, the pilgrims purchase winnowing baskets, bamboo sticks, plastic toys, vermillion, turmeric, sweets and snacks in the local market. On reaching their native places, they perform puja on successful completion of pilgrimage. Later, they distribute the material brought from Mahanandi to their sisters and daughters.

It is a strong belief among Kannadigas that the distribution of winnowing baskets, bamboo sticks and other material to their sisters ensures the well-being of their families and brings all-round prosperity. The age old tradition continues without any hindrance. The number of Kannadigas visiting the shrine is on the rise over the years.

Mahanandi Temple Pools:-

The temple is famous for its fresh water pools, called Kalyani or Pushkarni. The architecture of the pools and temple shows the skill of the Vishwakarma Brahmins.
The main temple is surrounded by three pools: two small pools at the entrance and one big pool inside the temple itself. This holy tank is 60 square feet (5.6 m2) with an outdoor pavilion called a mandapa in the centre. The inlets and outlets of the tank are arranged so that the depth of the water is constantly kept at five feet, thus enabling pilgrims to bathe in the holy waters.
The water is famous for its crystalline and healing qualities and is ever tepid. The outgoing water irrigates 2,000 acres (8.1 km2) of fertile land surrounding the village. The surrounding areas are under production with rice fields, fruit, vegetable and flower gardens.
Significance of Mahanandi Temple
The Mahanandi temple is famous for its pools and attracts visitors every year. The architecture of the temple, as well as the pools, reflects the dexterity of the ‘Vishwakarma Brahmins.’
Apart from this, the main temple is enclosed by three pools, one big pool inside the temple itself and two small pools at the entrance. The holy tank is 60 square feet with an outdoor exhibition area known as ‘Mandapa’ in the center. The bay and exit of the tank are organized in such a way that the depth of water does not exceed facilitating the pilgrims to dip in the holy pools. The water source is also unique as it has continuous flow regardless of the change of seasons and the water source initiates at the ‘Garbhagruha’ which is placed below the Swayambhu Linga. The devotees are also able to touch the water near the Shiva Linga.

Rudragundam:-

 One of the remarkable features of the Mahanadishwara temple is the crystal clear water, which flows through out the year from the perennial springs. It is flushed out continuously from the Pushkarani through two exits. The Pushkarani is constructed to maintain 5ft of flowing water inside it, which facilitates a secured holy both, after which pilgrims can pay their obeisance to the Almighty. It is believed that by taking holy bath in this 'Pushkarani' all the sins of pilgrims are gone.

Sri Kamaeswari Devi Temple:-

 Sri Kameshwari Devi is wife of Lord Mahanadeeshwara, and the temple of Sri Kameshwari Devi is situated south of Nandeeshwara temple. Pilgrims after finishing the holy bath at 'Rudragundam' can have the blessings of Lord Shiva and Kameswari Devi. It is believed that 'Devashilpi' (architects of 'Devas') constructed the temple of Lord Shiva.
 King Nandana and his ancestors performed Pujas to Lord Shiva. Sri Kameswari Devi Alayam was reconstructed in 1939. Also present in the premises is marble carved Sri Kodanda Ramalayam built in 1953. The temple has Sri Rama, Sita, Lashkmana Idols, whose beauty seems to increase when watched. One never gets satisfied, even of watching these Idols for long time.

Nava Nandis in Mahanandi:-

1.Prathama Nandi:-

 This Nandi is situated upon a high soil base very nearer to Nandyal railway station.

2.Naga Nandi:-

 Naga Nandi is inside Anjaneya temple, which is located very near the Nandyal bus stand.

3.Soma Nandi:-

 Soma Nandi is towards east of Nandyal(almost inside nandyal town), very near the upcoming jagajanani temple.

4.Surya Nandi:-

 Surya Nandi is located on the road to Mahanandi. After about 4 miles from Nandyal look out for a sign called U.Bollavaram village and take the immediate right (identified by a arch erected on two large metal poles) and go for a kilometer to reach this temple.

5.Shiva Nandi:-

 Approximately 13 km away from Nandyal on the road to Mahanandi look out for Thimmavaram village and take a left after this. The small road is also a bus route and twists and turns to lead you to Shiva Nandi. A beautiful, but neglected temple constructed on the Chalukya Architecture lines. Kadamala Kaluva(canal)is a landmark. the temple is in Kadamala village.

6.Vishnu(Krishna) Nandi:-

 located on the road to Mahanandi, 2 miles before Mahanandi, take a left just adjacent to the Telugu ganga scheme canal and follow on the banks for about 4 Kms of rugged mud road to reach this beautifully serene temple. (proceeding further ahead and taking a left, ask for directions, one can reach Shiva nandi temple also).

7.Garuda Nandi:-

 When you go from Nandyal it is located just before the Mahanandi Temple after you cross the Big Nandi Statue.

8.Mahanandi Temple:-

 beautiful temple with natural springs(pushkarini) where one should have a holy dip before entering the temple, but it is suggested to avoid holidays and festival days as the crowd is too much.

9.Vinayaka Nandi:-

 Vinayaka Nandi is situated towards northwest of Mahanandi Temple. It is a small temple located to left of the exit Gopuram as you come out.

Mahanandi Temple Timings:-

•Temple opening timings everyday : 5:30 am – 9:00 pm
•Mangala Vadhyamulu : 4:45 am
•Suprabhatam : 5:00 am
•Swamy Vari Sthanika Abhishekam : 5:30 am
•Mahamangala Harathi : 6:00 am
•Abhishekam Swamy Variki : 6:30 am – 12:30 pm
•Laghunyasa Abhishekam : 6:30 am to 12:30 pm and 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm
•Mahanyasa Purvaka Ekadasa Rudrabhishekam : 6:30 am to 12:30 pm and 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm

Where to Stay Mahanandi:-

Devasthanam choultries available at Mahanandi. Decent lodges are there in Nandyal town.

Best Season:-

All seasons particulary Kartheeka masam (Nov to Dec).

Festivals celebrated at Mahanandi Temple:-

The festival of Maha Sivrathri is one of the most popular events where numerous devotees gather to pay homage and worship Lord Shiva. The festival is celebrated for seven long days initiating from ‘Maha Bhula Chaturdasi’ which is the 14th day after full moon in February- March. Around 20,000 devotees from different parts of the country, specifically from Andhra Pradesh, Mysore and Maharashtra visit the temple on an everyday basis. Pilgrims here have the propensity to worship ‘Mallikarjunaswamy’ and then a definite order to visit the other Nandi temples are followed.
Apart  from the Maha Sivarathri, some other remarkable festivals celebrated are:
•Ugadi: March / April
•Vaikunta Ekadasi: December/ January
•Kartika Poornima: November/ December
•Vijayadashami: October.

Nearby Attractions from Mahanandi:-

1. Ahobilam [62.7 km via Allagadda - Ahobilam Rd]

2. Yaganti [65.4 km via Nandyal-Banganapalle]

3. Alampur [115 km]

4. Belum Caves [88.3 km via Nandyal-Banganapalle]

How to Reach Mahanandi:-

Pilgrims can easily reach Mahanandi temple from Nandyal city in Kurnool district by bus and train routes.

By Air:-

The nearest airport is present at Hyderabad.

By Rail:-

Gajulapalli Railway Station (Station Code : GZL) is very close to Mahanandi temple. But, most of the trains don't halt there. Distance from Gajulapalli Railway Station to Mahanandi is roughly 6 km according to Google Maps.

The next nearest Railway station is present at Nandyal Junction (NDL - 19km).

By Bus:-

APSRTC provide good bus facility to Mahanandi temple. If you are coming from Hyderabad, after reaching Nandyal, don't take the Tirupati highway [bypass road]. Instead, enter the city and take right at the big x roads and follow the road leading all the way to Mahanandi temple.