Sri Penchalakona Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Devasthanam is a revered temple located in the Penchalakona Valley of Nellore district, Andhra Pradesh. It is one of the Nava Narasimha Kshetras and holds ancient spiritual significance.
History and Legend
The temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who manifested here in a self-originated (Swayambhu) form depicted as two entwined stones representing a lion’s head on a human body in a meditative Yoga posture.
According to the Sthala Purana, after Lord Narasimha killed the demon Hiranyakashipu, his fury continued to rage. It was finally calmed when Goddess Lakshmi appeared as Chenchu Lakshmi, a tribal woman, and embraced him at this spot—“Penu Vesukonuta” in Telugu means “hugging,” and “Sila” means “rock,” giving the place and temple its name Penusila or Penchalakona.
It is also believed that Narasimha married Chenchu Lakshmi here, further enhancing the spiritual importance of this site.
The temple’s origins relate to ancient times with associations to Sage Kanva’s penance and contributions from dynasties like the Cholas, Pallavas, and Vijayanagara Empire.
Architecture and Features
The temple is nestled at the foot of a hill in a lush valley surrounded by natural beauty.
It includes a sacred water tank believed to have curative properties and mandapams (halls) for religious activities.
Smaller shrines within the complex honor deities like Hanuman, Venkateswara, and Durga, enriching its religious significance.
Festivals and Rituals
The temple celebrates an annual Brahmotsavam festival from Vishaka Shuddha Ekadashi for five days during April-May.
Devotees offer hair and fulfill vows as part of their worship.
The temple remains an important pilgrimage site for devotees from Nellore and neighboring regions, known for its serene spiritual ambiance and mythological heritage.
This concise overview is suitable for your website, covering the rich mythology, historical background, architectural elements, and religious practices of Sri Penchalakona Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Nellore.