Maddileti Kshetram: A Hidden Gem of Andhra’s Spiritual Heritage

 Temple Location

• Address: Maddileru, RS Rangapuram, near Betamcherla,
  District: Nandyal (formerly part of Kurnool),
  State: Andhra Pradesh, PIN: 518598

Deities

Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy

• An incarnation of Lord Vishnu in his fierce Narasimha form (half-lion, half-man).
• The deity is believed to be self-manifested (Swayambhu), emerging from an anthill near the Maddileru canal.
• He is worshipped here in association with Sri Devi (Lakshmi) and Bhu Devi, especially during the grand Mukkoti Ekadashi Kalyanam.

Associated Deities

While the temple is centered around Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy, the legend also involves:

• Sri Uma Maheswara Swamy (Shiva), who guided Narasimha Swamy to this sacred location during his journey from Kadiri.
• Sri Devi and Bhu Devi, consorts of Lord Vishnu, are honored during the celestial wedding festival.

Legend & History

• The temple is associated with a fascinating legend involving Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy, who left Kadiri after a playful dispute with Goddess Lakshmi.
• During his journey through the Erramala Hills, he met Sri Uma Maheswara Swamy at Yaganti, who guided him to settle near the Maddileru canal.
• A local king, Kanappa Dora, once saw a glowing monitor lizard during a hunt. When it vanished into an anthill, the Lord appeared in his dream revealing that it was He in disguise.
• Upon performing rituals with Vedic scholars, the Lord emerged from the anthill as a 10-year-old boy, blessed the devotees, and disappeared.

Cultural Significance

• Devotees often name their children after the deity—names like Maddayya, Maddileti, Maddamma, Madhukiran are common in the region.
• The temple is deeply rooted in local folklore and devotion, making it a cherished pilgrimage site.

Architectural Features

Rajagopuram (Main Tower)

• The temple boasts a five-tiered Rajagopuram, a classic feature of Dravidian architecture.
• It is ornately sculpted and serves as the grand entrance, symbolizing the gateway to the divine realm.

Dwaja Stambham (Flagstaff)

• A Dwaja Stambham (sacred flagpole) stands prominently in front of the Garbha Griha (sanctum sanctorum).
• It is traditionally used during festivals and rituals to hoist flags symbolizing the presence of the deity.

Garbha Griha (Sanctum)

• The sanctum houses the Swayambhu (self-manifested) idol of Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy.
• The deity is believed to have emerged from an anthill, and the sanctum retains a natural and sacred ambiance.

Festivals

• Every Saturday: Considered highly auspicious; large gatherings for darshan and pooja
• Swathi Nakshatram Days: Special rituals for Lord Narasimha
• Karthika Masam & Dhanurmasam: Deepa offerings and early morning poojas
• Ekadashi Days: Observed with fasting and special prayers

Beliefs

Devotees believe that prayers at this temple fulfill wishes, especially when offered with sincerity on Fridays and Saturdays.

Many visit the temple after their vows are fulfilled, bringing family and friends as a gesture of gratitude.

The temple is also believed to offer protection from evil forces, mental peace, and spiritual upliftment.

Getting Here

By Road

From Kurnool, the temple is about 74–85 km away. You can take a direct bus from the Kurnool bus station to RS Rangapuram or Betamcherla. From there, local autos or shared jeeps are available to the temple.

From Nandyal, the temple is around 59 km away. Buses and private vehicles frequently travel toward Betamcherla and RS Rangapuram.

From Yaganti, which is just 13 km away, you can find frequent buses or autos to the temple. This is a popular route for pilgrims visiting both Yaganti and Maddileti temples on the same trip.

By Train

The nearest railway station is RS Rangapuram, which lies on the Nandyal–Dhone railway line. You can reach this station from Nandyal or Kurnool and then take local transport to the temple.

By Air

The nearest major airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, about 280–300 km away. From there, you can travel to Kurnool or Nandyal by train or bus and continue your journey to the temple.

Tips

Best Days to Visit: Fridays, Saturdays, and Swathi Nakshatram days are considered highly auspicious.

Festival Time: The temple is most vibrant during Mukkoti Ekadashi Brahmotsavam (May–July). Expect large crowds and plan accordingly.

Darshan Duration: On regular days, darshan usually takes 15–20 minutes. During festivals, it may take longer.

Men: Dhoti, kurta, or formal shirt and trousers are preferred.

Women: Saree, half-saree, or salwar kameez with dupatta is recommended.

Accommodation: The temple offers 150 rooms for pilgrims, built with donor support.

Best Season to Visit: September to February (cooler weather); avoid peak summer months (April–June) when temperatures can reach 45°C.