As many of you know Andhra Pradesh is famous for many ancient temples. Today in this article you will get to know about one such temple located in Kurnool district. Yaganti Temple is none other than YAGANTI UMA MAHESHWARA SWAMY TEMPLE which is dedicated to Lord Mahadev. One can find the combined idols of both Shiva and goddess Parvati.
Yaganti Temple – Uma Maheshwara Swamy Temple
According to mythology, sage Agastya built a temple for lord Balaji according to vaishnava sampradayam. But still at the last moment of idol installation they found the toenail of the idol was broken and it is not suitable for worship. Agastya was very upset and started to pray to lord Shiva. Mahadev appeared before him and told him that the place is meant for Shiva aradhana as it resembles more of kailash.
When Agastya requested Shiva to grant him a combined idol of Shiva and goddess Parvati, his wish was granted. That’s how the story goes. It is a combination of vaishnava and shiva communities.
Yaganti Temple History
Yaganti temple is one of the ancient temples which was built in the 5th century. Kings of Chola and Pallava Dynasty contributed for the welfare of this temple. Later king of Vijayanagar krishnadevaraya rebuilt and completed most of the temple surroundings.
Many of us who believe in Kalagnanam which was written by Sri Veera Brahmendra swamy is said to be encrypted in this place.
Significance of Yaganti Temple
The temple showcases the deity of lord Shiva and goddess Parvati as said before. But there is another significance of Nandi vigraham which is opposite to the main idol. The size of the Nandi is said to be increasing day by day as according to the locals it was much smaller years ago. It is also believed that the Nandi at the end of kaliyuga will come alive and roar which will end the era.
The Pushkarini which can be seen at the temple entrance has water coming from the mouth of the Nandi and can be witnessed throughout the year. One who dips into this water will be free from all his sins is what the devotees believe.
Caves of Yaganti Temple
As mentioned earlier the temple is built according to vaishnava sampradayam and has different caves one of which is said to be named after Agastya performed penance regarding Shiva. The devotees also believe that no crow enters the premises of Yaganti temple as it was the curse given to crows by Agastya muni as they were disturbing him during his penance. The crow is said to be Shani Deva vahanam and hence one who has Shani dosham will be freed once they enter this temple.
Devotees can also find the broken idol of lord Venkateswara swamy and this one is said to be carved way before tirumala Venkateswara idol. There is this cave where Sri Veera Brahmendra swamy stayed while encrypting kalagnanam.
Festivals Celebrated at Yaganti Uma Maheshwara Temple
As the temple is dedicated to lord Shiva, Maha Shiva ratri is the main festival celebrated here. Along with maha shivatratri, navaratri for goddess Parvati are also part of the celebrations.
Yaganti Temple Timings
The temple is open from morning 6:00AM to 1:00PM in the afternoon. Later from 3:00 PM to 8:00PM at night.
HOW TO REACH YAGANTI UMA MAHESWARA TEMPLE
BY ROAD : Buses are available from all the major cities in Andhra Pradesh to Kurnool and Nandyala. From there to Yaganti temple can be reached by autos or cabs.
BY TRAIN : The nearest railway station is Kurnool and Dhone from where one can take autos or cabs to the temple.
BY AIRWAYS: The nearest airport is in Kurnool. For those who are traveling from other states can choose Hyderabad airport and from there to Yaganti temple.
CONCLUSION
As the yaganti uma maheswara temple has many significance, devotees from all over the country come to visit this place. Hope this article helps you in exploring and experiencing the divine atmosphere of Yaganti temple. Do let us know your queries in the comment section below.