History

According to the Brahmanda Purana, Ahobilam is the Avatara Sthala (place of incarnation) of Lord Narasimha, marking the site where he appeared to vanquish the demon Hiranyakashipu. This location, believed to be the demon's palace, still retains relics and ruins from that era. Ahobilam is also mentioned as one of the 108 Sri Vaishnava Divya Desams, with significant contributions from various dynasties like the Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Reddys, and Vijayanagara Rayas. The Chalukya kings Jagadeka Malla, Bhuvaneka Malla, and Tribhuvana Malla played pivotal roles in the temple's history, as did the Vijayanagara rulers like Harihara Maharaya and Sri Krishna Deva Maharaya, who made substantial donations and constructions. The British period saw continued support, notably from Col. Munro, who ensured financial backing for the temple.

Lore

The lore of Ahobilam is steeped in divine miracles and epic tales. Lord Vishnu, in his Narasimha form (half-man, half-lion), emerged from a pillar to save his devotee Prahlada and destroy the demon Hiranyakashipu. The site where Narasimha appeared is marked by the Ugra Sthambha, a pillar base accessible after a steep climb. Legend has it that the mountain split into two when Narasimha emerged, creating a deep gorge between the hills.

After slaying Hiranyakashipu, Narasimha roamed the Nallamala forest in his Ugra (angry) form. The devas, worried about his fierce demeanor, prayed to Goddess Lakshmi, who incarnated as Chenchu Lakshmi, a tribal girl. She pacified Narasimha, eventually marrying him after subjecting him to numerous tests.

Ahobilam is also linked to various forms of Narasimha worshiped by the nine planets (Navagrahas) to attain relief from curses and demonic influences. The nine temples (Nava Narasimha) are Bhargava Narasimha, Yogananda Narasimha, Chatravata Narasimha, Ahobila (Ugra) Narasimha, Kroda Narasimha, Malola Narasimha, Jwala Narasimha, Pavana Narasimha, and Karanja Narasimha, each with its own unique legend and significance. Devotees believe that worshiping these forms can bring prosperity, dispel sins, and ensure success in various endeavors.

The Nallamala hills themselves are considered personified as Adisesha, with Ahobilam at the middle segment. The region is a hub of spiritual activity, attracting pilgrims who partake in rituals and festivals, such as the annual Phalguna Brahmotsavas and monthly celebrations on the Swathi star day. The hereditary powers of the temple rest with the Pontiff HH Azhagiyasingar of Ahobila Mutt, who continues to uphold the temple's traditions and spiritual heritage.

Ahobilam's rich tapestry of architecture, history, and lore makes it a vital center for devotion, pilgrimage, and the preservation of ancient Hindu traditions.

Architecture

Ahobilam, located in the Nallamala Hills of Andhra Pradesh, is a renowned pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Narasimha. The temple complex features a unique blend of Dravidian and Vijayanagara architectural styles, with intricate carvings, majestic gopurams (towers), and beautifully sculpted pillars. Ahobilam consists of nine shrines, collectively known as Nava Narasimha, each dedicated to different forms of Lord Narasimha. These shrines are dispersed throughout the hills, with some nestled in caves and others accessible only by arduous treks. The main temple at Lower Ahobilam, believed to have been installed by Lord Venkateswara himself, stands as a testament to ancient architectural prowess and devotion.