Kadiri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple: History, Legend, Timings & Brahmotsavam

Kadiri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, located in the southeastern part of Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh, is among the oldest and most revered temples in the state. The presiding deity, Lord Narasimha Swamy, is worshipped here as Swayambhu — believed to have self-manifested from the roots of a Khadri tree. The Moolavirat depicts Ashta Bahu Narasimha (the eight-armed form) tearing apart Hiranyakashipu, with Prahlada standing beside him, hands folded in devotion.

A distinctive feature of the temple is that after the daily Abhishekam, devotees and archakas describe the deity as appearing to sweat, even though it is repeatedly wiped clean — a phenomenon that draws considerable devotion and curiosity among pilgrims.

Origin of the Name Kadiri

Kadiri is derived from the Sanskrit word Khadri, meaning canary wood or Indian mulberry (Morinda citrifolia). The town takes its name from the legend of Lord Narasimha Swamy emerging from a Khadri tree to protect his devotee Prahlada — the very legend that gives the temple, and the town, its identity as a pilgrimage site.

Legend of Kadiri Narasimha Swamy

According to legend, after slaying Hiranyakashipu, Lord Narasimha Swamy’s rage did not subside, and he roamed the forests in fury. Prahlada, along with the Devas, prayed to the Lord to calm his anger, and it was here, at Kadiri, that Narasimha Swamy was finally pacified. For this reason, the temple is also known as Prahalada Sametha Narasimha Swamy Temple. It is believed the Lord resided at the roots of the Chanda Vruksha (Kadiri tree) at this spot. The legend is traditionally dated to the Thretha Yuga.

The Lord is also worshipped under the names Vasantha Vallabhudu or Vasantha Madhavulu, a practice associated with worship performed during the spring season.

Nearby Teerthas and Places of Interest

Several sacred teerthas associated with the Kadiri legend are located near the temple:

• Bhrugu Teertham
• Draupadi Teertham
• Kunthi Teertham
• Pandava Teertham
• Vyasa Teertham

Also Read: Kondagattu Hanuman Temple Timings, Road

The temple of the renowned poet Sri Yogi Vemana, at Katarupalle, is located about 15 km from Kadiri town and is a popular stop for visitors.

Kadiri Brahmotsavam

Brahmotsavam is the temple’s major annual festival, celebrated over 15 days, commencing from Phalguna Suddha Navami. During this period, the utsava murthulu of Vasanthavallabha along with Sridevi and Bhoodevi are specially decorated and taken in procession on different vahanams through the streets of Kadiri town.

Brahmotsavam Vahana Seva schedule:

Brahmotsavam special hours: 6:30 AM to 7:30 AM, and 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Kadiri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple Daily Timings

General darshan hours: 5:30 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:45 PM (temple closed 1:00 PM–4:30 PM)

Best Time to Visit

The monsoon season is considered the best time to visit Kadiri temple.

Notable Visit

Telugu actor and politician Pawan Kalyan visited Kadiri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple on the second day of his political tour to Anantapur, where he performed special poojas and received blessings and prasadam from the temple priests.

Kadiri Temple Accommodation

Accommodation is available on the temple premises, managed by the temple administration, with both AC and non-AC rooms offering the required amenities. Room tariffs generally start from ₹100. Since rooms are limited, advance booking is recommended.

For room booking and other facilities, contact: +91-8494-221066 / +91-94413-66377

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