Search Indian Maps, Pincodes, Local Info and more...
Andhra Pradesh Bhadrakali Temple
According to the sculptures available in the temple the anticipated period of construction of this grand temple is believed to be near 625 AD. King Pulakesi is believed to be the constructor of this temple. Evidence is available from the constructional pattern of this temple. During the reign of Kakatiyan dynasty, all the pillars constructed in various temples were of round shape but the square pillars used in this temple are of Chalukyan dynasty architecture style. This temple is presently located at a distance of 1.5 kilometers from Government polytechnic collage. This temple is the oldest one among all the Bhadrakali temples located in India. Inside the temple, a large idol of main deity, goddess Kaali is placed on a square shaped stone of 2.7 x 2.7 mtrs. The hands of deity are filled with the weapons and under her feet Shiva is lying. Conveyance of goddess, the Lion is placed near the idol. In this temple there is a Dhwaja Stambham (Flag Mast) and Balipeetham (Sacrifice base) is also placed but sacrifice practice has now been stopped. Idols of Lord Shiva, Hanuman, Shiva Lingam, and Lord Subramanya Swami etc are also carved and placed beautifully in this temple. A road was also extended upto the highway touching the temple for easy access. Many more temples are also located in the close vicinity of this temple premises.
Modern History of the Temple
Before 73 years, a Brahmin from Karnataka migrated to Warangal and established here permanently. He was Sri Ganapathy Sastri. Ganapathy Sastri was a true devotee of goddess Kaali. Sri Sastri saw the old and loose condition of the temple as after the Golkunda Nawab Shahi, no special attention was awarded to this temple. In British Rule also, the temple was ignored and lost its dignity and glory. Sri Sastri settled near this temple and with the help of some other enthusiastic and religious mindset people he took the responsibility of renovation of the temple. Shri Maganlal Sameja was the famous merchant of that era and helped a lot in renovation process. After all, in 1950 the renovation of temple was completed and regained its glory and dignity as earlier. Entrance gate and Gopuram was given special attention. After renovation, an old custom of animal sacrifice was also stopped in this temple. However in various Kaali mandirs in the country, the sacrifice system is still going on. The Shlokas were written on the tongue of Goddess Kali and her eyes were modified to a good looking face. This temple is unique in all the Kaali temples of India. A different look of Goddess Kaali is presented here though the internal nature of the goddess is remained same. Renovator of this temple Sri Ganapathy Sastri passed away on 11.11.11 at the age of 113.
Significance of the Temple
It is evident from the history that Kings of Kakatiyan dynasty had adopted another way of worshipping the gods and goddesses. They adopted Goddess Bhadrakali and established her as their Kul Devi. They also gave preference to Goddess Bhadrakali over other gods and goddesses. To add the beauty and peace, a lake was later added near this temple. The lake was constructed by an official of the Kakatiyan dynasty named Ganapathy Deva. Later in the reign of Tanishah, the Sultan of Golkunda, this temple regained its lost dignity owing to communal harmony of the king. Approach path to this temple was added to the temple and renovation work started at large scale. In three years, all the interiors and exteriors of the temple regained the elegance and dignity as was in earlier time.
Attractions
Bhadrakali Lake is the major point of attraction for visitors. Scenic and beautiful look of this lake provides another dimension to this temple. Drinking water is supplied from Mannar dam to the nearby areas of this temple through Kakatiya canal. From tourism department of Andhra Pradesh, Boating facilities have been provided in this lake to enhance tourism. Natural rocks are spread in surrounding areas are another attraction and from the rocks, beautiful sunset of Bhadrakali Lake is mesmerizing. Every evening a lot of tourists visit here to see this unforgettable scene.
Photo Gallery