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Divine Marvel: Hemachala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Mandir, home to world’s only Narasimha deity with soft human-like skin

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The Hemachala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Mandir in Mulugu, also known as the Mallur Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Mandir, is situated in Mallur village within Mulugu District, Telangana. Boasting a history spanning over 4000 years, the Mandir sits atop a mountain approximately 1500 feet high. To reach the divine murti, worshippers need to climb around 150 steps. Surrounded by lush greenery, the calm atmosphere of the hills draws both spiritual seekers and devotees, providing a peaceful place for meditation, prayer, and seeking Narasimha Swami’s blessings.

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The murti stands up to 10 feet tall, with a lotus-like body that feels as soft as human skin. Even a gentle touch with your finger can leave an impression on the deity, which quickly returns to its original shape when you remove your finger.

The dwajasthambham at the Mandir stands nearly 60 feet tall. Adjacent to the Mandir, there is a rock-formed Ugra Anjaneya Swamy Statue. Local villagers hold the belief that Anjaneya Swamy, present in the vicinity, acts as the guardian deity (Kshetrapalaka) for the fields surrounding the village. There is a continuous water flow near the temple, which is from the top of the hills. The Mandir was renovated during the Godavari Pushkarams in 2003. This Mandir is located approximately 90 km from Bhadrachalam.

The hillock was named Hemachala by the sage Agastya. People say that Ravana gifted this place to his sister, Shurpanaka. It is also believed to be the location where Bhagwan Ram defeated nearly 14,000 demons led by Khara and Dushana.

The mystery of the murti

The focal point of the Mandir is the murti of Bhagwan Narasimha, a remarkable marvel indeed. What distinguishes this murti is its remarkably soft texture, unlike any other. It is said that pressing the murti leaves an indent on his skin, and excessive pressure may even cause blood to ooze out. To prevent this bleeding, the priests constantly cover the murti with sandalwood paste. Legend has it that this murti is a ‘Swayambhu’, emerging mysteriously from the underground itself. The Mandir will be closed from 5.30 pm onwards as it is believed that Bhagwan Narasimha Swamy wanders around the Mandir and forest.

Pilgrimage to the Hemachala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Mandir

Devotees travel from distant places, seeking solace, peace, and divine blessings at this sacred Mandir. Its sanctity is revered for its ability to alleviate troubles, bring prosperity, and fulfil heartfelt desires.  It is also believed that Bhagwan Narasimha bestows his blessings on childless couples and blesses those who complete the hard climb of 150+ stairs.

Bhagwan Narasimha: The ferocious avatar of Bhagwan Vishnu

Bhagwan Narasimha is revered as the fourth form of Bhagwan Vishnu. Unlike the usual calm and composed appearance of Bhagwan Vishnu, Narasimha is known for his ferocious form. He appeared as a half-man, half-lion to save his devotee, Prahlada, from the evil Hiranyakashyap. Narasimha’s intervention in protecting Prahlada instilled faith and courage in devotees encountering difficulties in life.

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