The Pillalamarri Temple of Suryapet (Telangana state) is dated
back to almost 1000 years and is considered to be one
of the oldest ancient
temples in Nalgonda District of Telangana state. Dedicated to Lord Shiva,
it is located in
Pillalamarri village in the Suryapet town. Historically
significant as the gateway of Telangana, Suryapet town is located
on the
National Highway 9 between Hyderabad and Vijaywada. In addition to the
Pillalamarri temple, the village also
houses several other ancient temples
built during the Kakatiya period. This helps to enhance the historical and
religious value of the village.
Built on the banks of the Musi River, the temple belonged to the Kakatiya
era and stands testimony to the architectural
craftsmanship displayed by
the Kakatiya rulers. It houses beautifully carved pillars and walls where
each intricate
sculpture is poetry in stone. Beautiful paintings are also
found to adorn the walls of the temple. A grand and regal Nandi
bull is
seen gracing its portals. The detailing in the architecture is an
indication of the touch of excellence which the
craftsmen of the Kakatiya
period have been able to impart on Telangana art and culture.
The main sanctorum of the temple houses the idol of the main
deity Lord Chennakesavaswami. The idol is resplendent
in adornments
particularly during the annual celebrations in the months of February to
March. During this time, the
temple premises are filled with devotees who
come from far and near to offer their prayers to the Lord and seek his
blessings.
The Temple walls are replete with frescoes and inscriptions
which beautifully and elaborately describe the rule of the
Kakatiya kings.
Some of the relevant inscriptions include the stone inscription in Telegu
which dates back to S. 1130
(A.D 1208) which bears a reference to king
Ganapatideva. There can be seen yet another stone inscription of S.1117
(A.D 1195) which mentions the rule of Rudradeva. Both inscriptions are
available for tourists to view. In addition to the
presence of valuable
inscriptions, the historical significance of the place has significantly
increased by the discovery of coins within the temple premises. These have
helped historians to salvage a lot about the
life and times of the great
Kakatiya rulers
In addition to the historical and aesthetic value the
village imparts, it is also a culturally significant area. This is the
birthplace of the famous Telegu poet Pillamarri Pina Virabhadrudu.
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