Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple – A Spiritual Treasure in Simhachalam
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The Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha temple, also known as the Sinhachala or Simanchala, is a Hindu temple situated on the Simhachalam Hill Range in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
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Varaha Narasimha, who is worshiped there as Lord Vishnu, is dedicated to him.
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According to the temple's legend, Vishnu appeared in the form of a lion's head and human body after saving his devotee Prahlada from a murder attempt by the latter's father Hiranyakashipu.
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Throughout the year, the idol of Varaha Narasimha, except for Akshaya Tritiya, is covered with sandalwood paste, making it resemble a linga.
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Akthai Senapati, one of the chief commanders of Narasingha DevaI, was the temple architect.
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Narasimha temples in Andhra Pradesh, Simhachalam is one of the most important pilgrimage centers.
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The Simhachalam temple looks like a fortress from the outside, with three courtyards and five gateways.
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Near the temple is Swami Pushkarini, one of two temple tanks, with the other, Gangadhara, at the bottom of the hill.
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In terms of income earned, Simhachalam is the second-largest temple after Tirumala in Andhra Pradesh.
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The devotees believe that the deity has the power to give children to women and to fulfill the wishes of the devotees. There are two major festivals celebrated in the temple: Kalyanotsava and Chandanotsava.