Nagalapuram Veda Narayanaswami Temple – Matsya Avatara Temple in Andhra Pradesh

Nagalapuram Sri Veda Narayanaswami temple is a temple dedicated to the fish incarnation or Matsya avatar of Lord Vishnu. Nagalapuram temple is located approximately at a distance of 70 km to Tirupati in Chittoor district in Andhra Pradesh. The legend says Lord Matsya killed the demon Somaka or Somakudu here to retrieve the Vedas from him. Lord Vishnu is consecrated in Veda Narayana swamy temple with his divine consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi.

The temple was constructed by the legendary king of Vijayanagara Empire Sri Krishna Devaraya. It is a wonderful typical South Indian model temple to display the architectural and cultural values during their times.

The most significant aspect of Nagalapuram Vedanarayana swami temple is – the idol of Matsya holds the Sudarshana Chakra (the divine discum of Vishnu) in prayoga sthithi (stage of releasing).

The most important festivals celebrated in Veda Narayanaswamy temple are – Veda Narayanaswamy Brahmotsavam, and Surya Puja. Teppotsavam or the float festival is another colourful temple festival. Surya Puja and Teppotsavam are held on Shukla Dwadashi, Trayodashi, and Chaturdashi during Phalguna masam (February – March). During these three days, sunrays fall on the presiding deity of the temple. On Phalguna Dwadashi sunrays fall on the feet of the idol, on chest during Phalguna Trayodasi, and on forehead during Phalguna Chaturdasi day. It displays the worship to the Lord by Surya Bhagavan.

Nagalapuram Veda Narayanaswamy temple Brahmotsavam is held during Jyeshta month (May – June). Matsya Jayanti and Matsya Dwadashi are also celebrated with fervor in Nagalapuram temple.