Dharmapuri – Lord Sri Lakshmi Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple – Bramhotsav

Dharmapuri is the ancient pilgrimage where Lord Sri Yoga Narasimha Swamy is consecrated with his consort Goddess Lakshmi.

In this temple, Lord Narasimha incarnated in Yoga Mudra (posture of meditation).

 Dakshinabhi mukhi Ganga
  Yatra devo nrukesari!
   Thatra Shrirvijayo bhooti
Kashyaath shata gunam bhaveth!!

Wherever the river Godavari flows towards south side and Lord Narasimha consecrated, there success and wealth will settle well hundred times than Kashi (Benarus / Varanasi).

This description is about the great pilgrimage, Dharmapuri, located in Karimnagar district of Andhra Pradesh. Here, river Godavari flows towards the south side.

History and Legend of Dharmapuri Sri Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple:
After destroying the demon king Hiranyakashapa, Lord Narasimha performed a penance in Yoga Mudra (meditation posture) at this place. Later on a king called DharmaVarma built temple for the Lord. We can see Lord Narasimha Swamys Yoga Mudra manifestation (Yoga Narasimha) and Ugra Narasimha (Ferocious Narasimha).

Destruction of Lord Narasimha Swamy Temple:
In 1967, Muslim rulers invaded the place and ruined the temple. Later, devotees built a new temple just beside the old, destroyed temple. The temple which we can see now is the new temple built by some devotees.

Sri Dharmapuri Lakshmi Sameta Yoga Narasimha Swamy Bramhotsav:
Sri Lakshmi Sameta Yoga Narasimha Swamy bramhotsav are held for 13 days – from Falgun Sudda Ekadashi to Falgun Bahula Saptami. In 2009, Swamy Bramhotsavalu are celebrated from March 6, Friday and ends on March 18, Wednesday.

During the celebrations of Bramhotsavalu, the Lords Utsav Vigraha (procession idol) is taken to procession with carious forms on various vehicles.

Dakshina Digyatra – A Unique Ritual during Bramhotsav:
During the celebrations and puja procedures, a unique ritual or custom is performed. Lord Narasimha Swamys procession idol is taken to Dhearmapuri Police Station. People believe that the Lord enquires about the security of people and his devotees, and law and order. Keeping the Lords idol in police station for a while, devotees worship the lord and bring back to the temple.