What is the significance of Mahanandishwara Swamy Temple, Mahanandi. Mahanandi is located in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. This is one of the most visited and ancient temples in the state.
The temple is declared as an ancient protected monument and notified as monument and archaeological sites and remain in Act 60 Vol.II of 1960 U/s 30 (1) of the act. The Vimana Gopuram over the sanctum sanctorum is of Chola Style constructed with sand stone having much architecture and engraved with flowers and creepers.
Lord Mahanandeeswara is SWAYAMBHU. The Goddess is Sri Kameswara Ammavaru. There is a Pushakarini in front of the temple within the compound and this is called Rudra Gundam, the water in Pushkarini is crystal clear always. There is a outlet from the Pushkarini at 405 feet height so that the depth of the Pushkarini is always maintained at constant level.
It is believed that spring water with good speed flows underneath the Lingam and falls in the Pushkarini. The spring water here is very famous for its medinal value because it is curing several diseases besides enabling a worshipper to secure spiritual enlightenment. Pilgrims have to take holy dip in this Pushkarini in which there are Pancha Lingams. The lingam in the centre is called Varuna Lingam. The water which comes out from the outlet of the Pushkarini pernnially is utilized for irrigating the lands around the village.
Besides the traditional “Sthalapuranam”, this temple has a very good historical background as seen from the inscriptions, construction of the temple and the peculiar type of beautiful nagara style, Vimanam in red sand stone. The holy shrine of Nava Nandi Mandalam situated in this valley of panoramic beauty is attracting pilgrims in large numbers.