Pillalamarri Temple Suryapet

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.

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 Telugu 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 significantlyincreased 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.

Suryapet 8 Kms
Nalgonda 45 Kms
Khammam 70 Kms
Yadagirigutta 110 Kms
Warangal 115 Kms
Hyderabad 130 Kms
Vijayawada 150 Kms

http://www.pillalamarritemple.org

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