Yadadri, the second most famous pilgrimage site after Tirupati in the Telugu states, holds a prominent place in Telangana. The temple of Narasimha Swamy here is steeped in various legends and attracts thousands of devotees. The Brahmotsavams and other festivals are celebrated with grandeur at this sacred location. The BRS government in Telangana previously undertook the renovation of Yadadri, completely transforming the old temple. The site, originally known as Yadagiri Gutta, was renamed Yadadri.
Now, with the Congress government in Telangana, there is renewed focus on the Yadadri temple. Plans are underway to give the temple a more modern appearance, akin to that of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam. As part of this initiative, the temple’s main tower (Vimana Gopuram) will be adorned with gold. Officials have recently finalized the design for the gold plating of the Yadadri temple.
Gold Gopuram Construction Plans
Minister Konda Surekha of the Endowments Department, under the direction of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, held a review meeting with officials regarding the gold plating works. It is anticipated that the construction of the gold gopuram will commence shortly.
While the previous BRS government had decided to use 127 kilograms of gold for the gold plating, it has now been reduced to 65 kilograms due to various reasons. So far, devotees have donated 11 kilograms of gold for this purpose, and temple authorities report that cash contributions totaling ₹20 crore have also been collected. Detailed information regarding the gold plating will be disclosed by the Yadadri Devasthanam authorities in the coming days.
Architectural Transformation of Yadadri Temple
The reconstruction of the Yadadri temple has dramatically changed its architectural layout. The external prakaras (enclosures) have been built, featuring the Tiru Madhavi Vidhulu, and Rajagopurams on the east, north, south, and west sides. The southern entrance has been embellished with a seven-tiered Rajagopuram, along with tritalam (three-tiered structures) and Vimana Gopurams crafted from Krishna stones. Previously, the temple lacked enclosures, which led to the construction of new external and internal prakaras.
Enhanced Facilities for Devotees
Additionally, the main temple has been designed with Yali pillars and Ashtabhuji mandapas (pavilions). Special facilities for devotees, including a Rathashala (chariot house) for the deity, and a separate mandapam modeled after the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam in the western area, along with a Brahmotsav mandapam in the eastern area, are also under construction. A Mukha Mandapam (entrance pavilion) adorned with Alwars and golden embellishments is also being constructed in the sanctum.