Cave Temples of Jagannathagutta : A Study of Temples in Kurnool District of A.P.

The book is a pioneering study on the Cave Temples of Jagannathagutta and Vesyanagaram (Lanja Poluru or Lakshmipuram)

Jagannathagutta, on the outskirts of Kurnool is an ancient pilgrim centre. Mythologically and historically, it is known as Vishnu – Paada or Hari – Paada Tirtham. It has a hoary past. There are three Cave Temples, structural temples and Mantapas built by the Early Chalukya and the Vijayanagara rulers.

There is a monolithic stone containing the images of Sri Krishnadevarayalu and his queens Tirumala Devi and Chinna Devi. It is now preserved at the entrance of the Collector’s Office, Kurnool. It is a special attraction.

There are 1970 acres of inam lands for the maintenance of the temples of Jagannathagutta and Vesyanagaram. Many Legends or sthala puranas are associated with them.

Unfortunately, these monuments are lying in a state of total neglect today and are yearning for the attention of the Archaeologists, historians and scholars. There is an urgent need to resurrect these marvels in stone.

Dupadu Railway Station is the most convenient place for the devotees to reach the sacred hill Garudachala, which is an ideal place for a helipad, five star hotel and cinema shooting. If developed, it will occupy a pride of place on the Tourist Map of India.