Several antiques, temples discovered during excavations in Mangalagiri

GUNTUR: Several antique pieces including copper and gold coins, glasses, small idols of deities and two glasses made in Germany were unearthed during excavation works that were carried out at Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple at Pedda Koneru in Mangalagiri.

Additionally, an Anjaneyaswamy temple, two Shiva Lingams carved on the stairs, an idol of Ganesha, another idol of Hanuman, and a tunnel were discovered during the excavation.

The Peda Koneru structure was built eight hundred years ago, which has been hailed an impressive architectural marvel. It is cone-shaped, resembling Sri Chakra at the top and a conch at the bottom. Due to the gradual shrinking of the Koneru (lake), excavation work was taken up to preserve this ancient site. The excavation, which lasted for six months, reached a depth of 152 feet.

Speaking on the occasion, MLA Alla Ramakrishna Reddy stated that development works would be carried out based on the recommendations of the expert committee of Mangalagiri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple. The MLA assured that once the development was complete, Koneru would be made accessible to devotees. The MLA hoped that the works would be completed in two to three months.

The Mangalagiri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is renowned as one of the eight holy places dedicated to Lord Vishnu in India. It is part of the Ashta Mahakshetra (eight great temples). The Mangalagiri temple has three temples at the top and bottom of the hill. It is known for its tall gopuram, which stands at a height of approximately 153 feet with 11 floors and a width of 49 feet.

According to history, the temple was established by Yudhisthira, and there was a mention of the temple in the Brahma Vaivarta Purana. The temple was managed by the rulers of Vijayanagaram. Even Sri Krishna Devaraya visited the temple.