Mandapalli Temple

Introduction to the Mandapalli Temple

The Mandapalli Temple is a revered shrine located at Mandapalli village, East Godavari, Andhra Pradesh. The presiding deity of the Mandapalli Saneeshwara Temple is Saturn. It is also known as Sri Mandeswara Swami Temple and Someswara Temple. It is said that Shani Bhagwan himself consecrated the Linga representing Shiva here. The Mandapalli Temple is surrounded by lush greenery and natural beauty and provides a peaceful retreat for all. The serene environment is an ideal spot for meditation, introspection, and seeking inner peace.

Legend of the Mandapalli Temple

The Mandapalli Temple has some interesting legends. Once, a great sage, Dhadichi, made a great sacrifice by donating his spinal cord to Indra's divine weapon, Vajrayudha, to save people from the tyranny of the demon Kartabha.

However, Aswartha and Pippala, the sons of the demon, vowed revenge and created chaos in Mandapalli. Rishi Agastya approached Saneeshwara for help, but Shani replied that until the prayers and penance were completed, he could not fight and get rid of the demons.

But, Rishis gave their power to him. Shani fought and killed the demons using their power and relieved people of their tyranny. Hence, Saturn installed a Shiva Linga called "Someswara" or "Mandeshwara" to mark his victory, around which the Mandapalli Temple was built.

The Architecture of the Mandapalli Temple

The temple is believed to have been built during the Kakatiya dynasty. The Mandapalli Temple bears a typical South Indian temple architecture. The Rajagopuram is moderate in height. Visitors must climb the fleet of steps to reach the temple.

Shani Bhagwan blesses his devotees from the main shrine. He is represented by a 7 ½ feet black stone idol adorned with traditional attire and garlands. Devotees offer prayers, light oil lamps, and present offerings to symbolize their devotion and reverence. Nageshwara, Brahmeshwara, and Saneeshwara are the main deities of the Mandapalli Temple. The idols are in the form of Lingams, and all of them are black stone idols that are well decorated. Shani atoned for the sin of Brahmahatya Dosha by installing and worshipping Shiva here.

Priests generally perform sesame oil Abishekam to Shani. As Shani installed a Shiva Lingam here, the sesame oil Abishekam is performed to Shiva Lingam.

Mandapalli Temple has a Navagraha Mandap, which houses nine separate shrines dedicated to the Navagrahas. Each shrine represents a different celestial deity associated with the nine planets of the Hindu astrological system.

Festivals in the Mandapalli Temple

Kalyanam of Sri Swamivaru between February and March, Devi Navaratrulu between September and October, Karthika Masam between November and December every year, Lakshapatri Pooja between November and December every year, and Sani Trayodasi festivals are grandly celebrated in the Mandapalli Temple. These occasions attract large numbers of devotees across the country.

Devotees visit the Mandapalli Temple every Saturday to seek the blessings of Shani Bhagwan. They perform special Shani pooja, homas, Yagna, and other religious activities here with a lot of perfection.

Benefit of Worshipping at the Mandapalli Temple

Devotees believe paying homage to the Navagrahas can reduce the adverse effects of planetary influences and bring blessings and prosperity into their lives. People visit the temple to seek protection, blessings, and solace from Shani Bhagwan.