Sri Kariya Manikya Swamy Temple – Gajendra Moksha Kshetram of Nagari

Location

Main Deity and Subshrines

Presiding Deity: Sri Kariya Manikya Swamy (also known as Sri Perumala Swamy), a form of Lord Vishnu
Consorts: Sri Devi and Bhu Devi
Subshrines: While detailed listings are limited, typical Vishnu temples in this region often include shrines for:

Temple Significance

The temple is associated with the Gajendra Moksham episode from the Bhagavatam, where Lord Vishnu rescues the elephant Gajendra from the clutches of a crocodile (Makara). This divine intervention is believed to have occurred at this very site.
The temple is ancient and holds deep spiritual significance for Vaishnavites.
It is currently maintained by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), ensuring regular rituals and festivals.
Sevas performed include:

History & Legends

Ancient Origins: The temple is believed to be centuries old and is locally revered as Sri Perumala Swamy Temple. It has long been a spiritual anchor for devotees in the Nagari region of Chittoor district, Andhra Pradesh.
Gajendra Moksham Legend: According to Srimad Bhagavatam, Lord Vishnu responded to the desperate call of Gajendra, the elephant king, who was caught by a crocodile (Makara) in a lake. Vishnu arrived on Garuda and liberated Gajendra, granting him moksha. This divine episode is believed to have occurred at this very site.
Name Significance: The name Kariya Manikya refers to the dark-hued, gem-like appearance of the deity, symbolizing Vishnu’s divine form.

Architecture

Style: The temple follows Dravidian architecture, typical of South Indian Vishnu temples, with a modest gopuram (tower), pillared mandapams, and sanctum sanctorum.
Sanctum: The main deity, Sri Kariya Manikya Swamy, is flanked by Sri Devi and Bhu Devi, housed in a serene garbhagriha.

Daily Rituals and Sevas

The temple follows a structured Vaishnava worship pattern, maintained by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD):

These rituals are performed with devotion and precision, drawing pilgrims from nearby regions.

Major Festivals Celebrated

Sri Kariya Manikya Swamy Temple hosts several vibrant festivals throughout the year:

Kanuma Utsavam – Celebrated during Sankranti, this festival honors cattle and agricultural prosperity.
Ratha Saptami – Marks the Sun God's chariot movement; Vishnu temples celebrate it as Surya Jayanti.
Vaikuntha Ekadasi (Mukkoti Ekadasi) – The most auspicious day for Vishnu devotees, believed to open the gates of Vaikuntha (heaven). Special darshan and rituals are held.

These festivals are marked by processions, music, Vedic chanting, and community participation.

Beliefs and Spiritual Significance

Gajendra Moksham Site: Devotees believe this temple is the actual location where Lord Vishnu descended to rescue Gajendra, the elephant king, from a crocodile’s grip. This act of divine compassion is central to the temple’s identity.
Moksha Sthalam: The temple is considered a moksha-dāyaka kshetram—a place that grants liberation to sincere devotees.
Protective Blessings: Worshipping Kariya Manikya Swamy is believed to remove obstacles, grant peace, and protect from dangers, especially water-related fears.

Temple Hours

Getting Here

By Bus: APSRTC runs frequent buses to Nagari from Tirupati.
By Cab: Private taxis are available from Tirupati and Chennai.
From Chennai: Nagari is near the Andhra–Tamil Nadu border, making it accessible from Chennai as well.
Local Transport: From Nagari town, autos and local transport can take you directly to the temple.

Tips

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening for peaceful darshan and cooler weather.
Festival Days: Plan ahead during Garuda Seva, Kanuma Utsavam, Vaikuntha Ekadasi, and Ratha Saptami—crowds are larger but the spiritual experience is richer.
Footwear: Leave footwear outside the temple premises; carry socks if visiting during hot afternoons.
Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with nearby temples like Govindaraja Swamy Temple, Kapila Theertham, and Srinivasa Mangapuram if coming from Tirupati.
Language: Telugu and Tamil are commonly spoken; basic English is understood by temple staff.
Photography: Seek permission before taking photos inside the temple.