Sri Dasavatara Venkateswara Swamy Temple, Namburu (Guntur) – A Rare Eka-shila Idol of Vishnu’s Ten Avatars

Location

The temple is situated in Namburu, Pedakakani Mandal, Guntur District, Andhra Pradesh.
It lies on the Vijayawada–Guntur National Highway, directly opposite Acharya Nagarjuna University, making it easily accessible for pilgrims.

Main Deity

The presiding deity is Sri Dasavatara Venkateswara Swamy, a rare form of Lord Venkateswara embodying the ten avatars of Vishnu (Matsya, Kurma, Varaha, Narasimha, Vamana, Parashurama, Rama, Krishna, Buddha, Kalki).
The idol is a single-stone (Eka-shila) sculpture, about 11 feet tall, installed according to Agama Shastra traditions.

Subshrines and Associated Deities

Temple Significance

The temple is unique in India for enshrining Lord Venkateswara in his Dasavatara aspect, symbolizing Vishnu’s role in protecting dharma across ages.
It was built only a few years ago, following Agama Shastra principles, and has quickly become a spiritual hub for devotees.
The temple emphasizes the philosophy of avatara: Vishnu incarnates to punish evil and protect the righteous, with the Dasavatara being the most prominent among his 21 incarnations mentioned in Puranas.

Brief History

The temple was established in recent decades to highlight the Dasavatara concept of Vishnu, making it one of the few temples in India dedicated to Lord Venkateswara in this form.
It was constructed on a vast open site opposite Acharya Nagarjuna University, along the Vijayawada–Guntur highway, ensuring accessibility for pilgrims.
The idol of Dasavatara Venkateswara Swamy is carved from a single stone (Eka-shila), standing about 11 feet tall, symbolizing Vishnu’s ten incarnations.
The temple quickly gained prominence among devotees for its unique representation of Vishnu’s avatars and its adherence to Agama Shastra traditions in consecration and rituals.

Architecture

Sanctum (Garbha Griha): Houses the imposing Dasavatara Venkateswara idol, flanked by Bhudevi and Lakshmi Devi.
Subshrines: Dedicated to Ganapati, Vishwaksena, Garuda, and Hayagriva Acharya, arranged in harmony with Vaishnava temple layout.
Design Principles: Built following Agama Shastra, ensuring correct orientation, proportions, and ritual pathways.
Spacious Grounds: The temple is set in a large open campus, allowing for grand festival processions and community gatherings.
Sculptural Detailing: The idols of subshrines are finely crafted, reflecting South Indian Vaishnava iconography.
Modern Touches: While rooted in tradition, the temple incorporates broad pathways, open courtyards, and accessible entrances, making it pilgrim-friendly.

Daily Rituals

Morning and Evening Pujas: Regular worship with chanting, aarti, and flower offerings.
Archana & Abhishekam: Devotees perform special offerings to the main deity, invoking blessings of all ten avatars.
Subshrines Worship: Ganapati, Vishwaksena, Garuda, Hayagriva Acharya, Bhudevi, and Lakshmi Devi receive daily pujas, reinforcing Vishnu’s protective and guiding aspects.

Major Festivals

Vaikuntha Ekadasi: The most important festival, with grand decorations, special pujas, and large gatherings.
Annual Brahmotsavam: The temple is beautifully decorated; processions, cultural programs, and community participation mark the celebrations.
Avatar-specific Observances: Rituals connected to Narasimha Jayanti, Rama Navami, Krishna Janmashtami, and other avatar-linked days are performed.
Other Vishnu Festivals: Festivals like Gokulashtami, Deepavali, and Kartika Purnima are observed with devotion.

Beliefs and Significance

Dasavatara Concept: Vishnu incarnates to punish evil and protect the righteous. Among his 21 incarnations mentioned in Puranas, the ten avatars (Dasavatara) are considered most significant.
Rare Eka-shila Idol: The 11-foot single-stone idol symbolizes the unity of all avatars, believed to radiate immense spiritual energy.
Pilgrim Faith: Devotees believe darshan here grants blessings of all ten avatars simultaneously—protection (Narasimha), prosperity (Vamana), wisdom (Hayagriva), and ultimate liberation (Kalki).

Temple Hours

Morning Hours: 6.00 AM – 12.30 PM
Evening Hours: 5.00 PM - 8:30 PM
Morning pujas and evening aarti are the most popular times for darshan.
Special extended hours during major festivals like Vaikuntha Ekadasi and Brahmotsavam.

Getting Here

Location: IJM Township, opposite Acharya Nagarjuna University, beside Raintree Park Apartments Road, Namburu, Guntur District.
By Road: On the Vijayawada–Guntur National Highway, well connected by buses, autos, and private vehicles.
Nearest Railway Station: Guntur Junction (~12 km) and Vijayawada (~25 km).
Nearest Airport: Vijayawada International Airport (~40 km).

Tips

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening for peaceful darshan; avoid peak midday heat.
Festival Days: Expect large crowds during Vaikuntha Ekadasi and Brahmotsavam—arrive early for smoother entry.
Footwear & Dress Code: Traditional attire is preferred; footwear must be left outside.
Offerings: Flowers, fruits, and prasadam can be purchased near the temple.
Accessibility: The temple has spacious grounds and broad pathways, making it convenient for families and elderly devotees.
Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with other Guntur temples or a short trip to Vijayawada’s Kanaka Durga Temple.