Alaghu Mallari Krishna Swami Temple Mannarpolur – Timings & Legends


Alaghu Mallari Krishna Swami Temple – Mannar Polur, Nellore

Nestled in Mannar Polur village near Sullurupeta, Tirupati District, the Alaghu Mallari Krishna Swami Temple is a sacred site with deep historical and mythological significance. Built in the 10th century, this temple is unique as it is the only shrine where Lord Sri Krishna gives darshan along with His consorts Sathyabhama and Jambhavathi Ammavaru.

Legends and Significance

  • According to legend, this is the place where Lord Krishna defeated Jambavantha after a fierce battle that lasted 28 days, as mentioned in the Brahmanda Purana.
  • Following the battle, Lord Krishna married Jambavantha’s daughter, Jambavathi, making this temple a rare site of divine union.
  • The temple’s Sthalapuranam states that devotees who pray here with devotion will be blessed with health, wealth, and fulfillment of desires.

The Story of Samanthakamani Jewel

The temple is also linked to the famous tale of the Samanthakamani jewel:

  • King Satrajithu, adorned with the jewel, was mistaken by the Yadavas as a divine messenger when he entered Sri Krishna’s court.
  • When Lord Krishna requested the jewel for the welfare of mankind, Satrajithu refused.
  • Later, Satrajithu’s brother Prasenudu, wearing the jewel, was killed by a lion during a hunt.
  • A misunderstanding arose that Krishna had slain Prasenudu for the jewel, leading to false blame upon Him.
  • To clear this blemish, Krishna performed Vinayaka Vrathakalpam and then ventured into the forest, ultimately proving His innocence and uncovering the truth.

According to the Sthalapuranam and Brahmanda Purana:

  • Lord Krishna requested the Samanthakamani jewel from Jambhavantha for the welfare of mankind.
  • Jambhavantha, unaware that Krishna was the incarnation of Lord Rama, refused and engaged in a fierce 21-day malla yuddham (combat) with Him.
  • After realizing his opponent was none other than the divine Kodandapani Rama with Seetha and Lakshmana, Jambhavantha surrendered, touching Krishna’s feet.
  • He then offered the jewel and his daughter Jambhavathi in marriage to Lord Krishna.
  • Because of this legendary battle, the place was once called Mallahariporur, which over time became Mannarpolur.

Temple Timings

  • Morning: 6:00 am – 12:00 pm
  • Evening: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Daily Schedule:

  • 6:00 am – 6:30 am: Suprabatham
  • 6:30 am – 7:00 am: Sarva Darshan
  • 7:00 am – 7:30 am: 1st Bell
  • 7:30 am – 10:30 am: Sarva Darshan
  • 10:30 am – 11:00 am: 2nd Bell
  • 11:00 am – 12:00 pm: Sarva Darshan
  • 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Temple Closed
  • 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm: Sarva Darshan
  • 5:30 pm – 6:00 pm: 3rd Bell
  • 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm: Sarva Darshan
  • 7:30 pm – 8:00 pm: Ekanta Seva

Rituals

  • Daily Sevas:
    • Suprabatham (early morning awakening of the deity)
    • Sarva Darshan sessions throughout the day
    • Bells (1st, 2nd, 3rd) marking ritual transitions
    • Ekanta Seva (night closure ritual)

Festivals

  • Krishna Janmashtami: Celebrated with grandeur, including special abhishekams, cultural programs, and devotional music.
  • Vaikunta Ekadasi: Temple witnesses large gatherings, with devotees seeking moksha darshan.
  • Other Celebrations: Sankranti, Ugadi, and Deepavali are observed with traditional rituals and community participation.

Beliefs

  • Unique Darshan: The temple is the only shrine where Krishna appears with both Sathyabhama and Jambhavathi, symbolizing divine union and completeness.
  • Samanthakamani Jewel Legend: Devotees recall the 21-day battle between Krishna and Jambhavantha, after which Jambhavantha surrendered and offered his daughter Jambhavathi in marriage.
  • Sthalapuranam: It is believed that those who sincerely pray here will be blessed with divine prosperity, health, and spiritual satisfaction.
  • Historical Faith: The temple was patronized by Chola kings and later Venkatagiri Rajas, who gifted villages to support temple rituals, reinforcing its cultural and spiritual importance.

Getting Here

  • Nearest Town: Sullurpet (just 5 km away).
  • By Road:
    • Local buses and autos are available from Sullurpet to Mannar Polur.
    • Private vehicles and taxis are convenient for flexible travel.
  • By Rail:
    • Sullurpet Railway Station is the nearest major stop, well connected to Chennai, Tirupati, and Nellore.
  • By Air:
    • The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport (about 80 km away).
    • Tirupati Airport is another option, roughly 90 km from the temple.

Travel Tips

  • Start early in the morning to avoid heat and crowds.
  • Combine your visit with nearby spiritual sites for a full-day pilgrimage.
  • If traveling from Chennai or Tirupati, plan for a half-day trip with return by evening.
  • Carry cash for offerings and local transport, as digital payments may not be widely accepted in the village.

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