Chenna Kesava Swami Temple

Madanapalli in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh is blessed with a temple dedicated to Chenna Kesava Swami (Lord Vishnu). The temple is situated 5 kms away from Mulakalacheruvu village of Madanapalli. Though this temple is now in dilapidated state, it speaks volumes about the then art, architecture and skills of the craftsmen.

It is said that the temple is built by the Vijayanagaran Kings as every corner of the temple shows the Vijayanagaran style of architecture in it. The Mahadwara (main entrance) of the temple is marked by a multi-storied gopuram (temple tower) facing east. As you enter the compound wall of the temple, you can see a tall "dweepasthambam" (pillar containing lamps) about 60 feet that glows during night giving a marvellous look to the temple.

The temple has every aspect of a typical temple- an extensive and grand Antarala, Mukha Mandapa, Maha Mandapa and a garbha griha. The main deity of Chenna Kesava Swami in the garbha griha is beautifully carved idol made of granite. In the courtyard of the temple you can find small temples of Parivaara devatas (family God, probably of the Vijayanagara Kings).

The temple is almost into ruins now as it is been neglected. To the northern part of the main temple, there is temple of Goddess drawing every visitor s attention with its sanctity and beauty. Though the temple is small, it has every aspect of the Vijayanagaran temple.

The temple that was once adorned with elegant and beautiful sculptures and images in every nook and corner in its hay days still retains them in bits and pieces. There are some sculptures in the temple with imposing architecture and workmanship that are worth appreciating.