11, August 2025
The Architectural Splendor of Pushpagiri Temple complex with the Reference of Chenna Kesava Temple
Author(s): Kasturi Apala Naidu
Authors Affiliations:
Academic Consultant, Department of Sculpture, Dr YSR Architecture and Fine Arts University, Kadapa, YSR Kadapa District, ANDHRA PRADESH.
DOIs:10.2017/IJRCS/202508003     |     Paper ID: IJRCS202508003Abstract
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Abstract: The Pushpagiri Temple Complex holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus in the Kadapa region, situated in Andhra Pradesh, India. This location found on the shores of the Penna River, about 16 kilometers from Kadapa City. The multiple temples in Pushpagiri are well known for Saivas and Vaishnavas alike, this is the only sacred location. Saivas refer to it as "Madhya Kailasam," and Vaishnavas refer to it as "Madhya Ahobilam."The only location in Andhra Pradesh where the holy peetham of Sankaracharya is situated is Pushpagiri, also referred to as"Second Hampi."This ranks among the significant Advaitha mutts founded by Sankaracharya. The holy temple site has been gifted with grants and monuments by successive rulers, kings, and feudal landlords who controlled the region. The sacred temple of Pushpagiri complex's architectural designs date from the period of the Ikshvakus to the contemporary chieftains who served the Vijayanagara Empire’s monarchs. Cholanadu's architectural influence was particularly noticeable within Pushpagiri shrines. The Chennakesava Swamy temple remains the biggest of the many sanctuaries in Pushpagiri. During the rule of the later Vijayanagara dynasty, the Musunuri leaders constructed the Chennakesava temple. The Ramayana and the Mahabharatha tales are depicted in the sculptures adorning the shrines, which also show different Hindu divine beings in various poses.
Key Words: Puspagiri, Pennar, Art and Architecture, Advaitha mutt, Sankaracharya, Shaivites and Vaishnavites, Chennakesava Swamy temple.
Kasturi Apala Naidu (2025; The Architectural Splendor of Pushpagiri Temple complex with the Reference of Chenna Kesava Temple, International Journal of Research Culture Society, ISSN(O): 2456-6683, Volume – 9, Issue – 7, Pp.15-19. Available on – https://ijrcs.org/

