What Is the Story Behind the Sweat Emerging from Lord Narasimha’s Navel?

Among the many Narasimha temples across India, the Sri Khadri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Sri Sathya Sai district holds a special place. Devotees believe it is the only temple where Lord Lakshmi Narasimha is worshipped along with Prahlada. A unique local belief associated with the temple is that sweat emerges from the navel of the presiding deity after the idol is given an abhishekam. Devotees traditionally receive this as sacred water.

The Legend of Kadiri Narasimha

According to traditional accounts, after killing Hiranyakashipu, Lord Narasimha continued to roam in an intense form. The gods are believed to have asked Prahlada to calm the Lord. Prahlada then came to the Kadri region and offered prayers to Lord Narasimha. Devotees believe that, as a symbol of this tradition, Prahlada is depicted beside the main deity in a posture of worship.

From Khadri to Kadiri

The presiding deity is believed to be situated beneath a Khadri tree. Local traditions state that the region was originally known as Khadri and gradually came to be called Kadiri. In Sanskrit, ‘Kha’ is associated with the feet of Lord Vishnu, while ‘Adri’ means mountain. According to local belief, the name Khadri originated from this connection with Lord Vishnu.

Why Is He Called Katamarayudu?

The deity is also popularly known as Katamarayudu. According to local tradition, the name is associated with a village called Katam located near Kadiri. Devotees affectionately worship the deity with the traditional chant referring to him as both Katamarayudu and Kadiri Narasimha.

A Temple with Centuries of History

Historians believe that the temple dates back to around the 10th century. Daily rituals and prayers are conducted at the temple. The annual Brahmotsavams are celebrated grandly during February and March. Devotees consider the Kadiri Brahmotsavams among the prominent religious celebrations held after the famous Brahmotsavams of Tirumala.

Grand Rathotsavam

The Kadiri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Rathotsavam is celebrated on a grand scale and attracts lakhs of devotees. Locally, it is regarded as one of the major chariot festivals in the country after the Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra. As the chariot passes through the temple streets, their narrow width has also led to efforts to widen the roads.

A Temple Welcoming Devotees from Different Communities

The temple is also known for attracting not only Hindus but Muslim devotees as well. Its location near the Andhra Pradesh-Karnataka border draws devotees from both states. With its long history, spiritual significance and distinctive local traditions, the Kadiri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple remains an important pilgrimage centre.