In the ancient days of Sanatana Dharma, the small yet spiritually powerful
village of Muktyala, situated on the holy banks of the River Krishna 🏞️ in
present-day NTR District, Andhra Pradesh, was a serene hermitage of sages
and seekers. This region was surrounded by forests, riverbanks, and was
deeply immersed in tapasya (penance) and Vedic chants 📿🧘♂️.
According to the Sthala Puranam, the Lord of Kashi, Sri Visweswara Swamy (a
form of Lord Shiva), desired to bless the southern devotees who could not
travel to Kashi (Varanasi) in the north due to age, distance, or obstacles.
Moved by their devotion, Lord Shiva manifested Himself in Muktyala, bringing
the sanctity and power of Kashi to the South. Hence, this place is also
known as "Dakshina Kashi" (Southern Kashi).
It is believed that Lord Shiva Himself chose this spot for His presence and
liberated a great devotee who performed severe penance at the riverbank.
This act granted the name Muktyala, which is derived from the Sanskrit word
"Mukti" (liberation) and "Aalaya" (abode)—meaning "The Abode of Liberation".
Since then, Sri Kasi Visweswara Swamy became the presiding deity of this
holy kshetra (sacred place).
The temple has stood as a beacon of moksha (salvation) for thousands of
devotees over the centuries. It is said that offering prayers here with a
pure heart grants the same punya (spiritual merit) as one receives from
visiting Kashi itself. Bathing in the sacred Krishna river near the temple
is considered equivalent to bathing in the Ganges at Kashi.
The temple also houses Sri Annapurna Devi, the divine consort of Lord
Visweswara, blessing devotees with food, health, and abundance 🌾🍛. Worship
here is considered complete only when one seeks darshan of both Lord Shiva
and Goddess Annapurna, symbolizing spiritual liberation and material
well-being.
Over time, the temple has gained historical and cultural importance,
supported by local kings and spiritual patrons. The Krishna River’s divine
energy, coupled with Shiva’s presence, makes this a highly potent pilgrimage
center.
Spiritual Beliefs of
Devotees:
. Darshan of Lord Visweswara in
Muktyala is believed to wash away lifetimes of sins.
. Performing Abhishekam on
Shivaratri, Mondays, or during Karthika Masam brings immense spiritual
merit.
. Pilgrims unable to travel to Kashi
visit Muktyala to receive Shiva’s grace and moksha.
Conclusion:
Sri Kasi Visweswara Swamy Temple, Muktyala, is a hidden jewel of Andhra
Pradesh—a divine gateway where Shiva's mercy flows like the Krishna
river. Just as the Ganges purifies in Kashi, here too, Shiva grants
liberation, peace, and divine blessings to all who seek Him with
devotion. The temple stands as a sacred reminder that where there is
bhakti, there is Kashi—and in Muktyala, one finds both.