Book on Ahobilam temple released

Jeeyar appreciates The Hindu’s effort

Sri Ranganatha Yatheendra Mahadesikan releasing Ahobilam: Abode of Nava Narasimhas published by The Hindu Group in the presence of N. Ravi, Publisher, The Hindu, and Vijaya Arun, Director, Kasturi & Sons Ltd.

A special volume on the Ahobilam temple and Math in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh titled, ‘Ahobilam: Abode of Nava Narasimhas’, was released by Jeeyar Sri Ranganatha Yateendra Mahadesikan on Sunday at the Ahobila Math in Selaiyur, Chennai. The book, published by The Hindu Group, gives extensive details about the Math and the Divya kshetram , which is the abode of the nine forms of Sri Narasimha.

Speaking on the occasion, the Jeeyar said the book was a must buy since it contained precious details about the history, traditions and shrines of the Ahobila kshetra and the Math that is closely associated with it. He said an idol of the 45th Jeeyar, Sri Narayana Yateendra Mahadesikan, would be installed at the Math in Ahobilam soon.

N. Ravi, Publisher of

The Hindu , in the foreword to the book, said: “Ahobilam is one of the 108

Divya Desams , which find laudatory mention in the

Divya Prabandham .”

He also said: “This special volume, brought out by The Hindu Group of Publications, offers a visual feast of the spiritual splendour of the Narasimha

kshetram and the glorious history and traditions of the Ahobila Math.” Mr. Ravi spoke briefly on the occasion of the book release.

Vijaya Arun, Director, Kasturi & Sons Ltd., was present on the solemn occasion.

The release was done in the presence of a large gathering of devotees at the Math. The book, priced at ₹299, features a major interview with the Jeeyar, who is known as Azhagiyasingar; an article on the conservation and restoration of temples and

sannidhis; and also one on the Nallamala hill range that beckons tourists with its sylvan splendour, rich biodiversity and large tiger sanctuary. The book, filled with colour photographs of the shrine, has two posters of the

Utsavamurthi idols of Lord Narasimha at Upper Ahobilam and another of the

Swayambhu idol of Lord Narasimha; and illustrations and paintings by artist Keshav. It has details on how to reach Ahobilam and puja timings at the temples.