History of Ahobilam

The Legend of Ahobilam

Ahobilam is a major pilgrimage center located in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. It is the holy abode of Lord Narasimha, the man-lion incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is believed to be the exact location where Lord Narasimha killed the demon Hiranyakashipu to save his devotee Prahlada.

The Name "Ahobilam"

The name is derived from two words: "Aho" (Wait!/Great!) and "Bilam" (Cave). It is said that the gods, on witnessing the fierce form of the Lord, exclaimed "Aho Bala!" (What Great Strength!).

The Nine Temples (Nava Narasimha)

Ahobilam is unique because it houses all nine forms of Lord Narasimha within a radius of 5 km. These are:

• 1. Jwala Narasimha
• 2. Ahobila Narasimha
• 3. Malola Narasimha
• 4. Kroda Narasimha
• 5. Karanja Narasimha
• 6. Bhargava Narasimha
• 7. Yogananda Narasimha
• 8. Chatravata Narasimha
• 9. Pavana Narasimha