Mahavatar Narsimha (2025), directed by Ashwin Kumar, brings to life the powerful tale of Vishnu's half-lion avatar. Hemantkumar Shivsharan/Rediff explores real-world places graced by his divine presence.
His Birthplace
Ahobilam, in Andhra’s Nallamala hills -- believed to be where Narasimha burst from a pillar to protect Prahlada, as shown in the film -- is the site of several temples dedicated to him.
Multan’s Lost Temple
The ruined site at Prahladpuri, now in Pakistan, marks where Holika burned and Narasimha appeared, a pivotal moment dramatically depicted in the movie.
Sandalwood and Ferocity
Lord Varaha-Narasimha is worshipped at the stunning temple at Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam. Revealed only on Akshaya Tritiya, his murti is daubed with sandalwood paste for the rest of the year to look like a Shiva Lingam.
Healing Hill of Telangana
Sage Yada's deep penance brought forth Lord Narasimha in 5 forms, including Lakshmi Narasimha, which is enshrined in Lakshmi Narasimha temple, Yadagirigutta, near Hyderabad.
Cave of Water and Faith
Narasimha Jhira cave temple is situated in Bidar, Karnataka -- devotees wade through 4-5 ft of flowing water within a 300 m cave tunnel to reach the self-manifested Narasimhaji at the end.
Narasimha in Meditation
Atop Periya Malai hill, Sholingur, Tamil Nadu, Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple portrays Lord Narasimha in full meditative posture, holding a conch & discus. His lower hands rest in a dhyāna mudra, symbolising calm after divine fury.
Rock-Cut Majesty
An ancient rock‑cut cave temple at Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, houses a 18-foot impressive sitting image of Lord Narasimha or Asanamurthi, carved directly into the Namagiri hill as a symbol of divine strength.