History of BHEL Ayyappa Temple
The journey of Sri Ayyappa Swamy Temple (BHEL – Hyderabad) is one of faith, dedication, and community spirit. It began in 1968 when the Mandala Pooja was initiated at the Sri Venkateshwara Swamy Temple, setting the foundation for a tradition that continues to inspire thousands of devotees.
The temple’s infrastructure and spiritual offerings expanded significantly over the decades. The Ayyappa Temple Mandapam was constructed in 1993, paving the way for the building of temples dedicated to Sri Ayyappa, Sri Vinayaka, and Sri Murugan in the year 1995. These temples were sanctified with Prana Prathista ceremonies on 3rd April 1996 at 08:00am under the auspices of Brahmasree Kandararu Rajeevaru Tantri marking a pivotal moment in the temple’s spiritual journey.
Continuing its spiritual journey, the Sri Guruvayoor Temple was constructed, with its Prathista performed on 27th May 1998, followed by the Dwaja Prathista on 26th June 1999, marking a significant step in the temple’s spiritual ascent. Another milestone was achieved with the Nagaraja Prathista on 7th July 2008, further enhancing the sanctity of the temple.
The foundation stone for the Shivalayam was laid on 23rd June 2016, and the Prathista ceremony was performed on 24th April 2017, symbolizing another chapter in the temple’s spiritual and communal growth.
Beyond its construction milestones, the temple has hosted grand rituals and ceremonies that have drawn large gatherings of devotees. The Sahasra Kalasam in the year 2006 and the Ashtabanda Kalasam in the year 2007 were performed with deep devotion and meticulous rituals by Brahmasree Kandararu Rajeevaru Tantri, reaffirming the temple’s spiritual prominence.
The temple also constructed a Kalyana Mandapam in the year 2005, which has since served as a hub for serving devotees during the Mandala Pooja period. It hosts daily Nithya Annadhanam, and on the third Sunday of December each year, the grand Maha Annadhanam feeds over 5,000 devotees, reflecting the temple’s commitment to service.
The temple is a beacon for Ayyappa devotees, especially during the Mandala Pooja season. Each year, more than 4,000 devotees undertake Ayyappa Deeksha, led by the respected Guruswamy Sri G. Manavalan, who also leads around 1,000 devotees to Sabarimala during Makara Jyothi and Vishu.
A highlight of the temple’s calendar is the Ulsavam, a 10-day celebration held in December after the Dwajarohanam. The festivities culminate on December 25th with a grand Final Pooja, featuring a fully caparisoned elephant, Thalapoli, Kavadi, Panchavadhyam, and Nadaswaram – a vibrant display of faith and culture.
History and Establishment of Annadhanam Mandapam
The idea for the Annadhanam Mandapam was born out of necessity and divine inspiration during a Vishu trip. At the time, lunch for pilgrims after completing their Irumudi ritual was normally arranged at the Sai Baba Temple Hall. However, on that particular day, carpentry work made the hall unsuitable for dining. To address this, a temporary Shamiyana was set up opposite the Sri Subramaniya Swamy Temple.
As the devotees began their meal, a sudden strong wind blew away the shamiyana, scattering the leaves and disrupting the lunch. Witnessing this, Mr. G.V. Rami Reddy, the temple president, felt a strong conviction that a dedicated Annadhanam Hall was essential for the comfort of devotees. Upon returning from the trip, the devotees quickly acted on this resolve. Within a week, the Bhoomi Pooja for the Annadhanam Hall was conducted on 04th April 2004. With the blessings of Guruswamy Sri G. Manavalan, the project progressed at an extraordinary pace.
Fundraising Efforts by members:
Under the guidance of Guruswamy Sri G. Manavalan, Govinda Swamy, and other dedicated members, a program to raise funds was initiated. The first stop was Mallikarjuna Petrol Bunk, owned by a devoted Ayyappa follower. When approached, the proprietor, generously offered to contribute. In a heartfelt moment, he handed over his cheque book and asked Guruswamy to write any amount. Guruswamy reasonably wrote ₹25,000, setting the tone for the overwhelming support that followed.
From then on, donations poured in abundantly, with devotees contributing wholeheartedly. With the collective effort of the community, the Annadhanam Hall took shape, becoming the vibrant space it is today and inaugurated on 11th December 2004 by Brahmasree Kandararu Rajeevaru Tantri.
Contributions and Legacy :
The successful completion of the Annadhanam Mandapam stands as a testament to the vision and determination of Mr. G.V. Rami Reddy, the blessings of Guruswamy Sri G. Manavalan, and the generosity of countless donors. It is a symbol of the unity and devotion that defines the temple community.
Call for Life Membership :
To honor the spirit of community, the temple invites all devotees to become Life Members. Interested individuals can register their name and contact details, after which they will be contacted for further information. Life members have the opportunity to perform special poojas on any day of their choosing, based on their birth star or Godhra.
An old register contains a few records of earlier members, but many remain untraceable. To revitalize this initiative, Mr. G.V. Rami Reddy is requested to inaugurate the new Life
Guruswamy Late Sri G.Manavalan
The temple owes its foundation and spiritual guidance to Guruswamy Sri G. Manavalan, whose leadership has been instrumental in shaping its traditions and activities. The Sri Ayyappa Swamy Temple stands as a beacon of faith and devotion, drawing thousands of devotees and fostering a sense of spiritual unity.
