Mantralayam Temple

Sri Raghavendra Swamy is one of the most beloved saints of the Madhva (Dvaita) tradition, revered as an incarnation of devotion and a bestower of grace who continues to guide his followers. Mantralayam is the spiritual heart of his worship, drawing millions who seek his blessings for health, peace and success. The belief that the saint is still present in samadhi gives the shrine a uniquely intimate power. The Aradhana Mahotsava is among the major saint-festivals of the south.

Mantralayam is the site where the great 17th-century Madhva saint Sri Raghavendra Swamy is believed to have entered Jeeva (Sanjivana) Samadhi — voluntary live entombment in meditation — in 1671 CE, vowing to bless and protect his devotees for 700 years. His Brindavan (memorial shrine), built of sacred stone, is the focus of continuous worship, and countless devotees attest to miracles and answered prayers. The peaceful riverside town swells enormously during the annual Aradhana, marking the anniversary of the saint's samadhi. Raghavendra Swamy is venerated across South India as a living guru and intercessor.