Nellore
Encyclopedia
Nellore is a city
and headquarters of Potti Sri Ramulu Nellore District, formerly Nellore district
.And ( fourth largest city )in the state of Andhra Pradesh
. Ancient name of Nellore was "Vikrama Simhapuri".
Nellore is situated about 170 kilometres (105.6 mi) from Chennai
on the Chennai-Kolkata
national highway and about 453 kilometres (281 mi) south east of Hyderabad, the capital of Andhra Pradesh. It is located on the banks of the Penna
river. Nellore is well known for its production of mica (gudur), lemon (gudur) and agricultural products such as rice and it is famous for temples like Sri Erukalala Parameswari Devi Temple known as Simhapuri(Nellore) Gramadevatha, Narasimha Swamy Konda, Jonnavada Kamakshi Ammavari temple, Ayyappa Temple, Golagamudi Venkaya Swami Temple, Rajarajeswari temple, PenchalaKona. Nellore is also known for aquaculture
. It is one of the fastest developing cities in Andhra Pradesh
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple (Nellore)
, located on the banks of the Penna River
, dates back to twelfth century.
s, Pallava
s, Cholas, Eastern Gangas of Kalinga Empire, Telugu Cholas
, Pandyas and other dynasties.
The city derives its name from the Tamil word, “nell” which means Paddy, as paddy cultivation is the predominant occupation in this region. Nothing certain is known of the History of Nellore before the time of the Cholas. The Neolithic age in Nellore is more obscure than the Paleolithic age. It is not clear to what extent this district was occupied by the Dravidians. It is supposed that Nellore was situated in Dandakaranya
forests into which the Aryas first penetrated as adventurous sages with the rise of the Mauryan Empire. Nellore came under Mauryan influence and was part of the Ashokan Empire in the 3rd century B.C. It was next included in the Pallava Dominion between the fourth and sixth century A.D.
Before the district was taken over the British it was ruled by the Nawabs. During the British rule the district was at peace and did not undergo any major political changes.
The period after Indian independence brought about major political changes in the district. Until 1 October 1953, the district was part of the Madras (now Chennai) state but on 1 November 1956 when the states were recognised on the basis of linguistic differences, the state of Andhra Pradesh came into existence. During that time Nellore played an important role in the formation of the state and Potti Sriramulu, a Telugu patriot and activist had given a lot of effort to set up Andhra Pradesh.
words Nel+oor which means Village of Paddy fields in Tamil
language. In ancient days, this region was part of Tamil country of Thondai
.
n census, Nellore has a population of 378,947, in the same year population in agglomeration was 404,775. Population in the year 2009 is 827443. Both males and females constitute 50% of the population. Nellore has an average literacy rate of 76% for males and 68% for females, higher than the national average of 59.5%. 11% of the population is under 6 years of age.
Talpagiri Rangantha Swamy Temple is a very famous temple situated here on the Banks of River Pennar, date backs to many centuries century but has been in history records from 12th century. Tikkana Somayaji the 2nd of the Kavitrayam wrote 15 chapters (parvaalu) of Andhra Mahabharatamu in the same temple. Next to it is situated the Desikan Temple. These temples are well maintained.
Telugu
is the most common language that is spoken in Nellore district. Besides Telugu the other prominent languages that are spoken in the region are Urdu
and Tamil
.
As far as art and literature is concerned, Nellore has produced many great poets and literary personalities of fame.
Nellore is famous for its dishes especially sea foods and ranks number one in food for Andhra Pradesh. It is also famous for authentic andhra sweet like bobbatlu.
The major form of entertainment in the district is movies. People in this region love watching movies of various kinds.
Sri Talapagiri Ranaganatha swamy Temple is located in Nellore city and is about 5 km (3.1 mi) away from Nellore-1 APSRTC Bus stand and 1 km (0.621372736649807 mi) away from Nellore railway station. Ranganada Swamy Temple in Nellore is more than 6000 years old. This temple is situated on the banks of the River Penner and is marked by a huge 96 feet tall Galigopuram with seven gold kalasams and its architectural splendour constructed by SRI Yeragudapati Venkatachalam Panthulu. The annual Rath Yathra of the God is a much awaited ritual in Nellore.
There are seven kalisams, which brings beauty to the temple. Every year during the month of March–April (varies according to Hindu calendar) grand festival is celebrated. These are called Brahmotsavam.
On the bank of river penna sri kashyapa Maharshi performed yagna and as a fruit of his penance conferred upon him the gift of establishing himself as Ranganadha Swamy at Nellore. In 7th century, by Pallava ruler Sri Rajaraja Narendra, Subsequently in 13th century Sri Jatha Varma has offered precious stones and metal to Lord Ranganadha Swamy. The Andhra Maha Bharatam i.e. from Viratprvam to the end of the epic was written by the poet Sri kavi Brahma Tikkana, on the bank of pennar river. On the east there is seven storied Maha gopuram, south Sri Ranganayaki Lakshmi Devi temple and beautiful mirror dias, west is sacred Pennar river and north Sri Andal Ammavari temple.
Sri Gayathri devi Vishwakarma Temple
The Vedamata Gayathri devi, and Veda pitha sri.Virat Vishwakarma Temple is located at Virat nagar, in main road of Nellore.This temple is considered to be one among the biggest Gayathri devi temples of Andhra pradesh.The temple is attracting huge number of devotees and is said by devotees that, five times circumbenation of the temple sanctorium fulfills their wishes. Sree Govindamambadevi sametha, Sree veera brahmendra swamy temple is also located at this temple premises.
Jonnawada
Mallikarjuna Swamy kamakshi tai temple is located about 12 km (7.5 mi) from Nellore. It has good connections with the Railway station at Nellore. A famous Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Kamakhsi Tai temple is located on the bank of river Pennar, 12 km (7.5 mi) from Nellore. It attracts many pilgrims. The village is part of Buchireddipalem
Mandal. In Tretayuga Mahamuni Kasyapa Brahma performed yagna and pleased Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy thus this place is named as ‘Yagnavatika Jonnawada’. Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Kamakhsi tai grant to the innumerable devotes their desires, as their God head. Since then he continues conferring boons and his blessings on his devotees. This temple is constructed in the year 1150 (Tretayuga). The goddess Kamkshi is believed to be an incarnation of Shakti. A ‘Sri Chakram’ was installed here by Sri Jagadguru Sankaracharya. Pilgrims take a holy dip in the lake known as Kachpateertham, near the temple, which washes away all their bad karma. Brahma Rushi Sri Kashyap Mahamuni visited Bhoolokam (The Earth) and wanted to perform Yagna and chosen north of vedadri as Yagna Vatika (place to perform yagna) after successful completion of the Yagna a bright light appeared. It has spread over the whole bhoolokam. Later Lord Eswara appeared as Lord Mallikarjuna, who came out from fire of Yagna.
There is bus service from Nellore to Jonnawada. For the convenience of the pilgrims there are choultries of the Devastanam and TTD and also private choultries. Every year, during the celebration of Brahmstsavam in the month of Vaisaka, Lakhs of devotees throng the holy centre to worship the goddess to attain salvation and Friday is the day very dear to Kamakshitai. One can find persons, persecuted by evil spirits, circumambulating in the temple precinct. A bathing ghat has been built on the bank of the Penna, for the convenience of the pilgrims.
Narasimha Konda
Vedagiri Lakshmimarasimha Swamy devastanam came into being nearly 500 years ago, on the summit of Narasimhakonad. According to the rock inscriptions, this temple was built by the Pallava king Narsimha Varma in the ninth century. Legend goes that the sage Kasyapa established the temple on the bank of Pinakini. And the vedic scripture Brahma Purana
reveals that the seven sages (Saptarishis) performed “yagnam” (Sacrifice) on the top of Narasimhakonda. The seven (Koneru) tanks were renovated with Mandapas on the hilltop . The holy place lies 15 km (9.3 mi) away from Nellore, on the southern bank of the river Pinakini. Every year “Brahmotsavams” are celebrated here in the month of May. Jonnawada is to the north of the river.
Penchalakona
This is a very ancient sacred place (pilgrim centre). Legend says that Lord Narasimha manifested himself here as a huge of rock in “Yoga mudra” (in an entwined contemplative posture) and hence it acquired the name of “Penusila” (huge rock) and in course of time became famous as “Penchalakona”. Legend has it that after slaying the demon Hiranya Kasipa, Lord Narsimha bathed in Penchalakona and withdrew that “Avatara”(incarnation) of Narasimha, shedding his anger and ferocity. The Lord here goes by the name of Somasila Narasimhaswamy and has become one of the Nava Narasimhas (nine manifestations). People believe that because the sage Kanva resided in this area in the past, the river flowing here acquired the name Kanva Nadi and that with efflux of time it became Kandaleru. It is also learnt that the temple was renovated in the 10th century.
Penchalkona lies at the foothills of Veligondalu (mentioned earlier), at a distance of 80 km (49.7 mi) from Nellore. Narasimha Jayanthi is celebrated every year in the month of May and devotees flock specially on Saturday. The Devestanam choultries provide facilities to the pilgrims and there is bus service too.
Veda and Sanskrit college, V.R. College, C.A.M High School and ABM High Schools RSR Municipal High Schools are the oldest educational institution in Nellore town. They were originally affiliated with either Madras University or Andhra University. After that to Sri Venkateswara University
and now the colleges have become part of Vikrama Simhapuri University
. The next college that came into existence was Sarvodaya college, opposite to RTC Bus stand.
On the other hand, providing educational facilities to rural areas is largely confined to the shelves of the Andhra Pradesh Government. As of 2006 Srinivasa Degree College is the only degree level college to be set up in Kovur mandal since India's Independence in 1947. A few ancient colleges which have contributed education to Nellore are
Aqua culture in the district is also of prime importance. It includes prawn and fish culture. Many people in the district depend on aqua culture for their subsistence.
The handloom sector of the district is also a major small scale industry of the district and a large number of people depend on it for living. Some of the important industries of the region are Mica Mines and thermal power plant. The Krishnapatnam port which is located 20 kilometers from the district serves as a major center for economic activity of the district.
Hand made gold jewellery studded with precious and semi precious stones is main small sector industry in Nellore its being supplied to all over south Indian markets its biggest small sectore industry biggest booster to Nellore economy as well.
Nellore is emerging as one of the most leading gold jewellery producer.
Dairy is an upcoming industry in Nellore district.
The branded retailers like Peter England,Reliance,Levis,Reebok,Pepe Jeans & Basics etc have started their outlets
Beaches in Nellore
Kotha Koduru, Maipadu, Thupilipalyem, Kothapatnam and Mutthukuru are the beaches in Nellore. These beaches are a cheap and cool way to get away from the hot sun during the extended summer. Nellore residents are generally risk averse. Nellore has at least 100 KM of coastline yet does not have any water sports activities.
Nellore is well connected to all the major cities and states in India. The city is also connected by a well maintained network of roads to all major towns and cities of the state and country its on the national golden quadriangle route of NH5 which is serving it with four way lane highway. It is just 173 km north of Chennai city.City has 2 Major Bus stations one at Sarvodaya College and other Sri Potti Sree Ramulu Bus Station....
Here comes the Asia's Biggest Port that is Krishnapatnam with highest amount of ships take the loads and goes to the countries like china, Korea and Japan. Usually the major amount of the raw-material exported form this port is Iron-ore from Ballary. The port inauguration was done by Sonia Gandhi and prime minister Manmohan singh.
The nearest airport is located at Renigunta[Tirupati]
City
A city is a relatively large and permanent settlement. Although there is no agreement on how a city is distinguished from a town within general English language meanings, many cities have a particular administrative, legal, or historical status based on local law.For example, in the U.S...
and headquarters of Potti Sri Ramulu Nellore District, formerly Nellore district
Nellore district
Sri Amarajeevi Potti Sri Ramulu Nellore District is one of the 23 districts of Andhra Pradesh. Nellore is famous for high paddy field, and so it got its name from "Nelli". The population of the district was 2,966,082 of which 22.45% were urban as of 2011....
.And ( fourth largest city )in the state of Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh , is one of the 28 states of India, situated on the southeastern coast of India. It is India's fourth largest state by area and fifth largest by population. Its capital and largest city by population is Hyderabad.The total GDP of Andhra Pradesh is $100 billion and is ranked third...
. Ancient name of Nellore was "Vikrama Simhapuri".
Nellore is situated about 170 kilometres (105.6 mi) from Chennai
Chennai
Chennai , formerly known as Madras or Madarasapatinam , is the capital city of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, located on the Coromandel Coast off the Bay of Bengal. Chennai is the fourth most populous metropolitan area and the sixth most populous city in India...
on the Chennai-Kolkata
Kolkata
Kolkata , formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. Located on the east bank of the Hooghly River, it was the commercial capital of East India...
national highway and about 453 kilometres (281 mi) south east of Hyderabad, the capital of Andhra Pradesh. It is located on the banks of the Penna
Penner River
The Penner is a river of southern India. The Penner rises on the hill of Nandi Hills in Chikballapur District of Karnataka state, and runs north and east through the state of Andhra Pradesh to empty into the Bay of Bengal...
river. Nellore is well known for its production of mica (gudur), lemon (gudur) and agricultural products such as rice and it is famous for temples like Sri Erukalala Parameswari Devi Temple known as Simhapuri(Nellore) Gramadevatha, Narasimha Swamy Konda, Jonnavada Kamakshi Ammavari temple, Ayyappa Temple, Golagamudi Venkaya Swami Temple, Rajarajeswari temple, PenchalaKona. Nellore is also known for aquaculture
Aquaculture
Aquaculture, also known as aquafarming, is the farming of aquatic organisms such as fish, crustaceans, molluscs and aquatic plants. Aquaculture involves cultivating freshwater and saltwater populations under controlled conditions, and can be contrasted with commercial fishing, which is the...
. It is one of the fastest developing cities in Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh , is one of the 28 states of India, situated on the southeastern coast of India. It is India's fourth largest state by area and fifth largest by population. Its capital and largest city by population is Hyderabad.The total GDP of Andhra Pradesh is $100 billion and is ranked third...
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple (Nellore)
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple (Nellore)
The Sri Ranganthaswami Temple in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, India is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ranganatha a resting form of Lord Vishnu. This temple, also called Talpagiri Ranganathaswami temple or Ranganayakulu is one of the oldest temples in Nellore. It is located on the banks of the Penna...
, located on the banks of the Penna River
Penner River
The Penner is a river of southern India. The Penner rises on the hill of Nandi Hills in Chikballapur District of Karnataka state, and runs north and east through the state of Andhra Pradesh to empty into the Bay of Bengal...
, dates back to twelfth century.
History
Nel means Paddy in Tamil uoor or ur means village or city in Tamil. Nellore was known by the name of Vikrama Simhapuri till 13th century. The district had an important role during the emergence of the Telugu language and the formation of the state of Andhra Pradesh. It had been under the rule of Maurya Dynasty, Kharavela of Chedi dynasty, Satavahanas, KakatiyaKakatiya
The Kakatiya dynasty was an Indian dynasty that ruled most parts of what is now Andhra Pradesh, India from 1083 CE to 1323 CE, with Orugallu , now Warangal , as its capital. Orugallu is also called 'Eka Sila Nagaram'...
s, Pallava
Pallava
The Pallava dynasty was a Tamil dynasty which ruled the northern Tamil Nadu region and the southern Andhra Pradesh region with their capital at Kanchipuram...
s, Cholas, Eastern Gangas of Kalinga Empire, Telugu Cholas
Telugu Cholas
Many Telugu Choda kingdoms ruled over many regions including the cities on the banks of Krishna River in the period between the seventh and the thirteenth century. It is not known much about these family origins. Some of them claimed descent from the legendary Tamil Karikala Chola . Telugu Cholas...
, Pandyas and other dynasties.
The city derives its name from the Tamil word, “nell” which means Paddy, as paddy cultivation is the predominant occupation in this region. Nothing certain is known of the History of Nellore before the time of the Cholas. The Neolithic age in Nellore is more obscure than the Paleolithic age. It is not clear to what extent this district was occupied by the Dravidians. It is supposed that Nellore was situated in Dandakaranya
Dandakaranya
Dandakaranya is a spiritually significant region in India. It is roughly equivalent to the Bastar District in the central east part of India...
forests into which the Aryas first penetrated as adventurous sages with the rise of the Mauryan Empire. Nellore came under Mauryan influence and was part of the Ashokan Empire in the 3rd century B.C. It was next included in the Pallava Dominion between the fourth and sixth century A.D.
Before the district was taken over the British it was ruled by the Nawabs. During the British rule the district was at peace and did not undergo any major political changes.
The period after Indian independence brought about major political changes in the district. Until 1 October 1953, the district was part of the Madras (now Chennai) state but on 1 November 1956 when the states were recognised on the basis of linguistic differences, the state of Andhra Pradesh came into existence. During that time Nellore played an important role in the formation of the state and Potti Sriramulu, a Telugu patriot and activist had given a lot of effort to set up Andhra Pradesh.
List of Mandalas
- Allur
- Ananthasagaram
- Anumasamudrampeta
- Atmakur
- Balayapalle
- Bhogolu
- Buchireddipalem
- Chejerla
- Chillakur
- Chittamur
- Dagadarthi
- Dakkili
- Doravarisatram
- Duttalur
- Gudur
- Indukurpet
- Jaladanki
- Kaligiri
- Kaluvoya
- Kavali
- Kodavalur
- Kondapuram
- Kota
- Kovur
- Manubolu
- Marripadu
- Muthukur
- Naidupeta
- Nellore
- Ozili
- Pellakur
- Podlakur
- Rapur
- Seetharamapuram
- Sangam
- Sullurpeta
- Sydapuram
- Tada
- Thotapalligudur
- Udayagiri
- Vakadu
- Varikuntapadu
- Venkatachalam
- Vinjamur
- Venkatagiri
- Vidavalur
Etymology
The word Nellore is a combination of two TamilTamil language
Tamil is a Dravidian language spoken predominantly by Tamil people of the Indian subcontinent. It has official status in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and in the Indian union territory of Pondicherry. Tamil is also an official language of Sri Lanka and Singapore...
words Nel+oor which means Village of Paddy fields in Tamil
Tamil language
Tamil is a Dravidian language spoken predominantly by Tamil people of the Indian subcontinent. It has official status in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and in the Indian union territory of Pondicherry. Tamil is also an official language of Sri Lanka and Singapore...
language. In ancient days, this region was part of Tamil country of Thondai
Tondai Nadu
Tondai Nadu is a historical region located in the northernmost part of Tamil Nadu. The region comprises the districts which formed a part of the traditional Pallava kingdom...
.
Demographics
As of the 2001 IndiaIndia
India , officially the Republic of India , is a country in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country by geographical area, the second-most populous country with over 1.2 billion people, and the most populous democracy in the world...
n census, Nellore has a population of 378,947, in the same year population in agglomeration was 404,775. Population in the year 2009 is 827443. Both males and females constitute 50% of the population. Nellore has an average literacy rate of 76% for males and 68% for females, higher than the national average of 59.5%. 11% of the population is under 6 years of age.
Talpagiri Rangantha Swamy Temple is a very famous temple situated here on the Banks of River Pennar, date backs to many centuries century but has been in history records from 12th century. Tikkana Somayaji the 2nd of the Kavitrayam wrote 15 chapters (parvaalu) of Andhra Mahabharatamu in the same temple. Next to it is situated the Desikan Temple. These temples are well maintained.
Culture
As a large percent of population is rural and dependent on agriculture, their way of life is more traditional in nature. Though the people here are progressive in thought, they prefer traditional way of life. The common dressing habits are Pants and Shirts for men and Saree for women.Telugu
Telugu language
Telugu is a Central Dravidian language primarily spoken in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India, where it is an official language. It is also spoken in the neighbouring states of Chattisgarh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Orissa and Tamil Nadu...
is the most common language that is spoken in Nellore district. Besides Telugu the other prominent languages that are spoken in the region are Urdu
Urdu
Urdu is a register of the Hindustani language that is identified with Muslims in South Asia. It belongs to the Indo-European family. Urdu is the national language and lingua franca of Pakistan. It is also widely spoken in some regions of India, where it is one of the 22 scheduled languages and an...
and Tamil
Tamil language
Tamil is a Dravidian language spoken predominantly by Tamil people of the Indian subcontinent. It has official status in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and in the Indian union territory of Pondicherry. Tamil is also an official language of Sri Lanka and Singapore...
.
As far as art and literature is concerned, Nellore has produced many great poets and literary personalities of fame.
Nellore is famous for its dishes especially sea foods and ranks number one in food for Andhra Pradesh. It is also famous for authentic andhra sweet like bobbatlu.
The major form of entertainment in the district is movies. People in this region love watching movies of various kinds.
Notable places
Talpagiri Ranganadhaswamy TempleSri Talapagiri Ranaganatha swamy Temple is located in Nellore city and is about 5 km (3.1 mi) away from Nellore-1 APSRTC Bus stand and 1 km (0.621372736649807 mi) away from Nellore railway station. Ranganada Swamy Temple in Nellore is more than 6000 years old. This temple is situated on the banks of the River Penner and is marked by a huge 96 feet tall Galigopuram with seven gold kalasams and its architectural splendour constructed by SRI Yeragudapati Venkatachalam Panthulu. The annual Rath Yathra of the God is a much awaited ritual in Nellore.
There are seven kalisams, which brings beauty to the temple. Every year during the month of March–April (varies according to Hindu calendar) grand festival is celebrated. These are called Brahmotsavam.
On the bank of river penna sri kashyapa Maharshi performed yagna and as a fruit of his penance conferred upon him the gift of establishing himself as Ranganadha Swamy at Nellore. In 7th century, by Pallava ruler Sri Rajaraja Narendra, Subsequently in 13th century Sri Jatha Varma has offered precious stones and metal to Lord Ranganadha Swamy. The Andhra Maha Bharatam i.e. from Viratprvam to the end of the epic was written by the poet Sri kavi Brahma Tikkana, on the bank of pennar river. On the east there is seven storied Maha gopuram, south Sri Ranganayaki Lakshmi Devi temple and beautiful mirror dias, west is sacred Pennar river and north Sri Andal Ammavari temple.
Sri Gayathri devi Vishwakarma Temple
The Vedamata Gayathri devi, and Veda pitha sri.Virat Vishwakarma Temple is located at Virat nagar, in main road of Nellore.This temple is considered to be one among the biggest Gayathri devi temples of Andhra pradesh.The temple is attracting huge number of devotees and is said by devotees that, five times circumbenation of the temple sanctorium fulfills their wishes. Sree Govindamambadevi sametha, Sree veera brahmendra swamy temple is also located at this temple premises.
Jonnawada
Jonnawada
Jonnawada is a pilgrimage in Andhra Pradesh, India on the banks of river Pennar.-History:It is famous for Sri Mallikarjuna swamy and Kamakshi amma temple constructed in the year 1150. The goddess Kamakshi is believed as an incarnation of Shakti...
Mallikarjuna Swamy kamakshi tai temple is located about 12 km (7.5 mi) from Nellore. It has good connections with the Railway station at Nellore. A famous Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Kamakhsi Tai temple is located on the bank of river Pennar, 12 km (7.5 mi) from Nellore. It attracts many pilgrims. The village is part of Buchireddipalem
Buchireddipalem
Buchireddipalem or Buchi Reddy Palem is one of the biggest towns of the Nellore district of India. Located 15 km from Nellore city, it is located on the state highway connecting Nellore and Bombay. The nearest railway station is Nellore, the nearest sea port is Krishna Patnam and the nearest...
Mandal. In Tretayuga Mahamuni Kasyapa Brahma performed yagna and pleased Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy thus this place is named as ‘Yagnavatika Jonnawada’. Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Kamakhsi tai grant to the innumerable devotes their desires, as their God head. Since then he continues conferring boons and his blessings on his devotees. This temple is constructed in the year 1150 (Tretayuga). The goddess Kamkshi is believed to be an incarnation of Shakti. A ‘Sri Chakram’ was installed here by Sri Jagadguru Sankaracharya. Pilgrims take a holy dip in the lake known as Kachpateertham, near the temple, which washes away all their bad karma. Brahma Rushi Sri Kashyap Mahamuni visited Bhoolokam (The Earth) and wanted to perform Yagna and chosen north of vedadri as Yagna Vatika (place to perform yagna) after successful completion of the Yagna a bright light appeared. It has spread over the whole bhoolokam. Later Lord Eswara appeared as Lord Mallikarjuna, who came out from fire of Yagna.
There is bus service from Nellore to Jonnawada. For the convenience of the pilgrims there are choultries of the Devastanam and TTD and also private choultries. Every year, during the celebration of Brahmstsavam in the month of Vaisaka, Lakhs of devotees throng the holy centre to worship the goddess to attain salvation and Friday is the day very dear to Kamakshitai. One can find persons, persecuted by evil spirits, circumambulating in the temple precinct. A bathing ghat has been built on the bank of the Penna, for the convenience of the pilgrims.
Narasimha Konda
Narasimha Konda
Narasimha Konda is a hill near the town of Jonnawada in Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh state in India. It is a Hindu pilgrimage center and the site of an ancient temple dedicated to the God Narasimha.-Geography:...
Vedagiri Lakshmimarasimha Swamy devastanam came into being nearly 500 years ago, on the summit of Narasimhakonad. According to the rock inscriptions, this temple was built by the Pallava king Narsimha Varma in the ninth century. Legend goes that the sage Kasyapa established the temple on the bank of Pinakini. And the vedic scripture Brahma Purana
Brahma Purana
The Brahma Purana is one of the major eighteen Mahapuranas, a genre of Hindu religious texts. The extant text comprises 246 chapters. It is divided into two parts, namely the Purvabhaga and the Uttarabhaga . The first part narrates the story behind the creation of the cosmos, details the life and...
reveals that the seven sages (Saptarishis) performed “yagnam” (Sacrifice) on the top of Narasimhakonda. The seven (Koneru) tanks were renovated with Mandapas on the hilltop . The holy place lies 15 km (9.3 mi) away from Nellore, on the southern bank of the river Pinakini. Every year “Brahmotsavams” are celebrated here in the month of May. Jonnawada is to the north of the river.
Penchalakona
Penchalakona
Penchalakona village is located in Rapur mandal of Nellore district in Andhra Pradesh. It is 70 km from Nellore town. Penchalakona houses the temple of Sri Penusila Narasimha Swamy, which is situated at the foot of a hill. It is believed that Kanva Maharshi did his penance here...
This is a very ancient sacred place (pilgrim centre). Legend says that Lord Narasimha manifested himself here as a huge of rock in “Yoga mudra” (in an entwined contemplative posture) and hence it acquired the name of “Penusila” (huge rock) and in course of time became famous as “Penchalakona”. Legend has it that after slaying the demon Hiranya Kasipa, Lord Narsimha bathed in Penchalakona and withdrew that “Avatara”(incarnation) of Narasimha, shedding his anger and ferocity. The Lord here goes by the name of Somasila Narasimhaswamy and has become one of the Nava Narasimhas (nine manifestations). People believe that because the sage Kanva resided in this area in the past, the river flowing here acquired the name Kanva Nadi and that with efflux of time it became Kandaleru. It is also learnt that the temple was renovated in the 10th century.
Penchalkona lies at the foothills of Veligondalu (mentioned earlier), at a distance of 80 km (49.7 mi) from Nellore. Narasimha Jayanthi is celebrated every year in the month of May and devotees flock specially on Saturday. The Devestanam choultries provide facilities to the pilgrims and there is bus service too.
Notable people
- Nallapareddy Sreenivasulu Reddy
- Sri Potti Sriramulu
- Puchalapalli SundaraiahPuchalapalli SundaraiahPuchalapalli Sundarayya was a founding member of the Communist Party of India and a leader of the peasant revolt in the former Hyderabad State of India, called the Telengana Rebellion...
- Nedurumalli Janardhana ReddyNedurumalli Janardhana ReddyNedurumalli Janardhana Reddy is a member of the 12th, 13th and 14th Lok Sabha of India. He represents the Visakhapatnam constituency of Andhra Pradesh and is a member of the Indian National Congress. He was also a Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh from 1990 to 1992...
- Bezawada Gopal Reddy [ex CM of AP]
- Magunta Subba Rami Reddy
- Muppavarapu Venkaiah Naidu
- SP Balasubramanyam
- G. V. Krishna Reddy (Founder & Chairman of GVK)
- P.Shesi reddy (CEO & Chairman of APPLABS)
- Metukuru.Venkata Subba Reddy
Education
Nellore has a university, a number of schools, degree colleges and also engineering colleges. Even many medical colleges including dental colleges are also present in the region. In fact the district has a heritage of being an important educational center right from the early times which dates back to the period of formation of Andhra Pradesh.Veda and Sanskrit college, V.R. College, C.A.M High School and ABM High Schools RSR Municipal High Schools are the oldest educational institution in Nellore town. They were originally affiliated with either Madras University or Andhra University. After that to Sri Venkateswara University
Sri Venkateswara University
Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, is a state university, which was established in 1954, in the famous temple city of Tirupati, South India, under the auspices of Late Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu, the chief minister of Andhra Pradesh, and with support of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams...
and now the colleges have become part of Vikrama Simhapuri University
Vikrama Simhapuri University
Vikrama Simhapuri University is a university located in the Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh, India. The university was established in 2008 with six courses.-Campus:...
. The next college that came into existence was Sarvodaya college, opposite to RTC Bus stand.
On the other hand, providing educational facilities to rural areas is largely confined to the shelves of the Andhra Pradesh Government. As of 2006 Srinivasa Degree College is the only degree level college to be set up in Kovur mandal since India's Independence in 1947. A few ancient colleges which have contributed education to Nellore are
- Vikrama Simhapuri UniversityVikrama Simhapuri UniversityVikrama Simhapuri University is a university located in the Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh, India. The university was established in 2008 with six courses.-Campus:...
is the university in nellore that was newly established in the year 2008. At present the university doesn't have permanent buildings, the works for that are in process. The university is now successfully running in the V.R.High School Campus (old law college campus).
- Veda and Sanskrit college and school - The theosophist refers to visit of Dr.Annie besant and establishment of vedic school which later became a college.
- Venkatagiri Raja's College(VRC) and high school : This is an aided college and the High school, The assets are once donated by Raja of Venkatagiri way back in 1885 due to the efforts of their dewan sri sunku Narayana swami chetty B.A., who is the founder of the high school in 1875. This humble beginning has grown to its peak during the years 1950-1985 with all combinations of groups, giving the best education. Due to the privatization policy of the Govt. during early 1990 it started losing its glory and could not with stand the competition and striving hard for its present position in vain. Now it remains as a landmark in nellore town. The efforts are to be made to revive its past glory from its old students or alumni.
- LLF School, Vedayapalem, Nellore
- Sri Bhavani ITI, Nellore (Founded by Shri M.V.Subrahmanyam)
- NBKR IST, Vidyanagar, Kota, Nellore.
- Modern school, Nellore
- Mekapatti Rajamohan Reddy Institute of Science and Technology, Udayagiri
- Sri Balaji Vidyalayam Link: Sri Balaji VidyalayamSri Balaji VidyalayamSri Balaji Vidyalayam is an English Convent School in the city of Nellore. The institution opened in 1975, and was founded by Sri D. Vittal Rao Garu, with English as the medium of instruction....
- V. R. Children's Academy
- Ratnam Group of Schools (one of the best source for school education in the city)
- Sanghamitra Vidyalayam High School, B.V. Nagar, Nellore
- gomathy international school, Nellore
- narayana concept school, Nellore
- Dr. SRK School
- Simhapuri Public School (ICSE Residential School) surrounded by three mountains in Nellore
- Ravindra Bharathi school
- Global Wisdom International School
- Sangamitra School
Colleges
- Quba college of Engineering and Technolgy, Venkatachallam
- PBR Visvodaya Institute of Technology and Science Kavali, Nellore
- Indian Institute of tourism and travel manamegent, (IITTM), Nellore.
- AlHuda Polytechnic College, Nellore (Altaf Hussain Founder Member)
- Brahmaiah College Of Engineering, NH-5, North RajuPalem, Nellore.
- Quba College, Venkatachalam
- Sarvodaya College, Near RTC
- KAC Govt Degree College
- Rao's Degree College
- Krishna Chaitanya degree and pg college
- Sana College of Computer Studies
- Sri Venugopala Swamy College of arts and science (SVGS)
- Dodla Kousalyamma Women's College (DKW), Podalakur Road
- Govt Women's Polytechnic College, Opp. Bollineni Hospital
- Agriculture Polytechnic College
- Fishery Sciences College
- Govt ITI College
- Brahmas Engineering College, North Raupalem village
- Swathi College of Pharmacy, Venkatachalam
- Narayana Engineering CollegeNarayana Engineering CollegeNarayana Engineering College, Nellore ' is an engineering college in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, India, run by Narayana Educational Institutions. Established in 1998, NEC provides technical education offering both graduate and undergraduate courses in Engineering and Technology. NEC is affiliated...
, Nellore - Narayana Medical College, Nellore
- Narayana Engineering College, Gudur
- Vivekananda Degree college, Nellore
- V.R PG College, Complex Road
- V.R Law College, Complex Road
- A.V.S college of engineering and Technology, Venkatachalam, near Anupallipadu, Nellore.
- Audisankara Engineering College, Gudur.
- Sree venkateswara college of engineering (An NRI's project), North Rajupalem, Nellore.
- Jagan's Degree College, Nellore
- Sarvodaya PG Centre, Trunk Road
- Priyadarshini college of engineering, Nellore
- Geethanjali PG College, Nellore
- Sree Bharathi Jr College
High (secondary) schools
- P. N. M. High School, Janda street
- S.T Mary's English Medium High School, Naidupet
- St. Peters High School,
- St. Johns English Medium High School
- St. Joseph's English Medium High School
- Mythilee English Medium High School, Near Nippo Factory, Nellore.
- Veda Vyasa High School, magunta layout,Nellore.
- Enugu Sundararami Reddy Municipal High School
- Veda Samskrutha Patasala
- C. A. M. High School
- R. S. R. Municipal High School
- Government Model High School
- Little Angels English Medium School
- Y.V.M. high school
- M.S.M. high school
- C.V.S Academy (bank exam coaching center)
- St. Ann's English medical High School, kavali
- Sri Nethaji (M.S.R) Pilot High School, Nellore.
- viswabharathi school, venkateswarapuram
Economy
The factors which have aided the economy of Nellore to flourish are proximity to the sea and fertile land towards the eastern part of the district. The district has a cultivable area equal to 41.3 percent. The predominant occupation of the people of Nellore is agriculture and the crops which are most commonly grown in the district are Paddy, Jowar, Bajra along with Tobacco, Chillies, Groundnut and sugarcane. Based on these crops a number of agro based industries have come up in the district like rice bran oil plants, rice and paraboiled rice mills and sugar factories.Aqua culture in the district is also of prime importance. It includes prawn and fish culture. Many people in the district depend on aqua culture for their subsistence.
The handloom sector of the district is also a major small scale industry of the district and a large number of people depend on it for living. Some of the important industries of the region are Mica Mines and thermal power plant. The Krishnapatnam port which is located 20 kilometers from the district serves as a major center for economic activity of the district.
Hand made gold jewellery studded with precious and semi precious stones is main small sector industry in Nellore its being supplied to all over south Indian markets its biggest small sectore industry biggest booster to Nellore economy as well.
Nellore is emerging as one of the most leading gold jewellery producer.
Dairy is an upcoming industry in Nellore district.
The branded retailers like Peter England,Reliance,Levis,Reebok,Pepe Jeans & Basics etc have started their outlets
Tourism
Nellore has some fantastic tourist spots which have immensely contributed to the tourism potential of the district. The region has a combination of religion, nature and history in its expanse of tourism. Some of the famous temples of the region are Ranganayaka Temple, Jonnawada, Penchalakona, Mahalakshmi temple in Fathekhan Pet and a lot more. The places in Nellore district which are a treat for the eyes of a traveller are Somasila Dam, Kandaleru Dam, Pulicat Lake and the Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary. The Udaygiri fort which is at a distance of 100 kilometers from Nellore stands as a historical testimony of the region.Beaches in Nellore
Kotha Koduru, Maipadu, Thupilipalyem, Kothapatnam and Mutthukuru are the beaches in Nellore. These beaches are a cheap and cool way to get away from the hot sun during the extended summer. Nellore residents are generally risk averse. Nellore has at least 100 KM of coastline yet does not have any water sports activities.
Transport
Nellore is well connected by rail on the major railway route its connected all over India with all 54 pairs of major trains & 4 passenger trains having its halt here.3 MEMU for chennai central & tirupathi.5 Rly stations in Nellore city.Padugupadu .Nellore Main Station.Nellore south.Vedayapalem.Vcenkatachalam.Nellore is well connected to all the major cities and states in India. The city is also connected by a well maintained network of roads to all major towns and cities of the state and country its on the national golden quadriangle route of NH5 which is serving it with four way lane highway. It is just 173 km north of Chennai city.City has 2 Major Bus stations one at Sarvodaya College and other Sri Potti Sree Ramulu Bus Station....
Here comes the Asia's Biggest Port that is Krishnapatnam with highest amount of ships take the loads and goes to the countries like china, Korea and Japan. Usually the major amount of the raw-material exported form this port is Iron-ore from Ballary. The port inauguration was done by Sonia Gandhi and prime minister Manmohan singh.
The nearest airport is located at Renigunta[Tirupati]