Pillalamarrri Temple

The temple was built in the early 13th century  by the Recherla chiefs who served as the feudatories of Kakatiyas. Located in the Pillalamarri village in Suryapet town, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Historically, Suryapet town is significant as the gateway of Telangana, and it is located on National Highway 9 between Hyderabad and Vijaywada. In addition to the Pillalamarri temple, the village also houses several other ancient temples built during the Kakatiya period. This enhances the historical and religious value of the village.

Built on the banks of the Musi River, the temple dates back to the Kakatiya era and stands as a testimony to the architectural craftsmanship of the Kakatiya rulers. The temple houses beautifully carved pillars and walls, and each intricate sculpture is poetry in stone. The walls of the temple are adorned with beautiful paintings. A grand and regal Nandi bull is seen gracing the portals. The detailing in the architecture is an indication of the touch of excellence which the craftsmen of the Kakatiya period were able to impart on Telangana art and culture.

The main sanctorum of the temple houses the idol of the main deity, Lord Chennakesavaswami. The idol is resplendent in adornments, particularly during the annual celebrations in the months of February to March. During this time, the temple premises are filled with devotees who come from far and near to offer their prayers to the Lord and seek his blessings.

The temple walls are replete with frescoes and inscriptions that beautifully and elaborately describe the rule of the Kakatiya kings. Some of the relevant inscriptions include the stone inscription in Telugu which dates back to S. 1130 (A.D 1208) and bears a reference to king Ganapatideva. There is another stone inscription of S.1117 (A.D 1195) which mentions the rule of Rudradeva. Both inscriptions are available for tourists to view. In addition to the presence of valuable inscriptions, the historical significance of the place has significantly increased by the discovery of coins within the temple premises. These have helped historians to learn a lot about the life and times of the great Kakatiya rulers.

In addition to the historical and aesthetic value the village imparts, it is also a culturally significant area. This is the birthplace of the famous Telugu poet Pillamarri Pina Virabhadrudu.