According to tradition, Manchale, the dry and forested land on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, later became the sacred town of Mantralayam through Sri Raghavendra Swamy’s spiritual vision. After declining fertile lands and worldly riches offered by the Nawab of Adoni, the saint specifically chose this barren region, leaving many puzzled by his decision.

Before establishing his Matha, Sri Raghavendra Swamy sought the blessings of Goddess Manchalamma, the guardian deity of the area. Pleased by his humility, she granted permission on the condition that devotees should first offer their respects to her before visiting his Brindavana—a tradition still followed today.

The saint then instructed Dewan Venkanna to excavate a particular spot. Beneath the dry soil, they discovered sacred ash and ancient ritual remains. Sri Raghavendra Swamy revealed that, in his earlier birth as Prahlada, he had performed a great Yagna there, making the land spiritually powerful.

He later chose this exact location for his Jeeva Brindavana, constructed with 1,200 sacred Saligramas. In 1671, he entered it in deep meditation, assuring devotees that his spiritual presence would continue to bless them for centuries.

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Did You Know?

Mantralayam was once known as Manchale, a barren forest region. Devotees traditionally worship Goddess Manchalamma before visiting Sri Raghavendra Swamy’s Brindavana, honoring the blessing she is believed to have given for the saint to establish his sacred seat there.