Rahu Rupa Shayana Dattatreya Temple is located in Varadavelli, Boinpally Mandal, Karimnagar district, Telangana. Nestled on a small island or peninsula created by the backwaters of the Mid‑Manair (Mid‑Maneru) reservoir, it is surrounded by water on three sides.
The presiding deity is Lord Dattatreya, depicted in a unique Rahu Rupa Sayana (sleeping serpent‑form), also known as Sarpa Rupa. The idol portrays Dattatreya reclining like a serpent, with his posture known as Varada Hasta, meaning “boon‑granting hands.” Three neem trees stand behind the sanctum, representing spiritual and healing significance.
Built in a simple yet ancient Dravidian style, the temple sits on a raised plinth among neem trees. The sanctum sanctorum faces the water body, enveloped by a prakara (enclosure). The modest structure houses the serpent‑form idol, with boat access from the reservoir adding to its mystical charm.
Long ago, the peaceful village of Varadavelli was home to a spiritually powerful sage named Venkavadhootha Maharshi. He was a great devotee of Lord Dattatreya, the combined form of the Hindu trinity — Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The sage performed intense penance (tapas) on the banks of the then-flowing stream that later became part of the Mid-Manair reservoir.
The sage’s goal was to free people from the harsh effects of Rahu dosha — the negative impact caused by the shadow planet Rahu in one’s horoscope. Rahu is known in Hindu astrology to bring confusion, delays, health issues, legal problems, and mental stress during its unfavorable period.
Moved by the sage’s sincere devotion and compassion for others, Lord Dattatreya appeared in a unique form — lying down in the form of a serpent (Sarpa Roopa), symbolizing Rahu’s energy. This rare posture, called Shayana Bhavam (reclining form), is not seen anywhere else in the world. It was meant to absorb and neutralize Rahu’s harmful effects, offering relief and blessings to devotees.
Three neem trees (called “Vepa Chettu” in Telugu) grew miraculously around the divine form, symbolizing protection and healing. These trees are believed to represent the three heads of Dattatreya — Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva — and continue to stand tall behind the sanctum even today.
As per divine instruction, the locals built a small shrine to preserve and worship this Rahu Rupa Shayana Dattatreya. Over the years, many devotees came here after facing tough times due to Rahu Mahadasha (Rahu period), and they experienced miraculous solutions to their problems, be it in jobs, family, health, or legal battles.
Because of these divine interventions, the shrine became known as the Varada Velli, meaning “the place that grants boons.” Over time, the village took the same name.
Even today, it is believed that praying here with faith, especially during Rahu Kalam (the time ruled by Rahu each day) or during Datta Jayanti, can bring great peace, protection, and blessings. Devotees follow the practice of offering black cloth, performing abhishekam, lighting oil lamps, and chanting the Dattatreya mantra.
Additionally, during river‑related festivals like Saraswati Pushkaralu, devotees gather here for Rahu‑sayana darshanam, attesting to the temple’s strong connection with water and serpent‑energy rituals.
