Gnana Saraswati Temple

Gnana Saraswati Temple rises in Telangana's Nirmal district near the Godavari, built from stone with carved deities and floral patterns on its walls. The main shrine for Saraswati, goddess of knowledge, stands at the center of the complex, surrounded by smaller prayer halls and maintained courtyards.

The earliest stonework here dates to the 11th century, making it one of the oldest pilgrimage sites in this region. Later rulers expanded the grounds during the 14th and 16th centuries, adding more shrines and entrance gates.

Schoolchildren arrive here for the Aksharabhyasam ceremony, where they write their first letters on slate with a wooden stick to begin their studies. Families bring offerings of fruit and flowers, asking the goddess to bless their children's path in learning.

The shrine opens every day from early morning until evening. Guesthouses and food stalls stand near the grounds, so visitors can have a meal or stay overnight for longer visits.

Pilgrims dip their pens and notebooks in the Godavari water near the shrine, believing the touch of the river improves memory and understanding. Some students also bring textbooks to hold briefly in the current before starting exams.