Long ago Sri Yada Maharshi son of Sri Rushyashrunga Maharshi with the Blessings of Anjaneya Swamy had performed great penance for Lord Narasimha Swamy (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu) in a cave on the hill currently known as Yadagirigutta. Pleased with his deep devotion, Lord Narasimha appeared before him in five different forms as Sri Jwala Narsimha, Sri Yogananda Narasimha, Sri Ugra Narasimha, Sri Gandaberunda Narasimha, and Sri Laksmi Narasimha.
It is believed that the Lord Initially appeared as Jwala Narasimha Swamy (Lord as a flame). Yada Maharishi was unable to face the intensity of this form of appearance. Later the Lord appeared in a peaceful form as Yoga Narasimha (Lord in a Yogic Padmasana posture with open palms on the knees). Not satisfied with the Lord appearing alone, Yada Maharshi sought to see him with his consort, so he is said to have appeared with Lakshmi on his lap', known as Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy. This form is worshipped by Alwars, his ardent devotees. As such this pilgrimage is also known as “Rushi Aradhana Kshetra” or the place of worship for sages.
Yada Maharishi was granted a boon by the Lord, where in the hill would be known after his name as Yadagiri (giri means hill in Sanskrit, and gutta which means a hillock in Telugu seems to have been a latter-day suffix). The sculpture of Lord Narasimha along with the goddess Lakshmi were embossed on the walls of the cave and were worshipped for many years to come.
On the current day, Sri Jwala Narasimha gives darshan to his devotees between two long stone plates. It is believed that the devotees who worship the deity with devotion are relieved of all physiological and mental problems. All the difficulties faced by the devotees are being cured through herbal medicines like fruits, flowers and Tulasi Teertham.
It is also believed that the Lord appears in the dreams of the devotees and cures diseases as a doctor. This is true and believable. It is hoped that pilgrims will be bestowed with the good health, prosperity along with the blessings on the darshan of the Lord Narasimha Swamy.
