An emblem represents a concept like a moral truth. The emblem of India is an adaptation of the Lion Capital of Asoka at Sarnath, preserved in the Sarnath Museum in India. Thus an emblem functions as a symbol, or an allegorical picture usually inscribed with a verse or motto presenting a moral lesson.
The emblem of Adikavi Nannaya University represents human quest for knowledge and righteousness, wisdom and wealth- harmonizing nativity and tradition. The name of the University is written in English in between inner and outer lines having tri colors of Indian National Flag, where on the top the Asoka Dharma Chakra is placed, which stands for righteousness. The circle of flowers numbered in 64 as on the Buddist Stupa in Saranath, reflects the 64 traditional Arts and Sciences. The rising sun represents the spread of knowledge.
The Central Arch reminds the Fort Gate in Rajahmundry depicting the stone pillars in the ancient temples of Samarlakota and Draksharama Bhimeswaram. The peepal tree vouches the university as the seat of enlightenment, being placed on the banks of river Godavari, which is the source for enrichment of delta districts.
The mango leaves in brass pot with coconut forms the poorna- kumbham that denotes for all good things to happen. The university as the seat of learning is traditionally represented with lotus, the base for goddess of wisdom. Finally the mission is written on the Talapatras in Telugu ‘sarvatra vidyaya vardhate praja’, denoting ‘enriching people through education’.