EAST GODAVARI DISTRICT-4

List of 59-Mandals in East Godavari District

Addateegala • Ainavilli • Alamuru • Allavaram • Amalapuram • Ambajipeta • Anaparthi • Atreyapuram • Bandarulanka • Biccavolu • Devipatnam • Gandepalle • Gangavaram (East Godavari District) • Gokavaram • Gollaprolu • I Polavaram • Jaggampeta • Kadiam • Kajuluru • Kakinada (Rural) • Kakunada (Urban) • Kapileswarapuram • Karapa • Katrenikona • Kirlampudi • Korukonda • Kotananduru • Kothapalli • Kothapeta • Malikipuram • Mamidikuduru • Mandapeta • Maredumilli • Mummidivaram • P Gannavaram • Pamarru • Pedapudi • Peddapuram • Pithapuram • Prathipadu • Rajahmundry(Rural) • Rajahmundry(Urban) • Rajanagaram • Rajavommangi • Ramachandrapuram (East Godavari District) • Rampachodavaram • Rangampeta • Ravulapalem • Rayavaram • Razole • Sakhinetipalle • Samalkota • Sankhavaram • Seethanagaram • Thallarevu • Thondangi • Tuni • Uppalaguptam • Y Ramavaram • Yeleswaram

Ainavilli

Sri Siddi Vinayaka Swami Temple (Sri Vigneswara Swami Temple)

Ainavilli is located at a distance of 72 Km from Kakinada (Via Yanam, Amalapuram and Mukteswaram), 55 Km from Rajahmundry (Via Ravulapalem, Kotapeta and Vanapalli) and 14 Kms from Amalapuram Mukteswaram).According to Vaastu Sastra the most suitable places to build temples are, on the bank of a river, near the sea - hore, at the confluence of rivers, on top of a mountain or near places of sanctity.

In the midst of the lush - green fields of the River Godavari the Konaseema area reminds one of the sanctity and sacred feeling described in the Vaastu Sastra. In this area of Konaseema is AINAVILLI, where the "SIDDI VINAYAKA TEMPLE" is situated. Before performing Daksha Yagna Daksha Prajapati was supposed to have performed puja of Vinayaka at this place for its successful completion. This is written in the "KSHETRA PURANA" of this place.

There is another story that Vyasa Maharshi, during the beginning of his tour of the South, had installed the Son of Parvati at this place and this age - old "SIDDI VINAYAKA" is reputed to fulfill the wishes of his devotees.

In a spacious, elevated area, this temple of Vinayaka stands with idol facing South. With two gopurams and gates, one can approach Vinayaka from the south and Sri Visveswara Swamy from the East.

In the same compound is situated Sri Devi, Bhudevi with Sri Kesava Swamy. By the side are situated Sri Annnapurna Devi. Sri Kalabhairava Swamy and Kshetrapalaka are situated by the side.

Special Pujas are performed every month on Chaviti, Dasami, Ekadasi days. During Vinayaka Chavithi Navarathri, Karthika Masam, Prabha festival on Sankranthi and Sivarathri special archanas are performed.

According to Saivagama, every day archanas are performed. Abhisheka is done regularly according to sastra. Thousands of people from far - off places throng the temple to worship Siddi Vinayaka, who fulfills the wishes of his devotees quickly, directly. Devotees worship at the shrine of Ganapathi, placed in the midst of coconut gardens, the green fields and natural surroundings. Devotees take a vow to visit the temple to get their wishes fulfilled it is the belief and practice of the people of this area to make a promise in the name of this God. It is the belief of our people that this very ancient temple was installed by early "DEVATAS". In course of time the re - establishment, renovation and development was undertaken by Peddapuram rulers. At present the temple is maintained by the Endowment Department

Festivals

Vinayaka Chavithi ( September).
Karthika Masam( November).
Prabha Festival & Sivarathri (Feb/March).

Accommodation

Guest Houses available.

Amalapuram

Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swami Devastanam is a famous temple in Amalapuram town.

Festivals

Mukkoti Ekadasi (Vykunta Dwara Darsanam).
Swamyvari Kalyanam on every Chaitrasudda Dasami.
Theertam & Radotsavam on every Chaitrasudda Ekadasi.
Sri Krishna Janmasthami.

Annavaram

Lord Veera Venkata Satya Narayana Swamy Temple
Annavaram is in the Chennai to Howrah main railway line. Annavaram is situated 32 Km from Pithapuram, 51 Km from Kakinada and 72 Km from Rajahmundry.It is famous for Lord Veera Venkata Satya Narayana Swamy temple, situated atop the Ratnagiri Hills on the banks of the river Pampa.

One of the most popular temples in Andhra Pradesh, a unique Yanthra based on Tripad Vibhuti Narayan Upanishad exists here. The shrine is constructed in two storey, the lower one containing the Yantra and upper one housing vigrahas of the Lord.The idol which is about 4 metres high is in cylindrical form.The base in the lower sanctum represents Lord Vishnu and the middle portion represents Lord Shiva. The image of the deity forming a single idol and representing the Hindu Trinity is of unique attraction.

In this temple premises, there is a sun dial which shows the Indian Standard Time.The Kalyana Mahotsavam of the deity during May attracts thousands of pilgrims from all parts of the State.

Festivals

Telugu New Year's day on Chaitra Suddha Padyami (March-April).
Sita Rama Kalyanam on Chaitra Suddha Navami (March - April).
Sri Krishna Jayanti on Sravana Bahula Ashtami (July - August).
The Lord's Jayanti on Sravana Suddha Vidiya (July - August).
Ganapathi Navarathrulu in Bhadrapadam (August - September).
Sarannavarathrulu in Asviyujam (September - October).
Kanaka Durga Jatara on Vaisakha Suddha Panchami (April - May).
Giripradakshinam on Karthika Suddha Purnima (October - November).
Jwalatoranam in Karthikam (October - November).

Accommodation

Devastanam Cottages are available on the hills.

ANTARVEDI

Antharvedi is located at a distance of 130 Kms from Kakinada, 100 kms from Rajahmundry and 65 Kms from Amalapuram. In Kritayuga, Sage Sounaka and his colleagues gathered in Naimisaranya to conduct Satrayaga. In the their Leisure time, they used to learn about the distinguished and significant historical India Shrines from Suta, a quaranic narrator. One day, they asked him to tell about the greatness and significance of Antarvedi Shrine and of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha. Suta was pleased to tell the story which was once told by Lord Brahma to Sage Narada.

Once Narada asked Lord Brahma to tell about the historical back-ground of the Antarvedi, Lord Brahma spoke as follows:

Sage Vasista, after mingling the Goutami branch of the Godavari into the Sea, established his Ashram there. Lord Brahma, to get freed from the sins he had committed against Lord Sankara, performed Rudrayaga and installed Lord Neela kantheswara there. As that place was made a stage or "Vedik" to perform the Yaga, it was named as "ANTARVEDI". It is the place between the Vasishta river. After some time, Raktavilochana, the son of Hiranyaksha, did tremendous penance for ten thousand years on the banks of Vasishta river, to please Lord Siva and to get his grace. Lord sankara was very much pleased with his penance and appeared before him.

He promised to bless him with Whatever he would desire. Raktavilochana asked him that the number of sand particles drenched by the blood drops falling from his body on to the ground at war, would produce equal number of Rakshasas as strong and vigorous as himself after and they would assist him at war and become one with him after killing all the enemies. Lord Sankara was astonished at the demon's uncommon desire, but as per the promise, being impressed of his penance had concerned to his desire. Then the rakshasas pride know no bounds. He started harassing the brahmins, the Gods, the saints and the cows and obstructed Yagas and Vedic-recitals.

Sage Viswamitra found opportunity to take Vengeance against sage Vasishta and provoke Rakta-vilochana to kill Vasishta's hundred sons in his absence. The Demon did so, causing an irreparable loss to Arundhati and Vasishta. Arundhati, Vasishta's wife, wept a lot for the death of her son and prayed to Vasishta who was then at Brahmaloka. The sage by his divine vision, could come to know of what all happened at this hermitage. He returned to his ashram and prayed for Lord Narasmiha's grace.

"Prahlada varadam Vishnum Nrusimham Paradivatam.

Saranam Sarvalokaanaamaapannaarti Nivaaranam."

Then to save his devotees, Lord Nrusimha along with Goddess Lakshmi, Charioted on Garuda Vahana and appeared before Vasishta. Vasishta after singing his glory, appealed about the arrogance of the demon and his cruelty in killing his sons. He then prayed to the Lord to descend at his ashram, after killing the demon, so that he would worship him always.

Lord Narahari blow the 'Panchajanya' inviting the demon to the war. Raktavilochana heard the thundering noise of the panchajanya and like a cyclone enveloped the Lord and engulfed him to fight with him. He shot all types of weapons at the Lord. Lord Narahari could attack and smash them with his only weapon the 'Sudarsana' the chakrayudh wounded the sensitive parts of the demon's body. As a result of which blood-shed took place. The soil particles drenched by the blood drops falling on to the ground from his body, produced equal number of demons as strong and vigorous as Raktavilochana. Demons having been thus generated, began hurting garuda who attached them in such a way that they could not with stand him. The demon-king saw this and throw his weapons one after another at Garuda which could not do any thing against him, as Lord Narahari destroyed them on the way with his Sudarana Chakrayudha.

In addition to that he created "Maya Sakthi" to manage stopping the fall of blood drops from Rakta Viliochana body to the ground. At last, after a tough fight with the demon, Lord Narahari killed by cutting his hand with chakrayudha, with the same Sudharsana chakra, he killed the demons also. Then the blood stopped by Maya Sakthi from falling on to the ground, was released by her as a reddish river, know as the "Raktakulya". This river can't be passed over even Bhetala and the devils. Maya sakti rode a horse, and so called as 'Aswarudhamba' or 'Gurralakka'. The place where the Lord after killing the demons washed his chakrayudha, become popular as chakrateertham. A dip at the place washed away all the sins. When the Lord wiped of the troubling demon, Vasishta expressed his desire of establishing his Holiness at his hermitage. The Lord was pleased to agree to fulfill his desire. Sage vasishta on an auspicious day, in the Presence of all Gods and angels with all Vedic formalities, erected Lord Narahari at Antaravedi all of them said their prayers to the Lord and sang his glory. Then the Lord told them about the significant greatness of the shrine in future. He described Antarvedi in many ways as the easiest means for achieving the ultimate Mukti.

Later on, Suta, at the request of the sages, explained in detail about the sacred and splendid power of the Lord of Antarvedi, the affects of doing any harm to it and the remedy for it. He told them the story of Santhana as an illustration. Once Santhana by mistake lost his divinity and was cursed as unworthy to ascend the divinity. Indra's sons used to take away all flower from a garden cultured by "Ruchi" at Antarvedi Ruchi was much worried about this.Lord Narahari appeared to him in dream and advised him to keep the flowery remnants of worship of the temple around the garden. He did so on the next day. As usual, Indra's son descended on to the earth in his chariot, he could not find them there, as he lost his divinity by passing over the flowery-remnants. Then his driver told him the cause for it. He at his master's request, before returning to the Heaven, also advised him to perform Mahasatrayaga for twelve years and to eat the food left over after being tasted by the Brahmins. Indra's son did so the Brahmins Learned from him about the purpose of doing so and blessed him. Then he regained his divinity and returned to the Heaven, ascending his divine chariot. Santhana was adivsed by Narada to follow Indra's son also did so at Antarvedi and regained divinity.

For some time after commencement of Kaliyuga, Antervedi was a Jungle where kesavadas, a cow-herd used to graze his cows daily. A reddish brown cow of the herd to go lonely in the jungle and used to shed her milk on the hill behind a bush. On her returning home, Kesavadas was not given milk by the cow. One day he watchfully followed that cow and astonished to see the scene that was daily happening. He could not get sleep that night. At last when he could some how merge himself in to sleep, Lord Narahari appeared on him in dream and said to him to build a temple for him there. The next morning kesavadas told this to the Villagers. A brahmin scholar of the village, who had a sound knowledge of the sastras, could guess the God appeared to kesavadas in dream to be Lord Narasimha who was once erected and worshipped.

By the sage vasishta. The Villagers made a survey of the ant-hill area, where the cow daily used to shed her milk, and dug the area after offering coconuts to the Lord. They found a stony sculptured form of the Lord Narasimha. They build a temple there and that place become one of the most popular shrines in the later ages. The daily rituals and annual fair have been conducted since then. The village where kesavadas lived is named after him as 'kesavadasupalem'.

After sometime the temple was ruined. The sri Narendra Lakshmi Narasimha Rao, wealthy generous gentleman of that area took initiative in re-erecting the temple. He donated some money and his men to Bhadrachalam to purchase timber for the construction of the temple. His men went to Bhadrachalam, selected the logs and marked them with the Lord's name paying the money. But there was no conveyance to convey the timber then to Antarvedi, the water contents in the Godavari being low because of failure of monsoon. They appealed to Narasimha Rao about the situation. That gentleman did tapas in devotion of the Lord at the sea-shore without food continuously for three days, but the Lord didn't shower his grace. So he got angry and standing in Sea water said that the Lord was destitute lion who could not come and see logs of wood even arranged for the construction of his temple. The same night there was heavy rain which brought all the logs of wood that were marked with the Lord's name, to the gantaghat of Antarvedi. The sri Narasimha Rao ordered that all the wood could reach Gantaghat in a single leap. Later on, temple was ree rected by the notale initiative of Sri Narasimha Rao with the Villager's cooperation. Again all the rituals were celebrated as usual.

After sometime, the temple was again ruined then some devotees were in plans of re-constructing the temple. One night Lord narahari appeared to a devotees of Lord who had two sons Ranganatha and Krishna residing at Bendamurulanka. The villagers, on hearing the devotees dream, approached a sri Adinarayana and sought his financial contribution. Adinarayana denied to help them as he was in a desperate need because of his missing seven of his ships.

Then his son Ranganatha said to him that some body appeared to him in dream and asked him to construct a temple as tower and canopy for him.So that they would be blessed with every you and wealth. Adinarayana was thrilled to hear his sons words and a canopy spending the whole money present in his seven ships, if they would be back to shore without any damage by the grace of the Lord on the third day all the seven ships returned to the shore without any loss. Adinarayana was pleased to hear the news and executed his oath. He ordered his sailors to get the required stone equipment for the construction of the temple, the tower and the canopy. On a auspicious day the foundation stone was laid on a first step for the reconstruction of the temple in 1923. The reconstruction work that initiated by Adinarayana, was completed by the combined effort of his sons Ranganatha and Krishna. This is historically evident from a stone inscription in the temple even today.

Some time later once a fisher man was fishing his net in the Raktakulya river. He found a marble saligrama instead of fish. He carelessly threw it back into the water and again spread his net. He found the same stone as many times as he was fishing at different spots in the river he found the same stone coming again to him. Being afraid of this incident, he angrily dashed it to the ground then there was a strange continuous blood flow from the stone with surprise and fear, he prayed the Lord and fell senseless there. The Lord appeared to him in dream and said that he only appeared in the waters of Raktakulya river as Kurmavatra in marble and asked him to take him to the temple and install him at the Abode of Lord Narasimha telling the priests as his works to celebrate the "Nityabhisheka" formalities to him along with Lord Narasimha there. The fisherman did so. This stony form Kurma incarnation of the Lord can be seen available even today at Antarvedi Devasthanam.

There are five important spots of this Holy shrine namely.

The Sea

The Sagar Sangam

The Vasishta River

The Raktakulya River

The Chakrateertham

It is said that there will be no re-birth on taking a dip at these places and on offering charities there. Performing ceremonial formalities to the ancestors at this holy-shrine is equivalent to these done at Gaya and Ganges. One on nearly visiting this place, will be blessed from with multitudes. People from distant place, like Varanasi, also visit this place, especially to participate in Lord Narasimha's Chariot procession in the month of Phalguna (January) and dolepournami celebration in the month of Phalguna (March). Then the lord is worshipped with panchamrita abhishekam. This shrine blesses the pilgrims with Mukti, and so it is also called the Mukti Kshetra. Antarvedi is also named after the Lord as 'Narasimhakshetra'.

Antarvedi has the sea in the East and the South the Godavari in the West and the Raktakulya river the North. It covers a distance of about four square miles. It is in the Razole Tq. of the East Godavari District. Special conveyance facilities are arranged for the convenience of the pilgrims coming from distant place to attend the annual Mela there. At the time of Mela, Antarvedi seems to be kaliyuga Vaikuntha. The Mela run for about nine days. It is One hundred and eight shrines of Lord Narasimha.

Antarvedi is said to be the second Varanasi by the grace of the Lord. The residents of the shrine have a fear of the floods or of the drought. A more wish to visit this holy place, will bless the devotees with desired results. Thus the great glory of the shrine is boundless.

Festivals

Kalyanamohasthavams Magh sudda Sapthami to Magha Bhhula Payamis

Sri Swamy Vari Kalyanam (Magha Sudda Dasami)

Rathayatra Magha Sudha Ekadasi

Sri Venkateswara Swamy kalyanam, Jasta Sudha Ekadasi.

Sri Narasimha Jayanthi (Vysakha Sudha Chaturdasi)

Accommodation

Guest Houses available are :

T.T.D.Choultry is available for accommodation. Phone:08856-259313

Appanapalli

Sri Bala Balaji Devasthanam

It is Located at a distance of 70 Km from Kakinada (Via Yanam & Bodasakurru), 110 Km (Via Ravulapalem from Kakinada), 85 Km from Rajahmundry and 35 Km from Amalapuram (Via Ambajipeta) 13 Km (Via Bodasakurru Ferry) from Amalapuram. Appanapalli, a remote village in Mamidikuduru Mandal of East Godavari District, situated on the holy banks of river Vynateya has attained reputation as second Tirupathi of Konaseema being the abode of Lord Bala Balaji.

Surrounded by river Godavari on three sides and the Bay of Bengal on 4th side, flanked by wide spread paddy fields, coconut gardens, plain Mango and Jack trees konaseema appears as a part of heaven came down to earth. The village Appanapalli derived its name after a Rushi called "Appana" who did THAPASSU for the good of the world. This place in olden days was famous for well-read Brahmins in Vedas who used to spend their time in reciting hymns and performing sacrifices as ordained in the scriptures.

Little wonder there fore if Appanapalli has established itself as a Center of unfailing cultural heritage of our mother land.

The founder of the present Bala Balaji Devasthanam is Sri Molleti Ramaswamy an ardent devotee of the Lord of the Seven hills. One night he saw in his dream the Lord ordering him to go ahead with his SAMKALPA of building a temple for the Lord at Appanapalli without coming to Tirupathi with the share of profit in his business for the Lord annually. Accordingly Sri Ramaswamy at once installed the photos of Sri Sri Sri Venkateswaraswamy varu and his consort Padmavathi Ammavaru in his coconut shop in 1966. In course of time pilgrims in thousands started pouring in and Appanapalli occupied a place of devotional importance in the pilgrim map of our state. It is indeed a point of great surprise and beyond any body's comprehension to explain how the devotee Ramaswamy could serve free meal to one and all including Milk to infants besides Medical aid. "It is all His will". Who am i to claim the credit?. Ramaswamy used to say to the enquiries of the devotees.

On 18th March 1970, Ekadasi Wednesday at 10.10 A.M. the foundation stone for the construction of the New Temple was laid by Sri Ramaswamy amidst the chanting of Mantras by the Vedic Scholars. On 4.7.1991 the New Temple was completed. Strictly in accordance with the Panchahnica Agama Sastra in which, His Holiness Sri Sri Sri Tridandi Srimanarayana China Jeeyar Swamy varu installed the idols of the Lord and his consort. The annual Brahmotsavam of Swamy varu will be celebrated most piously from Jyesta Sudda Dasami to Jyesta Sudda Chaturdasi during which devotional discourses and pouranic programmes will be held.

Even though Appanapalli is a village, every care is being taken by temple authorities to provide maximum facilities to the devotees visiting the the Lord every day. Food and shelter is being provided freely, safety and security of the pilgrims stands upper most on the job chart. Well-built bathing ghats, separate rooms for ladies for changing their dresses after the holy dip, adequate toilet facilities etc have been provided.

To-day Appanapalli has become a second Tirupathi attracting pilgrims from all parts of our Country. The income derived from various sources like Arjita sevas, sale of human hair, hundi and sale of grass by auction etc will be utilized for the purpose of providing further amenities to the pilgrims.Devotees in lakhs are being expected during the ensuing pushkarams and the devasthanam has been gearing up to welcome the devotees.

Festivals

Kalyanamahotsavams from Jyestha Suddha Dasami to Jystha Chaturdasi (June).
Mukkoti Ekadasi, Uttaradwara Dharshanam.
Laksha Kumkuma pooja on the eve of Vijayadasami to Padmavathi Ammavaru & Semi pooja in the evening.
Laksha Tulasi pooja to Swamyvaru on Karteeka suddha Ekadasi.
Laksha Chamanti pooja to Andal Ammavaru on the day of 'Bhogi' in the month of January every year.

Biccavolu

Sri Golingeswara Swami Vari Temple

This temple is located at a distance of 33 Km from Kakinada, 40 Km from Rajahmundry and 60 Km from Amalapuram. Biccavolu is known for Beautiful stone temple of Lord Shiva. Built by the Eastern Chalukyas in the 9th-10th centuries, the temples are a fine example of the architectural grandeur that was typical of the Dravidian style. A stone sculpture of Ganesha in the village is a masterpiece of Chalukyan craftsmanship.

The name of the village Biccavole derived from the ruler to Turupu Chalakya Vamsam during their period 849-892 BC and the rulers constructed number of important temples during their period around the Biccavole village. Out of which one of the temple, Sri Raja Rajeswari vari temple and Sri Chandrasekhara Swamyvari temple. They are very prominent with great Silpakala nypunyam.

A Legacy of Monuments of sculptural wealth :

In between Rajahmundry and Samalkot, a village named Biccavolu (Birudankinavolu) which contains several important temples of the Eastern Chalukya period. The village is named after the King Gunaga Vijayaditya III. In the vicinity of the village, but in the fields stand three temples, and a monolithic Ganesh and within the village another group of three Siva temples still under worship, including Ganesh in the fields.

Sri Golingeswara Swamy Temple :

The central shrine of Golingeswara has a wealth of iconographic material, as all around it, and a beautiful Sivalingam and 33 lines sasanam on the door jambs. In the Mukhamandapam of the temple of Sri Golingeswara are preserved two exquisite masterpieces of Eastern Chalukyas sculputure. One representing Siva and Parvathi in the form known as Alingana Chandra Sekhara Murthy and the other a seated figure of Ganesh. Both these are great masterpieces. The vimana top view remind us at once of similar Orissan figures and also those of Khajuraho.

Sri Rajaraja Temple :

There are there niches on all three sides one devoted to Ganesh another to Kartikeya on Peacock and the third to Mahishamardini and a beautiful Sivalingam along with Rajarajeswari deity.

Sri Chandrasekhara Swamy :

Beautiful sculptures on the temple of four sides and Siva - styled Chandrasekhara swamy and a deity (Balathripurasundari.) The kudu is characterized by a great profusion of the makara element introduced on it than in similar ones either from the Canarese or Tamil Districts.

Monolithic Ganesh In Fields:

The height of the Ganesa is 11ft, the biggest in the history of Eastern Chalukyan Sculpture attracting hundreds and thousands of devotees day by day, a tourist spot, with green fields. Till the time of Ganesh Vijaditya the single pair of arms of Ganesh continues though in his time the additional pair is also introduced. But even also on the seal of Gunaga Vijayaditya from Sataluru This seal is beautiful work. Two views of the seal of Gunaga Vijayaditya from Sataluru showing similar Ganesa on one side and Lakshmi on the other. The seal is now at Chennai Govt. Museum, Chennai.

Siva Temple-I (close to fields) :

Situated on the out skirts of the village with features similar central niches on the three sides with the makara decoration and with figures in them. One of these and a striking one is Siva dancing in the chatura pose in his Nataraja from. One such prominent feature here is the presence of Lakulisa is exactly the same from as occurs in Orissan sculptures it should be remembered that at Mukhalingam even in the Eastern Ganga temple Lasulisa is substituted from Dakshnamurty as this figure is a favourite one. Siva styled shrine (Sivalingam) is the main attraction to the devotees.

Siva Temple II In Fields :

Large plain temple in fields. In this there is an almost total absence of figure sculpture as even the niches are bare and except for the carving of the dvarapalas on the door-jambs and Lakshmi on the lintel. Still from the point of view of architecture the features are very interesting for a study of Eastern Chalukya temple structure which follows the Dravida type inspired by Southern traditions. The vimana here immediately bring to our mind the Pallava type which has been the main source of inspiration even for the Pattadakal group and the famous Rashtrakuta monument at Ellora.

Siva Temple III In Fields:

The doorway of this temple has a unique feature as it shows the two River Goddesses Ganga and Yamuna on either side. On the tiers above there are several figures representing ieconographic forms and motifs like the mithuna which are excellent material for study. The figures of Surya and Vishnu are similar to the figures on the tiers of Sri Golingeswara Swamy temple.

Finally, some loose Sculptures of great beauty lying in the courtyard of the main temple Sri Golingeswara Swamy suggest what a wonderful group of Saptamatrika has been lost of which only these few remain, Viz., Kaumari. The figure is a very lovely one. 2) Chamunda, 3) Veerabhadra. The Archaeological Survey of India looking after the temple monuments carefully.

Festivals

The Festival of Subramanyeswara Swamy Sasti comes every year During Margasira Sudda Sasti day (December).
The Festival of Vinayaka Chaviti comes every year Bhadra Pada Sudda Chaviti Day (September).

G.Mamidada

Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple, G.Mamidada

This temple is located at a distance of 20 Km from Kakinada, 58 Km from Rajahmundry and 65 Km from Amalapuram (Via Kotipalli). Gollala Mamidada, Peddapudi Mandal, East Godavari District is a well - known pilgrim center for the last hundred years is situated on the banks of the river "Thulya Bhaga" (Antharvahini). This is one of the famous and holy pilgrim center of the East Godavari District. All over Andhra, Gollala Mamidada is called "Gopurala Mamidada". The famous "Rama Temple". This temple is located at a distance of 20 Km from Kakinada, 58 Km from Rajahmundry and 65 Km from Amalapuram (Via Kotipalli). with its towering (Gopuras), the famous "Surya Temple" (The second Surya Temple of A.P after Arasavilli ), "Venkateswara Temple, Sainatha Temple " and also the ancient and the famous "Bheemeswara Temple" are here in this holy place.

Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple at Gollalamamidada village was incepted by late Sri Kovvuri Basivi Reddy Garu in the year 1920, a great Charitable and auspicious and dedicated mind Jamindar of Gollalamamidada. He has not only rendered dedicated service for the temple, but also dedicated his life for the benefit and welfare of the public at large.

This temple own 16 Acres of wet land donated by successors of late founder for the maintenance and up - keep of the temple.

This temple was managed by the followers of late founder under the control and supervision by Endowments Department till an Executive Officer was appointed for the first time in the year 1991. This temple was classified U/s.6(b) (ii) of the Act 30/87 and it is under the administrative control of the Deputy Commissioner, Endowments Department, Kakinada. At present, Sri K. Gopala Krishna Reddy member of founders family and Person - in- Management manages the temple jointly.

The performance of rituals in this temple is in accordance with Sri Vyshanava Samradaya. This temple has gained much importance in Andhra Pradesh as the tenets are of Vyshanava Sampradaya. It is attracting good number of pilgrims all days and especially on Sunday to pray their Owings to Lord Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Varu.

The annual income of the temple on Ac.16.76 cts. of wetland is of Rs.1,30,000/- in terms of cash. In addition to this, the temple is getting annually Rs.1,00,000 as votive offerings.

The temple has been developed by raising structures and super structures with the auspicious funds donated by the family members of the late founder.

Festivals

Radha Sapthami on Maga Sudda Sapthami (February Month).
Bhishma Ekadasi in the month of February every year.

Korukonda

Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple

It is located at a distance of 60 km from Kakinada,20 Km from Rajhmundry and 110 km from Amalapuram. This is an ancient and historical temple and also a Vyshnava Divya Kshetra. The daily rituals are being performed according to Vyshnava - Vyghanasa Agama Sastra.

There are two temples out of which one is Swayambuvu and another is Prathista Deity. The Swayambhuvu is situated in about 120 mts. height having about 615 steps which are very keen and because of this keen formation of the hill the village is named as "Korukonda".

The deity which is a Swayambhuvu appears in a holy place at the top of the hill measuring about 9 inches. It is really wonder and mankind could not be instate either the deity or any other stone which is about 120 mts. height, the temple which was constructed long long back have got much Silpa Soundaram around it.

There are number of Sila - Sasanams appeared in the temple and as well as on the top hill of the temple. The temple was constructed about 700 - 800 years back and the family of Parasara Bhattar were looking the affairs of the temple and the same tradition is still being continued by recognizing the family members as founder trustee.

There is no doubt this is a very good looking place having site seeings through out the hill and steps. The great poet Sri Srinatha in his poetry prayed the God stated, this Korukonda is "Vedadri". This was supported by Sila - Sasanam which was found at Lakshmaneswaram Village, Narsapur Taluk, W.G.Dt. which related to 1443 A.D.

Recently the Government have proposed to take up developments around this temple noted as a tourism place.

Festivals

Sri Swamy Vari Kalyana Mahostavam (Phalguna Suddha Ekadasi) (March).
Telugu New Years Day (Chaitra Suddha Padyami) (March/April).
Sri Ramunjula vari Thiru Nakshtram (May).
Godavari Pushkara Mahostavam (Sravana Masam - Entrance of Guru in Simha Rasi) (July/August once in 12 Years).
Sri Vyshnava Krishnastami.
Sarannavarathri Utsavam (Sri Lakshmi Poojalu) ( Asveeja Suddha Padyami) (October).
Dhanurmasa Rituals ( Margasira Masam) (December).
Mukkoti Mahostavam (Sudda Ekadasi) (January).

Kotipalli

Sri Someswara Swamy Temple

Kotipalli is located at a distance of 38 Km from Kakinada, 60 Km from Rajahmundry and 15 Km from Amalapuram (Via Ferry/Boat). Kotipalli is a famous pilgrimage center, which is situated on the Bank of River Godavari according to Brahmanda Puranam and Gowthami Mahatyam. Here three famous idols are situated by Lord Indra, Lord Chandra and Kasyapa Maharshi.

Siddhi Janardhana Swamy along with Sridevi and Bhudevi were established as Kshetra Palaka by Kasyapa Maharshi. Lord Indra in order to wash out His sin He founded Koteswara Lingam along with Amma varu. Further Lord Chandra established Someswara Lingam with Raja Rajeswari Amma varu to wash out his sin.

The Holy River is very famous for its sacred water it was brought by Gowtham Maharshi. If any person take a bath in these Holy Water of Gowthami at Kotipalli will purify himself from all kinds of sins. It was written in Sri Gowthami Mahatyam. It is also known as Koti Teertha Kshetram as a number of water currents are flowing in these waters. A holy dip in Gowthami waters at this Kshetram is very famous for the removal of sins completely. Here there is no difference between Lord Vishnu and Lord Siva.

Koteswara Lingam is a Yoga Lingam, Someswara Lingam is a Bhoga Lingam. Raja Rajeswari Amma varu is famous for satisfying the wishes of Devotees.

Every day in the early hours Koti Teertham water is brought by Holy Archakas and Abhisekham is done with those waters. In the evening Dhupa Seva and Asthana Pooja, Pavalimpu Seva will be celebrated with devotion. From times of in memorial Devotees are visiting these Holy Kshetram and worshipping the Lords with devotion. Janardhana Swamy Kshetra Palaka is known as Siddhi Janardhana Swamy who grants wishes of the devotees.

Once upon a time it was called as Somaprabhapuram. There is a big water tank in front of the temple which is known as Soma Puskarini. His Holiness Kanchi Kama Koti Peethadhipathi and his Holiness Srungeri Jagadguru visited this Holy Kshetram. In the premises of the temple there are 4 Pradakshina Mandapams, in the Northern Mandapam Kalabhairava Swamy temple and Sankaracharya Mandir along with Chandra Mouliswara Lingam, further Navagrapha temple along with Uma Sametha Mruthyunja Lingam are situated for benefit of Devotees.

Festivals

Magha Bahula Chathurdasi (Mahasivarathri) (Feb/Mar).
Sri Swami Vari Kalyanam (Vysakha Suddha Ekadasi) (May).
Sarannavarathri festival (Aswayuja Suddha Padyami to Dwadasi) (October).
Ksheerabdi Dwadasi Teppotsavam during Kartheeka Masam (November).

Mandapalli

Sri Mandeswara Swami Temple

Mandapalli is Situated 38 Km from Rajahmundry, 60 Km from Kakinada and 30 Km from Amalapuram.In the days of yore, this locality was the holy ashram of the sage Dhadhichi Maharshi. This hermit Dhadhichi has done a supreme sacrifice of donating his valuable spinal cord for the mighty and powerful weapon popularly known as Vajrayudha of Lord Indra, which was employed to kill the deadly asuraas. The weapons wielded by the eight suras in the eight directions called astadikpalakas, killed innumerable ghostly demons. To avenge the death of these demons certain other demons called Aswadha and Pippale invaded the area under reference and brought about untold havoc.

At last the eminent hermit 'Agasta' living in South India obliging the prayers of the people and their King assured them of the death of these giants in the hands of 'Lord Sani' the son of the Sun God. Further they appealed Sani Deva to protect them by putting an end to these terrible monsters 'Aswadha and Pippala'. Sani made up his mind to kill the monsters for which he had to wage a war for one long year and killed them. As a mark of this glorious victory he installed an idol of 'Lord Siva' here. This instillation of Sivalinga; became necessary for atoning sins of kings that belonged to Kasyapa Dynasty.

So in obedience to the sacred advise of the Maharushis, Sani atoned the sin of Brahma hatya by installing and adoring Lord Siva. After that Sani declared that whoever worship this Linga by offering the dear gingelli oil etc. would be blessed. He further said that he would bless such devotees obviating all evils that befall them due to the curse Satru. For this reason, Lord Eswara is popularly known as Saneswara or Mandeswara. So people offer gingelli products which are dear to Sani who is the diety here.

She is sponsored by Siva. This Linga is said to be one of the Sapta Maharshis. There is also another version that the wives of the Saptha Maharshis installed this lingam here.

Sri Brahmeswara Swamyvaru

In ancient days this was the area where Lord Brahma performed a great YAGNAM and hence this is called Brahmagundam, as the sacred fire of the Yagnam has not extinguished for a long time. Gouthama Maharshi, made the river Godavari to flow thought it. Hence it is also known as Brahmagundam. Lord Brahma installed the idol of the "Eswara" in this place.

Sri Nageswara Swamy

After Saturn killed the Asuras, he gifted away, the holy region to the Maharshis and "Brahmins". Here "Karkotaka" a ferocious Snake-King had performed penance. The Maharshis were terribly afraid of the Karkotaka and at their request the "Karkotaka" left the place. If any one installs the idol of the Lord Siva and worships him, he will be free from the snake bites and threat from snakes.

Sri Venugopala Swamy

Dhadhichi Maharshi presided in Gopala Kshetram on the banks of the Godavari. Gowthama Maharshi implored Trayambakeswara for the river Ganga to flow out from his Jhata Jhutam, in order to get rid of the sins. Gowthama Maharshi installed idol of Lord Venu Gopala Swami beside the river hence this place is called as Gopala Kshetram.

Festivals

Kalyanam of Sri Swamivaru (Magha Bahula Ekhadasi) (February/March every year)
Devi Navaratrulu (Aswayuja Masam Nine days) (September/October every year)
Karthika Masam (November/December every year)
Lakshapatri Puja (Karthika Masam) (November/December every year)
Sani Trayodasi Festivals

Palivela

Sri Umakoppeswara Swamy Temple

The temple is located at a distance of 90 km from Kaninada, 50 Km from Rajahmundry and 25 Km from Amalapuram. In the past this pilgrim center became famous as one among the pilgrim centres of Bhima Mandalam. This pilgrim center is at present in the village called Palivela in the Kothapeta Mandal of East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh. The idol installation of the Lord was done by Maharshi Agastya. The Lord here is being called Sri Uma Koppulingeswara Swamy. This pilgrim center is in the route between Rajahmundry and Amalapuram near kothapeta.

Kalyana Mahotsavam of the Lord on Mahasivarathri

The kalyana Mahotsavam of the Lord Sri Uma Koppeswara Swamy takes place on the day of Mahasivarathri (Maga Bahula Ekadasi Day) every year in kalyana mandapam which was renovated by "Raja Raja Narendra" in 11th century. People from far and wide come to see the Kalyanotsavam, Radhotsavam (Chariot Festival) takes place on the day of Mahasivarathri. There used to be 7 Mantapams in the premises of the temple. One can see (1) Somavari Mantapam (2)Mangalavara Matapam (3) Vuyyala Mantapam (4) Nityastana Mantapam and (5) Chiluku Dwadasi Mandapam even to-day. Other Mantapams are in ruin.

The Original name of the village was palvalapuram. The rivulet kowntheyi (kowsiki) started at Surya Kundamu near Gowthami. The Lord is called Mandeswara there. The temple of Lord Sri Koppu Lingeswara is also situated on the bank of Kowsiki. The first name of the lord was Agasteswara. Later he was called as Koppulingesara. The rivers around the village Palivela disappeared in course of time. They are (1) Kowsiki on the East (2) Chandrabhanga on the West (3) Mandavu on the North (4) Kowntheyi and (5) Palvala on the South. The river Palvalamlu is flowing underground unseen. So, the village is called Palvalapuram.

History of the Lord of the Temple

In the past when Maharshi Agastya was performing Tapas on the bank of the river Kowsiki near Palvalapuram, the Kalyana Mahotsavam of Parvathi & Parameswara was taking place for the good of the world. Agastya wanted to witness the kalyana Mahotsavam. Before performing Daksha Yagna Daksha Gods like Indra who were on the mountain of Himavat were afraid that if Agastya came to witness the Kalyanotsavam, pralaya would take place. So they sent viswabrahma to persuade Agastya not to go to Himavat Parvatha.

Viswabrahma told Agastya that the Kalyanotsava of Parvathi & Parmeswara was over and he had seen it. Agastya was surprised and wanted to see the Kalyanotsava with his divyadrishti. Then Parvathi & Lord Parameswara appeared in the divyadrishti of Agastya in the traditional marriage (turmeric-coated) clothes.

Agastya prayed the Lord to appear before him. The Lord appeared before Agastya along with Parvathi. Agastya wanted Parvathi & Parmeswara to remain on one peetam in the pilgrim center of Palvalapuram. The Lord fulfilled the wish of Agastya. No where can the Lord Parameswara be seen on Ekapeetam with Parvathi as here. Later this pilgrim center became famous as Lolla Agasteswara Swamy pilgrim center. The Lord began to be called as Koppulingeswara because he wore hair around his head.

In the library of Sri Vidyananda at Pithapuram it was found that there was a lesson on the Talapatras. During the time of Srinadha at Palvalapuram the lord was called Agastewara. Srinadha wrote Sloka also.

During the time of Sri Pratapa Rudra (Salivahana Saka) repairs were made to the temple as declared by the Sasanas. In the past the Turks attacked many Hindu temples. They cut off the head of the beautiful Nandi. The head was later deftly installed in its place.

The History how Agasteswara became Koppulingeswara

In the past a Velanati priest was performing daily pujas to Lord Agasteswara installed by Maharshi Agasya with great devotion. The priest had a concubine. The people angered at this, complained to the king. At first the king ignored the complaint. As the complaints grew, the king one day came to inspect the temple at Palvalapuram. The priest was not in the temple at that time. On coming to know of the king's arrival, the priest hurried to the temple, to greet the king. As there were no garlands (Nirmalya) in the temple, the priest secretly brought the garland in the hair of his concubine and offered it to the king.

The King took the garland and found a long black hair in it. The King immediately questioned the priest about the hair.

The priest replied that the hair in the Nirmalya was that of Lord Agasteswara who wore hair around his head. The surprised King asked the priest to show him the hair around the Shivalinga. The priest then said as it was afternoon and the puja was over, the Lord was decorated with Nagabharana which couldn't be taken away till the next early morning and added that he would show the king the "Jhata Jhuta" of the Lord next day.

The King agreed to this and said that if the priest failed to show him the hair of the Linga, he would order the priest's head to be taken away. The King stayed there at Palvalapuram. The priest terrified at this, began to pray the Lord all the night. The priest wept before the Lord and confessed his sin. He begged the Lord to protect him by wearing hair around his head. He beat his head on the Linga of the Lord and fainted. Lord Shiva to fulfill the wish of the priest then wore hair around his head at the time of Lingodbhava. The fainted priest regained consciousness and saw the Lord with the hair. He was overjoyed. The next day he showed to the King the Linga of Lord Shiva with hair around.

But the people assembled there, didn't believe the words of the priest. They said something was fishy. Then the King ordered the priest to pluck a hair of the Lord and show him. The priest did so. The King could see blood on the plucked hair. Immediately the King lost his eyesight. He realised his mistake and prayed Lord to pardon him. The benevolent Lord immediately took pity on the King and restored his eyesight. The Nerjoyed King praised the Lord and immediately offered a village called Juthugapadu under his rule to the Lord as his manya. (At present Juthugapadu is in Ravulapalem Mandal, 1 Km from Podagatlapalli village). Even to-day one can see the magnificent Linga of the lord with hair around it in the sacred temple of Sri Uma Koppulingeswara at Palivela village, Kothapeta Mandal, East Godavari District of Andhra pradesh.

Saneeswara Temple
Location: Mandapalli near Rajamundry, East Godavari.
Deities: Saneeswara
Also known as Sri Mandeswara Swami Temple and Someswara Temple, it is said that Saturn himself consecrated the linga representing Lord Shiva here. Other deities here are Bhrameswara and Nageswara enshrined in black stone Shivlingas. There is a shrine to Saturn - Saneeswara. This is a small temple attracting a large number of pilgrims.
Legend: A great sage Dhadichi gave a great sacrifice by donating his spinal cord for Lord Indra`s `Vajra` to relieve the people from the tyranny of the demon Kartabha. However, the sons of the demon Aswartha and Pippala vowed revenge and created havoc in Mandapalli. Sage Agastya approached Lord Shaneeswar or Saturn with the request for help but Shani stated that till the prayers and penance was completed, he would not have strength to fight and get rid of the demons. He relented when sages agreed to give their `Tapasshakti` (power of penance) to him. He fought and killed the demons and relieved the people of their tyranny. Saturn installed a `Shiva Linga` known as `Someswara` or `Mandeshwara` to mark his victory, around which the Saneeshwara temple is built.

Kesava Swami Temple
The Shrine is Salagrama Ekasila and is 5 feet in height and 3 feet wide, with the image of Jaganmohini, the female aspect of Vishnu in the rear. This temple is said to date back to the period of the Cholas. The idol is made of black stone depicting Maha Vishnu and Mohini in the front and rear sides, and is a marvel of sculptural dexterity. The ten incarnations of Vishnu with consorts are beautifully, sculptured around the shrine. A rare feature is that, Ganga flows from the feet of Vishnu and is the origin of Akasa Ganga, which can be seen here.

Golingeswara Aalayam Temple
Location: Ramachandrapuram, East Godavari
Deity: Lord Siva
There are three temples here facing east and are called Golingeswaraalaya, Rajarajeswaraalaya and Chandrasekaraalaya - all dedicated to Siva. Of the three, Golingeswaraalayam is the biggest and grandest because of the sculptures. The Sivalinga installed in Golingeswaraalayais is made of black granite and is very tall and highly polished. The temple also enshrines Subrahmanya in a niche and is called Subbarayudu. There are anthills with serpents all around that are also worshipped. People come here and offer prayers for ten to 40 days to get relief from earache and get Santanaprapti.

Kapoteswara Aalayam Temple
Location: Razole (Rajolu), East Godavari
Deity: Lord Siva
Siva linga is worshipped in the form of a dove or kapotha. Hence, the name Kapoteswaraalayam. The Sivalinga has two doves over it and there is a tank called Kapotagundam.

Legend: The two doves sacrificed their lives for the benefit of a hunter. A serpent used to come from the tank and worshipped the Lord. And since that time, the temple authorities introduced the Subrahmanya Shasti, a special prayer service.

Koppulingeswara Swamy Aalayam Temple
Location: Palivela near Kottapeta, East Godavari
Deity: Lord Shiva. This Sivaalaya owes its existence to the sage Agasthya.

Legend: A certain priest was known for his higher learning, but was notorious for his passion for flesh. He worshipped the Lord regularly with garlands worn by his ladylove. The King suspected it, when he found the garland containing a long hair. Insisting on the truth, the priest hoodwinked the King, saying that the Sivalinga has a braid. The King left desiring to see it the next day. The priest wailed and called out to the lord. Pleased with his devotion, the Lord gave darsan to the King with a braid. The King bestowed many valuables and lands on the priest. The temple houses other deities too.

Kukkuteswara Swamy Aalayam Temple
The presiding deity reveals himself in linga form and is in white marble stone about two feet in height. The linga resembles the back of cock; hence Lord Siva is called Kukkuteswaraswamy. He fulfils the desires. It is a Swayambhu linga and water trickling down in a pot from his nose. Vyasa worshiped this murti for a very long time.
Annavaram Satyanarayana Swami Temple

Annavaram is one of the most famous Holy Shrines in India and enjoying second place after Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh. The temple is built in the Dravidian style. The glory and richness of Lord SATYADEVA was widely described in Revakhanda of Skandapuranam. The presiding deity Lord Satyadeva with his consort Sri Anantha Lakshmi on one Side and with Lord Siva on the other side took his abode on Ratnagiri, which is named after Ratnakara, son of Meru the king of holy mountains. Like in all Divyakshetrams as surrounded and followed by holy rivers, Sri Satyanarayana Swamy at Annavaram is also followed by sacred Pampa River touching the feet of the hill. Lord Satyadeva the god of truth is showering his eternal blessings on mankind in his beautiful manifested form of the DIVINE TRINITY namely Hari Hara Hiranya Garbha Thrimurtyatmaka. Hence this is the temple that is attracting the Pilgrims of both Vishanava and Saiva devotees and thousands of pilgrims from all over the Country are worshiping Lord Satyadeva every day forgetting all sectional differences.

Enriched by the installation of SRIMATHRIPATHVIBHUTI VYKHUNTA MAHA NARAYANA YANTRA, which plays a dominant and important role with the power of attraction of both money and men (Dhana Janakarsha). The Peetham of Swamyvaru is highly adorned with the installation of Panchayatana, befitting the glory and sanctity of the deity.

This famous yantra is a unique one, the like of which does not exist any where else in India.

STHALAPURANAM AND STORIES BEHINDTHETEMPLE&LEGENDS:

It is believed that the place was known for constant food distribution (free feeding) by the benevolent people of the locality and that therefore the place was called by the name Annavaram(annam means food in Telugu). Another version is that because the presiding deity of the place blesses the devotees with anina varam (pronounced or wanted boon), the place is called Annavaram.

The hillock by the side of the village is considered to be very sacred. Meruvu, the lord of the hills and his consort Menaka did great penance and begot two sons by the grace of Lord Vishnu. One was named Bhadra and the other Ratnakar. Bhadra pleased Lord Vishnu with his devotion and penance and with his grace became Bhadrachalam on which Lord Sri Rama had permanently settled. Ratnakara desired to emulate his brother and succeeded in pleasing Lord Vishnu by his penance to settle on him as Veera Venkata Satyanarayanaswamy, Ratnakara remaining as Ratnagiri (hill). Ratnagiri Hill ranges are said to be connected with two strategic incidents. Tradition says that Sri Krishadevaraya of Vijayanagar used the secret underground passages in the hills to attack the enemy from both sides during his invasion on kalinga kings. The Andhra revolutionary late Alluri Seetharama Raju had some of the secret quarters for himself and his followers in these hill ranges, when he rebelled against the British Rule.

The temple of Sri Veera Venkata Satyanarayanaswamy is the main temple on the Ratnagiri hill. There are also a temple of Sri Rama and the shrines of Vana Durga and Kanaka Durga nearby. The temple of gramadevatha"Nerellamma" (village deity) is in the village at the foot of the hill.

It is said that one Brahmin of the village by name Earanki prakasam got a dream wherein lord appeared and told him that his vigraha was left abondened on the hill without worship and they shall trace it and reconsecrate it. That Brahmin informed the said fact to Sri Raja I.V.Ramarayanam,the then Zamindar of Gorasa of kirlampudi estate, and both of them along with other villagers traced the idol on the hill, worshipped it and installed it. at the present spot on Sravana Suddha Vidiya of the Telugu year Khara (i.e.) 1891 A.D (Fasli 1301).

"The main temple was constructed on the hill with the pleasing and distant view of Bay Of Bengal (11 miles) on one side and the row of Eastern Ghats on the other side the green fields alround the hills and the pampa River encircling Ratnagiri.The hillock itself is about 300 feet above the sea level.About 300 well - laid stone steps lead to the top of it.

Initially a small shed was constructed in 1891 when the idol was found. Later a temple was built in course of time with the cooperation of villagers and other devotees of the near by villages. Subsequently the temple was reconstructed during 1933-34, with locally available stone. Later when the same reached dilapiated condition, it was reconstructed during 2011-2012.

""The main temple is constructed in the form of a chariot with the four wheels at each of the four corners. In front of the main temple is the kalyana mantapa, constructed and decorated with modern pieces of architecture. As we go down the way,we come across Ramalaya and then the shrines of Vana Durga is held in great veneration and Devi is said to be seen even to this day in the nights, going about the holy precincts perpetually guarding the Lord's premises.

The Akriti of any temple is, according to the Agni Purana, merely a manifestation of the Prakriti. This idea is further developed in the ancient texts, and the entire Slipa Sastra is based on the principle that the wall and the vimana of the temple should be so constructed as to remind a devotee, of the universe, and the Lord inside representing the Supreme Spirit which is the core and being of the entire Universe. According to these tests, the chariot is intended as a symbol of the seven lokas underneath, and the seven lokas above, with the garbhalaya of the Lord, at the heart center ruling over the entire universe. The temple at Annavaram has been constructed to depict this idea concretely. The front side of the temple depicts the chariot. The Meru on the floor with the pillar at the center, and the idols at the top are intended to bring forth the idea that the Lord not only remains at the heart's center but also permeates the entire universe. The wheels depicting the Sun and the Moon serve to remind us that this Jaggernaut moves on the wheels of time, and goes on forever and ever. Thus the Annavaram temple satisfies both the ritualistic values and the spiritual aspirations of its devotees.""

The idol is about 13 feet high in a cylindrical form, the base being in the lower sanctum representing Lord Brahma and the top is in the upper sanctum representing Lord Vishnu. The middle portion represents Lord Siva. There are some temples representing the unity of Lords Hari and Hara in some places and this is the place where even Brahma who is generally denied temple worship, is clubbed with the other two, and the creator (Brahma), the protector (Vishnu) and destroyer (Siva) are worshipped simultaneously. The image of the lord forming a single idol representing the Trimurthis-Brahma, Vishnu and Siva is of unique attraction. "Moolatho Brahma roopaya

Madhayathashca Maheswaram

Agrathah Vishnuroopaya

Traika roopayathenamaha"

The temple is in two floors; the ground floor contains the yantra and the peetham of the Lord. On the four sides of the yantra there are four deities namely Ganapati, Suryanarayanaswamy, Bala Tripurasundari and Maheswaraswamy which constitutes panchayathanam. In the 1st floor the Moola virat of Lord Satyanarayana swamy is in the centre, the image of Goddess Anantha Lakshmi Ammavaru is in the right and Lord Shiva is on the left. The idols are of exquisite grace and beauty and are encaged in gold kavachams.". The adjoining shrine of Sri Rama seems to be the holy spot where the original self-mainfested idol of Sri Satyanarayanaswamy was discovered by the devotees. Lord Sri Rama is considered to be the Kshetra Palaka of this holy abode of the Lord Satyadeva.

Satya Deva Vratha katha

Hindus perform Sri Satyanarayana Vratham throughout India for weath, education, prosperity, off spring, relief from troubles and sickness and success in business. When it came to be known that Lord Satyanarayana had manifested Himself on the Ratnagiri hills at Annavaram in unique form combining the Trimurthis viz., Brahma, Vishnu and Siva the number of pilgrims from far and near swelled to hundreds and thousands. The average attendance daily is about five thousand now a-days. Though Ekadasi is considered to be very auspicious for the vratham, the individual devotees perform it even on other convenient days. The great popularity behind the vratham springs from the experiences narrated in stories and legends and also the faith gained by observances in daily life.

The important legend connected with this vratham was that once Sage Narada was very much distressed at the misery of marthyas(men in this world) and prayed Lord Vishnu to be informed of a way out for them. The lord then told him that Satyanarayana Vratham would relieve men of their troubles and would ensure worldly prosperity and salvation after death. He also narrated that a pious Brahmin of Banaras performed the vratham first. It was also described how king Ulkamukha of Bhadrasilanagaram, Emperor Tungadhwaja, and a community of Gollas in his kingdom, a Vaisya business man named Sadhuvu, and a poor woodcutter of Banaras has performed this vratham and were blessed by Lord Satyanarayanaswamy (Vishnu himself) with all they desired. The vratham has caught the fascination of millions owing to these stories within the understanding of scholars as well as laymen. All classes of people took to its performance and it is popular for its efficacy.

The origin of the vratham was narrated ad follows: once a highly educated and pious Brahmin who had no means of livelihood was wandering about from place to place being for food. Lord Vishnu had taken pity on his penury and appeared before him in the disguise of a Brahmin and advised him to perform the vratham of Lord Satyanarayanaswamy who is the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He also told him the way in which the vratham was to be performed. The Brahmin thereupon got up early in the next morning and went out for alms. He could get funds enough for celebrating the vratham and did it as per the vratha directions given by Lord Vishnu. Consequenty, he was blessed by the Lord with prosperity and lived very happily with his family and attained salvation after death. A poor man who has been earning livelihood selling firewood from the forestschanced to go to that Brahmin's house for water to quench his thirst, while the Brahmin was engaged in performing Satyanarayana swamy Vratham. He waited till the end, quenched his thirst and enquired as to what the vratham was. The Brahmin told him in detail all about it and the poor man had decided to perform the vratham himelf and to spend the next day's earnings for the vratham. What he got the next day was enough for the vratham, which he performed with great devotion and became prosperous, happy and attained moksham.

Another legend connected with Satyanarayana Vratham mentioned in Skandapuranam was as follows: A rich Vaisya couple Sadhuvu and Leelavathi begot a dauther Kalavathi as a result of the vow taken to perform Satyanarayana Vratham. They got her married with great pomp to a worthy young man. Sadhuvu and his son-in-law flourished in business and amassed great wealth by the grace of Lord Satyanarayanaswamy. But they forgot to perform Satyanarayana Vratham. They went to Ratnasanapuram on the seashore and commenced business there to add to their wealth. But they had lost the grace of the Lord, as they did not keep up their vow of performing vratham, amidst their prosperity. One night the treasury of the local king had been looted. Sadhuvu and his son-in-law were imprisoned on suspicion, even though they were really innocent. The mother and daughter became poor and sick and were forced to beg for food from house to house. While begging for food kalavathi chanced to witness Satyanarayana Vratham in a Brahmin's house and waited they're to receive the Lord's prasadam. She explained to her mother this incident as the reason for her being late in returning home. Leelavathi then remembered about the vratham and decided to perform it with no loss of time. By the Lord's grace she got all facilities to perform it.

The lord was pleased as a result of the vratham. Sadhuvu and his son-in-law were released from prison and all their confiscated wealth was returned to them by the king at the command of the Lord in a vision. They prayed to the Lord, performed the vratham, gave large amounts in charity and started back to their original place in a boat. Satyanarayanaswamy appeared in the ship as a sanyasi and asked Sadhuvu what he had on borad. Sadhuvu retorted that it was no concern of the sanyasi to know what in the boat was and ridiculed him by saying that there was some trash. 'Be it so', pronounced the Lord and all the wealth in the boat wsas reduced to trash. Sadhuvu began to weep and wail and as advised by his son-in-law he fell on the feet of the sanyasi and prayed for his pardon. The sanyasi reminded him that he had once again failed to perform His puja. Realising who the sanyasi was, Sadhuvu prayved Him), got back his wealth and safely reached the shores. He sent word to this wife and daughter that they were arriving soon at the house. Leelavathi was happy to receive the news and hastened her daughter to finish Satyanarayana puja so that they could hurry up to the seashore to receive their husbands. In the hurry up to the seashore to receive their husbands. In the hurry both of them forgot to take the prasadam of Satyanarayanaswamy. The consequence was that the boat with the cargo and the son-in-law drowned in the sea. Sadhuvu was much grieved to see his only daughter preparing for sahagamana. He soon realized that Lord Satyanarayana alone could come to his relief and fervently prayed to him.

The Lord revealed that the catastrophe was the result of Kalavathi not taking His prasadam in her hurry to go to her husband. Kalavathi rushed home, took the prasadam and hurried back to the seashore. There she saw her husband Ratnakara safe on the shore. She told him all about the Lord. He was so much impressed that he prayed to the Lord and with His blessings changed into Ratnagiri hill on which the Lord took His permanent abode. It is believed that river Pampa running by the hill is none other than kalavathi, who melted with ecstasy at the grace of the Lord and her husband's achievement and began to flow as Pampa River.
Bheemaramam Temple
Location: Samalkot near Kakinada, in East Godavari District of AP. It is also known as Kumararamam.
Deity: Shiva
Legend: When Subramanya killed the demon Tarakasura, the Shivalingam in the demon`s throat broke and fell in five different spots, which became the Panchaarama kshetras. The foremost is Amareswara at Amaravati where Indra and other gods are said to have worshipped Shiva. The others are Draksharama, Somarama at Kotipalli, Bheemarama at Kakinada and Ksheerarama or Palakollu. The Shivalingam was installed here by Skanda and hence the name Kumararamam. There are puranic references to Kumararamam in the Skanda Purana.

Architecture: The Shivalingam is large and is housed in a three-storied sanctum, and worship is performed in the upper level. The sculptures are worth a mention. There is intricate work done in stone. For eg. a black granite swing here actually sways when rocked.
Someswara Temple
The place is famous as the seat of the temple of Bhimeswaraswami. The temple is a perfect blend of Chalukya and the Chola styles of temple architecture. There are 381 inscriptions from Saka 1002 (1080 AD) to Saka 1356 (1434 AD).
Someswaram Temple
Found at the origin is the Tryambakeshwar Jyotirlinga shrine thus the worship at Someswaram is associated with a ritual bath in the river Godavari. Draksharama is one of the pancharaama shrines, and is associated with the legend of the destruction of (the vain) Daksha`s ritual sacrifice. The ritual bath in the river is symbolic of a new beginning in life, a change in direction.

A Grand Tour of Cultural Heritage Tourist Places around Kakinada

Ainavilli 58.9 km; Annavaram 48.3 km; Antarvedi 134 km Appanapalli 588 km Coringa 15.9 km Draksharamam 28.2 km Godavari Cruise 74.5 km Korukonda 62.4 km Gollala Mamidada 36.7 km Kotipalli 38.5 km Mandapalli 76.2 km Pithapuram 20.7 km Ryali 90.9 km Samalkota 19.1 km Uppada 26.2 km Thalupulamma Lova 70.2 km Rajahmundry 63.0 km Maredumilli 107Km Konaseema 173 km Muramalla 37.2 km Palivela 76.7 km Pandavula Metta 22.4 km Vanapalli 67.6 km Biccavolu 81.3 km

Ainavilli

According to Vaastu Shastra, the most suitable places to build temples are, either on the bank of a river, or near the seashore, or at the confluence of rivers, or on top of a mountain. It is true because this where, in the midst of the lush - green fields, coconut gardens, natural surroundings of the River Godavari area is AINAVILLI, where the "SIDDI VINAYAKA TEMPLE", a prominent pilgrimage centre, is situated. It is believed that he fulfills the wishes of his devotees quickly. Devotees take a vow to visit the temple again if their wishes are fulfilled.

Annavaram

One fine weekend we decided to go Annavaram. It was the first time I got a chance to visit this shrine. It is located in one of the very scenic locations on the hill top towards the outskirts of the Kakinada city. This temple is a place which sees immense pilgrim crowd every year. Apart from the fact that the place is sacred, tourists are also attracted to this place because of its immense natural beauty and panoramic views surrounding it. From this hill top you can get a panoramic view of the surrounding green fields and villages."Anna" means whatever you say or you desire and "Varam" means boon, hence whatever you desire will be given as boon by the Deity.

Antarvedi

Also known as "Dakshina Kashi (Kashi of the South), Antarvedi, is an important pilgrim centre in the East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh state in India, situated at the interior part at East coast. Lord Brahma, in order to get freed from the sins he had committed against Lord Sankara, had performed Rudrayaga and installed Lord Neela kantheswara there. As that place was made a stage or "Vedik" to perform the Yagam, it was named as "ANTARVEDI" It is a small village in Sakhinetipalle Mandal which is located close to Narsapur near the Bay of Bengal Coast and Vashishtha River. This river is said to have been brought by Maharishi Vashishtha, one of the Sapthrishis(seven great sages) of Hindu Mythology.

Appanapalli

I heard that it was just a remote village in Mamidikuduru Mandal of East Godavari District, but I was struck by the beauty of the place as I was nearing it. It was situated on the holy bank of river Vynateya and flanked by river Godavari on three sides and the Bay of Bengal on 4th side looking like an island, flanked by striking farms, wide spread paddy fields, cattle grazing and ploughing the lush fields surrounded by coconut gardens, plain Mango and Jack trees giving the impression as if it were a part of heaven which came down to earth!! A place one would always cherish!!

Draksharamam

Draksharamam, is one of the most frequented pilgrim centre of South India. It is one of the Shiva Pancharamas and one of 18 Shakti Peethas. It is famous as both Shiva kshetra and Shakti kshetra. Lord Bheemeswara swamy and Manikyamba are main the deities here. This place is also called as Dakshina Kashi.

There is an interesting legend regarding the name of this place and existence of Lord Shiva in this place. During Tarakasura vadha, the Shiva Linga which was in the throat of Tarakasura broke into five pieces and one of the pieces fell here. Thereafter, it came to be known as Draksharamam.

Sri Bhimeswara Swami Temple, Draksharama

Draksharamam is located 28 Km from Kakinada,50 Km from Rajahmundry and 25 Km from Amalapuram. Throughout the length and breadth of the Sacred "Mother India", there are many pilgrim centers. From amongst them "Draksharama" is the one in the Southern India on the Eastern Bank of the River Godavari. It is colloquially known as Draksharama carrying the implied meaning as "Draksharama" meaning the Abode of Daksha Prajapathi - the Father-in-law of Lord Siva and the beloved Father of 'Sati' the spiritual spouse of Lord Siva.

	The history of the Sacred Pilgrimage is exhaustively dealt within the 'Skanda Purana' of Sri Vyasa. To give a brief narration of the same the story goes thus. Once Daksha Prajapathi decided to perform a Yaga. In pursuance of the same, he had been to Kailasa to invite Gods and Goddesses to sanctify his 'Yazna' and accept his hospitality. But when he had been there, Lord Siva was in his Court immersed in his spiritual splendour. But Daksha Prajapathi out of his ego of being the father-in-law of Lord Siva, mistook the Lord's trance as indifference towards him.
So, being put out at the difference of his Son-in-law he came back without inviting the Lord and the Lady to his sacrifice. Sati in her womanish nature requested Siva to permit her to attend, the sacrifice at her parental home, even uninvited and have the pleasure of the performance and the association of her kith and kin. But Siva explained her the tragic implications that she might have to face at her parental house and let her to at her own wish. But, when she actually stepped into her parental home, none greeted her or even just asked her a mutual exchange of her well-being. Then Sathi was put out with the humiliation she had to face amidst her own blood and then and there, decided to give up her body instead of facing her beloved husband with a fallen face. So, she gave up her body then and there and fell down dead. Siva having come to know of the tragic end, sent his son 'Veerabhadra' to boot down the ego of Daksha. Siva in his pangs of separation with Sati came down to her dead body and shoultered the corpse over his shoulders and danced in 'Pralaya Thandava'.

At this juncture, the Lord Vishnu, the presenting, force of Universe, sent his 'Chakra' to cut down the body of Sathi and redeem the grief of Lord Siva. The Chakra came and cut the body of Sati into eighteen pieces fell in eighteen parts of this 'Punyabhoomi' of ours and came to be known as 'Ashta Dasa Peethas' and out of these eighteen Sri Manikyamba of Draksharama is the Twelfth.

	This Holy Pilgrimage is one of the rare few, where the God and Goddess are equally important. One is Varanasi in Northern India with Viswanatha and Annapurna. Second is Srisailam in Southern India with Sri Mallikharjuna and Bramaramba and third is Draksharama with Bhimanatha and Manikyamba. There are many mythological anecdotes scattered in many of the Sacred puranas about the 'Swayambhu' aspect of the Lord's existence here. One of many is for once who is curious to know that Bhimanatha came down from Kailasa and settled here at the request of Parvathi herself who happened to be the daughter of Dakhsa.The historical aspect of the temple goes from the thirteenth century onwards.
This temple is one of the "Pancharamas". This is an ancient and holy pagoda. This is one of the reputed piligrim centers in Andhra Pradesh. Thousands of pilgrims and devotees visit the temple and worship the Lord to receive blessings. This temple is a protected Monument. The Archaeological Department has to undertake the renovation works of this temple to create beauty and divine atmosphere. The wealth of inscriptions and epigraphical details that can be glanced from the inscriptions on the walls of this temple are a paradise for the epigraphist and the historian. This temple is managed by the Executive Officer under the control of the Endowments Departments. Devi Navaratrulu, Karthika Masam, Dhanurmasam, Birthday Celebration of Sri Bhimeswara Swamy varu, Subrahmanya Shasti, Maha Sivaratri and Kalyanam etc., are the important festivals of this Temple.

Festivals

Sarrannavarathri Festival from Asviyuja Suddha Padyami to Dwadasi every year (October).
Kartheeka Monday Festivals and Jwalathoranam in Karteeka masam every year (November).
Sri Swamyvari Birthday on Margasira Suddha Chaturdhasi every year (December).
Shasti Festival in the Month of December every year
Sri Swamyvari Kalyanam on Bhisma Ekadasi Day in Magha Masam Every year (February).
Mahasivarathri Festival in Maghamasam every year (February-March).

Accommodation

There is one Choultry adjacent to the compound wall of the Temple

Founder family member,
Sri P.V.R.Choultry,
Santhinagar,
kakinada-3,
East Godavari District
Phone no: 0884 - 2363535.

Temple Authorities:

The executive Officer,
Sri Bhimeswara Swamy Temple,
Draksharama,
Ramachandrapuram(M),
East Godavari District,
pin-533 262,
Phone no: 08857- 252488

Godavari Cruise

Godavari, a mighty river, a haven of beauty and tranquility, brimming with mountains, rivers, grasslands and abundant breathtaking landscapes has since the days of yore, always enchanted and awed one and all with its beauty. From dawn to dusk, it is a myriad of captivating and stunning colours with the sky and the river competing with each other. A feeling of warmness spreads allover when one watches the sun rise and one can literally feel The Godavari stretching out its legs. It looks surreal at sunset when the moon comes up over the horizon and the scarlet sun melts little by little into the river and the placid river is tinged golden by the setting sun, merging with the colorful sunset sky.

Korukonda

Located at a distance of 60 kms from Kakinada, 20 kms from Rajahmundry and 110 kms from Amalapuram, is the Korukonda Temple, an ancient and historical temple, a Vaishnava Divya Kshetram, a prominent temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu Avataram. It is called Korukonda `where koru means wish and konda means hill in telugu'. Thus, it is a wishing hill or God who immediately heeds to the wishes of the devotees. The presiding deity here is Lord Sri Narasimha Swamy. Here at Korukonda, the Lord is known as "Satvika Narasimha'', because he is accompanied here by his consort, Lakshmi Devi.

Kotipalli

Someswaram or Kotipalli (Kumararama) an important pilgrimage center in coastal Andhra Pradesh, one of the five well known pancharama shrines dedicated to Shiva in Andhra Pradesh is rich in legend and tradition and is held in great regard. Kotipalli also known as Koti Theertham is located at the confluence of the river Godavari with the sea. This holy river which is very famous for its sacred water was brought by Gowtham Maharshi. If a person takes a bath in these holy waters of Gowthami at Kotipalli they will be purified from all kinds of sins. For time immemorial it has been believed that a ritual bath in the river Godavari at Kotipalli is symbolic of a new beginning in life, a change in direction, of forgiveness of heinous sins committed by repentant souls especially in the month of Kartika, and on Maha Shivaratri.

Gollala Mamidada

Located at a distance of 20 Km from Kakinada, 58 Km from Rajahmundry and 65 Km from Amalapuram (Via Kotipalli), in the midst of coconut gardens, the green fields and natural surroundings, and on the banks of river "Thulya Bhaga" (Antharvahini) is a well known pilgrim centre known as G. Mamidada (Gollala Mamidada) which is also called as Gopurala Mamidada, famous for Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple. It is the second famous temple after Arasavilli(in Srikakulam). This temple was incepted by the Late Sri Kovvuri Basivi Reddy in the year 1920, who was the Jamindar of Gollalamamidada and great a philanthropist.

Mandapalli

There comes a time in every persons life where they are affected by Shani Dasha (Period of Saturn). They undergo many a great hardship and it is during this time they offer prayers and do poojas to Shani to get some respite, to appease him, many pay obeisances from the effects of Shani Dasha. The question is who is Shani? Shani is one of the most popular and yet the most dreaded and feared deities that the Hindus pray to ward off evil and remove obstacles. He is one of the Navagrahas (nine planets) which are the nine primary celestial beings in Hindu Astrology and is considered to be the strongest malefic.

Pithapuram

Pithapuram may be a little known town in the East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh, but is widely known as a pilgrim centre and a temple of great importance as it has many shrines of important Deities i.e. Sri Puruhootika Devi, Sri Kukkuteshwara Swamy, Sri Dattatreya Swamy, and Pada Gaya.

Pithapuram which was earlier known as Pithikapuram is one of the Ashta Dasha (Eighteen) Shakthi Peethas and it came to be known as such because this was the place where a part of Satidevi's body i.e. her left hand fell here. She is known here as Puruhootika Devi. Her temple is opposite to Sri Kukkuteshwara Swamy.

Sri Kukkuteshwara Swamy Temple

Located 20 Km from Kakinada and 75 Km from Rajahmundry, It is considered to be one of the 18 Shakthipithas in India. It is famous for the temples of Kukkuteshwara Swamy, Kunthimadhava Swamy and Sri Pada Vallabha Anaagha Datha Kshethram, Agraharam, Sri Venu Gopala Swamy Temple.

Pithapuram is one of the oldest and famous pilgrim places of India. There is an oldest temple call “Padagya Keshatram in Pithapuram. The Lord “Sri Kukuteswara Swamy is the Swayambhu with Spatika Lingam”. Pithapuram is one of the Twelve Pilgrims, one of the five Madava Keshatra and one of the Asta Dasa (Eighteen) Sakthi Petas. Previously Pithapuram is known as Pitikapuram.

Once you enter into the temple, complete the pradishana and come in front of Dwaja Stamba you will be attracted by the “Yaka Sila Nandi (Single Stone Nandi). The Yaka Sila is second biggest after Lepakshi Basaveswara Nandai.

Pithapuram is equalent to Kasi:

According to “Bhimeswara Purana” of Srinath kavi Sarvabhuma, Pithapuram is one of the twelve pilgrims (Dwadasa Punya Keshatras). The sage told that Pithapuram is equalent to Kasi and also known as Southern Kasi (Dakshina Kasi).

About the pond-Padagaya

Pithapuram is third one of three Gayas of India.

1st is – Siro Gaya also familiarly known as “GAYA”, located in Bihar State.
2nd is – Nabi Gaya near to Jijapur Railway Junction, located in Orrisa State
3rd is – Padagaya Pithapuram, located in East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh.

Festivals

Nitya Pujas
Sani Thrayodasi
Dassera Festivals (September/October)
Kaartika Masam (October/November)
Maha Shiva Rathi, Swamy Vari Kalyanam and Radostavam (February/March)
Magha Masam Thrayodasi (February/March)

Sri Jaganmohini Kesava & Gopala Swamy Temple, Ryali

Ryali is located 40 Km from Rajahmundry, 74 Km from Kakinada and 34 Km from Amalapuram and it is situated between the rivers Vashista and Gautami, Tributaries of river Godavari, this is the site of the renowned Jagan Mohini Kesava Swamy temple. The exquisite idol, made of black stone depicting Maha Vishnu and Mohini on its front and rear sides, is a real marvel of sculptural dexterity.

Sthala Puranam

According to the legend "Bhagavatam" while Devatas and Rakshas were quarrelling over sharing of holy Devine nectar "Sree Maha Vishnu" came to the rescue of Devatas in the guise of Mohini and convinced both the rivalry groups promising to distribute holy Devine nectar in equal share to Devatas and Rakshas. But in the interest of universal peace and welfare of sages, holy and Devine nectar was distributed among Devatas alone and the Mohini disappeared. Lord Siva having seen the most fascinating beauty of Mohini allured her. He chased her for getting for a while the presence of his consort Parvathi Devi it is the general belief that the holy incident was the result of birth of "AYYAPPA SWAMY". One flower from the plait of Mohini fell down and it was smelt by Lord Siva. Then he surprisingly found "Sree Maha Vishnu" in the form of Mohini and felt shy for his behavior. The place where the flower from the plait of Mohini fell is named as RYALI the Telugu meaning of “Fall”.

This place known as Ryali for the above reason became above of Lord Siva and Sree Mahavishnu with the form of Mohini on back side Lord Brahma consecrated the Siva Lingam with his Kamandalam and hence Lord Siva at Ryali is worshipped as Sri Uma Kamandalesara Swamy Varu, Sri Mahavishnu with the form of Mohini on backside is worshipped as Sri Jaganmohini Kesava Swamy varu both Siva and Vishnu Temples are located facing each other. This is very rare feature at Ryali where Vishnu and Lord Siva Temples faces each other in East, West direction.

During 11th Century, this village was a part of wild Forest and these parts were under the rule of Chola Rajas. Sri Raja Vikrama Deva who ruling these parts during those days came to this place for hunting. Having been tired after hunting wild animals, he took rest under the shade of a big ponna tree, and fell in deep sleep and got a dream. Lord Sri Maha Vishnu appeared in his dream and informed that his shrine was located in the under ground of this area and directed the "Raja to get the wooden made chariot pull in the area and where the nail of chariot fell, the shrine can be found in the under ground of that place. Raja has done accordingly and the land where the nail of chariot fell was excaved and found the idol making the dream of Raja true. He constructed a small temple during 11th Century and arranged worship during his regime. Gradually prakarams were developed in the year 1936 (Data nama Samvatsara) it was renovated.

The Shrine of Sri jaganmohini kesava Swamy varu is Salagrama Ekasila with 5 feet height and 3 feet width. Salgramasila is itself the form of Sri Maha Vishnu. The idol of Sree Kesava Swamy varu of "Sri Mahavishnu" in front side and Jagan Mohini on back side. The ten incarnations Lord Sree Maha Vishnu with consorts, Sri Devi, BhooDevi, Sage Narada, Thumbura, Rambha, Urvasi, Kinnera, Kimpurusha, Lord Krishna with Govardhanagiri, Adiseshu, Garuda and Ganga are beautifully, scluptured around the shrine. The most miracle and rare feature is that, Ganga always flows from the feet of Sri Maha Vishnu is the origin of Akasa Ganga and this truth can be witnessed here. The most wonderful architectural beauty of Shrine, and flow of Ganga from the feet of Swamy varu are really unique features and shrine became very sacred. The architectural beauty of idol can not be described in words. Further it gives impression as it is new idol though its origin is of 11th Century.

This shrine is "SWAYAMBHU" people visiting the temple form several parts of the Country believe that the shrine is not of man made but certainly creation of Devatas and Darsan of Swamy varu gives the feeling of presence of real God.

Festivals

Sri Jaganmohini kesava Swamy kalyanam will be conducted from Chaitra sudha Navami to Pournami (March/April).
Sri Rama Satyanarayana Swamy kalyanam will be conducted from Visakha Sudha Ekadasi to Pournami.
Sri Venugopala Swamy kalyanam will be conducted from Jyesta Sudha Ekadasi to pournami (June).
Sravana Bahula Astami Sri Krishnastami (August).
Karthiaka sudha Dwadasi (Ksheerabdi Dwadasi) (November).
Devi Navaratrams (October).
Mukkoti Ekadasi.
Bheeshma Ekadasi.

Samalkota

Sri Chalukya Kumararama Sri Bhimeswaraswamy vari Temple

Samalkot is located at a distance of 12 km from Kakinada, 52 Km from Rajahmundry. Bhimavaram (Lat. 17^o 02'N, Long. 82^o 12'E), which now forms part of Samalkot town, is known as Bhimavara Kshetram with its famous temple of Kumararama - Bhimesvara. The village was known in the past as Chalukya Bhimavaram according to the inscriptions found in the temple. It is situated at a distance of about 11 kilometers to the North of Kakinada in East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh and is on the Chennai - Howrah broad gauge railway line of South - Central Railway.

	The place was under the yoke of several ruling houses from Nandas of Pataliputra to Asaf Jahis of Golkonda in its long history and was subjected to so many vicissitudes from the dawn of Christian era. Among the various dynasties that ruled over this region the Eastern Chalukyas had a lion's share in shaping its destiny and as such it is no wonder that they had the privilege of exercising greater control and conspicuous influence than other dynasties.
Rajaraja Narendra is said to have laid the foundation of the new city called Rajamahendravaram (Rajahmundry) after his name. On the request of Rajaraja Narendra, his court poet Nanayya began to translate Sanskrit Mahabharata into Andhra Mahabharata, which stood as a land mark in the development of Telugu literature. his temple, known as Kumararama at Bhimavaram in Samalkot is one among the five important and popular 'Pancharama' temples of Andhra. The other four temples dedicated to Siva are 1.Amararama at Amaravati (Dist. Guntur), 2.Daksharama at Daksharama (Dist. East Godavari), 3.Kshirarama at Palakollu and 4.Somarama at Gunupudi - Bhimavaram (both in Dist. West Godavari). There is an episode on the origin of these 'Pancharamas' which is also found in 'Bhimesvarapurana' written by Srinatha (AD 14th - 15th Century). According to it, Lord Vishnu, in his charming and fascinating incarnation of Mohini started distributing the nectar (amrita) obtained after the hazardous churning of the ocean to both the demons (asuras) and divined (devas) Dissatisfied with the injustice meted out to them in the manner of distribution of nectar, the asuras lead by the lords of Tripuras resorted to severe penance on the advice of the celestial sage Narada and were blessed with boons by Lord Siva. Thus with the power newly acquired through the boons, they inflicted atrocities on the devas, who sought refuge with Lord Siva.

On hearing the pitiable plea of the devas, Siva killed the asuras with his infallible Pasupata (a spiritual weapon of flame), which reduced them and their kingdoms to ashes. This material aspect of Siva is better known as Tripurantaka. However, a huge stone linga, worshipped by Tripuras, remained intact after the encounter. This was cut into five lingas by Lord himself and distributed for the purpose of installing at five different places which came to be locally known as Pancharams.

According to the inscription at Pithapuram, it is very clear that the temple of Kumaram Chalukya Bhimesvara was constructed by the famous Eastern Chalukya king Chalukya Bhima-I towards the end of the 9th century AD and the presiding God Siva, in the form of tall Sivalinga, was named after the monarch as Chalukya Bhimesvara. The inscription states that Chalukya Bhima, the son of Vikramaditya having been victorious in three hundred and sixty battles ruled the earth for thirty years.

The Bhimesvara temple at Samalkot is similar in architecture to that of the Bhimesvara temple at Daksharama. The temple is surrounded by two prakara walls built of dressed sand stones. The outer prakara wall is pierced by gopura - entrance on all the four sides. The four gopura - dvaras have ardha - mandapas on either side. The inner enclosure wall is divided horizontally into two sections separated by a cornice. It has a two storeyed pillared mandapa running all the inner side.

The main shrine is a free standing monument lying at the center of the inner enclosure. The temple is a rectangular structure and has two storeys. The lime stone Linga, installed in the shrine, is so tall that it rises from the pedestal on the ground floor and enters the second floor by piercing the roof, where the Rudrabhaga is worshipped. The present Vimana of the main shrine has been renovated and is covered with thick plaster. It consists of flat pattas, row of geese kutas, salas, simhalalatas, lotuses and kalasa. It is a dvitala vimana of the dravida order with regional variations. Like in Daksharama, a miniature temple model, found in the court yard of the temple, shows the whole temple with all the architectural details, possibly used as model before erecting the temple ranging from AD 1147 to 1494, recording gifts made to this temple. These epigraphs refer to the construction of mukhamandapa at the Eastern entrance in AD 1394.

Further the erection of the additional structures like Srimukhamandapam and niluvu mandapam on top of it in AD 1422 are also mentioned in the inscriptions.

There is a monolithic pillar on the western side, locally known as kappa stambham containing an inscription which records that when some thieves pulled down the nandi from the pillar from material gains, a new one was fabricated and installed by a lady named Lakshmi wife of Narasimudu, after bringing the stone from Kotilingalu at Rajahmundry.

Festivals

Maha Shiva Ratri(February/March)
Saran Nava Rathrulu(Dessara 10 days)
Karthika Masam(October/Novermber)

It has been written in the Puranas, that to visit a Shiva temple a person has to have the "yogam" / "Yog"(opportunity given by god/boon). This temple usually sees very less crowds and is empty almost all round the year except during the festivals. Samalkota, also known as Samalkot/Samarlakota is a small town in the East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh. It is the home to one of the Pancharama temples.

Talupulamma Thalli Temple – Lova

Wedged between 2 heavily forested hillocks, stands the Thalupulamma Thalli Lova Temple offering a breathtaking view of the valley below which is just a sample of the natural beauty of East Godavari, often claimed as "The God’s Own District". Located not far from the famous Temple town of Annavaram, is the abode of Thalupulamma Thalli. It is a fascinating and irresistible destination for both lovers of nature and adventure as well as pilgrims.Truck owners as well as car owners, particularly those who live in the Godavari and North Coastal Districts.

Muramalla

On the banks of River Gauthami, a branch of River Godavari, flanked by striking farms, wide spread paddy fields, cattle grazing and ploughing the lush fields surrounded by coconut gardens stands proud, the Sri Bhadrakali Sametha Sri Veerabhadra Swamy Temple of Muramalla. It is believed that devotees who still haven’t got married, who find it difficult to get good proposals, get married with just a mere visit to this temple. Not only that, childless couples, and couples who do not get along will find respite here.

Palivela

Situated on the banks of the rivulet Kowntheyi (aka Kowsiki) in the town of Palvalapuram, flanked by Kowsiki River on the East, Chandrabhanga River on the West, Mandavu Rivver on the North, Kowntheyi and Palavala River on the South, there was a Lord Shiva Temple who was called Lord Agasteswara Swamy which was installed by Sage Agastya which later came to be known as Uma Koppulingeswara Swamy. As time went by the River Palavala became an "Antarvahini" (unseen).

Pandavula Metta

Ask any kid about Mahabharata, the greatest epic ever written, he will tell you right away. Hmmnn... It’s true!! The story of the Mahabharata is not new to us. We all know about it, we have heard about it as it has been passed on to us since generations. But the question is how much do we really know about it? I guess not much. Right!!?? The various tales that took place in between till the battle, the nitty gritties one missed out on while watching it on the television, for e.g. the places they toured during their exile, the stories that your grandmother forgot to mention and many such stories. Tsk Tsk!!! Need we say more?

Vanapalli

Situated on the banks of River Gowthami, where every second person is named as either "Pallamraju", or "Pallamma", or "Pallalamma" as a mark of respect and devotion to the Goddess, is the Temple of Sri Pallalamma Devi of Vanapalli. It is regarded as one of the greatest and the most powerful Temples in Andhra Pradesh.

This village Vanapalli, back then, was under the administrative control of Maharaja (king) of Pithapuram. One day the Maharaja dreamt about Sri Pallalamma Devi who asked him to offer fruits to her and thereby promising in return to give him and his family health and wealth.

Biccavolu

Andhra Pradesh is an illustration of the diverse styles of temple building in the Indian subcontinent. The Chalukyan, Dravidian, Nagara and the Orissa idiom are seen in the construction of temples in this southern state. Among the various dynasties that ruled over this region, the Eastern Chalukyas who ruled over Coastal Andhra had a lion's share in shaping the destiny of the temples of East Godavari.

The temples of East Godavari owe their grandeur to the contribution of Eastern Chalukyas who were well known for their typical Dravidian style of art and architecture.

Vanapalli

Sri Pallalamma Ammavari Devasthanam

It is located at a distance of 21 Km from Amalapuram, 55 Km from Rajahmundry and 70 Km from Kakinada (Via Ravulapalem). The Diety of the temple Sri "Pallalamma" Ammavaru is situated in the village of Vanapalli of Kothapeta Mandal in East Godavari District. This temple is one of the greatest temples of Dieties in Andhra Pradesh and having much power. Vanapalli village is situated by the side of "Gowthami River". Every year, in the month of "Vysakha", a festival will be performed on Tuesday after Vysakha Poornima and it will be continued for one month, and many people from distant places will be coming and pray their respects to Goddess with much devotion. During this period of one month, it will be a festival for the people of Vanapalli After Chaithra Suddha Poornima, the "Garagas" in the Temple of Ammavaru will be taken to another Temple and they will be placed there for a period of one month. During this period of one month that these Garagas will be taken for Grama Seva at night times. On the last day of one month, Sri Ammavaru will enter into a field she likes and three Toddy trees from that field will be cut and utilized as cradle from Ammavaru on the day of festival.

Vanapalli village was render the Administrative control of the Maharaja of Pithapuram Divanam. One day Sri Ammavaru was seen in the dream of Maharaja when she asked for "fruits" and promised that wealth and Health will be given to his family. According to his dream, Sri Maharaja of Pithapuram has donated some land to Sri Ammavaru. The villagers of Vanapalli village and surrounding villages will be performing poojas on every Friday and Seva programmes will be conducted with drums etc. With "Garagas". It is also a tradition here in Ammavari Temple that on every Tuesday and Friday, the Ammavaru will be prayed by performing Sahasrachana, Pushparchana with "Pasupu and Kumkuma". It is also a tradition that the people of Vanapalli and surrounding villages will name their children as "Pallamraju", "Pallamma", "Pallalamma" with great Devotion to Goddess Sri Pallalamma Ammavaru.

There is verdict in this area, that at the time of digging the main canal from Rajahmundry to Kundaleswaram (Via) Vanapalli, it was thought by Sir Arthur Cotton, that the Temple of Sri Pallalamma Ammavaru will obstruct the way of Canal and wanted to dismantle it. At this time Sri Ammavaru appear in the dream of Sir Arthur Cotton, and told him that her temple will not obstruct the way of canal and that he can continued to dig the canal without dismantling the same and that she will extend her sakthi also during the period of digging. Thus Sir Arthur Cotton has completed the digging of canal and pay his respects to Goddess with great devotion. It is seen that a statue of "Jackal" is under the feet of Sri Pallalamma Ammavaru and Sri Ammavaru is seated herself by putting her leg on the other leg. It is also seen that the statue of "Ganapathi" is facing "South" which is very important for this temple. Pooja and Archana karyakramams are being performed in this temple as per tradition of "Gramadevatha Agama Sastra".

Festivals

One month after full moon day in Vysakha Maasam Telugu Thidhies (May).
Every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday are important days for devotees.

Talupulamma Lova

Sri Talupulamma Ammavari Devasthanam

Sri Talupulamma Ammavari Devasthamam is located 70 Km from Kakinada, 106 Km from Rajahmundry, 176 Km from Amalapuram (via Rajahmundry) and 8 km from Tuni.

Origin

Sri Talupulamma Ammavari Devasthanam, Lova village, Tuni(m), East Godavari is located on Hillock between DARAKONDA and TEEGAKONDA at Lova village. Sri Talupulamma Ammavaru is famous village Goddess. The rituals in this Devasthanam are being preformed as per GRAMA DEVATHA AGAMA

Inception

The inception of Ammavaru is "SWAYAMBHU" according to the recitals, the great Agasthyamuni performed meditation at the hills, had the fruits and drinking water and titled to hills as DARAKONDA and TEEGAKONDA respectively. There is un-interrupted flow of water through DARAKONDA ever since, its inception.

Location

The presiding deity is situated between DARAKONDA and TEEGAKONDA at a height of about 400ft from the ground level. The village is popularly called as TALUPULAMMA LOVA. The temple is situated about 6 Kms abutting NH5 and about 8 Km from Tuni Railway station. Historical Importance:- The presiding deity Sri Talupulamma Ammavaru has gained much importance through out the state and the practice in vogue is to prepare their food (Prasadam), have the prasadam and then leave the premises after worshipping the deity.

Thousands of Devotees/ Pilgrims visiting the temple and worshipping the deity through out state on all days in general and on Sunday, Tuesday Wednesday and Thursday in particular. It is widely believed that the desires and aspirations of devotees will be fulfilled if they have darshan of Goddess Talupulamma. In fact, the location of the temple is very ideal where peaceful and beautiful atmosphere is prevailed here and every visitor enjoys the visit to the temple

It is something like a tradition that devotees will arrive at the morning and disburses by evening. There is imperative need to construct Cottages/Choultries to improve water supply, transport and other amenities. This temple is included in the master plan to figure more developmental works for the convenience of the pilgrims besides existing structures.

Festivals

The main festival of this Devasthanam will be celebrated in CHAITRA MASAM every year commencing from BAHULA VIDHIYA, TADHIYA (March/April) for a period of 15 days.
During AASHADA MASAM (June-July) large number of pilgrims will visit the temple and worship the presiding Ammavaru.

Accommodation

The temple owns Cottages totally consists of 28 Rooms being let out by the Devasthanam to the pilgrims/Devotees visiting Ammavari Temple. There are no Guest Houses to accommodate pilgrims. It is something like a tradition that devotees will arrive at the morning and disburse by evening. Contact:08854-251133

Famous Temples of Andhra Pradesh, India

Monday, April 30, 2012

EAST GODAVARI DISTRICT-4

A Grand Tour of Cultural Heritage Tourist Places around Kakinada

Ainavilli

Annavaram

Antarvedi

Appanapalli

Draksharamam

Gollala Mamidada

Mandapalli

Pandavula Metta

Vanapalli

Biccavolu