Kolletikota Peddintlamma Temple: History, Rituals, and Travel Guide

Location

Village: Kolletikota
District: Eluru (formerly part of Krishna district)
State: Andhra Pradesh, India
Setting: Situated on the serene shores of Kolleru Lake, one of India’s largest freshwater lakes.

Main Deity

Presiding Deity: Sri Peddintlamma (also known as Perrantalu), meaning “elder goddess” in Telugu. She is worshipped as a village guardian and protector.

Temple Significance

Historical Origin: Built in the 13th century by an Eastern Ganga Dynasty Army General during the reign of King Langula Narasimha Deva I (also known as Langula Gajapathi Raju), a monarch from Cuttack, Odisha.
Cultural Role:

Architectural Style: Influenced by Kalinga architecture, typical of Eastern Ganga constructions.

Historical Background

Founded in the 13th century during the reign of Langula Narasimha Deva I (also known as Langula Gajapathi Raju), a Suryavanshi king of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty from Cuttack, Odisha.
A military general of the king established the temple while stationed at Kolletikota Fort, which served as a strategic outpost near Kolleru Lake.
The temple was part of a broader cultural and military expansion into coastal Andhra, blending Odia and Telugu traditions.

Legends and Folklore

Peddintlamma, meaning “elder goddess,” is revered as a village guardian deity who protects the region from calamities and enemies.
According to local lore, Muhammadin, an adversary of the Eastern Ganga king, camped at Chigurukota near Kolleru Lake. The goddess is believed to have protected the fort and its people during this conflict.
Devotees believe the goddess grants fertility, health, and protection, and her blessings are invoked during village festivals and crises.

Architectural Features

The temple showcases Kalinga architecture, typical of Eastern Ganga constructions, with influences from South Indian temple design.
Key elements include:

Though modest in scale, the temple’s layout and style echo the Odisha-Andhra cultural fusion, making it a unique architectural specimen.

Rituals and Worship Practices

Daily Poojas: Simple yet heartfelt offerings of flowers, turmeric, kumkum, and coconuts to Sri Peddintlamma, often accompanied by folk songs and drumming.
Special Offerings:

Festivals and Celebrations

Though not central, some devotees observe Durga Navaratri with local adaptations

Beliefs and Local Faith

Village Guardian: Peddintlamma is believed to protect Kolletikota from disease, drought, and external threats.
Crisis Protector: During historical conflicts (e.g., with Muhammadin’s forces), locals believe the goddess shielded the fort and lake region.
Fertility and Health: Women especially revere her for blessings related to childbirth and family well-being.
Ancestral Connection: Many families trace their lineage to devotees who served the temple, reinforcing generational faith.

Temple Timings :

6.00 am to 1.00 pm

3.00 pm to 7.00 pm

How to Reach

Tips

Scenic Route: The drive skirts Kolleru Lake, offering beautiful views—ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Festival Crowds: During the annual Jatara, expect large crowds and traffic; plan accordingly.
Essentials: Carry water, snacks, and sun protection—facilities near the temple are minimal.
Local Offerings: You can buy coconuts, flowers, and turmeric from nearby stalls for pooja.
Footwear: Temple premises require barefoot entry; wear easy-to-remove footwear.