History &
Significance
- The temple dates back to the 4th–5th
centuries CE, with major developments during the Chola dynasty in
the 10th century.
- Originally known as Tenkali
(Dakshina Kali), the goddess was later called Chengali, and finally
Chengalamma.
- The temple is located on the banks
of the Kalangi River in Sullurpeta, and is revered as the Grama
Devata (village deity) of the region.
- According to legend, the idol was
discovered by villagers in the river and placed under a sacred tree. The
goddess later appeared in a dream, requesting a temple be built at that
spot.
- The temple is doorless, based
on the goddess’s wish to remain accessible to devotees at all times. A
tree that grew from the discarded temple doors is now worshipped as
sacred.
Deity
- The presiding deity is Sri
Chengalamma Parameshwari, a unique and powerful form of Mahishasura
Mardini.
- The idol is tri-devi in form:
- Left side:
Parvati
- Right side:
Saraswati
- Center:
Mahalakshmi
- She is depicted with eight arms,
each holding a weapon, standing over a demon—symbolizing the destruction
of evil.
- This rare form is referred to as Trikale
Chengali, representing three divine aspects in one.
Rituals & Sevas
- Daily Sevas
include:
- Abhishekam – ₹350
- Laksha Kumkumarchana – ₹100
- Poolangi Seva – ₹550
- Archana – ₹10
- Vahana Pooja (vehicles) – ₹30–₹100
- Pongali, Talaneelalu (tonsuring),
and Vastralankarana are also performed.
- Special Poojas:
- Maha Chandi Yagnam
and Nava Kalasa Abhishekam on full moon days (Pournami).
- Srichakra Archana,
Lalita Sahasranama, and Lalita Ashtottaram are regularly
performed.
Festivals &
Celebrations
- Major Festivals:
- Navaratri,
Ugadi, Maha Shivaratri, Nagula Chavithi, and Puthandu
(Tamil New Year).
- Brahmotsavam
(Every 7 years, May–June):
- Begins with Sudi Maanu: a
ritual involving a chakra, goat, and garland tied to a pole and spun.
- Includes Mahishasura effigy
beheading, Kalangi river bath, Teppotsavam (float
festival), and a flower-adorned pallaki procession.
- Chengalamma Jatara:
A grand local fair attracting thousands of devotees.
Beliefs & Local Faith
- The goddess is believed to grant
boons generously and is worshipped as a protector and nurturer.
- ISRO scientists
from nearby Sriharikota visit the temple to seek blessings before
satellite launches.
- Childless couples
tie cloth cradles to the sacred tree and perform pradakshina to
seek fertility blessings.
- The temple is also a popular site for
Aksharabhyasam, Upanayanam, marriages, and ear-piercing
ceremonies.
Getting Here
By Road
- From Chennai:
~79 km via NH16 (approx. 2 hours)
- From Tirupati:
~84 km via Naidupeta (approx. 2 hours)
- From Nellore:
~97 km via NH16 (approx. 2.5 hours)
- The temple is located at the southern
tip of Sullurpeta, easily accessible by car or bus.
By Train
- Nearest Railway Station:
Sullurpeta Railway Station (station code: SPE)
- Well-connected to Chennai, Tirupati,
Nellore, and other major cities
- The temple is about 2 km from
the railway station—auto-rickshaws are available.
By Air
- Nearest Airport:
Chennai International Airport (MAA) – ~75 km away
- From the airport, you can hire a cab
or take a train to Sullurpeta.