Sri Chengalamma Parameshwari Temple – Sullurpeta, Andhra Pradesh

Sri Chengalamma Parameshwari Temple is located in Sullurpeta town, Tirupati district, Andhra Pradesh, on the banks of the Kalangi River.

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:

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

Maha Chandi Yagnam and Nava Kalasa Abhishekam on full moon days (Pournami).
Srichakra Archana, Lalita Sahasranama, and Lalita Ashtottaram are regularly performed.

Festivals & Celebrations

Navaratri, Ugadi, Maha Shivaratri, Nagula Chavithi, and Puthandu (Tamil New Year).

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.

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