Sri Tirupatamma Temple, Penuganchiprolu – A Devotee’s Journey to Divinity

 

Sri Lakshmi Tirupatamma Temple was built in 17^th Century. It is one of the famous temple in Andhra Pradesh Located  in Krishna District.

History & Significance

The temple dates back to the 17th century, built in honor of Sri Lakshmi Tirupatamma, a devout woman from Anigandlapadu village. Her life was marked by unwavering devotion, moral strength, and sacrifice. After enduring personal hardships, she committed Agnipravesham (self-immolation) upon her husband's death, and was later venerated as a divine incarnation of Shakti. Her story spread across the region, and Penuganchiprolu became a spiritual hub, once known as Pedakanchipuram due to its 101 temples.

Deities Worshipped

• Sri Lakshmi Tirupatamma Ammavaru – the presiding deity, worshipped as a powerful Grama Devata (village goddess) and embodiment of compassion and strength.
• Sri Gopaiah Swamy – her consort, also revered in the temple.
• The temple also honors Mudiraj Papamamba, her foremost devotee, whose descendants continue to perform rituals.

Rituals & Sevas

Daily rituals include:

• Suprabhata Seva
• Gopuja and Srichakra Puja
• Kalyanam (Fridays)
• Unjala Seva and Pallaki Seva in the evenings
• Maha Nivedana (11:30 AM)

Special darshans are available, and Annadanam (free meals) is offered daily under a donor-supported scheme.

Major Festivals

Pedda Thirunallu – Celebrated for 5 days from Magha Pournami, drawing lakhs of devotees.

Chinna Thirunallu – Held during Phalguna Pournami.

Tirupatamma Jathara – Includes Kalasha Sthapana, Utsava Processions, Kumkum Archana, and Pallaki Seva.

Beliefs & Devotee Practices

• Devotees believe Tirupatamma Ammavaru grants health, fertility, and protection.
• Many fulfill vows (Nerchina Nithyam) by offering bonalu, coconuts, or symbolic sacrifices like pumpkins.
• Women often carry pots with neem leaves and turmeric as a sign of gratitude.
• The temple is seen as a place where virtue triumphs over suffering, and her life is a model of dharma and resilience.

Temple Timings :

 5.30 am to 1.00 pm

 3.00 pm to 8.30 pm

Friday & Sunday – 5.30 am to 8.30 pm

Pooja Schedule :

4.30 am to 4.45 am - Melukolupu

4.45 am to 5.00 am - Suprabatham

5.00 to 5.30 am – Go Pooja

6.00 am to 7.00 am – Sri Chakra Pooja

7.00 am to 7.30 am – Abhishekam (Friday)

8.30 am to 11.00 am – Aamkamma Abhishekam

9.00 am to 10.00 am – Homam

10.30 am to 11.30 am – Nitya Kalyanam

6.30 pm to 7.00 pm – Pancha Harathulu, Parakula Seva

7.00 pm to 7.30 pm – Pallaki Seva

8.00 pm to 8.30 pm – Pavalimpu Seva.

Tips

Best Time to Visit: During Pedda Thirunallu (Magha Pournami) or Chinna Thirunallu (Phalguna Pournami) for a vibrant spiritual experience.

Dress Modestly: Traditional attire is appreciated—sarees or salwar kameez for women, dhotis or formal wear for men.

Photography: Avoid taking photos inside the sanctum unless explicitly permitted.

Kalyanam Seva (Fridays) and Unjala Seva are popular—arrive early to register.

Annadanam is served daily—join the queue respectfully and avoid wastage.

Special Darshans: Available during festivals; booking in advance is recommended

Prasadam: Don’t miss the Pulihora and Laddu prasadam—simple yet divine.

Shops: Local stalls sell devotional items, bangles, and turmeric packets.

Getting Here

By Road

• From Vijayawada: ~72 km via NH65; frequent APSRTC buses and private cabs available.
• From Jaggaiahpet: Just 20 km away—local autos and buses run regularly.
• From Hyderabad: Around 250 km; best via NH65 with a 5–6 hour drive.

By Train

• Nearest Station: Madhira (18 km away). From there, autos or buses can take you to the temple.
• Alternative Stations: Vijayawada Junction (major hub, ~72 km) for broader connectivity.

By Air

• Vijayawada International Airport (Gannavaram) is the closest, about 93 km from the temple. Taxis and buses are available from the airport.

Local Tips

• The temple is located in Penuganchiprolu Mandal, NTR District, Andhra Pradesh.
• Use “Sri Lakshmi Tirupatamma Temple, Penuganchiprolu” as your destination on Google Maps for accurate navigation.
• Roads are well-maintained, and signage improves as you near the temple town.

Temples to explore

Vedadri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple – 18 km
Nestled on the banks of the Krishna River, this ancient temple is one of the Pancha Narasimha Kshetras, where Lord Narasimha is worshipped in five forms including Jwala, Yoga, and Lakshmi Narasimha. The temple is steeped in Vedic lore and is a major pilgrimage site.

Tirumalagiri Venkateswara Swamy Temple – 9 km
A serene hilltop shrine dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, believed to have manifested in response to Sage Bharadwaja’s penance. The temple hosts monthly Masa Kalyanams and draws large crowds during Chaitra Pournami.

Nemali Venugopala Swamy Temple – 40 km
Located in Nemali village, this temple is known for its self-manifested idol of Lord Krishna, discovered in 1953. The temple celebrates Krishna Janmashtami and Vaishakha Pournami Kalyanam with grandeur, and features a striking mirror mandapam.

Muktyala Sri Mukteswara Swamy Temple – 30 km
An ancient Shiva temple on the banks of the Krishna River, known for its twin Shiva Lingas and Nandis. Nearby is the Kotilingala complex, where devotees can install Shiva Lingas. A spiritual gem for those seeking moksha and peace.