Sripada Srivallabha Temple – The Divine Birthplace of Datta’s First Avatar

September 09, 2025 , , , ,

 

Location

Situated in China Bazar Area, Pithapuram, in the East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, this temple is just about 1.3 km south of Pithapuram Bus Stand, making it easily accessible for pilgrims and visitors.

Presiding Deity

The temple is dedicated to Sripada Sri Vallabha, the first and foremost incarnation of Lord Dattatreya, who embodies the divine trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Sripada Sri Vallabha is believed to have incarnated here in 1320 AD, making this site his birthplace and spiritual seat.

Highlights

  • Birthplace of Sripada Sri Vallabha, the first incarnation of Lord Dattatreya
  • Powerful spiritual vibrations ideal for meditation and inner transformation
  • Amavasya Mrutyunjaya Homam performed monthly for health and protection
  • Gosala and Annadanam services reflect the temple’s commitment to seva
  • Spiritual literature and guidance available for seekers and devotees

History & Legends

  • Sripada Sri Vallabha, revered as the first incarnation of Lord Dattatreya in Kali Yuga, was born in Pithapuram around 1320 AD to a Brahmin couple, Appalaraja Sarma and Sumathi.
  • His birth was considered a divine boon after the couple served a wandering saint, believed to be Dattatreya himself.
  • From a young age, Sripada exhibited profound spiritual wisdom, mastered the Vedas by age seven, and chose a life of renunciation over marriage.
  • Before leaving home for pilgrimage, he miraculously cured his disabled brothers and instructed them to care for their parents.
  • His spiritual journey took him to sacred sites like Badri, Gokarna, and Kuravpur, but Pithapuram remains his birthplace and spiritual epicenter.

Architectural Highlights

  • The temple blends traditional South Indian and Maratha architectural styles, reflecting both regional devotion and historical influences.
  • Intricate sculptures and carvings adorn the temple walls, depicting divine forms and spiritual motifs.
  • The sanctum is built on the original site of Sripada’s residence, making it a living relic of his earthly presence.
  • The temple complex includes spaces for daily pujas, abhishekams, homams, and meditation halls, fostering both ritual and inner reflection.

Rituals & Festivals

  • Daily Worship includes Abhishekam, Archana, Harati, and Dattatreya Parayana, performed with deep reverence to Sripada Sri Vallabha.
  • Amavasya Mrutyunjaya Homam: Conducted every new moon day to invoke protection and healing energies.
  • Guru Purnima: Celebrated with special pujas and satsangs honoring the Guru lineage.
  • Datta Jayanti: Marks the birth of Lord Dattatreya, celebrated with grandeur and spiritual discourses.
  • Sripada Jayanti Saptaham: A week-long celebration of Sripada’s birth, featuring parayanams, bhajans, and annadanam.

Beliefs

  • Devotees believe that Sripada Sri Vallabha is a living presence, and his blessings are accessible through sincere prayer and surrender.
  • The temple is considered a karmic cleansing center, where devotees experience relief from ancestral afflictions (Pitru Dosha) and spiritual obstacles.
  • It’s said that Sripada grants boons silently, often through dreams, inner guidance, or miraculous interventions.
  • Pilgrimage to Pithapuram is believed to accelerate spiritual evolution, especially for Datta devotees.

Scriptural Reference

  • The life and teachings of Sripada Sri Vallabha are chronicled in the sacred text “Sripada Srivallabha Charitamrutam”, written by Shankar Bhatt, a devotee who traveled with him.
  • This scripture reveals divine leelas, spiritual wisdom, and Sripada’s role in guiding humanity during Kali Yuga.

Temple Hours

The temple typically opens by 5:00 AM and closes around 9:00 PM, with peak activity during morning and evening aartis. Special rituals like Mrutyunjaya Homam are held on Amavasya from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM.

Getting Here

  • By Bus: The temple is located in China Bazar Area, just 1.3 km from Pithapuram Bus Stand—a short auto ride away.
  • By Train:
    • Pithapuram Railway Station is only 900 meters from the temple.
    • Trains from Rajahmundry, Visakhapatnam, and Hyderabad offer good connectivity.
  • By Air:
    • Nearest airport is Rajahmundry Airport, about 60 km away.

 Accommodation

  • Sripad Vallabh Nivas: Just 100 meters from the temple, offering clean AC and non-AC rooms at budget-friendly rates.
  • Free Lodging: The temple trust provides free accommodation for devotees, including 47 rooms, dormitories, and dining halls.

Tips

  • Book accommodation in advance, especially during Guru Purnima, Datta Jayanti, and Sripada Jayanti.
  • Carry essentials like water bottles, light snacks, and devotional books.
  • Dress modestly and be prepared to walk barefoot inside the temple premises.
  • Participate in Annadanam if possible—it’s a spiritually uplifting experience.

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