Sri Srungara Vallabha Swamy Temple – Tholi Tirupati of Andhra Pradesh

Location

Deities and Subshrines

Main Deity: Sri Srungara Vallabha Swamy – a unique form of Lord Venkateswara seen in a smiling posture

Special Darshan Belief: Children see Him as a small Venkateswara, while elders perceive Him as a tall deity

Temple Significance

First of 108 Tirupatis: Considered the earliest among the 108 sacred Tirupati temples across India, hence the name Tholi Tirupati (First Tirupati)
Spiritual Magnetism: The deity’s smiling form and the dual darshan experience (small for children, tall for elders) are considered divine miracles
Pilgrimage Importance: Devotees from across Andhra Pradesh and neighboring states visit for blessings, especially during Vaikuntha Ekadasi and other Vaishnava festivals

History

Ancient Origins: The temple is located in Chadalada Tirupati village near Divili in Kakinada district, Andhra Pradesh. It is believed to have been established prior to the 12th century, making it one of the oldest Vishnu temples in the region.
Tholi Tirupati: Locally known as Tholi Tirupati (First Tirupati), it is considered the earliest among the 108 sacred Tirupati temples. This title reflects its spiritual primacy and historical depth.
Devasthanam Governance: The temple is managed by the Sri Srungara Vallabha Swamy Devasthanam, which oversees its rituals, festivals, and preservation.

Legends

Dhruva’s Penance: According to local lore, the temple is linked to the story of Dhruva, the young prince from the Bhagavatam. After being denied his rightful place by his stepmother Suruchi, Dhruva undertook intense penance under the guidance of Sandilya Mahamuni. Lord Vishnu appeared to him at this very site, transforming into a sacred stone that became the temple’s main deity.

Architecture

Sacred Stone Idol: The main idol of Sri Srungara Vallabha Swamy is believed to have manifested from the earth, symbolizing Vishnu’s response to Dhruva’s devotion.

Daily Rituals

These rituals follow Vaishnava Agama traditions and are performed with devotion under the temple’s Devasthanam governance.

Major Festivals

Vaikuntha Ekadasi – Celebrated with grandeur; devotees believe the gates of Vaikuntha open on this day, making it the most auspicious for Vishnu worship
Garuda Seva – The deity is taken in procession on Garuda Vahana, symbolizing divine protection
Brahmotsavam – Annual festival with flag hoisting, processions, and special pujas
Ratha Saptami – Celebrates Surya’s chariot movement; Vishnu temples mark this with special rituals
Pavitrotsavam – Ritual purification of the temple and its priests

Festivals attract pilgrims from across Andhra Pradesh and are marked by music, Vedic recitations, and community participation.

Beliefs and Spiritual Significance

Dual Darshan Experience: A unique belief is that children see the deity as small, while elders perceive Him as tall. This mystical experience is considered a divine miracle.
Tholi Tirupati: The temple is revered as the first among 108 Tirupatis, giving it spiritual primacy in Vaishnava tradition.
Dhruva’s Blessing: The temple is linked to the legend of Dhruva, who received Vishnu’s darshan here after intense penance guided by Sandilya Mahamuni.
Moksha Kshetram: Devotees believe that sincere worship here grants liberation and divine grace.

Temple Hours

Getting Here

From Kakinada: ~27 km north; ~45 minutes by road
From Peddapuram: ~10 km; autos and local buses available
Nearest Railway Station: Samalkot Junction (~20 km)
By Road: Well-connected via local buses, autos, and private vehicles from Kakinada, Peddapuram, and Samalkot

Tips

Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or during Vaishnava festivals like Vaikuntha Ekadasi and Garuda Seva
Footwear: Leave footwear outside the temple premises; carry socks if visiting during hot afternoons
Photography: Seek permission before taking photos inside the temple
Language: Telugu is widely spoken; basic English is understood by temple staff