Introduction
Among the few prominent
temples dedicated to Lord Vinayaka in Andhra Pradesh, the Kanipakam Sri
Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple stands out for its unique legend and miraculous
deity. Located in Irala Mandal of Chittoor District, just 11 km from
Chittoor and on the banks of the Bahuda River, this temple is one of
the most ancient and revered shrines in South India.
Legend of Kanipakam
The temple’s origin is
tied to a fascinating Sthalapurana:
- Three brothers — one deaf, one dumb,
and one blind — lived near Viharipuri village.
- While digging their dried well during
summer, they struck a stone. To their astonishment, blood gushed out,
touching them and curing their disabilities.
- Villagers gathered and dug further,
discovering the idol of Lord Vinayaka.
- The local ruler, upon hearing the
miracle, built a temple for the deity.
This miraculous event
gave rise to the belief that Lord Vinayaka here is “Satya Pramaanaala
Devudu” — the God of Truth. Devotees resolve disputes by swearing before
the deity, believing that falsehood invites divine wrath.
History of the Temple
- Constructed in the 11th century AD
by Chola King Kulottunga Chola (1070–1122).
- Later expanded by the Pallavas,
Vijayanagara rulers, and other dynasties.
- Today, the temple is administered by
the Endowment Department of Andhra Pradesh.
Temple Structure
- Raja Gopuram:
Seven-tiered tower with five kalasams.
- Pushkarini:
Sacred temple tank in front of the shrine.
- Mandapas:
Mukhamandapa, Arthamandapa, Antaralayam, and Garbhagruha.
- Main Deity:
Lord Varasiddhi Vinayaka in a sitting posture, housed in a well with water
always surrounding the idol.
- Unique Feature:
The Mulavirat (main idol) is believed to be growing in size.
A silver kavacham donated in 1945 no longer fits the idol, and it is
displayed in the temple.
- Other shrines include Sri
Veeranjaneya Swami, Sri Siddhi Buddhi Sametha Vinayaka, Navagraha
Mandapam, and Addala Mandapam.
Brahmotsavams &
Rituals
- Annual Brahmotsavams:
Celebrated in Bhadrapada Masam with grandeur.
- Includes Radhotsavam (chariot
procession), Pushpa Pallaki (flower palanquin), and Teppotsavam
(float festival).
- Daily pujas and special sevas are
performed with devotion.
- During Brahmotsavams, thousands of
devotees participate, making it one of the most vibrant festivals in
Chittoor district.
Temple Timings
- Daily:
4:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Morning and evening aartis,
abhishekams, and naivedyam are performed regularly.
How to Reach
- By Road:
11 km from Chittoor, 68 km from Tirupati. Regular buses available from
Tirupati, Chittoor, and Tirumala.
- By Rail:
Nearest station is Chittoor Railway Station (on Tirupati–Katpadi
line).
- By Air:
Nearest airport is Tirupati Airport, about 70 km away.
Accommodation
- Lodging facilities are available in Kanipakam
town.
- Tirupati and Chittoor also offer a
wide range of hotels and guesthouses for pilgrims.
The Kanipakam Sri
Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple is not just a shrine but a living testimony of
divine miracles. With its growing idol, unique tradition of truth oaths,
and grand Brahmotsavams, it continues to inspire faith and devotion among
millions of devotees. For pilgrims visiting Andhra Pradesh, Kanipakam is a
must-visit destination blending history, spirituality, and divine grace.