Sri Rama Navami utsavalu kicks off at Vontimitta Temple
As per centuries-old tradition, the celestial wedding of Lord Kodanda Rama Swamy will be performed on April 11, a day before the full moon. Unlike the similar ritual conducted in Bhadrachalam, Telangana, the Andhra Pradesh government continues to uphold the legacy of Vontimitta.
Anantapur: The annual Sri Rama Navami Utsavalu began with great fervour at the historically significant Sri Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple Sri Rama Navami in Vontimitta, Kadapa district. The festivities are officially conducted by the state government. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has made elaborate arrangements for the event, while the Kadapa district administration, including the police, is focusing on security and facilities for the devotees.
As per centuries-old tradition, the celestial wedding of Lord Kodanda Rama Swamy will be performed on April 11, a day before the full moon. Unlike the similar ritual conducted in Bhadrachalam, Telangana, the Andhra Pradesh government continues to uphold the legacy of Vontimitta.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu will offer silk clothes and muthyala talambralu during the Kalyanotsavam to be held at the temple’s Kalyana Mandapam on the night of April 11. In view of the large crowds expected, police are arranging elaborate bandobust across Vontimitta. Authorities have also been alerted to prepare for possible gusty winds and heavy rain, with precautionary measures being put in place.
The temple, a splendid example of Vijayanagara architecture, was developed during the reign of the Chola and Vijayanagara kings. Its most striking feature is the Rangamandapam, a hall with 32 intricately carved pillars.
Legend has it that the temple was constructed by two devotees, Vontudu and Mittudu, who sacrificed their lives after its completion and were transformed into statues at the entrance. It is also believed that Lord Rama, along with Sita and Lakshmana, spent time in the surrounding forest during their exile, and that Lord Jambavantha installed the idol here.
Uniquely, this is one of the few temples where Lord Rama’s idol stands without Lord Anjaneya by his side.
The temple is closely associated with Bammera Pothana, the author of the Andhra Maha Bhagavatam, who dedicated his work to Lord Rama here. Vavilakolanu Subba Rao, also known as Andhra Valmiki, is said to have worshipped at the temple as well.
Schedule of Brahmotsavalu
April 5 – Ankurarpana
April 6 – Dwajarohanam and Sesha Vahanam
April 7 – Venugana Alankaram, Hamsa Vahanam
April 8 – Vatapatrasai Alankaram, Simha Vahanam
April 9 – Navaneetha Krishna Alankaram, Hanumatseva
April 10 – Mohini Alankaram, Garuda Seva
April 11 – Shivadhanurbana Linga Alankaram, Sri Sita Rama Kalyanam (6.30–8.30 p.m.)
April 12 – Rathotsavam
April 13 – Kaliya Mardhana Alankaram, Ashwa Vahanam
April 14 – Chakra Snanam and Dwaja Avarohanam
April 15 – Pushpa Yagam
