Two Centuries’ Old Chodavaram Swayambhu Vigneshwara Beckons Devotees

Visakhapatnam: In the heart of Chodavaram town in Anakapalli district stands the Swayambhu Karyasiddhi Vigneshwara Temple, a shrine dating back to over two centuries. Devotees flock for the darshan of Lord Ganesh here, as it is believed to be swayambhu – has emerged spontaneously from the earth.

According to temple executive officer (EO) S.V.V. Murthy, the idol had been discovered during the desilting of an old pond. As workers dug deeper, they found the last portion of the statue still buried. Moved by this intriguing discovery, the villagers constructed a modest shrine around the idol itself. From then on, they began worshipping the half-exposed form of Ganesh, naming it Karyasiddhi – fulfiller of deeds.

Andhra Pradesh Endowment Department took over administration of the temple in 2001. Since then, annual revenues have surpassed ₹43 lakh, enabling improvements. The temple got a spacious Kalyana Mandapam in 2002. To accommodate the growing number of pilgrims, the temple administration has been upgrading various facilities, including space for pilgrims to rest, drinking water facilities and parking for vehicles.

The EO revealed that adornments for the idol have been increasing in size. “Ninety years ago,” he said, “a 75-gram silver crown had been sufficient. Today, we require a solid 2-kilogram crown to match the devotion and grandeur,” Murthy stated.

Celebrations at the temple are a blend of ancient rituals and community participation. During Vinayaka Navratri, many devotees wear crisp white garments and vermilion scarves and perform a special puja with the Ganesha Mala. Ahead of the Chavithi, devotees undertake this special puja for 11, 21, or even 41 consecutive days, seeking blessings for success, health and prosperity.

Looking ahead, the executive officer predicted that the upcoming Navratri will be celebrated with greater enthusiasm and splendour.