Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Annavaram


Located about 500 kms from Hyderabad, 72 kms from Rajahmundry and 142 kms from Visakhapatnam, it is a sugar granary.

There is a famous temple atop a delightful hill dedicated to Sri Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Swamy, whose consort is Sri Anantalakshmi Satyavathi Ammavaru. The temple is constructed in the shape of a chariot with four wheels on its sides, according to the architectural norms of Agni Purana and one can also see the shrines of Vana Durga and Kanaka Durga. The temple attracts scores of devotees that is next only to Tirupati. It is said

that those who perform His 'Vratam' (a religious observance propitiating the Lord) with devotion in Kali Yuga secure his abundant grace and protection. It is estimated that on an average about one lakh couples perform 'Vratas' every year. Marriages and thread ceremonies (Upanayanams) are also performed in this shrine.

Holy River Pampa flows at the foot of the hill as if washing the feet of the Lord. Since there is no Pushkarini or tank in the temple premises, pilgrims take bath in the river before going to visit the Lord. Separate bathing ghats exist for men and women. Pampa River is also known as
Viraja of Goloka (the cosmic world) who melted in her ecstasy of faith and took birth as this rivulet to stay in the presence of the Lord. Archanas to the idols and to the 'Yantra' are conducted thrice a day regularly, besides the very powerful Salagramams and the crystal 'Sri Chakra.'

Bhishma Ekadasi, which occurs during January-February, Kalyanotsavam, and Vysakha Ekadasi during April-May, is important festivals. Annavaram Satyanarayana Swamy is ever merciful and will not disappoint His devotees.

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