About Padmavathi Temple
The Padmavathi Temple is one of the most visited shrines in India, and for a good reason, as it’s a beautiful site with a fascinating history. One of the most important temples in South India, dedicated to Goddess Padmavathi, consort of Lord Venkateswara. From its architecture to its early beginnings, read on to learn more about this incredible structure and its unique features.
(Image Credit: The Hans India)
History of Padmavathi Temple
The great Chola king renovated the Padmavathi temple Rajaraja Chola I in 1010 AD. The temple was initially built by the Pallava king Narasimhavarman II in the 8th century AD.
Architecture
The main attraction of the temple is the beautiful idol of Goddess Padmavathi. Its construction consists of gold and precious jewels. The shrine of Goddess Padmavathi is in the main sanctum sanctorum of the temple. Apart from being a popular pilgrimage destination, the temple is also known for its architectural beauty. The temple complex is spread over 27 acres and has three main shrines, each with a tower (vimana).
The central shrine is dedicated to Goddess Padmavathi and has a height of 180 feet, making it one of the tallest temples in South India. The other two shrines are to Lord Vishnu (Perumal) and his consort Goddess Lakshmi (Mahalakshmi). Paintings of Gods and Goddesses are spread all over the ceilings inside the temple. The Padmavathi temple is a fine example of Dravidian architecture and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu. Intricate carvings adorn the temple’s central shrine on a raised plinth.
Location
The temple is in Alamelumangapuram, Tiruchanur, a small village in the Tirupati of Andhra Pradesh. The town is situated on the banks of the river Gundlakamma, about 4.7 km from Tirupati. Devotees from all over the country visit the Padmavathi Temple.
Festivals & Celebrations
The temple is known for its grand annual festival, attracting lakhs of devotees from around Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana. During the festival, people take the deity of Goddess Padmavathi out on a procession around the town, decorating the streets with colorful lights and flowers and chanting devotional songs as they walk behind the procession. Devotees believe that Goddess Padmavathi grants all their wishes, and they offer her flowers, fruits, coconuts, and other gifts. The temple is also an important pilgrimage site for Hindus who wish to visit all the major temples in South India.
Importance
The Padmavathi Temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams, the most divine abodes of Lord Vishnu. The Chola dynasty king Kulottunga I built the temple in the 11th century CE. This Temple is a beautiful example of South Indian architecture, with its ornate gopuram (entrance tower) and intricate sculptures adorning the exterior walls. The main deity worshipped in the temple is Goddess Padmavathi. The artist depicts her as seated on a lotus flower, holding a conch shell, discus, lotus, and mace with four arms.
Final Thoughts
The temple is also famous among tourists who marvel at its architectural beauty and learn about its religious significance.
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