Penugonda Temple: Legend has it that Vasavi Kanyaka Parameswari, renowned for her beauty, resided in Penugonda. This Penugonda Kshetram carries special importance as the ‘Kasi of Vysyas’ and is deemed a sacred place for the Vysya community.
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Story Behind Sri Vasavi Kanyaka parameswari Temple Penugonda Temple
Kusuma Sresti, also known as Setty, acted as the Setty king of the Vysyas, bearing the title of Pedda Setty. His domain functioned as a Vassal state under Vangi Desa, ruled by Vishnu Vardhana. Penugonda city served as his capital for all 18 Parganas during the 10th and 11th centuries A.D. Kusuma Setty and his wife, Kusumamba, were regarded as an exemplary couple leading a peaceful domestic life. Despite their countless prayers and sacrifices, they faced turmoil due to the lack of a successor to the kingdom.
Seeking a solution, they approached their Kula guru, Bhaskara Acharya, a knowledgeable Komati well-versed in shastras. Advised by Bhaskara Acharya, they undertook the Puthra Kamesti Yaga, similar to the one followed by Dasharatha.
Following the ritual, Kusumamba showed signs of pregnancy after consuming prasadam sent by the Gods. During the spring season, she gave birth to twins, a male named Virupaksha and a female named Vasavamba. Virupaksha displayed the qualities of a powerful king, while Vasavi showed a keen interest in art, architecture, music, and philosophy.
Under the guidance of Bhaskara Acharya, Virupaksha obtained education in various subjects essential for ruling his territory. Vasavi, on the other hand, excelled in fine arts and philosophy. Virupaksha later married Ratnavati, and Vasavi expressed her wish to remain celibate and devoted to spiritual purposes.
Story of Penugonda Temple
During an imperial visit to Penugonda, King Vishnu Vardhana fell in love with Vasavi and sought her hand in marriage. Faced with this proposal, Kusuma Setty was distressed, and after consulting with family and friends, he let Vasavi make the decision. Vasavi chose a life of celibacy, leading to the king’s displeasure. In retaliation, he sent an army to forcefully marry Vasavi.
The brave Komtis of Penugonda, using strategies like Sama, Daana, Bheda, and Danda, beat the imperial army. Following Vasavi’s teachings, 103 Agnikundas were arranged at Brahmakunda on the Godavari banks. Vasavi showed her true individuality as Adiparashakthi, expressing her intention to protect women’s dignity, uphold Dharma, and thwart Vishnu Vardhana.
As Vasavi and others entered the holy fire, Vishnu Vardhana received news of the events and surrendered to the shock. Virupaksha comforted Vishnu Vardhana’s son, Raja Raja Narendra, highlighting the importance of non-violence. As a result, Komatis chose to concentrate on service activities such as trade and agriculture.
Virupaksha, guided by Komati Kula guru Bhaskara Acharya, visited pilgrimage centers and installed 101 lingams in Penugonda to commemorate the event. A statue of Vasavi was also erected, and she became the revered deity, Vasavi Kanyaka Parameswari, for the Komati community.
Vasavi’s life is celebrated for her commitment to non-violence, religious values, and defense of women’s status. Her power boosted the reputation of Komatis worldwide, and she is remembered as a symbol of peace and non-violence.
Visiting Hours:
| 06:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 03:30 PM – 08:00 PM. |
Annadanam at Sri Vasavi Kanyaka Parameswari Temple:
Nitya Annadanam:
- Morning: 06:00 AM onwards
- Lunch: Noon onwards
- Dinner: 07:00 PM onwards
How to reach Sri Vasavi Kanyaka Parameswari Temple:
- By Bus: Nidadavolu – 30 km, Tadepalligudem – 28 km, Palakollu 14.7 km
- By Air: Vijayawada Airport – 130 km
- By Train: Nidadavole Station – 30 km, Tadepalligudem Station – 30 km, Palakollu Station – 15 km
Address:
Sri Vasavi Kanyaka Parameswari Temple, West Godavari District, Penugonda – 534320, Andhra Pradesh, India.