Sri Prasanna Venkateswara Swamy Temple, Appalayagunta - Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh

Experienced: August 2023

The Prasanna Venkateswara Swamy temple is about 17 kilometers away from Tirupati. Even though it's a bit away from the main temple town, you can easily reach it by car or public transportation. What makes this temple special is that it shows Lord Venkateswara Swamy in a blessing pose called 'Abhaya Hasta'. It's like the ultimate way of saying, "I'm here to bless you." Different from other temples, this one gives a unique experience. The way Lord Venkateswara is shown is super comforting and brings a peaceful vibe. So, if you're a devotee looking to feel close to Swami, this temple is a great place to be.

Unique Aspects

• This temple is different from other Venkateswara temples because here, the main god has his right hand raised in a blessing posture called "Abhaya Hastha" in Sanskrit.
• During the Brahmotsavam festival, gold ornaments are brought from Tirumala to be used as part of the celebrations.

Significance

This is the sacred place where Lord Venkateswara Swamy blessed a gathering of sages led by Sri Siddeshwara during his marriage ceremony. It holds special significance as the venue of the divine union between the Lord and his consort, Sri Padmavathi Ammavaru, making him especially pleasant and benevolent here. Devotees believe that catching a glimpse of this Lord, who is in the Abhaya Hasta posture, can fulfill their wishes. Another noteworthy aspect is the presence of Lord Vayu, the wind God, known for granting relief to devotees suffering from chronic illnesses. Constructed in 1232 AD by the King of Karvetinagaram, Sri Venkata Perumalaraju Brahmadeva Maharaj, this ancient temple also features a shrine dedicated to Lord Anjaneya Swamy situated opposite the main temple. Within the temple premises, you'll find idols of Goddess Padmavathi and Smt Andal Devi. In 1988, the management of this temple was taken over by TTD, ensuring that all rituals adhere to the principles of Vaikhanasa Agama.

In the temple courtyard, you'll find the shrines of Sri Padmavathi and Sri Andalamma, who are the consorts of Lord Venkateswara Swamy. The idol of Sri Padmavathi is in a sitting position, about 3 feet tall, and has four hands. It is situated on the left side of the main deity. On the right side of the main deity, you'll find the idol of Sri Andalamma, who is in a standing position with two hands. Interestingly, the idol of Sri Andal Ammavaru was personally installed by Lord Brahma in this temple.

Location

The Sri Prasanna Venkateswara Swamy Temple is situated in the village of Appalayagunta, just 16 kilometers from Tirupati in the Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh, India. This sacred temple is devoted to Lord Venkateswara, affectionately known as Prasanna Venkateswara.

Address

Sri Prasanna Venkateswara Swamy Temple,
Appalayagunta Village,
Vadamalapeta Mandal,
Chittoor (Dst.), Andhra Pradesh,
India, Pincode: 517551.