Ontimitta Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple: Andhra’s Spiritual Gem with Unique Traditions
NEWS CHARIOT:-One of Andhra Pradesh’s most sacred and historic temples, the Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple in Ontimitta, YSR Kadapa district, stands as a magnificent symbol of devotion and heritage. Once overshadowed by Bhadrachalam during the united Andhra-Telangana era, Ontimitta has now become Andhra’s own Bhadrachalam after the state bifurcation.
This ancient temple, located 27 km from Kadapa on the Kadapa-Tirupati highway, is renowned for its unique idols of Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana sculpted from a single rock, earning the town the name Ekasila Nagaram. The deities are believed to have been installed by Jambavan, and the temple features a sacred site known as Sri Rama Tirtha, where Lord Rama is said to have brought forth the Ganga at Sita’s request.
The temple is a masterpiece of Chola architecture, with an imposing Gopuram that even impressed French traveler Tavernier in the 16th century. The site is also the birthplace of Mahabhagavatam author Potana, adding literary significance to its spiritual aura.
Unlike most temples, Sita-Rama Kalyanam is celebrated at night, based on a mythological tale where Lord Vishnu grants the Moon the boon of witnessing Sita-Rama’s wedding during his incarnation. The temple is also notable for the absence of Anjaneya Swamy, making it unique in the Ram tradition.
Every year, grand Brahmotsavams are held from Chaitra Shuddha Navami, with Kalyanam on Chaturdashi, Rathotsavam on Pournami, and Potana Jayanti on Navami. The temple receives official offerings of silk robes during Sri Rama Navami.
This spiritually vibrant site is easily accessible via Kadapa or Rajampet railway stations, and Tirupati airport lies just 100 km away. A visit here is believed to bring peace and remove long-standing sorrows.
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