Sri Chengalamma Parameshwari Temple – Sullurpeta, Andhra Pradesh

Sri Chengalamma Parameshwari Temple is located in Sullurpeta town, Tirupati district, Andhra Pradesh, on the banks of the Kalangi River.

History & Significance

• The temple dates back to the 4th–5th centuries CE, with major developments during the Chola dynasty in the 10th century.
• Originally known as Tenkali (Dakshina Kali), the goddess was later called Chengali, and finally Chengalamma.
• The temple is located on the banks of the Kalangi River in Sullurpeta, and is revered as the Grama Devata (village deity) of the region.
• According to legend, the idol was discovered by villagers in the river and placed under a sacred tree. The goddess later appeared in a dream, requesting a temple be built at that spot.
• The temple is doorless, based on the goddess’s wish to remain accessible to devotees at all times. A tree that grew from the discarded temple doors is now worshipped as sacred.

Deity 

• The presiding deity is Sri Chengalamma Parameshwari, a unique and powerful form of Mahishasura Mardini.
• The idol is tri-devi in form:
• Left side: Parvati
• Right side: Saraswati
• Center: Mahalakshmi
• She is depicted with eight arms, each holding a weapon, standing over a demon—symbolizing the destruction of evil.
• This rare form is referred to as Trikale Chengali, representing three divine aspects in one.

Rituals & Sevas

• Daily Sevas include:
• Abhishekam – ₹350
• Laksha Kumkumarchana – ₹100
• Poolangi Seva – ₹550
• Archana – ₹10
• Vahana Pooja (vehicles) – ₹30–₹100
• Pongali, Talaneelalu (tonsuring), and Vastralankarana are also performed.
• Special Poojas:
• Maha Chandi Yagnam and Nava Kalasa Abhishekam on full moon days (Pournami).
• Srichakra Archana, Lalita Sahasranama, and Lalita Ashtottaram are regularly performed.

Festivals & Celebrations

• Major Festivals:
• Navaratri, Ugadi, Maha Shivaratri, Nagula Chavithi, and Puthandu (Tamil New Year).
• Brahmotsavam (Every 7 years, May–June):
• Begins with Sudi Maanu: a ritual involving a chakra, goat, and garland tied to a pole and spun.
• Includes Mahishasura effigy beheading, Kalangi river bath, Teppotsavam (float festival), and a flower-adorned pallaki procession.
• Chengalamma Jatara: A grand local fair attracting thousands of devotees.

Beliefs & Local Faith

• The goddess is believed to grant boons generously and is worshipped as a protector and nurturer.
• ISRO scientists from nearby Sriharikota visit the temple to seek blessings before satellite launches.
• Childless couples tie cloth cradles to the sacred tree and perform pradakshina to seek fertility blessings.
• The temple is also a popular site for Aksharabhyasam, Upanayanam, marriages, and ear-piercing ceremonies.

Getting Here

By Road

• From Chennai: ~79 km via NH16 (approx. 2 hours)
• From Tirupati: ~84 km via Naidupeta (approx. 2 hours)
• From Nellore: ~97 km via NH16 (approx. 2.5 hours)
• The temple is located at the southern tip of Sullurpeta, easily accessible by car or bus.

By Train

• Nearest Railway Station: Sullurpeta Railway Station (station code: SPE)
• Well-connected to Chennai, Tirupati, Nellore, and other major cities
• The temple is about 2 km from the railway station—auto-rickshaws are available.

By Air

• Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (MAA) – ~75 km away
• From the airport, you can hire a cab or take a train to Sullurpeta.