Introduction
Kondagattu Sri Anjaneya Swamy Vari Devasthanam is a renowned temple located in the picturesque hills of Kondagattu in the Karimnagar district of Telangana, India. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this ancient temple holds immense religious significance and is a popular pilgrimage site. The temple is not only a place of worship but also a scenic spot surrounded by natural beauty, making it a serene destination for spiritual seekers and tourists alike.
History of Kondagattu Temple
The history of Kondagattu Sri Anjaneya Swamy Vari Devasthanam dates back approximately 300 years. According to local legends, a cowherd named Singam Sanjeevudu from the nearby village of Kodimyal lost one of his buffaloes in the dense forests around Kondagattu. Exhausted after searching for the buffalo, Sanjeevudu fell asleep on the hillside. It is believed that Lord Anjaneya Swamy (Hanuman) appeared in his dream and revealed the location of the lost buffalo. When Sanjeevudu awoke, he found an idol of Anjaneya Swamy in the direction mentioned in his dream. Overwhelmed by this divine experience, he decided to build a small temple on the site to honor the deity.
The temple gradually gained popularity as more people began to visit and offer prayers. The belief that Lord Anjaneya Swamy was a self-manifested (Swayambhoo) deity added to its sanctity. Over the centuries, the temple has been renovated and expanded, becoming the grand structure it is today.
Architecture of Kondagattu
The temple is built in a traditional South Indian style with elements of Dravidian architecture. The main sanctum houses the idol of Lord Anjaneya Swamy. Who is depicted facing north, holding a conch (Shankhu) and a discus (Chakra). The deity’s face is believed to resemble that of Narasimha, a fierce incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This unique representation of Hanuman adds a distinct charm to the temple.
Flanking the main deity are the idols of Sri Venkateswara Swamy, Alwar, and Lakshmi Ammavaru, placed to the left and right of Anjaneya Swamy. The temple complex also includes other shrines and sacred spaces, all adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The temple is set amidst lush greenery, with caves and the Rayuni fort situated to its north, adding a historical and natural backdrop to the spiritual environment. The surrounding landscape makes the temple a peaceful retreat for those seeking solace and connection with nature.
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Rituals and Beliefs
Kondagattu Sri Anjaneya Swamy is revered as a powerful deity who is believed to grant the wishes of his devotees. One of the most well-known beliefs associated with the temple is that couples who are unable to have children are blessed with a child after offering prayers for 40 days. Devotees also undertake special Diksha (vows) lasting 11, 21, or 41 days, seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and fulfillment of desires.
The temple follows the Chatada Sri Vaishnava Agama Sampradayam for its rituals. Which includes regular Abhishekam (ritualistic bathing of the deity) with water, milk, and other sacred substances. The Chandanam (sandalwood paste) offered as Prasadam (sacred offering) is believed to have miraculous healing powers. Devotees consider it essential to receive this Chandanam as part of their visit.
Significance Kondagattu
Kondagattu Sri Anjaneya Swamy is revered as a protector and healer, often referred to as “Sanjeeva” for his powers to cure ailments, and mental disorders, and help childless couples. The temple is a major spiritual destination, drawing thousands of pilgrims daily from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh and neighboring states like Maharashtra.
Timings
The temple is open to devotees every day from early morning until late evening. The usual temple timings are:
- Morning: 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Evening: 3:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Special rituals and Abhishekam are performed during these hours, and devotees can participate in the various Pujas (worship ceremonies) offered at different times of the day.
S.No | Seva | Timings |
1 | Suprbhatha Seva & Aradhana | 4.00 A.M to 5.30 A.M |
2 | Balabhogam, Nivedana Harathi and Anusandanam | 5.30 AM to 6.00 AM |
3 | Sarva Darshanam and Arjitha Sevalu | 6.00 AM to 4.30 P.M |
4 | Maha nivedana | 12.00 P.M to 12.30 P.M |
5 | Bhajana and theertha prasadam | 1.00 P.M to 1.30 P.M |
6 | Sarva Darshanam and Kumkumarchana | 6.00 P.M to 8.30 P.M |
7 | Nitya seva | 7.30.P.M to 8.00 P.M |
8 | Kumbha harathi Kavata bandhamu | 8.30 PM |
Also Read: Ujwala Park, Karimnagar: Wonderful Time Spend Place Through Nature
Facilities for Devotees
To accommodate the high volume of pilgrims who visit the temple. The temple complex includes 45 Dharamshala (rest houses), where devotees can stay during their visit. These facilities are provided to ensure a comfortable stay for those who travel long distances to seek the blessings of Lord Anjaneya Swamy.
Popular Festivals and Events
- Hanuman Jayanti: The temple celebrates Hanuman Jayanti with great enthusiasm, attracting thousands of devotees.
- Annual Utsavam: The temple’s annual festival is a grand event featuring various rituals, processions, and cultural programs.
How to Reach
- By Road: Kondagattu Sri Anjaneya Swamy Vari Devasthanam is well-connected by road:
- From Karimnagar: 40 kilometers
- From Jagityal: 16 kilometers
- From Nizamabad: Approximately 115 kilometers
- From Hyderabad: Approximately 160 kilometers
- By Rail: Jagityal railway station is the nearest railway station.
Conclusion
Kondagattu Sri Anjaneya Swamy Vari Devasthanam is not just a temple. It is a spiritual haven that offers peace, solace, and divine blessings. Whether you are seeking a connection with the divine, hoping to fulfill a vow, or simply looking for a tranquil place to reflect and rejuvenate. This temple provides a perfect blend of spirituality and natural beauty. With its rich history, unique architecture, and deep-rooted beliefs. Kondagattu stands as a testament to the enduring faith and devotion of countless pilgrims who visit year after year.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
A: It is a revered temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, known for its spiritual significance and scenic beauty.
A: The temple is approximately 300 years old.
A: The temple was built by Singam Sanjeevudu, a local cowherd, after a divine revelation from Lord Hanuman.
A: The main deity is Lord Anjaneya Swamy, flanked by idols of Sri Venkateswara Swamy, Alwar, and Lakshmi Ammavaru.
A: Special rituals include Abhishekam with sacred substances and offering of Chandanam (sandalwood paste).