Jonnawada Kamakshi Temple – A popular temple known for its spiritual significance.

Introduction

The Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Kamakshi Tayee Ammavari Temple in Jonnawada, near Nellore in Andhra Pradesh, attracts devotees from far and wide. Devotees worship Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, and Goddess Kamakshi Tayee, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. This temple represents divine harmony and provides spiritual solace to everyone who visits.

History of the Jonnawada Kamakshi Temple

Mythical stories trace the construction of the Jonnawada Temple back to the primitive era. The Chola Kings, ardent followers of Shiva and Parvathi, built the temple. There is also a popular saying that the idols kept in the temple are “Swayambhu” which means “Self-Manifistation”. This claim adds a feather to the temple’s spiritual significance.

Another famous tale connected to the temple is about a devotee, Jonna, who was a staunch worshipper of Goddess Kamakshi. After listening to his prayers, the Goddess appeared and blessed him which further resulted in a village named Jonnawada for his sake. Countless devotees have worshipped the temple ever since making it a vital symbol of faith and devotion.

Architecture of the Temple

The Jonnawada Temple beautifully blends Dravidian and South Indian architectural styles. Skilled artisans decorated the temple complex with stunning sculptures, towering gopurams (towers), and serene courtyards. The main sanctum enshrines Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Kamakshi Tayee, creating an atmosphere of peace and divinity.

A sacred pond called Brahma Teertham lies within the temple premises. Devotees take a holy dip in its waters before entering the sanctum. Many believe that this pond has healing qualities and helps cleanse one’s sins.

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Major Festivals Celebrated

The Jonnawada Temple is a hub of vibrant festivities throughout the year. Some of the major festivals celebrated here include:

1. Maha Shivaratri: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this festival is celebrated with great fervor. Devotees observe fasts, perform night-long vigils, and offer special prayers to seek the blessings of Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy.
2. Navaratri: Devotees dedicate this nine-day festival to Goddess Kamakshi Tayee. They decorate the temple beautifully and organize special pujas and cultural programs. On the final day, Vijaya Dashami, they celebrate with grand processions.
3. Karthika Masam: During the holy month of Karthika (usually October-November), the temple witnesses a surge of devotees who perform rituals and light lamps to seek divine blessings.
4. Annual Brahmotsavam: This is the most significant festival of the temple, celebrated with great pomp and grandeur. Devotees take the deities out in a grand procession on beautifully decorated chariots, accompanied by traditional music and dance

Specialties of the Temple

• Sri Kamakshi Devi Temple:This temple is unique because devotees worship Goddess Kamakshi alongside Lord Mallikarjuna, honoring her as the universal mother.
• Swayambhu Shiva Lingam: The Shiva Lingam in the temple is considered self-manifested, making it highly sacred.
• Sacred Theertham (Holy Water): The temple has a holy pond where devotees take a dip before offering prayers, believing it purifies the soul.
• Annadanam (Free Meals): The temple provides free meals to devotees, emphasizing the tradition of selfless service.

Temple Timing

• Morning: 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM
• Evening: 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM
• Special pujas and Abhishekams are performed at different times, attracting a large number of devotees.

Accommodations Near the Temple

There are several accommodation options available near the temple for devotees and tourists:

• Temple Guest Houses: Affordable rooms maintained by the temple trust for pilgrims.
• Hotels and Lodges: Various budget and mid-range hotels are available in Nellore City, just a short drive from Jonnawada.
• Dharamshalas: Pilgrim rest houses offer comfortable and cost-effective stays for devotees.

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Special Pujas Available

The temple offers several special pujas and rituals for devotees, including:

• Rudrabhishekam: A sacred ritual performed for Lord Shiva’s blessings.
• Kumkum Archana: A special puja for Goddess Kamakshi to seek divine grace.
• Navagraha Pooja: A ritual to appease the nine planetary deities and seek prosperity.
• Maha Abhishekam: A grand offering of sacred water, milk, honey, and sandalwood to Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy.
• Anna Prasadam: A special food offering to the deities, followed by distribution among devotees.

How to Reach Jonnawada Kamakshi Temple

• Address: Jonnawada, Nellore, Andhra Pradesh – 524003.
• Distance from Nellore: 12 km
• Nearest Railway Station: Nellore Railway Station (12 km away)
• Nearest Airport: Tirupati Airport (140 km away)
• Road Connectivity: Easily accessible via buses, taxis, and private vehicles from Nellore and nearby towns.

Conclusion

Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Kamakshi Tayee Ammavari Temple in Jonnawada is a significant spiritual destination that attracts devotees from all over India. With its rich history, stunning architecture, grand festivals, and divine atmosphere, the temple continues to be a beacon of faith and devotion. Whether you seek divine blessings, cultural richness, or spiritual solace, a visit to this sacred shrine promises an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions