Introduction
Kothakonda Jatara, also known as Kothakonda Veerabhadra Swamy Brahmotsavam, is a vibrant festival celebrated during Makar Sankranti in Telangana, India. This three-day event in January draws thousands of pilgrims from across the region to Kothakonda Village in Bheemadevarpalle mandal, Karimnagar district. The festival is centered around the temple dedicated to Lord Veerabhadra Swamy, flanked by the deities Kethamma and Medalamma.
 History
Kothakonda is a picturesque village surrounded by scenic hills and known for its historic temple dedicated to Sri Veerabhadra Swamy, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Located just 5 km from the renowned cooperative village Mulkanoor, Kothakonda also boasts the ruins of an ancient fort with beautiful gateways reminiscent of Kakatiya architecture. Five ponds are situated on the hill, with two retaining water even during severe droughts. The temple itself is nestled at the hill’s base.
Significance of Kothakonda Jatara
The Kothakonda Jatara kicks off with special rituals like ‘Abhishekam’ to Lord Veerabhadra Swamy and ‘Srichakra Archana’ to his consorts. Key events include Ekadashi Rudrabhishekam, Rasabhishekam with fruits, and ‘Ksheerabhishekam’ on Sankranti. A grand procession featuring decorated bullock and goat carts, known as Prabhalu, is a highlight of the festival. Other significant rituals include Nagavelli, Pushpa Yagam, Trishula Snanam, and the concluding ‘Agnigundalu’ (fire walking).
Villagers from Kothapalli transform 65 bullock carts into chariots, parading them around the temple. Farmers work tirelessly to decorate these carts, creating a captivating spectacle for festival-goers. Goat carts from Vaeleru village also attract much attention. Additionally, 18,000 fruit saplings are distributed to devotees, including mango, pomegranate, sapodilla, guava, and lemon.Pilgrims offer pumpkin, silver, or gold mustaches to the veerabadara Swamy God after fulfilling their wishes.
Also read: Medaram Jathara South Asia’s Largest Tribal Festival
About Kothakonda Temple
Kothakonda, located in Bheemdevarpalli Mandal southeast of Karimnagar near Mulkanuru, is accessible by bus from Huzurabad or Husnabad. The temple, dedicated to Virabhadra Swamy, is said to have been established by Kedara Pandita during the Kakatiya period. The deity, known as Kora-Meesala Virabhadra Swamy (the Lord with a mustache), is a significant aspect of local tradition.
Temple Schedule
| S.No | Timings | Pooja Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 6:00 AM | Temple opening hours |
| 2 | 6:00 AM–12:15 PM | Abhishekam |
| 3 | 6:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. | Sarva Darshan |
| 4 | 1:15 PM–1:30 PM | Pancha Harathi |
| 5 | 1:30 PM | Temple closing Hours |
| 6 | 1:30 PM–3:00 PM | temple remains closed |
| 7 | 3:00 PM | Temple reopens |
| 8 | 3:00 PM–8:00 PM | Astottaram |
| 9 | 3:00 PM–8:00 PM | Sarva Darshan |
| 10 | 8:00 PM | temple closed for the day |
Location
By bus From Huzurabad or Husnabad, Kothakonda in Bheemdevarpalli Mandal, southeast of Karimnagar near Mulkanuru, is accessible.
Accessibility:
The nearest Airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport.
The Nearest Railway Station is Warangal Railway Station.
The village is well connected by road.
Accomodation:
1.Haritha hotel.
2.Village Stay Hotels & Resorts.
Conclusion
Kothakonda Jatara is a vibrant and culturally rich festival that highlights the deep-rooted traditions and religious fervor of Telangana. Centered around the historic Kothakonda Veerabhadra Swamy Temple, the three-day celebration during Makar Sankranti draws thousands of devotees with its unique rituals, decorated chariots, and community participation. This festival not only honors Lord Veerabhadra Swamy but also fosters a sense of unity and cultural heritage among the people of the region.
FAQ’S:
A: Kothakonda Jatara is a three-day festival celebrated during Makar Sankranti in January.
A: The main deity worshipped during Kothakonda Jatara is Lord Veerabhadra Swamy, an incarnation of Lord Shiva.
A: Key rituals include Abhishekam, Srichakra Archana, Ekadashi Rudrabhishekam, Rasabhishekam, Ksheerabhishekam, Nagavelli, Pushpa Yagam, Trishula Snanam, and Agnigundalu.
A: The festival is known for its grand procession of decorated bullock and goat carts, called Prabhalu. Additionally, the distribution of 18,000 fruit saplings to devotees is a unique feature.
A: Kothakonda is a village in Bheemadevarpalle mandal, Karimnagar district, Telangana, India.
