Introduction

Kothakonda jatara

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 Veerabadra swamy

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

Bullock chariots in 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).

Kothakonda jatara bullock chariots and goat carts

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 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.NoTimingsPooja Details
16:00 AMTemple opening hours
26:00 AM–12:15 PMAbhishekam
36:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.Sarva Darshan
41:15 PM–1:30 PMPancha Harathi
51:30 PMTemple closing Hours
61:30 PM–3:00 PMtemple remains closed
73:00 PMTemple reopens
83:00 PM–8:00 PMAstottaram
93:00 PM–8:00 PMSarva Darshan
108:00 PMtemple 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:

Q1.When is Kothakonda Jatara celebrated?

A: Kothakonda Jatara is a three-day festival celebrated during Makar Sankranti in January.

Q2. What is the main deity worshipped during the festival?

A: The main deity worshipped during Kothakonda Jatara is Lord Veerabhadra Swamy, an incarnation of Lord Shiva.

Q3. What are some of the key rituals performed during the festival?

A: Key rituals include Abhishekam, Srichakra Archana, Ekadashi Rudrabhishekam, Rasabhishekam, Ksheerabhishekam, Nagavelli, Pushpa Yagam, Trishula Snanam, and Agnigundalu.

Q4. What makes the Kothakonda Jatara unique?

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.

Q5. Where is Kothakonda located?

A: Kothakonda is a village in Bheemadevarpalle mandal, Karimnagar district, Telangana, India.

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