Introduction:
Mandasa Vasudeva Perumal Temple, Mandasa Village, located in the scenic Srikakulam district on the border of Orissa, is not just any village. It holds a remarkable place in history, thanks to the legends of kings, ancient temples, and cultural significance.
Let’s take a deeper dive into the historic importance of Mandasa and its revered Vasudeva Temple. In This given Complete Information about Mandasa Vasudeva Perumal Temple Timings and all other informations and History.
A Legend Rooted in Time: The Origin of Manjusha Kingdom:
The story of Mandasa dates back to 1200 AD when Raja Vaman Singh Deo arrived from the north. After giving up his kingdom to his uncle, he sought spiritual solace in the Mahindra Hills. While in deep penance, a divine vision guided him.
The legend goes that a gold ring slipped from his finger into a river, later to be found downstream. This symbolic event indicated where his kingdom should be established, giving birth to the ancient Manjusha Kingdom. The river, still flowing today, is known as Suna Muddi, meaning “Golden Ring.”
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Originally part of the Ganjam district of the Madras Presidency, Manjusha eventually became part of the Vizag district before joining the Srikakulam district. This village holds deep religious significance, with Lord Vasudeva being the presiding deity of Mandasa.
A Brief History of the Vasudeva Temple:
The temple of Lord Vasudeva stands as a beacon of devotion, representing Sriyah Pathi Srimannarayana, an ocean of compassion. The Mandasa Vasudeva Perumal Temple Time’s Built in 1744 AD by Sri Hari Hara Rajamani, the temple was once a royal place of worship for the rulers of Mandasa.
Despite its regal past, over time, the temple fell into neglect. Once patronized by kings, it struggled to maintain daily rituals and worship due to a lack of resources. Eventually, the temple came under the care of the Endowments Department.
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The Revival of the Vasudeva Temple:
A pivotal moment for Mandasa came in 1988 when Sri Chinna Srimannarayana Ramanuja Jeeyar Swamiji visited the village during a World Peace walk in Srikakulam. He noticed the dilapidated state of the once-grand temple and took immediate action. After receiving permission from the Deva: da, and Dharma: da Sa of Andhra Pradesh, Swamiji began the temple’s reconstruction.
Led by Sriman P.B. Vishal Gupta of Rajam, a committee was formed to oversee the temple’s restoration. The ambitious renovation project began on 13th November 2003, focusing on key structures such as the Garbhalayam (sanctum sanctorum), Dwaja Sthambham (flagpole), and Mukhamandapam (main hall).
The renovation preserved the ancient designs while incorporating new sculptures where necessary, using traditional building methods.
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The entire restoration, costing approximately Rs. 60 lakhs, breathed new life into the temple. During this period, valuable discoveries, including 457 Arabic engraved coins, copper plates, and gold ornaments, were secured by the local government.
The Temple’s Rebirth: Dedication to the People of Mandasa:
In 2005, the temple was finally ready for its grand rededication. On June 26th, Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji performed the Thamra Sasanam ceremony, officially marking the temple’s re-establishment. The event, which attracted thousands of devotees, was a fitting tribute to the temple’s glorious past.
The Spiritual Connection of Pedda Jeeyar Swamiji:
A beautiful tale links Pedda Jeeyar Swamiji and his close friend T.K. Gopalacharyulu Swamy to Mandasa. As young students, they visited Mandasa to study the sacred text Sri Bhashyam under the renowned scholar Sri Ramanujacharyulu. Their journey took a dramatic turn when they both had the same prophetic dream about a broken bridge during their studies.
Fearing the dream signaled their inability to complete their studies, they confided in their guru, Sri Ramanujacharyulu. In response, the guru took them to Lord Vasudeva’s Temple, prostrated before the deity, and prayed for divine intervention.
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With the Lord’s blessings, the two students completed their studies ahead of time, becoming prominent scholars in the Sri Bhashyam tradition.
The Consecration Ceremony and Modern-day Mandasa Temple:
In June 2005, Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji arrived in Mandasa at a grand reception from thousands of devotees.
The Vasudeva Swamy Temple had been fully restored to its former glory, exactly as it had been centuries before, with the same architecture and materials. The entire event was celebrated with great joy, as devotees experienced the power and grace of Lord Vasudeva once more.
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The consecration of the temple honored Lord Vasudeva and re-established shrines for Sri Devi Bhudevi, Goda Krishna, and various Acharyas. The air was filled with Vedic chants, Puranic hymns, and Prabandha Songs, with scholars and devotees praising the timeless glory of Mandasa Vasudeva Swamy Temple.
Preserving Tradition in Modern Times:
In his address, Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji emphasized the importance of preserving temples in their original form. He cautioned against the trend of modernizing sacred spaces, urging devotees to respect the values embedded in ancient structures.
By maintaining the Mandasa Temple’s authentic form, Swamiji ensured that future generations would continue to benefit from its spiritual and cultural significance.
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Mandasa Vasudeva Perumal Temple Timings:
If you plan to visit the temple, the Darshan timings are as follows:
- Morning: 5:30 AM to 11:00 AM
- Evening: 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM
Be sure to attend the Suprabhata Seva in the early hours or witness the Kavata Udgatana in the evening to experience the full spiritual atmosphere of the temple.
Mandasa Vasudeva Perumal Temple Location MAP:
Conclusion:
Mandasa village, with its rich history and the sacred Vasudeva Temple, stands as a testament to centuries of devotion, culture, and architectural heritage. It remains a spiritual beacon in the Srikakulam district, preserving its legacy through time for future generations.
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Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs):
Answer: Mandasa Village is renowned for its ancient Manjusha Kingdom and the revered Vasudeva Perumal Temple, dating back to 1200 AD.
Answer: The Vasudeva Temple was built in 1744 AD by Sri Hari Hara Rajamani.
Answer: The temple was restored in 2005, led by Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji, preserving its original architectural design.
Answer: The temple is open from 5:30 AM to 11:00 AM and 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM.
Answer: Mandasa Village is located in the Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh, near the Orissa border.