Ayyappa Swami Temple, Gollapudi

Hindu god Ayyappan, also known as Dharmasastha and Manikandan, is well-liked in Southern India. He is frequently asked to destroy evil since he is viewed as the pinnacle of dharma, truth, and righteousness.

Although South India had a long history of Ayyappan devotion, his fame didn't take off until the late 20th century. According to Hindu religious doctrine, he is Harihara's son. Other names for Ayyappan include Ayyappa, Sabarinath, Hariharasudhan, Manikandan, Shasta as well as Dharma Shasta, and Sastavu.

History:

The imagery depicts Ayyappan as a lovely, celibate (Brahmachari) god. He is practicing yoga and is the personification of Dharma, with a bell around his neck. According to Hindu texts, He was born with Shiva and Vishnu's abilities. It was to confront and defeat the evil, changeable Buffalo monster Mahishi.

Rajashekara Pantiyan as well as Koperundevi, both childless royals, raised him. He develops into a warrior yogi who champions moral and dharmic behavior. Ayyappan is shown as riding a tigress in South Indian artwork.

The legends of Ayyappan grew in scope during the mediaeval period. In one tale, which has its origins in the first and third centuries CE, Ayyappan develops into a deity. Also, he defends traders and merchants against adversaries like thieves and looting outlaws.

Ayyappa eventually gained a reputation as a military genius. Many Hindu yogis were inspired by his temple. They restored Dharmic trading customs while guarding South Indian trade routes from thieves and robbers.

Best Time To Visit:

Ayyappan is the principal deity of various temples in Kerala, the most well-known of which is the Sabarimala temple. Ayyappa Swami Temple, Gollapudi's protector is Padinettam Padi Karuppan. Every year, between mid-November and mid-January, the mandala season, the temple receives millions of tourists.

How To Reach:

You can reach Gollapudi from Vijayawada via NH 65. It is 10.5 km away. By the local transport facility or private car, you can cover this distance. While having roots in Kerala, Ayyappan has gained popularity and impact among Hindus in other South Indian states. Sabarimala is home to his most important temple. It is situated among the woods, within the Pathanamthitta district of the Western Ghats. You will find it just on the banks of the Pamba Riverbed. It is a significant pilgrimage that draws millions of Hindus annually, especially those of Malayali, Tamil, Kannada, and Telugu ancestry.