Surutapalli Sri Pallikondeswarar Temple, Andhra Pradesh

Address

Surutapalli Sri Pallikondeswarar Temple, Surutapalli, Dasukuppam Post, Nagalapuram M.D., Chittoor District – 517 588 Andhra Pradesh, India Phone: +91 8576 278 599 / 274 971

Diety

Pallikondeeswarar / Valmikeswarar Amman: Maragathambigai.

Introduction

The Pallikondeswarar Temple in Surutapalli Village, Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh, India, is a sacred place dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is known for its unique attributes and rich history.

Location: The Pallikondeswarar Temple is located in Surutapalli Village, offering a spiritual retreat in the Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh.

Unique Deity Form: Unlike most Shiva temples where Lord Shiva is represented as a Linga, in this temple, Lord Shiva is seen in a human-like form. He is depicted reclining on the lap of Goddess Parvati, similar to Vishnu’s Ananthaasana. This form of Lord Shiva is associated with a special incident.

Origin of the Name “Surutapalli”: The name Surutapalli is derived from two words: “Surutta” means “a little dizzy,” and “Palli” means “resting.” According to the legends, it was here that Lord Shiva rested in the lap of Goddess Parvati, feeling slightly dizzy after consuming the poison during the churning of the Milky Ocean. This act saved the world from the destructive effects of the poison.

Pallikondeswarar: The presiding deity of the temple is Pallikondeswarar, representing Lord Shiva in his resting form. He is considered the guardian and protector of devotees and is especially revered during Pradosha Kalam.

Legends and Historical Significance:

The temple was built during the late Vijayanagara period and later underwent renovation. Kanchipuram Sankara Paramacharya, a renowned spiritual leader, played a significant role in tracing the historical significance of this temple to the Ramayana period.
A unique aspect of the temple’s legend is that Pradosha Kalam, a significant occasion observed with piety at Shiva temples, is believed to have originated here.
The temple also features shrines of Valmikeswarar, Maragathambigai, Vinayakar, Sastha, Kuberan, Dhakshinamoorthy, and more, each with their respective consorts.

Lord Shiva’s Role in Churning of the Ocean: A significant legend associated with this temple relates to the churning of the Milky Ocean (Samudra Manthan). During this churning, the poison emerged, threatening all of creation. Lord Shiva, out of compassion for living beings, drank the poison. Goddess Parvati quickly intervened by placing her hand on Shiva’s throat to prevent the poison from affecting him.

Significance of Pradosha Puja: The temple is known as a Pradosha Kshetram and is closely associated with Pradosha Puja. Devotees believe that worshiping Pallikondeswarar during Pradosha Kalam can help them recover losses, regain lost glory, overcome obstacles in wedding proposals, and see the reunion of separated couples.

Festivals: The temple celebrates various festivals, including Shivarathri in February-March, Aipasi Annabishekam in October-November, and Tiruvadhirai in December-January. During Pradosham days, thousands of devotees visit the temple to seek the blessings of Pallikondeswarar.

The Pallikondeswarar Temple holds a special place in the hearts of devotees who seek the blessings and protection of Lord Shiva in his unique form and look to the temple for solace, guidance, and fulfillment of their wishes.