Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple, Andhra Pradesh

Address

Main Road, Kanipakam,

Chittoor district,

Andhra Pradesh 517131

Moolavar

Introduction

The Vinayaka Temple, also known as the Sri Varasidhi Vinayaka Swamy Temple, is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Located in Kanipakam, Chittoor District, Andhra Pradesh, India, the temple is approximately 11 km from Chittoor and 68 km from Tirupati. The presiding deity of the temple is Vinayaka (Lord Ganesha). According to local legend, the deity here is Svayambhu (self-manifested), and the idol is seen to be submerged in a well that is always full of water. The temple is managed by the Endowments Department of Andhra Pradesh, with a 15-member trust board responsible for its administration.

Puranic Significance

Historical Construction: The temple was constructed in the early 11th century CE by the Chola king Kulothunga Chola I. It was later expanded in 1336 CE during the reign of the Vijayanagara dynasty emperors.
Legend of the Svayambhu Ganesha: According to legend, three brothers who were mute, deaf, and blind were digging a well to fetch water for their field. As they were digging, the device they were using accidentally struck a hard object, and when they dug deeper, blood started gushing out of the well. Miraculously, the brothers regained their senses and abilities. The villagers rushed to the spot and discovered the idol of Ganesha submerged in the well. Despite their attempts to unearth the idol, the base of the deity could not be found. The deity remains in the well, which is always filled with water, and the idol is believed to be self-manifested (Svayambhu).
Divine Presence: The deity’s self-manifestation in the well, combined with the miracle experienced by the brothers, lends the temple its sacred and mystical reputation. Devotees believe that the idol is not just a symbolic representation but a divine manifestation that continues to radiate spiritual energy.

Festivals

The Vinayaka Chavithi festival marks the beginning of the annual Brahmotsavams at the temple. These festivities are celebrated for 21 days starting from Vinayaka Chavithi Day. During the festival, the processional deity of Vinayaka is taken out in a grand procession on different vahanams (vehicles) amidst the presence of thousands of pilgrims from across the country. The festivities draw immense devotion and attention, and the temple sees a large number of visitors during this time.

The annual Brahmotsavams are among the major celebrations at the temple, reflecting the significance of Lord Ganesha and his divine presence at the Kanipakam temple.