While
holidaying recently at a beach resort in Chirala, nestled in the Bapatla
District of Andhra Pradesh, our family was unexpectedly blessed with an
opportunity that turned our coastal holiday into a spiritually fulfilling
journey. On the 6th of June, 2025, we made a serene visit to the sacred Sri
Panduranga Swamy Temple at Chilakalapudi, located in the historic port town of
Machilipatnam, Krishna District, 120 km from where we were holidaying. I
visited this temple with my parents when I was around five years old. Although
I have no recollection of the visit itself, the photographs clicked then, at
the nearby Manginapudi beach, constantly remind me of our trip to
Chilakalapudi.
For
devotees of Lord Vitthala (Panduranga Swamy/Lord Krishna), this temple holds
special significance. It is considered the second most revered shrine of Sri
Panduranga Swamy, next only to the famous temple at Pandharpur in Solapur
District of Maharashtra. What makes this temple especially divine is that the
idol of the Lord here is Swayambhu (self-manifested). The presence of saints
and devotees at the time of its manifestation adds to its mystical and
spiritual aura. The temple also resembles the one at Pandharpur.
As
we stepped into the temple premises, there was an unmistakable sense of peace
and reverence in the air. The idol bears an uncanny resemblance to the deity at
Pandharpur, standing tall, hands on hips, exuding compassion, patience, and
infinite grace. We could feel the same divine energy that millions seek in
Pandharpur, right here in Chilakalapudi.
The
temple’s origin story added another layer of personal joy for us. We learned
that it was constructed by Bhakta Narasimham, a devout Vishwabrahmin
(Goldsmith) belonging to the Suparnasa Brahmarishi Gothram, the same lineage
that we and Niranjan bava proudly belong to. This shared heritage stirred a
deep sense of connection and pride. Knowing that someone from our own Gothram
had the divine calling and devotion to build such a sacred space filled our
hearts with immense gratitude and inspiration.
Our
visit was brief but profound. We left with prasad in hand, peace in our hearts,
and blessings that seemed to transcend words. This unexpected spiritual
interlude reminded us that the divine often reveals itself in the most
unplanned moments, when you're simply open and present.
We
hope you'll enjoy these photographs I have attached, which capture the timeless
grace of Sri Panduranga Swamy and the serenity of this lesser-known yet
powerful temple. Whether you're a devotee of Vitthala or a seeker of quiet
sanctity, this gem in Machilipatnam is worth a visit.
May
Lord Panduranga’s (Lord Vitthala’s/Lord Krishna’s) blessings be with us all.
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