Sri Kodanda Ramaswamy Temple, located in Vontimitta (in present-day Annamayya district, Andhra Pradesh), is one of the most revered Rama temples in South India. This temple is architecturally magnificent and spiritually profound, with deep connections to the Ramayana and ancient bhakti traditions. Its Sthala Puranam (local mythological lore) highlights the temple’s divine origin and its significance in the epic narrative of Lord Rama.
🕉️ Historical
Background
1.Establishment of the Temple:
The temple is believed to have been constructed in the 15th century
during the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire, though the sanctity of the
site predates even that, rooted in Treta Yuga.
According to legend, this is the place where Lord Rama, along with Sita
and Lakshmana, rested during his exile (vanavasam), while traveling
through Dandakaranya.
Impressed by the serenity and sanctity of the place, Rama is said to
have stayed here and performed Kodanda archery practice, which is why
the deity is depicted in a rare form of Rama holding the Kodanda bow
with Sita and Lakshmana.
2. Origin of the Name “Vontimitta”:
The name "Vontimitta" comes from two devotees named Vontudu and Mittudu,
who were considered local tribal chiefs or hunters.
As per the Sthala Purana, these two devout individuals helped build the
original shrine for Lord Rama in this area with great devotion and
selflessness.
At the completion of the temple, both merged into a single stone,
signifying their unity in bhakti and eternal devotion. Hence, the place
was named "Vontimitta" (from Vontudu + Mittudu).
3. Sage Valmiki’s Connection:
Some traditions claim that Sage Valmiki, the author of the Ramayana,
worshipped Rama here during his penance.
It is also believed that Valmiki had a vision of Lord Rama in his
Kodanda posture at this very site, prompting a spiritual realization
that inspired his composition of the Ramayana.
At the completion of the temple, both merged into a single stone,
signifying their unity in bhakti and eternal devotion. Hence, the place
was named "Vontimitta" (from Vontudu + Mittudu).
4. Saint Bammera Potana’s Devotion:
The great Telugu poet Bammera Potana, who composed the Telugu Srimad
Bhagavatam, was a staunch devotee of Rama and is said to have offered
his work at the feet of the deity at this temple.
He often referred to Rama as "Kodanda Rama" and attributed all his
poetic inspiration to the Lord’s grace.
5. Moola Virat (Main Deity) and Uniqueness:
The idols of Sri Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana are carved from a single
stone (ekashila vigrahas) – a rare architectural feature.
Unlike most Rama temples, the main deity here is not flanked by Hanuman,
but by Sita and Lakshmana, reflecting a specific moment from the
vanavasa period.
🌿 Spiritual Beliefs and
Power of the Temple
1. Legend of Veerabhadra
-The temple is dedicated to Veerabhadra, a fierce incarnation of Lord
- Fulfiller of Wishes: Devotees believe that praying to Kodanda Rama
here fulfills righteous desires, especially those related to family
welfare, devotion, and righteous living.
Conclusion
Sri Kodanda Ramaswamy Temple at Vontimitta is not only a marvel of
Vijayanagara architecture but also a spiritual epicenter infused with
divine history, poetic devotion, and Rama bhakti. Rooted in the tales of
humble devotees, sages, and saint-poets, the Sthala Purana of Vontimitta
continues to inspire countless pilgrims and bhaktas seeking the grace of
Sri Kodanda Rama.