The southern state of Andhra Pradesh in India is home to many temples and religious sites, but one deity reigns supreme in the hearts of the people: Ammavaru. Known by many names such as Ammavaru, Ammavaruamma, and Amma Talli, this powerful goddess is worshipped for her ability to grant boons and blessings to her devotees. In this article, we will explore the legend and significance of Ammavaru, her temples, and the traditions and rituals associated with her worship.
Who is Ammavaru Goddess?
Ammavaru is believed to be an incarnation of the Hindu goddess Shakti, the divine feminine energy that represents the cosmic force of creation, preservation, and destruction. According to legend, she appeared on earth to vanquish a demon king named Mahishasura, who had been terrorizing the world with his powers. Ammavaru battled the demon for nine days and finally emerged victorious on the tenth day, which is celebrated as Vijayadashami.
The Legend of Ammavaru
The story of Ammavaru dates back to ancient times, when the earth was plagued by demons and evil forces. The gods decided to create a powerful female deity to put an end to this chaos, and thus, Ammavaru was born. She was given a variety of weapons and powers, including the ability to transform into various forms to defeat her enemies.
Ammavaru’s most famous battle was with the demon Mahishasura, who had obtained a boon from Lord Brahma that he could not be killed by any man or god. He had become so powerful that he began to wreak havoc on the earth and the heavens. In desperation, the gods turned to Ammavaru for help, and she agreed to take on Mahishasura.
For nine days, Ammavaru fought the demon with all her might, but he kept changing forms to evade her attacks. On the tenth day, she finally managed to slay him, and thus, Vijayadashami is celebrated as the day of victory over evil.
Temples of Ammavaru
Ammavaru is worshipped in many temples across Andhra Pradesh, and each one has its own unique traditions and rituals. The most famous temple dedicated to Ammavaru is the Sri Kanaka Durga Temple in Vijayawada, which is believed to be the spot where she defeated Mahishasura. The temple is located on a hill overlooking the Krishna River, and it attracts thousands of devotees every year, especially during the Navratri festival.
Another popular temple dedicated to Ammavaru is the Simhachalam Temple in Visakhapatnam, which is believed to have been built by King Krishnadevaraya in the 16th century. The temple has a unique idol of Ammavaru, with a lion’s head and a human body, and it is said to have been installed by Lord Vishnu himself.
Traditions and Rituals of Ammavaru Worship
The worship of Ammavaru is steeped in tradition and ritual, and it varies from temple to temple. However, some common practices include offering flowers, fruits, and sweets to the deity, and performing aarti and puja. Devotees also light lamps and incense sticks and chant hymns and mantras in praise of Ammavaru.
One of the most unique aspects of Ammavaru worship is the offering of sarees to the goddess. Devotees believe that offering a saree to Ammavaru will bring them good luck and prosperity. Many women also wear
sarees in Ammavaru’s honor, and some even fast or undertake other forms of penance during the Navratri festival.
Another important tradition associated with Ammavaru worship is the Kode Mokku ceremony, which is observed in some temples. During this ritual, devotees tie themselves to a wooden pole and walk around the temple premises, seeking Ammavaru’s blessings for their wishes to be granted.
Conclusion
Ammavaru is a powerful and beloved deity in Andhra Pradesh, worshipped for her ability to grant boons and blessings to her devotees. Her legend, temples, and traditions are a testament to the deep reverence and devotion that people have for her. Whether it is seeking prosperity, health, or success, devotees turn to Ammavaru with faith and devotion, confident that she will guide them on the right path.