Goddess Padmavathi – An epitome of benevolence and grace
The divine consort of Lord Venkateswara, Goddess Padmavathi, is considered as the reincarnation of Goddess Lakshmi, the harbinger of wealth, prosperity, and fortune.
As per legend, goddess lakshmi took birth as the daughter of the Akasa Raja, the celestial king, and married Lord Venkateswara in a magnificent ceremony that sizzled with enchantment and spiritual aura. The divine union was attended by scores of devotees and royal folks.
Why a separate shrine for goddess Padmavathi in Tiruchanur?
Goddess Padmavathi has a dedicated shrine in Tiruchanur and bestows blessings with a serene smile. This spiritually charged place is also known as AlarMelMangaiPuram (Alamelu Mangapuram).
It might surprise a few as to why Lord Venkateswara has his abode in the hills, while his consort goddess Padmavathi has a separate shrine in the plains!
We had this question in our mind, and went on a journey of exploration. We did find the reason! Looks like the Padmavathi temple is the manifestation of the sacredness and sanctity of the divine wedding between Lord Venkateswara and Goddess Padmavathi.
As per Hindu scriptures, the wedding took place in Tiruchanoor and later Lord Venkateswara went up the hills and stayed there, to keep an eye on the wellbeing of his devotees. A shrine was built for him in the Tirumala hills. To this day, the Tirupati Balaji temple celebrates his valour and benevolence. His consort Goddess Padmavathi/Alamelu Mangamma stands by his side and takes pride of place in the sanctum sanctorum.
To commemorate the divine location where the wedding took place, a separate temple dedicated to Goddess Padmavathi took root in Tiruchanur. This beautiful shrine with its exquisite architecture reflects the prominence given to Goddess Padmavathi in the religious and cultural fabric of the region. It recognises the inherent power and significance of the goddess and honours her divine qualities.
Padmavathi Temple – where divinity thrives
Goddess Padmavathi’s divine presence in the temple is believed to bestow devotees with prosperity and abundance. As you set your foot into the temple, an aura of devotion enwraps your soul.
Padmavathi temple is a vibrant celebration of rituals, ceremonies, and festivals that showcase the rich cultural heritage of India. All major Hindu festivals are celebrated with pomp and fervour!
The significance of a visit to the Goddess Padmavathi temple is a dip in the Padma Sarovaram, the divine temple tank of the temple. As per legend, Goddess Lakshmi went on a deep penance for 12 years, and emerged in the form of a golden Lotus in the middle of the Padma Sarovaram.
As Lord Suryanarayana’s divine rays caressed the lotus making it bloom, Lord Venkateswara cast his eyes on Goddess Padmavathi, the reincarnation of goddess Lakshmi, on the auspicious day of Panchami in the holy month of Karthigai. That is the reason behind the name AlarMelMangaiPuram (Alamelu Mangapuram).
Alar – Lotus
Mel – Top
Mangai – The Goddess
Puram – Town
Right from Brahmotsavam to Karthigai Deepam, devotees throng the temple premises and add a touch of spiritual enchantment to the air.
In hindsight, Goddess Padmavathi temple is not just a physical place of worship, rather it is a gateway to inner transformation and spiritual salvation.
Cocooned in natural settings, this beautiful temple has a way of captivating your mind, touching your heart, and uplifting your spirit to reach higher planes of spiritual enlightenment.
Plan a visit to the Tirupati Balaji Temple, and seek blessings from the divine goddess Padmavathi before paying allegiance to Lord Venkateswara in Tirumala. You can book the darshans online and take your family on a memorable pilgrimage that enriches the mind, body, and soul!
