Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple, situated in the picturesque village of Gollala Mamidada near Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, is one of the most magnificent shrines dedicated to the Sun God in South India. Nestled amidst lush paddy fields, tall coconut groves, and flowing waterways, this temple is often described as the “Andhra Pradesh’s Konark” owing to its grandeur, divine aura, and spiritual importance. The temple is not just a place of worship but also a confluence of faith, art, architecture, history, and cultural traditions.
Historical Background
Foundation: The temple was established under the patronage of Sri Kovvuri Basivi Reddy, a respected zamindar, philanthropist, and devout follower of the Vaishnava tradition.
Consecration: The deity was consecrated according to Pañcharātra Āgama traditions on 18th June 1902. This ritual consecration laid the foundation for the temple’s sanctity.
Expansion: In the 1910s and 1920s, the temple underwent major developments—its towering gopurams and sprawling estate were constructed.
Estate and Endowment: The temple is built on 16+ acres of land, with agricultural income and donations from devotees sustaining its maintenance. Eventually, it came under the purview of the Andhra Pradesh Endowments Department, ensuring structured management and preservation.
Cultural Legacy: For over a century, this temple has stood as a beacon of Sun worship in Andhra Pradesh, complementing the famed Arasavalli Sun Temple.
Architectural Grandeur
The architectural brilliance of the temple makes it a true marvel:
Gopurams (Temple Towers):
The temple is famed for its towering gopurams, the tallest of which rises to about 170 feet.
These gopurams are covered with hundreds of intricately carved sculptures depicting episodes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagavata Purana, and other Hindu scriptures.
The sheer scale and artistic detail earned the village its affectionate name “Gopurala Mamidada” (village of gopurams).
Sanctum (Garbhagriha):
The presiding deity, Lord Suryanarayana Swamy, is enshrined in a sanctum that radiates divine energy.
The idol depicts Surya riding a seven-horse chariot, symbolizing the seven days of the week and the seven colors of the rainbow.
Sub-shrines:
Shrines dedicated to Sri Lakshminarayana Swamy and Sri Satyanarayana Swamy enrich the temple’s spiritual landscape.
The presence of these deities reflects the Vaishnava influence in the temple’s tradition.
Temple Complex:
Spread across vast grounds, the temple is surrounded by coconut groves and paddy fields, creating a natural aura of peace and sanctity.
The river Thulya Bhaga (Antharvahini) flows nearby, considered a sacred tirtha (holy water body).
Rituals and Daily Worship
The temple follows a strict schedule of nitya sevas (daily rituals):
Suprabhata Seva: Early morning awakening of the deity with Vedic hymns and Surya stotras.
Abhishekam (Holy Bath): Conducted daily with water, milk, honey, curd, and other sacred items. Palabhishekam (milk abhisheka) is particularly popular among devotees.
Archana & Alankaram: The deity is adorned with flowers, ornaments, and silk garments, accompanied by chanting of Surya Gayatri and other mantras.
Naivedyam (Food Offering): Freshly cooked food, fruits, and sweets are offered thrice a day.
Deepa Aradhana: Evening worship with oil lamps and devotional songs, followed by Harathi (aarti).
Sunday Special: Sundays are considered the holiest day for Surya worship. Special pujas and abhishekas attract huge gatherings.
Festivals and Celebrations
Ratha Saptami (Magha Sukla Saptami):
The most important festival dedicated to Lord Surya.
It symbolizes the Sun God’s chariot turning towards the northern hemisphere, marking the change of seasons.
Devotees take a sacred bath, perform Surya Namaskar, and participate in grand processions and special pujas.
Bhishma Ekadashi (Magha month):
Associated with Bhishma from the Mahabharata, who chose to leave his mortal body on this day.
Special prayers and rituals are performed to seek moksha (liberation).
Annual Kalyanotsavams (Jyeshtha month):
Celebrations of the celestial weddings of Sri Suryanarayana Swamy, Sri Lakshminarayana Swamy, and Sri Satyanarayana Swamy.
The rituals include traditional South Indian wedding ceremonies, music, and cultural festivities.
Makara Sankranti:
Harvest festival celebrated with offerings of the first crop, kites, and community feasts.
Krishna Janmashtami, Kartika Deepotsavam, and Sravana Fridays:
These festivals add vibrancy to the temple calendar, drawing devotees from across Andhra Pradesh.
The Sacred Tirtha and Pilgrimage Practices
The Thulya Bhaga river is believed to purify devotees of sins. Pilgrims often bathe here before entering the temple.
Devotees make mokkus (vows) to the deity, promising offerings or services upon fulfillment of their wishes.
Offerings include kanukas (donations), coconuts, butter lamps, and golden ornaments.
Mystical Beliefs and Significance
Healing Powers: Worship of Lord Surya here is believed to cure ailments, especially those related to eyesight, vitality, and health.
Fulfilling Wishes: Countless devotees testify that their vows are granted quickly, earning the temple a reputation as a powerful kshetra (sacred site).
Spiritual Energy: The temple’s setting, rituals, and deity’s radiance create an extraordinary aura that inspires devotion, peace, and strength.
Symbolism: Surya’s seven horses represent light, energy, and time, while his rays signify the destruction of darkness and ignorance.
Religious Importance
The temple holds the same stature in Andhra Pradesh as the Arasavalli Sun Temple, serving as a major hub for Surya worship.
It preserves ancient Vedic traditions of Surya Namaskar and Aditya Hridayam recitation.
The temple is also considered auspicious for performing graha shanti pujas to pacify planetary doshas related to the Sun.
Visitor Information
Location: Gollala Mamidada village, ~20 km from Kakinada and ~58 km from Rajahmundry.
Best Time to Visit: Early mornings for serene darshan, or during major festivals like Ratha Saptami for grandeur.
Facilities: The temple provides prasadam counters, annadanam halls, and accommodation nearby.
Accessibility: Well-connected by road from Kakinada and Rajahmundry; the nearest railway station is Samalkot Junction.
The Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple of Gollala Mamidada is more than a place of worship - it is a living tradition that binds history, culture, architecture, and devotion. From its towering gopurams to its vibrant festivals, from its tranquil natural setting to its divine rituals, the temple reflects the eternal glory of the Sun God. For devotees, it is a place where prayers are answered, health is restored, and spiritual light overcomes darkness. Truly, it stands as a radiant jewel in Andhra Pradesh’s religious and cultural heritage.
✨ A pilgrimage to Gollala Mamidada is not just a journey to a temple - it is a journey to experience the eternal brilliance of Surya Deva. 🌞
