The Legend of Goddess Pydithalli Ammavaru
According to local tradition and puranic belief, the presiding deity Pydithalli Ammavaru is associated with Pydimamba, a noble woman of the Vizianagaram royal lineage and the sister of King Vijaya Rama Raju of the Gajapati dynasty.
During the historic Battle of Bobbili (1757), Pydimamba is believed to have foreseen the tragic outcome through divine intuition and urged her brother to avoid war. When news of his death reached her, she is said to have given up her life in grief. Later, she appeared in the dream of a soldier, instructing him to locate her idol near the western side of a lake and build a temple there.
Following this divine message, the temple was constructed near Pedda Cheruvu (the large lake), where it stands to this day, watching over the town and its people.
Temple Setting & Deity
The temple is situated close to Vizianagaram’s bustling market area, making it easily accessible for devotees and visitors. Architecturally simple yet spiritually powerful, the temple features:
- A small garbhagriha (sanctum)
- A spacious mandapam
- A traditional gopuram
The deity is always covered with turmeric and fresh flowers, symbolizing purity, protection, and motherly grace. Tuesdays are considered especially auspicious, drawing steady crowds throughout the year.
