Kovela Temple
In Narsapuram, the temple often referred to simply as the “Kovela Temple” is the Sri Adikesava Embermannar Swamy Temple, a highly revered Vaishnavite shrine known for its deep roots in the Sri Vaishnavism tradition and its connection to the philosopher Saint Ramanuja.
1. The Divine Connection (Abhinava Bhootapuri)
- Primary Deities: Lord Vishnu (as Sri Adikesava Perumal), along with his consorts Sreedevi and Bhudevi, and Sri Emberumanar (an honorary name for Saint Ramanuja).
- Significance: The temple is celebrated as Abhinava Bhootapuri (New Bhootapuri). Its architecture, layout, and strict ritual practices are a faithful replication of the Sri Adikesava Perumal Koil in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, which is the sacred birthplace of Saint Ramanuja.
2. Historical & Cultural Roots
- Founder: The temple was constructed over 200 years ago (around 1786 AD) by Sri Prasannagresara Puppala Ramanappa Naidu, a local who worked as a translator for the British East India Company.
- Guru Dakshina: Naidu built the temple as a Guru Dakshina (offering to his teacher) following instructions to replicate the Sriperumbudur shrine in Narsapuram.
- Tamil Heritage: To maintain authenticity, families of Sri Vaishnava priests migrated from Sriperumbudur, ensuring that the temple’s daily services and rituals adhere precisely to the South Indian (Tamil) traditions.
3. Unique Features
- Goddess Lakshmi’s Name: The Goddess is uniquely named Sree Yatirajanathavalli Thayar. The name is attributed to a devotee of the Lord, giving her the status of a Varaprasadi (one who grants wishes).
- Aasanam: The altar of Sri Emberumanar Swamy is known as Bhadravedi or Thrivedi, symbolizing Saint Ramanuja’s philosophical authority.
4. Major Festivals
The temple celebrates several important festivals throughout the year, drawing many devotees, particularly during:
- Ramanuja Utsavam: A 12-day festival held in April/May to commemorate the life and teachings of Saint Ramanuja.
- Brahmotsavam: Major annual festival with processions and special rituals.