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Swayambhu Lingam
The subterranean sanctum houses the self-manifested Bala Subrahmanyeswara lingam resting on its original anthill base.
Sri Subrahmanyeswara Swamy – Mopidevi Kshetra Mahatmyam
Blessed by Sage Agastya’s southern pilgrimage, Mopidevi remains a revered shrine of Bala Subrahmanya — renowned for serpent harmony, Shanti Kalyanam, and blessings of progeny and wellness.
Temple History
Skanda Purana Reference
The Sahyadri Khanda of the Skanda Purana acclaims Mopidevi as “the foremost Kumara Kshetra to the east of Vyagrapuram where Lord Subrahmanya grants both bhukti and mukti.” Sage Agastya is credited with revealing this sacred site.
Agastya’s Southward Journey
Responding to the devas’ plea for universal welfare, Agastya departed Kashi with Lopamudra and headed south. On the way he instructed the proud Vindhya mountain to remain bowed until his return—a symbol of humility in service of dharma.
The Vision at Vyagrapuram
Travelling along the Krishna river, the sage noticed a radiant presence east of Vyagrapuram (present-day Puligadda). Serpents, peacocks and mongooses lived together in harmony, which he described as a sign of peace, equality, kundalini energy and higher wisdom.
Subrahmanya’s Penitent Tapas
Tradition narrates that the Lord later performed penance here in serpent form to expiate a minor lapse. To keep the penance hidden he filled the landscape with anthills, imbuing the land with serpent-friendly energy.
Devotee Veeravrapu Parvathalu
Centuries later the self-manifested lingam remained concealed until the devout potter Veeravrapu Parvathalu dreamt of the Lord, excavated the anthill and re-established worship with daily clay offerings.
From Mohinipuram to Mopidevi
The region once called “Mohinipuram” for its ability to enchant devotees eventually became “Mopidevi,” a name that continues to draw pilgrims seeking the Lord’s grace.
Key Highlights
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Blessings for Marriage & Progeny
Devotees observe Shanti Kalyanam for marriage prospects, while childless couples seek the Lord’s grace for progeny and family harmony.
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Wellness & Healing
Many testimonies credit the Lord with alleviating eyesight ailments, skin conditions and persistent ear disorders.
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Milk Offering at Anthill
Pouring milk over the sacred anthill is considered supremely meritorious. Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Nagula Chavithi, Skanda Shashti and Kartika Masam attract massive crowds.
Mopidevi Through Time
- Agastya’s Pilgrimage
The sage identified the eastern stretch of Vyagrapuram as the serenity-filled abode of Subrahmanya, symbolising kundalini energy and spiritual equality.
- Lord’s Serpent Penance
To correct a minor lapse, the Lord performed penance in serpent form, surrounding the land with anthills and infusing it with divine serpent harmony.
- Devotee Parvathalu
Following a dream directive, the potter devotee excavated the hidden lingam and reinstated worship, offering clay-crafted tokens every day.
- Modern Era
Rahu–Ketu rituals, serpent-dosha services and improved travel facilities have transformed Mopidevi into a major pilgrimage centre.
Legends & Lore
The Lord’s penance in serpent form is remembered as the reason serpents, peacocks and even mongooses coexist peacefully around Mopidevi — a phenomenon Agastya witnessed and explained.
The tradition of performing milk abhishekam over the anthill keeps alive the memory of the hidden swayambhu lingam and the Lord’s secret tapas.
Worship & Services
Devotees seek the Lord’s grace for a variety of blessings. Core services include:
- Scheduled Rahu–Ketu shanti rituals to remedy serpent-related doshas.
- Milk offerings and naga-bandha installations at the sacred anthill.
- Shanti Kalyanam, child-ear piercing ceremonies and vows for progeny and peace.
- Special prayers for education, prosperity, health and overall wellbeing.
Visitor Information
Daily darshan is available; plan travel and puja bookings ahead, especially during festive days.
Timings
5:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM.
Travel
- Frequent buses operate from Vijayawada, Avanigadda and Machilipatnam.
- Repalle railway station (approx. 15 km away) provides onward autos and taxis.
- Private vehicles can approach via NH-216 across the Krishna delta belt.
Helpful Tips
- Festival crowds can be intense—pre-book accommodation and puja slots.
- Milk, flowers and other offerings are readily available near the temple.
- Check the temple information desk for current seva schedules and tickets.
Mopidevi continues to bless devotees seeking marriage, progeny, health and serenity. The living traditions surrounding the sacred anthill keep the kshetra’s ancient legacy vibrant.