Sky-Soaring Gopurams And Sculptures Of Timeless Devotion In Konaseema

Located in Kakinada district of Andhra Pradesh , on the banks of the Tulyabhaga (intermittent stream) tributary of the Godavari , Gollala Mamidada village is synonymous with spirituality. Amid the lush greenery of Konaseema, the towering temple gopurams that appear to touch the sky have earned this sacred place the name “Gopurala Mamidada.”

In 1889, brothers Dwarampudi Subbireddy and Ramireddy , driven by unwavering devotion to Lord Sitarama, installed small wooden idols and established a modest shrine. Over time, this temple transformed into a magnificent centre of sculpture and architecture. Today, it stands as one of the tallest temple gopurams in Andhra Pradesh , revered as a wish-fulfilling divine destination for devotees.

The temple is also known as “Chinna Bhadrachalam” due to the grand celebration of Sri Rama Navami , comparable to Bhadrachalam. The western gopuram, rising over 200 feet with 11 storeys , is the temple’s crown jewel. Depictions from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Bhagavata are carved as living sculptures, reflecting Telugu artistic brilliance. The presiding deity Kodanada Rama represents not just divinity but also the cultural and spiritual heritage of the region.

Visitors who climb the 300 steps are rewarded with panoramic views of Konaseema’s greenery. The glass mandapam (constructed in 1975) above the sanctum, featuring scenes of Sri Rama Pattabhishekham , leaves devotees mesmerised. During Sri Rama Navami, the government offering silk garments for the divine wedding ceremony of Sita Rama highlights the temple’s significance.

Alongside Lord Rama, the village also houses the Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple , established in 1920 by Kovvuri Basivireddy . Considered significant after Arasavalli, this sun temple follows Vaishnava traditions . During festivals such as Ratha Saptami and Bhishma Ekadashi , thousands of devotees visit the shrine. These twin temples together offer both spiritual fulfilment and mental peace in a serene natural setting.

Located in Pedapudi mandal of erstwhile East Godavari (now Kakinada district) , Gollala Mamidada has a history spanning over a century. In 1889, local landlords Dwarampudi brothers donated land and built a small shrine. What began with wooden idols gradually evolved into a major spiritual centre due to immense public devotion.

The village is called “Gopurala Mamidada” because of its massive gopurams. The 160-feet eastern gopuram (9 storeys) and the 200-feet western gopuram (11 storeys) are architectural marvels. Built in Dravidian style , they feature thousands of sculptures depicting various Puranic stories, with each level narrating a different mythological episode.

Due to its grand celebration of Sri Rama Navami, the temple earned the name “Chinna Bhadrachalam.” The sanctum idols of Sita Rama are considered so divine that devotees believe they feel as if they are witnessing Lord Rama of Ayodhya himself.

Built in 1975 , the glass mandapam is a unique attraction. Devotional processional idols are placed here, and reflections of the deity in mirrors create a divine visual experience. The lime sculptures and decorative artwork reflect modern sculptural craftsmanship.

The temple is located on the banks of the Tulyabhaga River , believed in tradition to be an intermittent divine stream. Its waters flow into the temple tank, where devotees perform ritual baths before darshan, continuing an age-old spiritual practice.

Another major attraction is the Sun Temple , built in 1920. The temple is surrounded by coconut groves and greenery resembling Kerala’s temple landscapes. Rituals strictly follow Vaishnava traditions , with daily recitations and prayers.

Sri Rama Navami is the most significant festival, celebrated for nine days with grandeur. The Sita Rama Kalyanam attracts large crowds. Vaikuntha Ekadashi , Ratha Saptami , and other festivals also draw thousands of devotees. Massive annadanam (community feeding) is a tradition during festival days.

Located just 20 km from Kakinada , the temple is easily accessible. Bus services are available from Rajahmundry and Amalapuram. Though accommodation facilities are limited, transport connectivity allows same-day visits. The serene village environment adds to the spiritual experience.

Gollala Mamidada is not only a spiritual centre but also a destination for architecture enthusiasts and photographers. The towering gopurams offer breathtaking views of Konaseema’s natural beauty.

The Kodanada Rama and Suryanarayana Swamy temples of Gollala Mamidada stand as jewels of Andhra Pradesh’s cultural heritage. Blending devotion, sculpture, and nature in perfect harmony, this sacred village preserves centuries of spiritual legacy and continues to shine as a timeless pilgrimage destination.