Vundavelli - Channakesavaswamy Aalayam

Channakesava is one among the Chaturvimsati - 24 forms and names of Sri Mahavishnu. Each name has a distinct meaning and every syllable spells a definite drift. When combined they embody rich signification that surprises the readers. The connotation differs from denotation, as the latter owns not the allusion intended deliberately. Deep probe alone throws up both import and purport of the word. That is the beauty of sanskrit language and hence its claim for primacy and the title - Mother of languages. This form of Mahavishnu invariably holds conch in his right hand and disc in the left. If equipped with these potent weapons, the form is to be named Kesava. In the word, Channakesava.  The prefix Channa signifies the infinite beauty, better say hypnotizing handsomeness. Whenever the name Channakesava is uttered, there must flash across the minds the mesmerizing form of Vishnu holding conch in the right hand and disc in the left. The makers of icons of any material whatsoever, bear this basic fact in their minds and fashion it according to the well-defined cannons.

The sthalapurana of this ancient kshetra is quite gripping and enhances the sanctity of the place. It is said that when Parasuram, the impetuous, ebullient young chick severed his mother's head at the behest of his father Jamadagni with his mighty Parasu, the Kabandha, the body sans head fell at this place making it holier. So it is called Helamba kshetra, means thereby it is Yellamma's holy region - Yellamma is the colloquial name for Renuka, the mother of Parasuram. In this sacrosanct place, a beautiful temple for Chennakesava was built in the past. It contains all the essential temple parts. Here the archamurti is made of black granite and holds conch in the right hand and disc in the left. Perhaps to be consonant with the meaning, the icon is sculptured extremely beautiful and enthralls the viewers. The temple contains many mini-shrines for the parivaradevathas.

Though there are other shrines here, like Anjaneyaalayam, Helamba Alayam, this Channakesavalayam exerts greater pull, and so a steady stream of visitors every day, besides thousands during the annual festival falling in Pushya masa and it lasts for four days. Agamic worship is offered every day.

It lies 5 km off Alampur station on the Kurnool-Bombay broad guage line buses, from Kurnool town are available always.

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