🌸 History of Sri Vasavi Kanyaka Parameshwari
The Sri Vasavi Kanyaka Parameswari temple is situated in Penugonda, a town in West Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh. This Penugonda Kshetram is considered the Kasi of Vysyas and is a holy place for all Vysyas.
👑 The Kingdom of Penugonda
Kusuma Sresti (the Setty king of Vysyas) and his wife Kusumamba ruled Penugonda during the 10th-11th century AD. He was the Elder among Settys whose territory was a Vassal state of Vengi desha, ruled by Vishnu Vardhana.
🙏 The Puthra Kamesti Yaga
Though married for many years, they had no children. Their Kula Guru Bhaskar Acharya advised them to perform Puthra Kamesti Yaga. The Gods were pleased and Kusumamba became pregnant. She gave birth to twins on Vaishaka Shuddha Dashami.
🌸 Birth of Vasavi Devi
The male child was named Virupaksha and the female Vasavamba (Vasavi). Vasavi was an incarnation of goddess Adiparashakthi. While Virupaksha learnt martial arts and statecraft, Vasavi mastered fine arts, music and philosophy. She was devoted to Lord Shiva and wished to remain a virgin.
👁️ Emperor Vishnuvardhana's Desire
When King Vishnu Vardhana visited Penugonda, he saw Vasavi and fell deeply in love with her. He sent a minister demanding her hand in marriage. This was a shock to King Kusumasresty — the Emperor was already married, much older, and of different faith.
⚔️ The Great Conference of 714 Gotras
Kusumasresti called a Great Conference of the chiefs of all 18 cities and leaders of all 714 Gotras. The chiefs of 102 Gotras decided to fight for dignity. The leaders of the other 612 Gotras felt that matrimonial alliance would be safer. Vasavi chose a third path — non-violence.
🕊️ Vasavi's Path of Non-Violence
Vasavi said: "Why should there be bloodshed among ourselves for the sake of a Girl? We can control war through non-violence and self-sacrifice. Only people with strong will power and moral strength can participate." She then revealed her true divine form as Adiparashakthi with 18 arms.
🔥 Atmarpana — The Sacred Sacrifice (Magha Shuda Padyami)
At Brahmakunda on the banks of Godavari, 103 Agnikundas were arranged. Vasavi and couples from all 102 Gotras entered the sacred fire. Vasavi emerged as Kanyaka Parameshwari and preached social righteousness, love, peace and non-violence. When Vishnuvardhana heard the news, he died of shock.
🏛️ Legacy — Lingala Veedhi & 102 Shivalingas
The sons of the 102 Gotra couples went to Kasi, brought 102 Shivalingas and installed them in Penugonda. That street is known as LINGALA VEEDHI to this day. From that day, all Komatis worship Vasavi as Komatikula Devatha — Vasavi Kanyaka Parameshwari.