Sri Rama Navami is a festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Rama. Marked by grand festivities, the day also celebrates the Sita-Rama Kalyanam across temples dedicated to Lord Rama. Usually, this celestial wedding is performed at noon. However a unique tradition being followed at the Vontimitta Kodandarama Swamy temple in Andhra Pradesh, sets it apart from other temples of Rama.
The Kalyanam at Vontimitta is always conducted at night, and a day before the full moon day. The reason behind this is an endearing legend associated with Lord Rama’s childhood. As a young boy, Rama had a deep affection for Chandra, the moon. He would not eat without first at him. In turn, Chandra too developed a fondness for Rama.
Temple view in the evening
Since the Kalyanam typically occurs at noon, Chandra, who is not visible during daylight, would miss the opportunity to witness it. To ensure Chandra would also watch it, the priests at Vontimitta made it a practice to conduct the Kalyanam at night. This unique tradition makes Vontimitta the only place where the Sita-Rama Kalyanam is celebrated under the moonlit sky, paying homage to the deep bond between Lord Rama and Chandra. As a result, the Kalyanam at this temple does not always coincide with the exact date of the festival.
Located about 25 km from Kadapa, the Vontimitta Kodandarama Swamy temple draws many devotees to witness this beautiful tradition.
Pic credits: Srikanth Vaddi, Vamsy
