Sri Venkateswara Temple, Kasibugga (Chinna Tirupati)
The magnificent Sri Venkateswara Temple in Palasa, covering over 12 acres in the Kasibugga area, is a grand, newly built shrine inspired by Tirumala. Constructed by a local devotee to fulfill a deep spiritual desire, it has quickly become a major modern pilgrimage landmark in the region, affectionately known as “Chinna Tirupati” (Mini-Tirupati).
The Story of Devotion
The temple owes its existence to the profound devotion of its founder, Hari Mukund Panda (an elderly resident of the town). Legend holds that after an unsatisfactory darshan (glimpse) of the Lord Venkateswara at the original Tirumala temple, his mother advised him to build a temple in their village so that he—and others who could not travel or endure the long queues—could experience the Lord’s presence locally.
Tirumala Replica
Built entirely on private land using the founder’s own resources, the temple was meticulously designed to mirror the architecture, rituals, and traditions of the Tirumala shrine.
- Main Deity: The sanctum houses a stunning, life-sized, nine-foot, single-stone idol of Lord Venkateswara, modeled after the deity in Tirumala, accompanied by separate sanctums for consorts Sree Devi and Bhu Devi.
- Architecture: The design showcases traditional Dravidian temple architecture, blending it with local styles, all set within a sprawling complex that includes coconut groves and orchards.
Pilgrimage Significance
The temple’s mission is to provide an accessible and peaceful darshan experience to devotees in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Southern Odisha. It has gained immense popularity, especially during auspicious days like Karthika Ekadashi, drawing large crowds who seek to receive the blessings of Lord Venkateswara closer to home.