
Sripada Vallabha Anagha Datta Kshetram
Sripada Vallabha Anagha Datta Kshetram – A Sacred Journey Through History and Devotion
Sripada Vallabha Anagha Datta Kshetram in Pithapuram is both a spiritual center and a historical treasure. It stands as a key pilgrimage spot in the Dattatreya tradition, deeply connected to the life and teachings of Sripada Sri Vallabha, the first known incarnation of Lord Dattatreya in the 14th century.
Even today, the temple remains full of divine energy. Through daily rituals, sacred fire ceremonies, spiritual festivals, and services for devotees, it continues to inspire faith and devotion. Moreover, it follows the global spiritual mission of Avadhoota Datta Peetham, led by Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji.
📍 Location and Spiritual Importance
To begin with, the temple is located in Datta Nagar, near the cattle market in Pithapuram, East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh – 533450.
More importantly, Pithapuram itself is a well-known sacred town. It is home to many powerful temples, including Kukkuteswara Swamy, Puruhutika Devi (a Shakti Peetha), and the holy Pada Gaya Sarovar. As a result, thousands of pilgrims visit every year seeking blessings and peace.
Worship and Divine Presence
This temple is dedicated to Lord Dattatreya in his form as Sripada Sri Vallabha, who was born here in the early 1300s CE. He attained samadhi (final liberation) by the age of 30, yet he is still believed to be alive as a chiranjeevi (immortal being).
In addition, devotees also worship Anagha Datta, another sacred form of Lord Dattatreya. They believe this worship helps remove sins, brings divine grace, and ultimately leads to moksha (liberation).
Furthermore, this temple connects with the broader Dattatreya lineage of saints, such as Sri Nrisimha Saraswati, Manik Prabhu, Swami Samartha of Akkalkot, and Shirdi Sai Baba, which enhances its spiritual power.
A Temple Rooted in History
Historically, the temple stands on the very spot where Sripada Sri Vallabha was born and lived. This place once belonged to his grandfather, Bapannavadhanulu.
Interestingly, the temple also features a swayambhu (self-manifested) idol of Lord Datta, along with the sacred padukas (footprints) of Sripada Sri Vallabha under an Audumbar tree—a tree often associated with Dattatreya worship.
Additionally, the temple was built in 2002 under the guidance of Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, as part of his Anagha Datta Kshetra initiative. Since then, it has become one of the main Datta temples established by his spiritual mission.
Daily Worship Schedule and Ritual Practices
Each day, the temple follows a detailed routine at the Sripada Srivallabha Mahasamsthanam nearby:
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5:00 AM – Suprabhatam (morning wake-up ritual)
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5:30 AM – Kakad Harathi and Abhishekam to the original padukas
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9:00 AM – Panchamruta Abhishekam, Harathi, Mantra Pushpa, and prasadam
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12:00 Noon – Maha Naivedyam followed by Dhoop Harathi
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5:00 PM – Evening Pradosha Pooja and Neerajana
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7:00 PM – Palanquin Seva
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8:30 PM – Final Night Harathi
Besides daily worship, the temple also conducts special fire rituals such as Maha Mrityunjaya Homam (every Thursday), Datta Mahamantra Homam, Rudrabhishekam, and Gopuja.
Festivals and Devotional Beliefs
One of the most important annual events is Govatsa Dwadashi, celebrated during the Diwali season. This day also marks the Aradhana Utsav (spiritual remembrance) of Sripada Sri Vallabha.
Moreover, many devotees take a vow by offering a coconut behind the idol. According to numerous testimonies, their wishes often get fulfilled within just three months.
Pilgrim Services and Amenities
To support pilgrims, the temple offers 13 air-conditioned and 6 non-A/C rooms, managed by Kukkuteswara Swamy Devasthanam. Additionally, many private lodges and guesthouses are available throughout the town.
Not only that, but the temple also hosts spiritual talks, bhajans, Vedic chanting sessions, and fire ceremonies, making it a hub of learning and devotion.
Part of a Global Mission
More significantly, this temple is a key part of the Avadhoota Datta Peetham founded by Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji. His mission spreads Lord Dattatreya’s teachings, music therapy, and humanitarian service across the world.
🧭 How to Reach
📍 Address:
Sri Datta Nagar,
Near Cattle Market, Agraharam,
Pithapuram, Andhra Pradesh – 533450
- Mobile Number: +91 8869250855
- Website: https://www.anaghadattakshetram.org/
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Open daily: roughly 6:30 AM to 1 PM (other timings vary with rituals).
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Ideal to align your visit with morning and evening puja timings or during the festive Govatsa Dwadashi or Datta Jayanti.