Uragadri Sri Sri Sri Ramalinga Chowdeshwari Devi Temple is located in Chinnamusturu, part of Uravakonda town in Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh. According to belief, Chowdeshwari is a manifestation of the great Goddess (Mahadevi) and is associated with both Shakti (power) and Jyothi (light).
The temple is very old and historically significant, particularly for the Devanga community, who consider Chowdeshwari Devi their kula devata (clan goddess).
The presiding deity of the temple is Sri Ramalinga Chowdeshwari Devi, also known as Sowdeshwari. She is regarded as a powerful manifestation of Goddess Shakti and is worshiped as the protector and benefactor of the Devanga community. In some traditions, the goddess is associated with Lord Ramalingeswara (a form of Lord Shiva) as her consort. Devanga families believe that worshiping her brings protection, prosperity, and spiritual strength.
The temple features a South Indian-style structure with a main shrine for the goddess. While modest in size, it reflects the traditional design of community temples, with a simple mandapa, a courtyard for devotees, and a small gopuram above the sanctum. The deity is adorned with various alankaras (decorative dressings) during festivals, adding beauty and vibrancy to the shrine.
Long ago, the Devanga community was guided by their revered sage, Devala Maharshi, a pious and brave rishi who traveled across the land, preserving the art of weaving and spreading dharma. During one of his journeys, he was confronted by powerful demons who sought to harm him. Seeing the rishi in danger, Goddess Chowdeshwari Devi appeared in her fierce and radiant form atop the hill of Uragadri. She vanquished the demons and saved Devala Maharshi. Overjoyed by her protection, he offered prayers and established the goddess as the eternal guardian of the Devanga community.
The goddess came to be known as Sri Ramalinga Chowdeshwari Devi, combining the protective grace of Shakti with the blessings of Lord Ramalingeswara. Since then, Devanga families considered her their kula devata, performing special rituals to honor her, especially on festivals and family milestones.
A unique tradition at this temple is the Alagu Seva or Katthi Seva. Devanga men symbolically wound themselves with a sacred sword while chanting prayers to the goddess. Turmeric paste is applied to the wounds afterward, symbolizing courage, devotion, and unwavering faith. Many devotees have also reported miraculous experiences, such as divine visions, protection from troubles, and blessings of prosperity after visiting the temple.
The temple celebrates all major Devanga community festivals, including Navaratri, Chaitra Sudda Panchami, Ashadha Amavasya, Ugadi, Sankranti, Deepavali, and the annual Varusha Habba. During these occasions, the goddess is adorned in special alankaras, rituals like Alagu Seva are performed, and devotees gather to offer prayers and seek blessings. These festivals are marked by community celebrations, devotional activities, and a vibrant display of faith and tradition.
