Puruhutika Devi Temple, Pithapuram

Puruhutika Devi Temple

The Puruhutika Devi Temple, located in Pithapuram, East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, is one of the eighteen Maha Shakti Peethas in India. Dedicated to Goddess Puruhutika Devi, an incarnation of Goddess Shakti, the temple holds immense religious and spiritual importance. Pilgrims believe that worshipping here grants protection, prosperity, and fulfillment of desires. The temple is nestled within the premises of the Kukkuteswara Swamy Templ

ॐ ऐं ह्रीं श्रीं पुरुहूतिकायै नमः
(Om Aim Hreem Shreem Puruhutikayai Namah)

― Puruhutika Devi Temple

making it a rare site where both Shaivism and Shaktism are worshipped together.

Mythological Significance & History

According to Hindu mythology, when Sati Devi sacrificed her life by entering the sacrificial fire at Daksha Yagna, Lord Shiva carried her body across the universe in grief. Lord Vishnu, to relieve Shiva’s sorrow, cut Sati’s body with his Sudarshana Chakra. Her left hand is believed to have fallen at Pithapuram, establishing this sacred Shakti Peetha.
The temple has been a revered site for centuries, with references in Skanda Purana and Markandeya Purana, and has been patronized by kings and devotees across different dynasties.

Significance of the Temple

Recognized as one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas, giving it pan-India spiritual prominence.
The presiding deity Puruhutika Devi is worshipped as the granter of strength, courage, and divine blessings.
The temple is also a popular site for Navratri celebrations, where thousands of devotees perform special rituals.
Being part of the Kukkuteswara Swamy Temple complex, it symbolizes the union of Shiva and Shakti.