Penugonda Vasavi Kanyaka Parameshwari Kshetram, Part - 1West Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh

History
South India is the Treasure House of many temples, among them Sri Vasavi Kanyaka Parameswari temple situated in Penugonda, a town in the West Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh. The temple is a fascinating multi-colored (Gali Gopuram) seven storied tower with a beautiful architecture. This Penugonda Kshetram is considered as the 'Kasi of Vysyas' and is a holy place for Vysyas.
Kusuma Sresti or Setty was the Setty king of Vysyas also known as Pedda Setty (Elder among Settys) who's territory was a Vassal state of Vangi Desa (Vanga Kingdom), which was ruled by Vishnu Vardhana (Vimaladitya Maharaja). His capital was Penugonda (Jestasailam) city for all the 18 paraganas during 10th and 11th century A.D. He and his wife Kusumamba were considered an ideal couple and led a peaceful domestic life. They worshiped Lord Siva (Nageswara Swamy) as the part of their daily duties.
Under the guidance of Bhaskara Acharya, Virupaksha learnt the Puranas, fencing, horse riding, martial arts, archery, statecraft etc.., which were essential to rule his Territory. Vasavi learnt fine arts and mastered philosophy and was proud to be an intelligent woman.
Vishnu Vardhana
When Virupaksha attained proper age he married Ratnavati, daughter of Aridhi Setty of Aelur Town. The huge gathering thought that even Vasavi's marriage would one day also be observed with the same pomp and grandeur.
When King Vishnu Vardhana went on expedition to expand his empire, he visited Penugonda, where King Kusuma Setti received him and took him in a procession and arranged a felicitation program in the colorful auditorium. After Manamatha (God of Romance) threw his sweet arrows on him, Vimaladitya (Vishnu Vardhana) spotted Vasavi among the crowd and fell madly in love with her. He felt he could not live without her and was determined to marry her. He sent a minister to enquire about her. The desire of Vishnuvardhana (Vimaladitya) was like a death blow to Kusuma sresty. He was neither in a position to accept it nor to deny. The fact that the Emperor was already married, was much older, the difference in caste and the fact that he was not in a position to prevent this from occurring all caused extreme stress for Kusuma Setti.
He discussed these issues with his closest family and friends and they unanimously decided to let Vasavi decide. Vasavi frankly expressed her desire to be a Virgin throughout her life and intended not to concentrate on worldly matters.
Kusuma Setti sent a denial message to king Vishnuvardhana. The king was furious and sent a Battalion with orders to attack mercilessly and to get Vasavi for him. The brave Komti's of Penugonda by using the techniques of Sama, Daana, Bheda and finally Danda, defeated Vishnuvardana's army.
Community reaction
At this crucial juncture, Kusuma Sresti called for Great Conference of the Chief of all the 18 cities and the leaders of all 714 Gotras in the presence of Komati Kula Guru Bhaskara Acharya.
In the conference, there was difference of opinion. The Chiefs of 102 Gotras made a firm decision thought that "Those who are born must die and cowards die many times before their death but the valiant taste death but once. Even if the opponent is stronger, can't the spark burn a heap of straw? Hence, let us fight for a good cause. Whereas, the leaders of the other 612 Gotras felt that the matrimonial alliance would be safer and more beneficial."
Bhaskara Acharya said: "We must safeguard our respect even at the cost of our lives". These words acted as a catalyst for Kusuma Sresti. Even though they formed a minority he was determined not to give his daughter Vasavi in marriage to the king. With this incident, the unity of the Komti's was broken. The Emperor, like an injured Cobra, took the lead of his huge army with strong determination to destroy his opponents. In Penugonda necessary arrangements were made with the supporters of the 102 Gotras to face the consequence.
Vasavi Devi's reaction
Vasavi entered into scene and said: "Why should there be bloodshed among us for the sake of a Girl? Why sacrifice the lives of soldiers for our selfish desire. It is better to give up the idea of war. Instead, let us rebel in a novel way. We can control war through non-violence and self-sacrifice. Only people with strong will power and moral strength can participate in this kind of self- sacrifice. Vasavi's new idea was delightful to her parents and they decided to act in accordance with Vasavi's directions.
Athma Balidana
As per the directions of Vasavi, at the holy place of Brahmakunda on the banks of Godavari, the royal servants arranged 103 Agnikundas (fire pits) in a special way. The whole city was observing that day as a festival day. Then Vasavi asked the couples of the 102 Gotras: "Will you plunge into this holy fire along with me?" Every one of them whole heartedly gave their consent. They suspected Vasavi must be an incarnation of God and requested her to show her real nature or swarupa.

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