Kumararama Temple: The Kumararama temple stands as one of the most revered shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva in Andhra Pradesh. Carrying the admirable position of being the fifth temple in the revered Pancharama Kshetra circuit. Named Kumararamam after Kumaraswamy, the deity credited with establishing the Shiva Linga here. The temple pays tribute to Bhagawan Shiva, with reverence also extended to the divine feminine power. Goddess Bala Tripura Sundari Devi.
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Kumararama Temple
The shrine houses an impressive Shivalinga crafted entirely from limestone. Towering at a height of sixteen feet and distinguished by its pure white hue, making it truly one-of-a-kind. Drawing parallels with the Draksharama temple, it is usually referred to as its twin. The Linga rises majestically from the ground. Penetrating the roof and extending through the second storey where the Rudrabhaga is venerated.
Renowned as the “door to the Sun,” the main entrance, Surya Dwaram, adds to the temple’s fame. Additionally, the temple boasts the presence of the Eka Sila Nandi figure, an intricately carved stone representation. Positioned opposite the Shivalinga at the entrance. The temple also glorifies the Kal Bhairav deity. The picturesque Lake Pushrani extends its beauty from the temple’s mandap, situated to the east.
Located in Samarlakota, within the East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh, approximately 10 km from Kakinada and a mere 1 km from Samarlakota town. The Kumararama Bhimeswara Swami Temple carries immense religious significance. As part of the Pancharama Kshetras of Bhagawan Shiva, it shares this revered status with temples like Amararama at Amaravati, Draksharama at Draksharama, Ksheerarama at Palakollu, and Somarama at Bhimavaram.
Religious importance is profoundly embedded in the temple’s identity, being one of the revered Pancharama Kshetras. The Shaivites hold these temples in the highest regard, adding to the religious enthusiasm connected with the Kumararama temple. According to Puranic traditions, this temple is designated as a ‘Yogakshetram,’ representing that only those devotees blessed by the divine are given the privilege to visit.
The temple opens its doors during specific times:
- Morning: 6.00 A.M. – 12 Noon
- Evening: 4.00 P.M. – 8.00 P.M.
Different rituals and pujas are conducted, including Saswatha Abhishekam, Saswatha Prasadam, Prasadam, and Abhishekam. Each offering a special spiritual experience to the devotees. The temple’s historical roots date back to 892 CE when the Chalukya Kings initiated its construction to commemorate 300 military triumphs. Completed in 922 CE, the temple was commissioned by King Chalukya Bhima, gaining the name Kumara Swamy Bheemeswara.
Architecturally, the Kumararama temple is a marvel, showcasing detailed craftsmanship that has lasted over time. The temple features a mandapam supported by a hundred pillars, with the distinctive ‘Koneti’ mandapa on the eastern side. A notable element is the Eka Shila Nandi, a bull statue carved from a single stone, guarding the Atma Linga. The temple, with its two-level rectangular construction, displays beautiful apsaras sculpted on its pillars. The Surya Dwaram, a standalone structure within the inner chamber, acts as the primary entrance.
How To reach the Temple:
- By Air: The closest domestic airport is in Rajahmundry, with the international airport in Vishakapatnam.
- By Rail: Samarlakota is on the Vijayawada-Howrah railway line, with the nearest railway station being Kakinada, 12 km away.
- By Road: Samarlakota is well-connected by road, with bus services from different cities, located 15 km from Kakinada, 49 km from Rajahmundry, and 125 km from Visakhapatnam.
The temple celebrates different festivals throughout the year, including Maha Shiva Ratri in February–March, Saran Nava Rathrulu – Dessara for 10 days, and Karthika Masam in October–November.