Bhimavaram Sri Someswara Temple: Nestled in the spiritual heart of Andhra Pradesh, the Someswara Temple in Bhimavaram is a revered Pancharama Kshetra, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This sacred site, one of the five Shiva temples with a single Shivalinga as their origin, stands out for its amazing features and religious importance. Let us talk about the divine aura, the architectural wonders, and the artistic importance of this ancient temple.
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Religious Significance
As the third Pancharama Kshetra, Someswara Temple carries a special place in the hearts of devotees, especially Shaivites. The chief deity, Shiva as Someswara Swamy, along with his consort Rajarajeswari, graces the sanctum. The Shivalinga, believed to be initiated by Chandra Bhagawan, shows a remarkable phenomenon. Its color changes with lunar conditions, appearing white during a full moon (Poornima) and black during nights (Amavasya). The temple complex also houses shrines devoted to different deities, including Rama, Hanumana, Adilakshmi, Anjaneya Swamy, Kumara Swamy, Surya, Ganesha, Navagraha, and Nandi.
Temple Timings
Devotees can seek the blessings of Someswara Swamy during the morning darshan from 5:00 am to 11:00 am and the evening darshan from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
Architecture
Dating back to the 3rd century AD, the Someswara Temple boasts a grand opening gopuram and an array of halls showcasing detailed sculptures and paintings. The main hall, decorated with a large Nandi murti, resonates with the divine existence of Bhagawan Shiva and Rajarajeswari Devi. A unique 15m tall pillar stands in front of the gopuram, adding to the architectural charm. Modern touches in the form of paintings and sculptures beautifully complement the temple’s ancient design.
How to Reach
For pilgrims traveling to Bhimavaram, both air and rail options are available. The nearest airports are in Vijayawada and Rajahmundry, while Bhimavaram has its railway station just 2 km from the temple. State transport buses provide convenient road travel opportunities to and from Bhimavaram.
Festivals Celebrated
The Someswara Temple comes alive during major festivals, including the grand Mahashivaratri celebration in February/March and the rich Sarannavaratri festivities in September/October. These events provide devotees with the opportunity to participate in special rituals and experience the divine energy that pervades the holy grounds of the temple.
At The End
The Someswara Temple in Bhimavaram stands as proof of spiritual devotion, architectural brilliance, and the mystical interplay of lunar phases. Pilgrims visiting this sacred place not only witness the unique phenomenon of the color-changing Shivalinga but also engage themselves in the rich cultural legacy and religious passion that define the Someswara Temple experience.