Panagal Pachala Someswara Temple- Telangana

Address

Panagal Pachala Someswara Temple- Panagal, Nalgonda district, Telangana 508001

Diety

Pachala Someswara

Introduction

The Pachala Someswara Temple is a prominent Saivite temple situated in Panagal, a village located in the Nalgonda district of Telangana, India. This temple is known for its historical and architectural significance and serves as a popular pilgrimage destination, especially during the festival of Maha Shivaratri.

Architectural Features:

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is recognized for its unique idol of the deity, which is carved out of green onyx. This distinctive feature gives the temple its name, as “Pacha” in Telugu means “green.”
The temple features a remarkable architectural design and is known for its exquisite carvings and sculptures. It stands as a testament to the artistic and architectural skills of its builders.

Historical Significance:

The Pachala Someswara Temple dates back to the 11th to 12th centuries CE. It is believed to have been constructed during the rule of the Kunduru Chodas and Prataparudra I of the Kakatiya Empire, who governed the Panagal region during that period.

Temple Layout:

The temple has a unique ground plan, which sets it apart from other shrines in the Telangana region. It consists of four shrines, with three of them arranged on the western side and one on the eastern side, along with a common and large rectangular mandapam.

Main Deity and Linga:

The primary deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, who is represented in the form of a Linga made from green onyx stone. This distinctive Linga gives rise to the name “Pachala Someswara,” where “Pachala” refers to the green stone.
The temple also features a Nandi (sacred bull) situated at the end of a pillared hall, facing the presiding deity, Lord Pachala Someswara.

Intricate Carvings and Sculptures:

The Pachala Someswara Temple boasts an impressive array of 70 pillars adorned with intricate carvings. These carvings depict stories and scenes related to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, as well as episodes from ancient Indian epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

Historical Legends:

According to one legend, beneath the radiant Lingam in the temple, there used to be a massive and brilliant emerald. This precious gem was said to have been stolen during various Islamic raids in the region.

The Pachala Someswara Temple is not only a site of religious importance but also a remarkable piece of architecture that provides insight into the cultural and artistic heritage of the region. With its unique green onyx Linga, impressive carvings, and rich history, the temple continues to draw visitors and devotees from far and wide.