Bikkavolu Shiva Temple, Andhra Pradesh

Address

Bikkavolu Shiva Temple, Bikkavolu – G Mamidada Rd, Bikkavolu, Andhra Pradesh 533344

Diety

Shiva

Introduction

10th century old shiva temple and it was one of the famous temples located on East Godavari – Andra Pradesh. This temple of Lord Shiva is situated on the out skirts of Biccavolu village. It has the typical Eastern Chalukyan looks with similar features as seen in their temples but the temple is more famous for its Shiva Lingam and the architecture. It features similar central niches on the three sides and also has a sculpture of Makara and other figurines on it. One such prominent feature here in this temple is the Nataraja sculpture dancing in the Chatura pose. The temple gopuram and some idols are in dilapidated and nandi head is broken. This temple has resemblance of the Orissan style of sculpture because it follows the Lakulisas style of sculpting. The Archaeological Survey of India has undertaken the maintenance of this temple. This temple will remains closed throughout the year and they open the temple only on the maha festive eve of “Lord Shiva” on “MAHA SHIVARATHRI” held in the month of February every year.

Puranic Significance

Bikkavolu which is home to several important temples of the Eastern Chalukya period is a fine example of this style of architecture. Legend has it that, Biccavolu, which in the days of yore was known as Birudankinavolu, was named after its ruler King Gunaga Vijayaditya III who belonged to the Turupu Chalakya Vamsam. During their reign, these temples received great royal patronage. The Chalukyan, Dravidian, Nagara and the Orissa idiom are seen in the construction of temples in this southern state. Among the various dynasties that ruled over this region, the Eastern Chalukyas who ruled over Coastal Andhra had a lion’s share in shaping the destiny of the temples of East Godavari