Doddeswara Temple – (Hemavathi Group of Temples), Andhra Pradesh

Address

Doddeswara Temple – (Hemavathi Group of Temples), Andhra Pradesh

Hemavathi Village, Anantapur District,

Andhra Pradesh 515286

Moolavar

Doddeswara

Introduction

Doddeswara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the Hemavathi Group of temples complex, in Hemavathi Village in Anantapur District in Andhra Pradesh, India. Hemavathi is situated on the border of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The temple is situated on Hiriyur to Madakasira route.

Puranic Significance

Hemavathi is home to a remarkable group of temples built between 8th and 10th century AD under the reign of the Nolamba Dynasty. It is believed that Chola Emperor Rajendra Chola was so impressed with the massive and intricately carved pillars of Doddeswara Temple.

Special Features

The temple has been classified as a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The Doddeswara Temple is oriented towards the east and features a remarkable Nandi statue made of black basalt granite. This Nandi is an impressive 8 feet in length and stands at a height of 4 feet. It is housed within a six-pillared mandapa on a raised platform, and it faces the Sanctum. The main deity, known as Doddeswara, is enshrined within the Sanctum in the form of a Linga, which stands about 6 feet tall. Opposite to this temple, there is a stepped well, and in the vicinity, you can find several Naga Idols and Hero Stones, contributing to the historical and cultural significance of the area.

References

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2021/05/hemavathi-group-of-temples-andhra-pradesh.html