Hattarsang Sri Harihareshwar Temple, Maharashtra

Address

Hattarsang Sri Harihareshwar Temple, Hattarsang Kudal, Solapur Maharashtra 413008

Diety

Sri Harihareshwar

Introduction

The Harihareshwar Temple in Solapur district, Maharashtra, is an ancient temple of great historical and religious significance.

Location: The temple is situated in the village of Hattarsang-Kudal in Solapur district, Maharashtra. It is located at the confluence of the Bheema River and Seena River.

Construction Period: The Harihareshwar Temple was built in the 11th century, specifically in the year 1018 AD. It was constructed during the time of the Chalukyas of Kalyani.

Deity Worship: What makes this temple unique is that it is one of the very few places where both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu are worshiped together. The temple is dedicated to both deities and serves as a place of dual worship.

Bahumukhi Shivalingam: The temple houses a remarkable Shivalingam known as “Bahumukhi Shivalingam.” This lingam has exceptional features, with a height of 1.99 meters, a circumference of 4 meters, and an astonishing weight of 4000 kg. It is known for having 359 faces, representing Lord Shiva and several other gods.

Temple Architecture: The temple’s architecture is impressive and comprises different sections, including Mukhmandapa (entrance hall), Ardhmandapa (half hall), Rangmandap (colorful hall), Antarala (vestibule), and Garbhgriha (sanctum sanctorum). One notable aspect is that the temple was constructed without the use of cement and sand.

Sculptures and Design: The temple is adorned with various sculptures that are both within the temple and scattered around its premises. Some of the sculptures depict Lord Kalbhairava, a woman with one face and five bodies, Lord Krishna playing with Gopiyas, Kaliyamardan, snakes, and intricate designs on the walls and pillars.

The Harihareshwar Temple is a place of great historical and architectural significance, attracting devotees and visitors who come to admire its unique features and experience the dual worship of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The Bahumukhi Shivalingam, with its exceptional size and characteristics, is a major highlight of the temple.