Satyavolu Ramalingeswara Temple, Andhra Pradesh

Address

Satyavolu Ramalingeswara Temple, Andhra Pradesh

Satyavolu, Kurnool – Ongole Main Rd,

Satyavolu village, Prakasam district,

Andhra Pradesh 523356

Moolavar

Ramalingeswara

Introduction

Ramalingeswara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, located at Satyavolu village in Prakasam district in Andhra Pradesh, India. The temple is situated at about 3 Kms from Anantapur – Tadipatri – Guntur route after crossing Giddalur.

Puranic Significance

This temple was built by Badami Chalukyas during 6th – 7th Century CE. This temple was partly damaged during the Muslim invasion.

According to the legend, Lord Rama incurred the Brahmahatya dosha, a spiritual impurity, as a consequence of slaying Ravana, the demon king of Sri Lanka. To absolve himself of this dosha, Lord Rama installed Shiva Lingas in several locations across India. The Shiva Linga within the temple you mentioned is regarded as one of these installations. Consequently, Lord Shiva came to be known as Ramalingeswara, signifying his connection to Lord Rama and the act of purifying Lord Rama’s Brahmahatya dosha.

Special Features

The temple faces eastward, and immediately upon entering, come across the Dhwaja Sthambam (flag post). The Sanctum encompasses the Sanctum, Antrala, Maha Mandapa, and Mukha Mandapa. Within the Sanctum, Shiva Linga placed on a square pitha (platform), and this sacred space is guarded by Dvarapalas (door guardians). Notably, at the entrance of the temple, there is a footprint believed to belong to Lord Shiva, adding to the temple’s reverence and significance.

References

https://hindutemples-india.blogspot.com/2021/05/ramalingeswara-temple-satyavolu-andhra-pradesh.html