Muchumarri Sangameswara Temple – Andhra Pradesh

Address

Muchumarri SangameswaraTemple – Andhra Pradesh

Sangameshwaram, Nandikotkur,

Andhra Pradesh 518412

Moolavar

Sangameswara

Introduction

The Sangameswara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated near Muchumarri village at the confluence of the Krishna and Bhavanasi rivers in the foreshore of the Srisailam reservoir in Kurnool District, Andhra Pradesh, India. This temple has a unique feature of remaining submerged in water for most of the year, except during the summer months when it resurfaces.

Submersion and Resurfacing: The Sangameswara Temple is known for its cyclical submersion and resurfacing. It first became submerged after the construction of the Srisailam Dam in 1981 and resurfaced in 2003 when the water level receded significantly. This cyclical nature is a result of the seasonal changes in water levels in the Srisailam reservoir.
Significance: The temple holds religious and historical significance, and it is believed to have been established by Dharmaraja, the eldest of the Pandavas, during their visit to the Srisailam Mallikarjuna temple. The temple’s wooden Lingam, known as Sangameswaram, is a focal point of worship.
Confluence of Rivers: The temple is uniquely situated at the confluence of seven rivers. These rivers are the Krishna River and five tributaries that merge into it—Veni, Tunga, Bhadra, Bheemarathi, and Malapaharini. This confluence of rivers adds to the temple’s religious sanctity.
Age of the Temple: The Sangameswara Temple is believed to be more than 1,500 years old. Its ancient roots and cyclical submersion make it a fascinating site for devotees and historians alike.
Seasonal Visibility: The temple remains visible and accessible to devotees for approximately two months during the summer when the water level in the reservoir recedes significantly. This limited timeframe allows for worship and religious activities to take place.

The Sangameswara Temple is a unique and culturally significant site due to its cyclical submersion, ancient heritage, and its location at the confluence of multiple rivers.