This
Mukhalinga kshetra claims of three reputed Aalayams. -
Madhukeswaraalayam, Bhimeswaraalayam and Someswaraalayam, all built
in one place by the kings of Ganga dynasty, who ruled from this
flourishing city then called, Kalinga Nagar. Its fame spread then to
the four corners and was called, Vaijayanti Kshetra or Dakshina
Kasi. This linga has been in existence in the four yugas according
to local version and is variously called, such as Jayanteeswara in
the Krita yuga, Gokarneeswara in the Treta, Madhukeeswara in the
Dwapara and Mukhalingeeswara in the Kali yuga. There are
Ashtadikpalaka lingas in the eight corners of the main Aalaya. The
Sivalinga is white in colour, unlike the black granite ones found in
almost all places. According to legend, Lord Siva came out of a -
Ippachattu called Madhukaa in Sanskrit to save a devotee from a
Sabara king and to lift Gandharvas from a curse. Hence He is called
Madhukeswara. The goddess worshipped here is called Varahi, and is
one among the Saptamatrukas. She has a separate shrine, imposing in
appearance and sculptural adornments. She resembles Durga.
Bhimeswara
aalayam is just a hundred yards away from Madhukeswara aalayam. And
Someswara aalayam is in close proximity to it. The Sivalingas in
these two are made of black granite. Their finish and polish are of
high order displaying the excellent craftsmanship of the master
sculptor. The royalty's lavish patronage and high refinement are
peeping at every frame.
It
lies at a distance of 25 km to Parlakimidi of Srikakulam district of
Andhra Pradesh.
|