SAMALKOTA - KUMARARAMAM

The unique feature that greets the devotees here is the unusual height of the Sivalinga that raises from the ground floor and goes up to the third floor. So all kinds of prayer services are performed on the third floor. In this aspect it resembles three-storeyed temple of Mahakala at Ujjain. The sculptural wealth of this shrine, having been munificently endowed by the Chalukya rulers is so impressive and quite spectacular that immensity in size and mastery in craftsmanship permeates the whole complex. The five foot high Nandi, the divine vehicle of Lord Siva is quite imposing and lures the visitors invariably. And another sculptural marvel is the Balatripurasundari shrine which contains a grand mantap, called Vuyyala mantap. A black granite swing of supreme craftsmanship is housed here. It is fifteen feet above the floor and swings forward and backwards when rocked. Its architectural skill deserves high appreciation. This lies next to Kalyanamandapam. Both are worth-seeing. One more sculptural grandeur that draws the attention of the devotees is the artistry displayed in making of huge Dwarapalakas called Chanda Prachandas, standing at the entrance to garbha griha. This august Sivalinga was installed by Kumaraswamy  in the presence of Gods and Maharshis. Hence the name Kumararamam.

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