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THE
ARCHAMURTHI
The
Mula Virat is a tall, white vertical cylinder, made of marble, and
measures fifteen feet in height and two feet in breadth. Very few
are existing of this height, and even the other linga of this
abnormal height found in Draksharamam is made of black stone. This
white linga is quite unique. For offering abhishek, the priests have
to ascend a flight of steps. There is a belief current in this part
that this temple was originally Buddhist. in origin, and this linga
was an Ayaka Pillar. And there are some' more evidences, like the
white marble lotus medallion found in the ceiling etc. and they are
of Buddhist silpa models. The vimana and other mantaps are done in
the Dravidian style. Another object deserving attention and
veneration here is Lord Siva's manifestation in five lingas. They
are - Pranaveswara, Agasteswara, Kosaleswara, Someswara and
Parthiveswara. Visitors worship them all with equal fervour and
zeal.
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