Pancharamlau or Pancharama are the five temples dedicated to
Mahadev Shiva that is visited during the Kartik Month (Karthika Masam) as per
traditional Telugu Hindu calendar followed in Andhra Pradesh. The temples are
located in Andhra Pradesh.
The Pancharama Temples are:
Sri Bheemeswara Swamy at Draksharamam,
Sri Amaralingeswara Swamy at Amaravathi,
Sri Kumara Bheemeswaraswamy at Samarlakot,
Sri Someswara Swamy at Bhimavaram and
Sri Ksheraramalingeswara Swamy Devastanam at Palakol
Mondays in the month of Kartik are considered highly
auspicious for propitiating Shiva. Those wishing for early marriage perform
special pujas and observe vrat on Mondays.
The Pancharama temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva, are an
important pilgrimage circuit in Andhra Pradesh, particularly revered during the
Kartik month (Karthika Masam) according to the traditional Telugu Hindu
calendar. Visiting these temples during this auspicious period is believed to
bring blessings and fulfillment of desires. Here is an expanded overview of the
Pancharama temples:
Sri Bheemeswara Swamy at Draksharamam
- Location: Draksharamam, East Godavari district
- Significance: This temple is also known as Dakshina Kasi (Southern Varanasi) and is one of the oldest Shiva temples in South India. It is associated with the legend of Daksha Yagna and Sati's self-immolation.
- Special Features: The temple is famous for its impressive architecture, intricate carvings, and the massive Shiva Lingam made of a single stone.
Sri Amaralingeswara Swamy at Amaravathi
- Location: Amaravathi, Guntur district
- Significance: Situated on the banks of the Krishna River, this temple is believed to have been established by Lord Indra. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India.
- Special Features: The Shiva Lingam here is said to have grown in height over time, symbolizing the infinite nature of Shiva.
Sri Kumara Bhimeswara Swamy at Samalkot
- Location: Samalkot (Samalkota), East Godavari district
- Significance: Known for its historical significance, this temple was built during the Chalukya dynasty and showcases their architectural style.
- Special Features: The Lingam here is unique for its vertical fissure, and the temple complex is adorned with sculptures and inscriptions from the Chalukya era.
Sri Someswara Swamy at Bhimavaram
- Location: Bhimavaram, West Godavari district
- Significance: Also known as Somarama, this temple is associated with the moon god, Chandra, who is believed to have worshipped Shiva here to be relieved from a curse.
- Special Features: The temple is noted for its towering gopuram and the sacred pond known as Chandrakundam.
Sri Ksheraramalingeswara Swamy Devastanam at Palakol
- Location: Palakol, West Godavari district
- Significance: Known as Ksheerarama, this temple's name signifies the milk-like appearance of the Lingam, and it is one of the Pancharama Kshetras.
- Special Features: The temple is distinguished by its tall, whitewashed gopuram and its serene environment.
Special Observances during Kartik Month (Karthika Masam)
- Auspicious Mondays: Mondays during Kartik are considered highly auspicious for worshipping Lord Shiva. Devotees perform special pujas and offer prayers seeking blessings for various life aspirations, including early marriage.
- Rituals and Vrats: Devotees observe fasts (vrats) and participate in rituals like Abhishekam (ritual bathing of the Shiva Lingam), lighting oil lamps, and reciting Shiva stotras (hymns). These practices are believed to purify the soul and bring divine grace.
- Pilgrimage: Visiting all five Pancharama temples during Kartik is considered particularly meritorious. Devotees believe that undertaking this pilgrimage can lead to the fulfillment of their wishes and spiritual upliftment.
The Pancharama temples not only hold religious significance
but are also important cultural and historical landmarks, attracting devotees
and tourists alike. Their unique legends, architectural grandeur, and the
spiritual atmosphere make them a cherished part of Andhra Pradesh's heritage.