Draksharama : Often referred to as Andhra Pradesh’s “Southern Kailasa,” the holy temple of Draksharamam is a site of deep spirituality, fascinating architecture, and rich legend. One of the five sacred Pancharama Kshetras devoted to Lord Shiva, it is situated in the town of Draksharamam in the Konaseema district of Andhra Pradesh.
Legend & History Draksharama
The name “Draksharamam” (often spelled “Daksharamam”) is a composite of “Daksha” and “āraama,” meaning the “Abode of Daksha.” According to tradition, the Prajapati Daksha carried out his notorious yajña (sacrificial ceremony) here, where his daughter Sati, offended by Daksha’s contempt for Shiva, immolated herself. This site is said to have developed into a Shakti Peetha, a hallowed site where a piece of Sati’s corpse landed. It is said that Sati’s left cheek dropped at Draksharamam.
According to inscriptions, the temple was constructed during the reign of Eastern Chalukya monarch Bhima in the ninth and tenth centuries CE. The Eastern Ganga dynasty and other patrons contributed later improvements and expansions.
Padmavathi Temple Andhra Pradesh.
Story & Spiritual Significance
This is particularly significant in Saivism as one of the Pancharama Kshetras. A pilgrimage here, according to devotees, aids in achieving spiritual emancipation and cleansing. The temple’s sanctity is based on the tale of Daksha’s yajña, Sati’s self-immolation, and Shiva’s celestial dance of destruction (Tandava).
Architecture
An excellent example of Dravidian/Chalukyan temple architecture is Draksharamam, which has several mandapas (halls), lofty boundary walls, and a great shrine that houses the Shiva linga. The temple contains two prakaras (enclosures) and is roughly 12 acres in size.
Richly carved pillars, ornate entrances, and the central shrine all showcase craftsmanship. Chalukyan and Chola influences are mixed together in the styles. The sanctum linga of Lord Bhimeswara, which is reputed to be sizable and easily visible to devotees, is a noteworthy feature.
Nearby Places to Visit
- You can combine your pilgrimage with the following local attractions when you travel to Draksharamam:
- Pattiseema is a picturesque village on the Godavari River that is about 25 kilometers away. It is well-known during the Godavari Pushkaralu festival.
- After visiting a temple, Uppada Beach, which is about 85 kilometers distant, is the perfect place for a peaceful beach getaway.
- Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary: This mangrove forest sanctuary, located around 70 kilometers from Draksharamam, provides opportunities to experience nature and wildlife.
