Sri Mukhalingam, Srikakulam
Sri Mukhalingam, historically known as Kalinganagari, is a village in Andhra Pradesh, India, notable for its group of three ancient Śaiva temples. It served as the capital of the Eastern Ganga dynasty from the 6th to the 12th century CE, with its temples dating between the late eighth and early eleventh centuries.
Key Facts
- ›Located on the left bank of the Vamsadhara river.
- ›Served as the capital of the Eastern Ganga dynasty from the 6th to the 12th century.
- ›Features three principal Śaiva temples: Madhukeshwara, Someswara, and Bhimeswara.
- ›Temples are dated between the late eighth and early eleventh centuries CE.
- ›The principal temple was built under the patronage of Eastern Ganga King Kamarnava Deva II.
- ›Annual Chakratirtha Snana attracts lakhs of pilgrims from Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.
Shiva
- Former Capital of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty
- Site of Ancient śAiva Temples
- Important Pilgrimage Destination For Chakratirtha Snana
Eastern Ganga Dynasty
Chakratirtha Snana
Kamarnava Deva Ii
Vamsadhara River
About Sri Mukhalingam, Srikakulam
Sri Mukhalingam, a village historically known as Kalinganagari, is situated in the Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh, India. Renowned for its cluster of ancient Śaiva temples, the site also holds significant historical importance as the erstwhile capital of the powerful Eastern Ganga dynasty, which flourished from the 6th to the 12th century CE.
Religious Significance
The village is home to three principal Śaiva temples: Madhukeshwara, Someswara, and Bhimeswara. These temples have been a subject of scholarly debate regarding their precise construction dates, with historians generally placing their origins between the late eighth and early eleventh centuries CE. The Madhukeshwara shrine, in particular, is considered the principal temple, with historical accounts indicating its construction under the patronage of King Kamarnava Deva II of the Eastern Ganga dynasty. The name "Mukhalingam" itself is thought to be derived from "Madhu[ka]linga" or possibly from the Sanskrit "Mukha" (face) due to a faceted linga, or from "Mudu-Kalingam," a Telugu translation of "Tri-Kalinga," signifying its importance in the three-part Kalinga region.
Historical Context
Sri Mukhalingam served as the dynastic capital for the Eastern Ganga rulers for several centuries. The dynasty's influence waned in the region, and by 1122 CE, King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva shifted the capital from Kalinganagari to Kataka (modern Cuttack). Despite the capital's relocation, Sri Mukhalingam continued to be a site of religious importance. Later renovations to the temple complex were undertaken in the 17th century by the Maharaja of the Paralakhemundi Estate.
Pilgrimage and Accessibility
Today, Sri Mukhalingam remains an active religious site and a significant pilgrimage destination. The village is located on the left bank of the Vamsadhara river. A major annual event is the Chakratirtha Snana, a holy bath that draws hundreds of thousands of pilgrims, primarily from the neighboring states of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, who come to partake in the ritual and seek blessings. The nearest railhead is Srikakulam town, and Visakhapatnam serves as the closest major airport, with road connectivity facilitated by Andhra Pradesh State Highway 106.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sri Mukhalingam historically known as?
Sri Mukhalingam was historically known as Kalinganagari. This name reflects its significance as the capital of the Eastern Ganga dynasty and its position as a major city in the ancient region of Kalinga.
Which dynasty made Sri Mukhalingam their capital?
Sri Mukhalingam served as the capital of the Eastern Ganga dynasty. This dynasty ruled from the village between the 6th and the 12th centuries CE.
What are the main temples at Sri Mukhalingam?
The main religious structures at Sri Mukhalingam are a group of three Śaiva temples. These are the Madhukeshwara, Someswara, and Bhimeswara temples.
When were the temples at Sri Mukhalingam constructed?
Historians have variously dated the temples at Sri Mukhalingam. The earliest constructions are believed to be from the late eighth or early ninth century CE, with the latest dating to the early eleventh century CE.
What is the significance of the Chakratirtha Snana?
The Chakratirtha Snana is a famous holy bath taken by pilgrims annually at Sri Mukhalingam. Lakhs of devotees from Odisha and Andhra Pradesh visit on this auspicious day to partake in the ritual and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
Related Temples (Hindu)
Srikalahasteeswara temple
The Srikalahasteeswara temple, located in Andhra Pradesh, India, is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva as Vayu Lingam. It is renowned as one of the Pancha Bhuta Sthalams and is considered the "Kailash of the South," attracting devotees for its unique Vayu Lingam and the Rahu-Ketu pooja.
Shamlaji
Shamlaji is a significant Hindu pilgrimage center located in Gujarat, India, primarily dedicated to Vishnu in his form as Shamlaji. The site boasts a rich history, with evidence of ancient Buddhist and Hindu monastic activity, and its main temple structure dates to the 15th-16th centuries, though older sculptures are present. It is renowned for its religious importance and the annual fair held during the Kartik Sud 15th.
Amarnath Cave Temple
Amarnath Cave Temple is a Hindu shrine located in the Indian Himalayas, renowned for its natural ice stalagmite Shiva Lingam. Situated at a high altitude, it is accessible to pilgrims only for a brief summer period and is considered one of the 51 Shakti Pithas. The temple's pilgrimage, known as the Amarnath Yatra, has ancient roots and attracts a significant number of devotees annually.