Sacred Mukhalingam: Shiva’s Trikuteswara Temples on the Banks of Vamsadhara

 

Location

• Village: Mukhalingam, near Jalumuru Mandal
• District: Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh
• River: Situated on the left bank of the Vamsadhara River

Presiding Deity

• Main Deity: Lord Shiva in the form of Mukhalingeshwara (Shiva Lingam)
• The name “Mukhalingam” refers to the lingam with a face, symbolizing divine expression.

Subshrines (Trikuteswara Complex)

The temple complex houses three ancient Shiva temples:

1.     Madhukeswara

2.     Someswara

3.     Bhimeswara

Each shrine has its own sanctum and architectural style, built between the 8th and 11th centuries CE under the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.

Temple Significance

• Historical Capital: Mukhalingam was once known as Kalinganagari, the capital of the Eastern Gangas until the 12th century.
• Architectural Marvel:
• Fusion of Dravidian and Kalinga styles
• Intricate carvings of deities, celestial beings, and mythological scenes
• Majestic gopurams and sculpted pillars
• Spiritual Importance:
• Revered for its powerful Shiva Lingam and serene riverbank setting

History 

• Ancient Capital: Mukhalingam, historically known as Kalinganagari, was the capital of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty from the 6th to 12th century CE.
• Dynastic Patronage:
• Built and expanded by Eastern Ganga kings, notably Kamaranaba Deva II, great-grandfather of Anantavarman Chodaganga.
• Later renovations under the Gajapati Dynasty in the 14th century enhanced its architectural grandeur.
• Architectural Timeline:
• The three Shiva shrines—Madhukeswara, Someswara, and Bhimeswara—date from the late 8th to early 11th century CE.
• Cultural Role: Served as a hub for trade, spiritual learning, and Hindu revivalism, influencing the spread of Shaivism in coastal Andhra.

Legends 

• Surya’s Redemption: According to legend, the temples were established by Surya (Sun God) to atone for his sins.
• Etymology:
• “Mukhalingam” may derive from “Mukha” (face) + “Lingam”, referring to the faceted Shiva Lingam in the Madhukeswara shrine.
• Another theory links it to “Mudu-Kalingam”, meaning Tri-Kalinga, denoting the three regions of ancient Kalinga.

Major Festivals

• Maha Shivaratri:
• Grand night-long celebrations with Rudrabhishekam, Bhajans, and Annadanam.
• Devotees fast and stay awake in prayer.
• Kartika Purnima:
• Riverbank rituals and deepa daanam (lamp offerings) along the Vamsadhara.

Sravana Masam:

• Month-long Shiva pujas, especially on Mondays. 

Temple Hours

• Darshan Timings:
• Morning: 5:00 AM – 12:45 PM
• Evening: 2:30 PM – 8:00 PM
• Note: Timings may vary slightly on festival days or during special rituals.

Getting There

• From Srikakulam: ~50 km by road; frequent buses and taxis available
• Nearest Railway Station: Srikakulam Road (Amadalavalasa), ~40 km
• Nearest Airport: Visakhapatnam International Airport, ~130 km
• Local Access: Auto-rickshaws and jeeps operate from Jalumuru Mandal to Mukhalingam village

Tips

• Dress Modestly: Traditional attire is appreciated; avoid shorts or sleeveless tops
• Photography: Ask permission before taking photos—some areas may restrict it
• Local Guides: Hiring a local guide can enrich your experience with historical and ritual insights
• Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or during Kartika Masam and Maha Shivaratri for spiritual ambiance