Pancharama Darshan: Exploring Somarama Temple in Bhimavaram

Location

Gunupudi, near Bhimavaram, West Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh.
Situated close to the Godavari River, making it a spiritually potent site for pilgrims.

Presiding Deities

The temple is unique in its dual reverence to both Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions, with the name “Janardhana” reflecting Vishnu’s aspect.

Sub Shrines and Features

Goddess Annapurna shrine is located above the Shiva sanctum, a rare architectural feature.
Other deities include:

Temple Significance

One of the Pancharama Kshetras, sacred to Lord Shiva, where each temple’s lingam is believed to be a fragment of the original lingam destroyed by Lord Kumara Swamy.
The Shivalinga was installed by Chandra (Moon God), hence the name Somarama (Soma = Moon).
A mystical feature: the lingam changes color with lunar phases—brightens to white during waxing moon and darkens to black during waning moon.
Built by Chalukya Bhima in the 4th century, showcasing medieval temple architecture and royal patronage.

Historical Background

The temple was originally constructed by Chalukya Bhima in the 4th century CE.
It received patronage from Eastern Chalukyas, Gajapathi rulers, and Vijayanagara kings, reflecting its sustained importance across dynasties.
Known as Somarama, it is one of the Pancharama Kshetras, five sacred Shiva temples in Andhra Pradesh.

Mythological Legends

As per Skanda Purana and Brahmanda Purana, the demon Tarakasura stole the Amrutha Atma Linga during the churning of the ocean (Ksheerasagara Mathanam).
Wearing the linga around his neck, Tarakasura became invincible.
Lord Kumara Swamy, son of Shiva and Parvati, used his divine spear (Shakti Ayudham) to destroy Tarakasura.
The linga shattered into five pieces, each installed at a Pancharama Kshetra. The fragment at Bhimavaram was consecrated by Chandra (Moon God), hence the name Somarama.

Architectural Features

The temple showcases Dravidian architecture with a blend of Shaiva and Vaishnava elements.
A rare feature: the sanctum houses Goddess Annapurna above the Shiva Lingam, symbolizing nourishment and spiritual elevation.
The Shivalinga is color-changing, appearing white during the waxing moon and black during the waning moon—a mystical lunar connection.
The temple complex includes shrines for Anjaneya, Kumara Swamy, Navagrahas, Surya Bhagavan, and Ganesha, enhancing its ritual diversity.

Daily Rituals

Abhishekam to the Someswara Lingam with sacred substances like milk, curd, honey, and vibhuti.
Archana and Harathi performed to both Lord Shiva and Goddess Rajarajeswari.
Snapana Tirumanjanam and Nitya Poojas follow Vaikhanasa and Shaiva Agamas.
Devotees also offer prayers to Goddess Annapurna, located above the sanctum—a rare architectural feature.

Major Festivals

Festival	Highlights
Maha Shivaratri	All-night vigil, special abhishekams, and cultural programs
Karthika Masam	Daily deepams, Rudrabhishekam, and mass participation in poojas
Navaratri	Special alankaram and poojas to Goddess Rajarajeswari and Annapurna
Sankranti	Community rituals and annadanam
Pancharama Brahmotsavam	Celebrated in sync with other Pancharama temples, includes Rathotsavam

During festivals, the temple also hosts cultural performances, bhajans, and spiritual discourses, enriching the devotional experience.

Beliefs and Mystical Features

The Shivalinga changes color with the moon’s phases—white during waxing and black during waning—symbolizing Chandra’s influence.
Believed to be installed by Chandra (Moon God) after Tarakasura’s defeat, making it a site of lunar healing and spiritual rejuvenation.
Devotees believe that worship here absolves sins, especially those related to speech and thought, due to the temple’s association with Soma (moon and mind).
The presence of both Shaiva and Vaishnava elements (Janardhana name) reflects harmony and inclusivity in worship.

Temple Hours

Morning: 5:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
These hours include darshan and pooja timings. Special abhishekams and homams are conducted during festivals and auspicious days.

Getting Here

By Train: Bhimavaram Town Railway Station is the nearest railhead, just 2 km from the temple.
By Bus: APSRTC buses connect Bhimavaram to major cities like Vijayawada, Rajahmundry, and Eluru.
By Air: The nearest airport is Rajahmundry Airport, about 85 km away. Vijayawada Airport is around 100 km.
Local Transport: Autos and taxis are readily available from the railway station and bus stand.

Tips

Footwear: Remove shoes before entering the temple premises.
Dress Code: Traditional attire is preferred; avoid shorts or sleeveless tops.
Festivals: Maha Shivaratri and Karthika Masam attract large crowds—plan early.
Photography: Restricted inside sanctum; check with temple staff.
Prasadam: Available at counters near the temple office.