This Temple In Andhra Pradesh’s Eluru Is A Must Visit For Shiva Devotees

The Durga Bhavani Ramalingeswara Swamy temple, located in the village of Kannapuram in Eluru district, Andhra Pradesh, holds a significant place in the hearts of Shiva devotees. The temple is known for its unique Shiva Lingam, called the Rasalingam or Panchayukta Lingam, which stands apart due to the sacred ‘Om’ symbol visible on the top. Surrounding the lingam, the five syllables of the divine mantra Om Namah Shivaya are inscribed, giving the lingam its rare identity. The mantra Om Namah Shivaya represents the five elements — Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether — symbolised by the syllables Na Ma Shi Va Ya. These are the building blocks of creation, and Lord Shiva is the master of these elements. ‘Om’ signifies the sound of the universe, embodying peace and love. Om Namah Shivaya harmonises the five elements in both the body and the environment, fostering inner peace and balance.

One of the most remarkable features of this temple is the opportunity for devotees to directly perform abhishekam (ritual bathing) to the lingam with their own hands. This act holds deep spiritual importance, as it is believed that offering abhishekam with mercury here is equivalent to performing the ritual to a crore Shiva Lingams elsewhere.

An extraordinary tradition in this temple is the celebration of the wedding of Durga Bhavani and Rasalingeshwara Swamy, which is held a day before Maha Shivaratri. On Maha Shivaratri, special poojas, jagarams (night vigils), and the sacred Lingodbhava abhishekam rituals take place, drawing large crowds of devotees seeking blessings.

Temple priest Manikumar highlights the belief that special prayers offered on Mondays or Tuesdays, accompanied by 11 circumambulations around the lingam while chanting “Runashwaraya Namah,” have the power to relieve devotees of debts. Devotees seeking to overcome obstacles like delays in marriage, hardships, and enmity often turn to this temple for divine intervention.

The Shiva Lingam, consecrated by a Swamiji, has inspired unshakeable faith among worshippers, who are confident that their wishes, when made with devotion at this temple, will undoubtedly be fulfilled. Through the spiritual practices and rituals at this temple, the Rasalingeswara Swamy temple stands as a testament to Shiva’s grace and miraculous power.