Draksharamam: The ‘Dakshina Kashi’ of Andhra Pradesh

Nestled on the banks of the Godavari River in Andhra Pradesh, Draksharamam is one of the most ancient and sacred pilgrimage centres in the state. More than just a temple, it is one of the revered Pancharama Kshetras , where Lord Shiva is worshipped as Sri Bhimeswara Swamy . Located about 28 kilometres from Kakinada in East Godavari district, the shrine is renowned for its spiritual significance and architectural grandeur .

The name ‘Draksharamam’ is derived from ‘Daksha’ and ‘Aramam’ , indicating the abode of Daksha Prajapati , father-in-law of Lord Shiva. According to the Skanda Purana , Daksha conducted a grand yajna here but deliberately did not invite Shiva. Despite Shiva’s warning, Sati Devi attended the ritual, where she was humiliated. Unable to bear the insult to her husband, she immolated herself in the sacrificial fire . Enraged, Shiva created Veerabhadra , who destroyed the yajna. This sacred land is therefore also known as ‘Dakshina Kashi’ , holding spiritual importance equal to Kashi.

Draksharamam is unique as it houses both Lord Shiva as Bhimeswara and Goddess Manikyamba , one of the 18 Shakti Peethas . It is believed that parts of Sati’s body fell at various locations, forming these Peethas. The coexistence of Shiva and Shakti makes this shrine exceptionally significant.

According to legend, the demon Tarakasura possessed a powerful Shiva Lingam. When it was shattered by Kumara Swamy , the fragments fell at five places, forming the Pancharama temples Amaravati, Bhimavaram, Palakollu, Samalkot, and Draksharamam. The Lingam here is believed to have been installed by the Sun God and stands at an impressive 14 feet in height .

The temple is a remarkable example of ancient craftsmanship , built with two-storeyed prakara structures . Due to the height of the Lingam, devotees offer prayers from the upper level . The intricate carvings reflect the artistic brilliance of the Chalukyan period . The temple is also recognised as a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India .

Draksharamam is a valuable resource for historians, with over 800 inscriptions found on its walls. These inscriptions, written in Sanskrit and ancient Telugu , provide insights into the Chalukya, Chola, and Reddy dynasties , along with the socio-economic conditions of those times.

The temple comes alive during the Kartika month , when thousands of devotees take a holy dip in the Godavari and offer prayers. The ‘Jwala Toranam’ on Kartika Purnima is a major highlight.

Maha Shivaratri is celebrated with grandeur, featuring Rudrabhishekam rituals . The divine celestial wedding (Kalyanotsavam) of Bhimeswara Swamy and Manikyamba Devi is performed on Bhishma Ekadashi , drawing large crowds. During Sharannavarathri , the goddess is adorned in various forms.

Devotees believe that visiting Draksharamam helps remove sins and planetary doshas . Many perform special rituals seeking marriage and progeny blessings . It is also believed that Sage Vyasa attained peace at this sacred site.

The temple is well-connected to Rajahmundry and Kakinada , with frequent transport services. Visitors often combine their trip with nearby sacred sites such as Kotipalli and Pithapuram . The Devasthanam provides accommodation and free meal services for pilgrims.

Draksharamam stands as a symbol of Telugu cultural and spiritual heritage , blending mythology, history, and devotion. With its centuries-old traditions and sacred aura , it remains a must-visit pilgrimage for devotees seeking divine blessings of Sri Bhimeswara Swamy and Goddess Manikyamba .