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Source- This post on the Sangameswara Temple has been created based on the article “Sangameswara shrine submerges in Krishna river” published in “The Hindu” on 25 July 2024.
Why in the news?
The Sangameswara Temple has recently submerged in the backwaters of the Srisailam project in Nandyal district following heavy inflow from the Krishna River.
About Sangameswara Temple
1. Location: It is situated in Nandyal district, Andhra Pradesh. It is positioned on the banks of the Krishna River.
2. Historical Significance:
i) It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was originally built in 740 AD by Chalukya ruler Pulakesi II.
ii) Initially located at the confluence of the Tungabhadra and Krishna Rivers, 10 km from its current site.
iii)The temple was dismantled and reassembled rock-by-rock at its present location in 1979 due to submergence caused by the Srisailam Dam construction.
3. Features:
i) Architectural Style: It is built in the Nagara style. It has elevated platform with a fortified wall surrounding the temple.
ii) Structure: It has a large hall supported by 12 pillars leading to the sanctum. It has also a circumambulatory path around the sanctum for performing pradakshinas (ritual circumambulation). The ceiling features a large relief of Nagaraja, characteristic of Chalukya temples.
iii) Pillars in the hall are adorned with intricate engravings of Lord Vishnu, Brahma, Kumaraswamy, and celestial couples. Each corner of the temple features carvings of crocodiles.
UPSC Syllabus: Art and culture
