Mahashivratri, the auspicious celebration of Lord Shiva, is a time when devotees across India embark on spiritual journeys to various Shiva temples. Among these sacred places, Kotilingeshwara Temple in Karnataka stands out for its uniqueness and divine energy. This temple, located in the Kolar district, is home to an astonishing one crore Shiva Lingas, making it a significant pilgrimage site.
The Magnificence of Kotilingeshwara Temple
Constructed in 1980 by Swami Sambha Shiva Murthy, Kotilingeshwara Temple is renowned for its grandeur and spiritual significance. Situated approximately 100 kilometers from Bangalore in the Kammasandra village, this temple boasts an extraordinary feature – the presence of one crore Shiva Lingas of various sizes. The term “Kotilingeshwara” translates to “One Crore Shiva Lingas” in Kannada.
The lingas, ranging from one to three feet in size, cover an expansive 15-acre area within the temple complex, creating a breathtaking sight for devotees and visitors alike.
Asia’s Largest Shiva Linga
One of the main attractions of Kotilingeshwara Temple is the colossal Shiva Linga, measuring an impressive 33 meters in length. It holds the distinction of being the tallest Shiva Linga in the world, adding to the temple’s spiritual significance.
Sacred Rituals and Practices
Every day, the temple priests perform puja and archana (rituals) on all the Shiva Lingas, accompanied by devotional music and the beats of the traditional Indian drum, dhol. The chanting of mantras and the symbolic pouring of water on the lingas are integral parts of the daily worship.
One unique aspect of this temple is that devotees have the privilege to establish their own Shiva Linga within the temple premises. Many believe that this act fulfills their wishes and strengthens their connection with Lord Shiva.
A Hub of Spiritual Diversity
Apart from the Shiva Lingas, Kotilingeshwara Temple houses eleven other temples dedicated to various deities. These include shrines for Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma, Lord Panduranga, Lord Panchamukha Ganapati, Goddess Annapurneshwari, Lord Venkataramani Swamy, and more. Devotees throng these temples daily to offer their prayers and seek divine blessings.
Tourist Attraction and Accessibility
The Karnataka government has recognized Kotilingeshwara Temple as a tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the world. The temple’s inclusion in the list of must-visit places promotes tourism and provides an opportunity for people to witness Asia’s largest Shiva Linga.
For those interested in planning a visit, the temple is open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The entry fee is INR 20 per person, and camera charges are INR 100 per camera. The temple also offers the option to establish a personal Shiva Linga, with installation costs starting from INR 6,000.
Kotilingeshwara Temple stands as a testament to the rich spiritual heritage of India. Its vast expanse of Shiva Lingas, coupled with the divine ambiance, makes it a sacred haven for devotees and a captivating destination for tourists. As Mahashivratri approaches, the temple becomes a focal point for those seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva, making it a cherished place of worship and pilgrimage.