Sri Ramlingeshwara Swamy Temple: Established by Lord Parashurama, ‘Munigiri Kshetram’ Formed Through the Penance of Sages

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): South India is home to several temples known for their deep historical, mythological, and architectural significance. One such temple is located in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, the Sri Ramlingeshwara Swamy Temple, where Lord Shiva is worshipped in a self-manifested form. A unique feature of this temple is that sun rays directly fall on the sanctum sanctorum, creating a divine spectacle that attracts devotees from far and wide.

Situated near Ramlingeshwara Nagar in Yanamalakuduru, Vijayawada, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of a Swayambhu (self-manifested) deity, also known as Vayu Linga. According to legend, Lord Parashurama established the temple after performing intense penance here to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings. It is believed that Lord Shiva appeared before him and promised to remain here in the form of the Vayu Linga.

Ancient texts also mention that more than 1,000 sages and saints meditated on the hill where the temple stands today. Because of their deep penance, the area was originally called “Veyi Munula Kuduru”, meaning “the land of a thousand sages,” which was later renamed “Yanamalakuduru.”

During Maha Shivaratri, the temple is beautifully decorated like a bride, and thousands of devotees gather to worship Lord Shiva in his Vayu Linga form. The temple is located near the tranquil Krishna River, atop a hill 612 feet above sea level, surrounded by lush greenery that enhances its serene spiritual atmosphere. The area is also known as “Munigiri Kshetram”, meaning the sacred land of sages, due to its historical connection with the penance of ancient rishis.

To improve access for devotees, development work around the temple is ongoing. A multi-level parking complex is being constructed near the temple, funded not by the government but by a devoted follower, Sanga Narasimha Rao, a resident of Yanamalakuduru. He has personally spent ₹70 crore on the temple’s development. For over two decades, Rao has been continuously using his personal wealth to expand and beautify the temple premises for the benefit of devotees.