Srimukhalingam Temple

02-01-2024

Srimukhalingam Temple

Why In the news?

    Archaeological Survey of India assured to send a note to UNESCO over inclusion of Srimukhalingam temple in Andhra Pradesh in world heritage structures’ list.

About Srimukhalingam temple:

• It is located in the state of Andhra Pradesh.
• This temple is built in the Kalinga architectural style.
• It is located on the banks of Vamsadhara River and is dedicated to lord Srimukha Lingeswara (a form of Shiva).
• The Shivalinga here has a mukha or facial representation of Lord Shiva.
• It was constructed in the 9th century CE by kings of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.
• It contains exquisite sculptures from that period.
• It is believed that visiting this temple and taking a dip in the river relieves one from the cycle of rebirth.
• It is housing 3 ancient temples at one Location.
• The Trinity of Madhukeshwara, Someswara and Bheemeswara Temples are a testimony to the magnificent architectural skills of Kalinga Kings.
• It was built by Kamarnava II, ruler from the family line of Eastern Ganga.

Key points about UNESCO World Heritage Sites

• A World Heritage Site (WHS) is a landmark or area with legal protection by an international convention administered by the UNESCO under the UNESCO World Heritage Convention, established in 1972.
• These sites are designated by UNESCO for having cultural, historical, scientificor other forms of significance.
• The sites, classified as cultural, natural and mixed(meeting both cultural and natural criteria) heritage around the world, are considered to be of outstanding value to humanity.
• To be selected, a WHS must be a somehow unique landmark which is geographically and historically identifiable and has special cultural or physical significance.
• For example, WHS might be ancient ruins or historical structures, buildings, cities, deserts, forests, islands, lakes, monuments, mountains or wilderness areas.
• These sites are demarcated by UNESCO as protected zones and the list is maintained by the international World Heritage Program administered by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.                                         Source:The Hindu