The Shiva Lingam near the Kapileswar Ghat, close to the North Gopuram of the temple, was found vandalised early on Tuesday, 30 December.
Published Dec 31, 2025 | 1:54 PM ⚊ Updated Dec 31, 2025 | 1:54 PM
The Bhimeswara Temple, also known as Draksharamam or Daksharama, is among the most revered shrines in Andhra Pradesh. (Wikimedia Commons).
Synopsis: Initial investigation suggested that unidentified miscreants struck the Lingam with a hammer-like object. Parts of the idol were reportedly thrown into a nearby lake. The absence of CCTV cameras complicated the probe, and the police were examining footage from surrounding areas.
Police have formed four teams to investigate the alleged vandalism of an ancient Shiva Lingam at the Kapalaswara Swamy shrine, a sub-temple of the famed Bhimeswara Temple, also known as Draksharamam, in Andhra Pradesh’s Ambedkar Konaseema district.
The Shiva Lingam near the Kapileswar Ghat, close to the North Gopuram of the temple, was found vandalised early on Tuesday, 30 December. The incident occurred on Mukkoti Ekadashi, one of the holiest days in the Hindu calendar.
The shrine is located along the banks of the Sapta Godavari canal, within the sacred precincts of the temple complex. Police were alerted immediately.
Initial investigation suggested that unidentified miscreants struck the Lingam with a hammer-like object. Parts of the idol were reportedly thrown into a nearby lake. The absence of CCTV cameras at the spot complicated the probe. The police were examining footage from surrounding areas.
Ambedkar Konaseema District Superintendent of Police Rahul Meena reached the scene soon after the incident was reported. A dog squad, forensic experts and a clues team were deployed to collect evidence.
Four special teams have been formed to trace the culprits. Police have registered a case under relevant sections of the IPC, treating the matter as sensitive due to its religious significance.
The police said that the shrine was located in an open area, making it vulnerable. Meena said the investigators were expecting an early breakthrough and arrest the culprits.
Temple authorities acted swiftly and installed a new Shiva Lingam at the shrine the same day. Special prayers and rituals were performed to restore sanctity.
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu spoke to Endowments Minister Anam Ramnarayana Reddy and directed him to ensure the immediate arrest of those responsible. The chief minister also instructed officials to enhance the security of temples across the state to prevent similar incidents from occurring.
The incident triggered strong political reactions. BJP state president PVN Madhav demanded a thorough investigation and stringent punishment. Other BJP leaders termed the vandalism a direct attack on the Hindu faith and heritage.
The Bhimeswara Temple, also known as Draksharamam or Daksharama, is among the most revered shrines in Andhra Pradesh. It is one of the five Pancharama Kshetras dedicated to Lord Shiva and one of the 18 Shakti Peethas.
Built in the 9th century by Eastern Chalukya King Bhima, the temple is famed for its crystal Shiva Lingam and rich mythological legacy. Often referred to as “Dakshina Kashi,” it draws thousands of pilgrims throughout the year.
(Edited by Majnu Babu).
