Siddeswara Temple

The Siddeswara Temple is in Hanamkonda, about 6 km from the centre of Warangal and 142 km from Hyderabad. The gate leading to the temple faces west, so people also call it the Paschimdwara Mukha Temple. Like many other churches in South India, this temple dedicates itself to Lord Shiva.

The people of Telangana hold this temple in high regard, not only because it is religiously important but also because of its building style. It is one of the most important places to visit in Warangal, attracting people who worship Lord Shiva and those interested in architecture and ancient history.

History of Siddeswara temple

After years of tapasya by Sandilya Maharshi, Mahadev became Sri Siddeshwara Swamy, or Swayambhu Shivalingam, according to the sthala Purana. Enlightened individuals can hear the Pranava naadam (holy sound) from rishis and devatas performing pooja here every night between midnight and 3 am.

Sri Chandrashekara Saraswati Swamiji of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham declared this temple wonderful because it fulfils devotees' requests. Nine aushadha siddhis performed tapasya at the temple and received blessings from Siddeshwara Swamy.

Sri Renukacharya incarnation Revana Siddeshwara accomplished Tapasya. When the temple collapsed, his descendants reinstated the deity. Kakatiya emperors worshipped here, and Revana Siddeshwara's family have been priests and guardians since then.

Architectural Highlights

Builders used the Chalukya style to construct the Siddeshwara temple. Carvers decorated the walls and pillars with many designs, making it look different from other Indian shrines. Because of these carvings, the building looks beautiful.

The temple is in the Hanamkonda Hills and is a sight in and of itself. One thing that makes this temple stand out is that its entrance gate faces west, which is not common for Indian shrines. This is called Paschimdwara Mukha. Many people feel better after going to the temple.

Rituals and Festivals

Regarding the Lord Shiva holidays in India, Maha Shivaratri is the most important one. Many Warangal tour packages include visits to the Siddeswara Temple during this time, as the temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, hosts its biggest event of the year.

People mark Mahashivaratri on the 14th night of the new moon in the Indian calendar month of Phalgun. This is usually in February or March. Many people who worship Lord Shiva are very happy and pray to God during this event. In honour of this happy day, they fill the temple with lights and flowers.