PRASAD funds sought for Bhongir’s Someshwara Temple to boost tourism, restore sculptures

The Sri Someshwara Swamy Temple in Kolanupaka village, Aleir Mandal, Yadadri-Bhongir district, is an ancient Shiva temple dating back to the Chalukya period. The architectural marvel, which flourished under the Kakatiya dynasty, is renowned for its intricate sculptures, historical inscriptions and immense religious significance, attracting thousands of devotees annually.

In the letter to Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister for Culture and Minister of Tourism, the MP elaborated on the plan to upgrade tourism facilities, conserving the sculptures, beautification of the premises and developing a digital museum.

Historical and religious significance

Explaining the importance of development and preservation of the historically significant temple that falls under his Bhongir Parliamentary Constituency, the MP said, “Sri Someshwara Swamy Temple is an ancient Shiva temple with a rich heritage dating back to the Chalukya period (7th-10th century CE) and later flourishing under the Kakatiya dynasty (12th-13th century CE). The temple is an architectural marvel showcasing Chalukyan-style carvings and Kakatiya-era sculptures.

The temple is 6 km from National Highway 163 (Warangal-Hyderabad route) and attracts thousands of devotees and tourists annually. The temple complex also houses a museum displaying ancient deity idols and historical inscriptions (Shila Shasanams) that narrate the glorious history of the Kakatiya kings.

Religious and cultural hub

Kolanupaka, the village where the temple is present, has been a major Shaivite pilgrimage centre for centuries, with Lord Someshwara Swamy worshipped in the form of a Shiva Lingam, the MP said.

A prominent 2,000-year-old Swetamber Jain Teerthankar Mandir is adjacent to the Someshwara Swamy Temple, making the village a multi-religious pilgrimage destination.

“Several community-based Mutts have been established here, further enhancing the religious importance of Kolanupaka. The Shivarathri festival is celebrated with grandeur, drawing thousands of devotees from across Telangana and neighbouring States,” the MP said.

Urgent need for development

The MP said that despite its historical and religious significance, the temple is in dire need of the following changes:

- Restoration and conservation of the temple’s intricate sculptures and inscriptions.

- Development of improved facilities for pilgrims, including pathways, sanitation and accommodation.

- Beautification of the temple premises with proper lighting, landscaping and signage.

- Establishment of a spiritual and cultural tourism circuit connecting Kolanupaka with other heritage sites in Telangana.

- Digitisation and enhancement of the museum to promote cultural awareness among visitors.