Indian Temples : Kotilingeshwara Temple, Kolar, Karnataka - Highlights

 



The Kotilingeshwara Temple, located in the village of Kammasandra near Kolar, Karnataka, is one of the most unique and spiritually significant Shiva temples in India. It is renowned for housing millions of Shiva Lingams (Shivalingas) spread across the temple complex. The temple’s name “Kotilingeshwara” literally translates to “Lord of Ten Million Lingas,” reflecting its grand vision of installing one crore (10 million) lingams as a form of devotion to Lord Shiva.

History (In Detail)

The Kotilingeshwara Temple was established in the early 1980s by Swamy Sambha Shiva Murthy, a devout follower of Lord Shiva. The temple was conceived with the ambitious idea of installing one crore Shiva Lingams in a single location — symbolizing the omnipresence of Lord Shiva and offering devotees a chance to worship Him in infinite forms.

The first Linga was installed by the founder himself, and since then, devotees from across India and abroad have contributed to the installation of more Lingas. Over the decades, the temple complex has grown into a sprawling spiritual center with millions of Lingas of different sizes — some as small as a few inches, while others are several feet tall.

A significant attraction is the 108-feet-tall main Shiva Linga, accompanied by a 35-feet-tall Nandi statue, both of which dominate the temple courtyard. This grand project continues to expand each year as new Lingas are added by devotees.

Significance

Kotilingeshwara Temple holds deep religious importance for Shaivites and devotees of Lord Shiva. It symbolizes the vastness and universality of the divine — the idea that God exists in countless forms and manifestations.

  • It is believed that offering prayers here fulfills desires and brings peace and prosperity.
  • The temple also promotes inclusivity in worship, allowing devotees from all communities to contribute Lingas and become part of this divine vision.
  • The installation of each Linga is considered an act of immense merit (punya) that bestows spiritual blessings on the devotee and their family.

The temple is also known for hosting mass Shiva Lingam consecrations during Maha Shivaratri, when thousands of devotees participate in special rituals and prayers.

Temple Details

  • Main Deity: Lord Kotilingeshwara (Lord Shiva)
  • Other Shrines: The temple complex houses shrines dedicated to Lord Brahma, Vishnu, Ganesha, Parvati, Annapoorneshwari, and Subramanya.
  • Main Attractions:
    • The 108-ft Shiva Linga, one of the tallest in the world.
    • The massive Nandi facing the main shrine.
    • The millions of smaller Lingas that create a mesmerizing sight, spread across acres of land.
    • A meditation hall and facilities for performing abhishekam (ritual bathing) and other poojas.

Temple Timings

  • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM (daily)
  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening aarti.
  • Major Festivals:
    • Maha Shivaratri – celebrated with grandeur, involving night-long chanting and rituals.
    • Karthika Deepotsava – when thousands of lamps are lit across the temple complex.

Connectivity

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport (Bengaluru), about 100 km away.
  • By Train: The nearest railway station is Kolar, around 10 km from the temple.
  • By Road: Kotilingeshwara Temple is well-connected by road. It is about 90 km from Bengaluru, 6 km from Bangarapet, and 10 km from Kolar. Regular buses and taxis operate from these cities.

Legacy

Kotilingeshwara Temple stands as a modern marvel of devotion and architectural simplicity combined with spiritual grandeur. It represents the boundless faith of millions of devotees who believe in Lord Shiva’s omnipresence. The temple has also become a center for spiritual tourism, attracting pilgrims, devotees, and curious travelers from around the world.

The vision of Swamy Sambha Shiva Murthy — to install one crore Lingas — continues to inspire generations. Each visitor becomes a part of this divine legacy, contributing not only to the temple’s expansion but also to the broader message of universal devotion and peace that the temple represents.



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