Police have constituted four special teams to investigate the vandalism of an ancient Shiva Lingam at the Kapalaswara Swamy shrine, a sub-shrine of the renowned Bhimeswara Mandir (Draksharamam) in Andhra Pradesh’s Ambedkar Konaseema district.
The Shiva Lingam, located near Kapileswar Ghat close to the North Gopuram of the Mandir, was discovered damaged early on December 30. The incident occurred on Mukkoti Ekadashi, one of the most sacred days in the Hindu calendar. The shrine lies along the banks of the Sapta Godavari canal within the Mandir complex.
According to preliminary findings, unidentified persons allegedly struck the Lingam with a hammer-like object, and fragments of the murti were reportedly thrown into a nearby lake. The lack of CCTV cameras at the exact location has complicated the investigation, though police are reviewing footage from surrounding areas.
Ambedkar Konaseema District Superintendent of Police Rahul Meena visited the site soon after the incident was reported. A dog squad, a forensic team, and a clues unit were deployed to gather evidence. A case has been registered under relevant IPC sections, with authorities treating the matter as sensitive due to its religious significance. Police said the shrine’s open location made it vulnerable and expressed confidence in an early breakthrough. Mandir authorities acted promptly by installing a new Shiva Lingam on the same day, followed by special prayers and rituals to restore the sanctity of the shrine.
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu spoke to Endowments Minister Anam Ramnarayana Reddy and directed officials to ensure the swift arrest of those responsible. He also ordered enhanced security measures at Mandirs across the state to prevent similar incidents.
The vandalism sparked political reactions, with BJP state president P.V.N. Madhav and other party leaders demanding a thorough investigation and strict punishment, calling the act an attack on the Hindu faith and heritage.
The Bhimeswara Mandir, also known as Draksharamam or Daksharama, is one of the five Pancharama Kshetras dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva and also counts among the 18 Shakti Peethas. Built in the 9th century by Eastern Chalukya ruler King Bhima, the Mandir is famed for its crystal Shiva Lingam and rich mythological significance, earning it the title “Dakshina Kashi.”
