Credit: ANOOSH CHOUDHARI
About Sri Kopeshwar Temple
Sri Kopeshwar Temple, a revered pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shiva, is situated in the quaint village of Khidrapur in the Kohalpur district of Maharashtra. Nestled at a distance of 40 km from Sangli and 61 km from Kolhapur, the temple is a testament to Hindu architecture.
History of Sri Kopeshwar Temple
Sri Kopeshwar temple was constructed by the Badami Chalukya, dating back to the 7th century AD. The architecture remained incomplete for centuries until its construction started again under the Shilahara Kings during the 12th century.
The Divine Presence
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the deity is worshipped here in two forms: as the sacred Shivalinga and as the formidable Veerbhadra. Legend has it that Lord Vishnu, in a bid to pacify the enraged Shiva, brought him to this temple, earning it the epithet ‘Kopeshwar,’ meaning the furious god.
Architecture
A masterpiece of Chalukyan architecture, Shri Kopeshwar temple is crafted from basalt stone. The temple is divided into four sections: Swarga Mandap, Sabha Mandapa, Antarala, and Garbhagriha. Each section is beautifully intricate with craftsmanship and spiritual symbolism.
Swarga Mandap
Adorned with 48 meticulously carved pillars, Swarag Mandap is a sight to behold Its circular stone disc and open roof invite celestial blessings, while the idols of various deities embellish its periphery, adding to its divine allure.
Sabha Mandap
Supported by 60 intricately carved pillars, the Sabha Mandap is connected to the Swarga Mandap. The carved pillars narrated tales from epics like Ramayana and Panchtantra.
Antarala Kaksha
Majestic Dwarapalas guarded the Antarala Kaksha, a transitional space leading to the sanctum sanctorum.
Garbhagriha
The inner sanctum of the Shri Kpeshwar temple houses the revered Shivalinga and Vishnu linga. Adorned with exquisite carvings and flanked by elephant statues, it serves as the epicenter of Sri Kopeshwar Temple.
Jain Temple
A Jain temple named Shri Kopeshwar temple lies adjacent to the Sri Kopeshwar Temple. The temple is built in the Hemadpanti style and houses a majestic idol of Bhagwan Adinath. number of pilgrimages and history enthusiasts visit the temple.
Mahashivratri
During the Mahashivratri festival, Sri Kopeshwar temple comes alive with devotees. To seek divine blessing, devotees come from far and wide. You should visit the temple with celestial blessing and communal harmony.
Visitor Information
Sri Kopeshwar temple is open to visitors from 5:30 AM to 8 p.m. Entry to the sacred abode is free. Spend ample time for spiritual introspection and architectural admiration.