In Parasurameswara Temple, located in Andhra Pradesh, the Gudimallam Lingam stands out for its characteristics. This lingam, shaped like a phallus, represents Lord Shiva and holds great importance in Hindu worship. The front exterior of the Parasurameswara Temple boasts a standing relief sculpture of Lord Shiva.
The lingam is a symbol of Lord Shiva in Hinduism. Ancient Sanskrit texts like the Mahabharata and the Puranas describe the lingam as Shiva’s phallus. For Hindus, the lingam and yoni together represent the union of male and female principles.
Located near Tirupati city in Andhra Pradesh, Gudimallam village has the revered Gudimallam Lingam. The Gudimallam Lingam is an old linga found in the Parasurameswara Swamy Temple of Gudimallam. This ancient linga holds significance in the religious landscape of the region. Located approximately 13 kilometres southeast of Tirupati city, it stands as a symbol of devotion and spirituality for worshippers.
Evidence suggests the presence of the Shivalingam predates the Christian era. Throughout its history, the temple has received contributions from several dynasties such as the Satavahanas, Pallavas, Cholas, and Vijayanagar Empire.
The linga was probably first placed outdoors, as hinted by the rectangular stone surround still present, or inside a wooden enclosure. Made from a dense, dark brown local stone, the linga is more than 5 feet tall and slightly over a foot in diameter at its widest point on the main shaft.
The front of the linga depicts Lord Shiva standing on Apasmara. Shiva holds an antelope in his right hand and a small water pot in his left, with a battle axe resting on his left shoulder. He wears heavy earrings, a detailed necklace, and a girdle. His arms are adorned with multiple bracelets and high arm rings.
Parasurama, troubled by the tragic incident of beheading his mother at his father’s command turned to sages. They advised him to worship a Shivalinga. Parasurama discovered a linga in a forest and dug a pond nearby. Every day, he worshipped Lord Shiva using a divine flower from the pond.
One day, Parasurama was late for worship, so Chitrasena performed the puja instead. When Parasurama arrived and saw no flowers in the pond, he attacked Chitrasena. The place then became known as Gudi Pallam, then Gudi Mallam. Lord Shiva intervened. This led to the establishment of the Parasurameshwara temple, featuring Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.
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