Ashta Digbandhana performed at Padagaya

Ashta Digbandhana performed at Padagaya
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Highlights

Ashta Digbandhana’ was earlier performed at the temple in 2003. A fresh coat of specially formulated material was applied to the ancient Shiva Linga to protect it from erosion. 

Pithapuram (East Godavari): After a gap of 13 years, Sri Kukkuteswara Swamy Devasthanam authorities performed ‘Ashta Digbandhana’ at the temple as per Agama Shastra to repair the wear and tear suffered by the Shiva Linga due to continuous performance of Abhishekams to the presiding deity, who is a `Swayambhu’.

Ashta Digbandhana’ was earlier performed at the temple in 2003. A fresh coat of specially formulated material was applied to the ancient Shiva Linga to protect it from erosion.

The endowments officials, priests, Vedic scholars, Agama pandits and sculptors ensured the completion of the ritual on Wednesday night to avoid any hindrance to the darshan of the Lord in the daytime.

Sri Kukkuteswara Swamy Devasthanam is famous as Padagaya. According to the legend, Gupta King Samudragupta worshipped Lord Kukkuteswara after conquering Pithikapuri.

According to archaeologists, a Boudharamam was located in the area in the ancient times. Lord Kukkuteswara got a mention in Bhima Khandam of legendary poet Srinatha. The centuries old Shiva Linga is slowly eroding due to continuous performance of Abhishekam as part of the daily temple rituals.

After noticing small holes in the backside of Shiva Linga, the temple priests took up immediate repairs of the idol to preserve it for posterity.

The `Ashta Digbandhana’ ritual was performed under the supervision of temple Executive Officer Chandaka Darababu, Vedic scholar Dwibhashyam Subrahmanya Sarma and priests.

When the repairs of idol were undertaken earlier, the white crystal stone Shiva Linga attained sandal hue. According to the Devasthanam authorities, the performance of `Ashta Digbandhana’ will increase the life span of Shiva Linga by arresting the wear and tear.

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