Pic of Siddeshwar Mandir. It is in the centre of a water tank. We had gone to Naldurg Fort and saw temple on return. It is very close to the station. Something special about this place loved it. Shri Siddarama came to Sholapur in the 12th century. Best time to visit during Makarsankranti January 14.
Temple was founded by Shri Siddharameshwar, a Yogi and ardent devotee of Shri Mallikarjuna of Srisailam in Andhra Pradesh. Shri Siddharameshwar was on his way to Srisailam when his Guru ordered him to return to Sholapur and consecrate Shiv Lingams 68 in total. He is believed to be one of the prophets of Lingayat sect. Right of pic is entrance to temple. To know list of 68 Shiva Lingams installed by Shri Siddharameshwar Click here
U are supposed to wash your feet before entering the temple. It is dedicated to Lord Siddeshwar. Solapur district shares border with Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka hence you will find people from these states here as well. To read about Lingayat Movement and Basavanna Click here
As you enter temple is a courtyard where you see the Samadhi of Shri Siddeshwar. Solapuri chaddhars and towels are famous due to their unique design. Weaving is done by the Padmashali community. Bidriware, Mashru and Himroo handicrafts are famous. Detail in captions taken from site Click here
Rear view of the temple. It looked South Indian in design. Initially was puzzled but later on was told how. Also Solapur is not too far from Karnataka. Temple attracts number of South Indian devotees. Local dances Lavani and Dhangari Gaja.
U can do a parikrama around the lake. I walked half way. Rear side view. We missed seeing BHUIKAR FORT ie close to temple, famous for Animal park. To know about History of Solapur Click here
Lots of shops in walkway to temple. U see one of them. To know more about the temple
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Next to temple entrance is a mosque. As we were walking around temple hear Azaan, disturbed the peace and tranquillity of the area. The trust that manage the temple perform many charitable activities like running a school , college and helping cancer patients.
Building that you see on right (cement color) is another big mosque pretty close to temple. Why do Muslims have to make their mosques close to revered Hindu temples is a question that am unable to find a answer to.
Temple Shikhar. To see pics of Shiv Temples all over India
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Varkaris or devotees of Vithoba of Pandharpur whom I met in temple compound area. Lady is carrying a tulsi plant.