Shiva Lingam at Andhra’s Draksharamam temple vandalized

A centuries-old Shiva Lingam at Draksharamam in Ambedkar Konaseema district was found vandalized on Tuesday (December 30, 2025), creating an uproar among devotees.

According to police, unidentified miscreants vandalized the Shiva Lingam in the temple pond at the back of Draksharamam temple late on Monday at midnight. The temple, popular as Sri Bhimeswara Swamy Temple, is one of the Pancharama temples dedicated to Lord Shiva (Bhimeswara Swamy) and Goddess Manikyamba.

Devotees pray before the Shiva Lingam and take a dip in the ‘koneru’, which is located on the banks of the river Godavari.

Devotees spotted the vandalized Shiva Lingam on Tuesday morning and informed the temple priests. Superintendent of Police Rahul Meena, who rushed to the spot, said four teams have been formed to nab the culprits. Police are verifying CCTV footage near the temple as part of their investigation.

Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who is abroad on a personal visit, called Endowments Minister Anam Ramnarayana Reddy late on Tuesday evening to inquire about the incident. Mr. Ramnarayana Reddy informed the Chief Minister that he had spoken to the District Collector and the SP and a new Shiva Lingam was inaugurated in place of the destroyed one. Mr Naidu directed the police to nab the culprits as soon as possible.

In a statement condemning the vandalism, Mr. Ramnarayana Reddy asked officials to take steps to enhance security in the temple area to prevent such incidents in the future. He said the temple falls under the purview of the Archeology Department and an action plan will be prepared for better coordination between the police and the Archeology Department.

The minister said the state government will take all possible steps to protect the sanctity of temples.