Maheshwaram Sri Siva Parvathi Temple in
Chenkal, Thiruvananthapuram, has earned recognition from the India Book of
Records as the tallest Sivalingam in the country. The construction features six
meditation halls, 108 different Sivalingams, and 64 forms of Lord Siva. The
Sivalingam itself stands at an impressive height of 111 feet two inches. The
temple architecture is based on Shadadharam and includes six meditation halls,
with an additional two halls at the bottom and top of the Mahalingam. Devotees
are welcome to meditate at each hall, focusing on the symbols of each chakra
present there. The temple reflects traditional Kerala architecture, constructed
entirely from Krishnastone and wood,
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following vastushastra principles. Inside
the Sreekovil (Sanctum), at the entrance, one can find the Rashichakra symbols,
symbolizing that Sri Sivaparvathi controls the entire universe. The Chuttambalam
(outer courtyard) is also built with Krishna stone and wood, featuring Gopurams
(towers) in the Kerala architectural style above each entrance. The Kodimaram
(flag mast) at the front of the main entrance is covered with copper plates, and
atop it sits the structure of Nandi. Bells at the top of the Kodimaram produce
a pleasant ringing sound. The temple showcases an exceptional display of
sculptures, with 70 pillars showcasing remarkable artistic excellence. Carvings
of different characters from Hindu mythology can be seen throughout the temple,
crafted from stone and wood. The Sreekovil houses the Panchaloham (made of 5
metals) idol of Sri Sivaparvathi, seated together and blessing the entire
universe. The Chuttambalam contains twelve Jyothirlingams surrounding Sri
Sivaparvathi. One of the significant peculiarities of Maheshwaram Sri Siva
Parvathi Temple is the Mahalingam itself, the world tallest Sivalingam. The
Mahalingam is constructed based on Shadadharam and includes the additional
meditation halls. The path to the top level of the Mahalingam is spiral-shaped,
surrounded by a cave-like atmosphere with numerous carvings of meditating
monks. The temple also houses temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Lord
Kartikeya. Outside the Chuttambalam, near the southwest corner, thirty-two
forms of Lord Ganesha are installed and worshipped. The temple attracts
devotees seeking blessings for various aspects of life, including success, prosperity,
love, and family harmony. The concept of Sivaparivar is completed with the
presence of Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya as sub- deities, along with the
main deity’s Sri Sivaparvathi. Devotees visit Maheshwaram temple in large numbers
to witness the divine presence of Lord Siva and Sri Parvathi together. The
temple holds immense spiritual significance and is revered as the ultimate
source of completeness and auspiciousness in the lives of its visitors.