Bhimeswara Puranam
Bhimeswara Puranam, also called Bhima Khandam, is a Telugu epic poem written in the 15th century by the poet Srinatha. It is a sthala purana, a local lore that centers on the Bhimeswara deity of Draksharamam and the Bhima Mandala region in present-day Andhra Pradesh. The work blends local traditions with stories from Sanskrit scriptures, but it stands as a distinct piece of Telugu literature.
The text describes many pilgrimage sites, especially the Bhimeswara temple, and it depicts the religious and cultural life of Andhra. It also serves as a historical and cultural record, showing the geography, customs, and social conditions of Srinatha’s time.
The Bhimeswara Puranam includes the journey of Vyasa and descriptions of temples in the Prolunadu region. It is organized into chapters that explore the deity, the pilgrimage to his temple, and the religious significance of the region. Although it draws on Sanskrit sources, Srinatha’s version remains an independent Telugu work that blends regional lore with broader mythological themes.
The work highlights the sacred Bhimeswara temple in Draksharamam, the importance of Bhima Mandala, and temple consecration. It shows how local deities and stories fit into larger religious narratives, reflecting the diversity of South India. Today, the Bhimeswara Puranam is valued as an important piece of Telugu literature that demonstrates how regional traditions can shape wider mythological ideas and preserve the culture and religious life of Andhra Pradesh. The text was first printed in 1901 and reprinted in 1929.
This page was last edited on 3 February 2026, at 13:01 (CET).