Bilveswara Sivalingam

During the primordial Kalpa, Brahma’s meditation gave rise to a divine forest with Kalpavrikshas and a sacred Bilva tree. A radiant being appeared beneath the tree and lived on its leaves and fruits. Brahma named him Bilva. Indra later granted him kingship on Earth and the power to summon the Vajra weapon.

King Bilva befriended Kapila, a Brahmin learned in the Vedas and Vedangas. A disagreement about spiritual practices and the greatness of Brahmins and Kshatriyas grew into a conflict. In anger, Bilva struck Kapila with the Vajra, but Kapila survived through his spiritual power and Shiva’s grace.

Bilva sought guidance from Vishnu and then Indra. Indra recalled overcoming the demon Shambara by worshipping a Shivalinga in Mahakalavana on Brihaspati’s advice. He directed Bilva to a sacred Shivalinga previously worshipped by Varuna.

Bilva worshipped there with intense devotion and meditation. Through Shiva’s grace, he attained victory. When Kapila approached, he perceived the divine form of Rudra in place of Bilva’s ordinary form and acknowledged his victory. The two reconciled and renewed their friendship. The Linga became renowned throughout the three worlds as Sri Bilveswara, honouring Bilva’s devotion.

Sri Bilveswara is the third boundary Shivalinga of Mahakalavana, situated in the western direction. Through the story of Bilva and Kapila, Siddhaguru Sri Ramanananda Maharshi emphasises self-confidence, tapas, devotion and overcoming ego through spiritual practice.