Srisailam Temple

Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy & Bhramaramba Devi Temple

The Srisailam Temple, located in the Nallamala Hills of Andhra Pradesh, is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas (sacred abodes of Lord Shiva) and one of the 18 Shakti Peethas (divine shrines of Goddess Parvati). This dual-powered (Shiva-Shakti) temple is dedicated to Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy (Shiva) and Goddess Bhramaramba Devi (Parvati).

Historical & Mythological Significance

Ancient Origins (Puranic Legends)

• The temple is mentioned in Shiva Purana, Skanda Purana, and Mahabharata.
• According to legend, Lord Shiva and Parvati resided here as Mallikarjuna and Bhramaramba to bless devotees.
• It is believed that Adi Shankaracharya visited Srisailam and composed Shivananda Lahari here.

Dynastic Patronage

• Satavahanas (2nd century BCE–2nd century CE) – Early inscriptions suggest their influence.
• Ikshvakus (3rd–4th century CE) – Built early structures.
• Chalukyas (7th–12th century) & Kakatiyas (12th–14th century) – Expanded the temple complex.
• Vijayanagara Empire (14th–17th century) – Krishnadevaraya made significant contributions.

Modern Developments

• The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) and Endowments Department of Andhra Pradesh now manage the temple.
• Recognized as a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Religious Significance

As a Jyotirlinga & Shakti Peetha

• One of 12 Jyotirlingas: Represents the radiant pillar of light (Shiva’s cosmic form).
• One of 18 Shakti Peethas: The neck part (Kantakam) of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen here.

Unique Deities & Worship

• Mallikarjuna Swamy (Shiva Linga) – Covered in white jasmine (Mallika) flowers.
• Bhramaramba Devi (Parvati) – Associated with a legend of a bee (Bhramara) that worshipped her.
• Nandi & Lion Statues: Unusually, both Shiva’s Nandi (bull) and Devi’s Simha (lion) are present.

Sacred Krishna River & Sikharam

• The temple is near the Krishna River, where devotees take holy dips.
• The Sikharam (temple tower) is visible from miles away, symbolizing divine presence.

Major Festivals & Rituals

• Maha Shivaratri – Grand celebrations with lakhs of devotees.
• Navaratri & Dasara – Special Shakti worship.
• Karthika Masam – Month-long rituals with deeparadhanas.

Cultural & Economic Importance

• Pilgrimage Tourism: Over 10 million devotees visit annually, making it a major spiritual hub.
• Local Economy: Boosts hotels, transport, and handicrafts (especially sandalwood products).
• Adi Shankaracharya’s Legacy: The temple is part of his Dwadasa Jyotirlinga Yatra.

Unique Features

✅ Only Temple with Both Jyotirlinga & Shakti Peetha Status – A rare dual-power shrine.
✅ Natural Cave Sanctum – The main deity is housed in a rock-cut cave.
✅ Akasha Deepam – A perpetual lamp that has been burning for centuries.

The Srisailam Temple is not just a spiritual powerhouse but a symbol of cosmic energy (Shiva-Shakti). Its ancient legends, divine aura, and architectural grandeur make it a must-visit pilgrimage site in South India.