The foremost destination to explore in Srisailam is the Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, commonly referred to as Srisailam Temple and Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga. This sacred site draws pilgrims from all corners of the nation. Among the twelve jyotirlingas, the Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple is specifically dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Perched atop the Nallamala Hills, the Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple enjoys a stunning backdrop with the River Krishna meandering alongside it. The hill on which the temple stands is also known by various names, such as Sri Parvatha, Srigiri, Srinagam, Siridhan, and more.
The primary deity enshrined within this temple is Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy, believed to have manifested on his own. Additionally, the temple complex houses the revered Goddess Bhramaramba Devi, one of the 18 Mahasakthis. This dual presence establishes the temple's significance as both a jyotirlinga and a shakti peeth. Devotees flock to this sacred place to seek blessings and seek redemption for their past transgressions.
History of the Sri Sailam Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, JyotirlingaThe Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple has a rich historical lineage, with references to its existence dating back to ancient times. Inscriptions and historical discoveries dating as far back as the 2nd century AD provide evidence of its venerable history. The Chalukyas Kingdom (AD 624-848) and the Kakatiyas (AD 953-1323) are credited with contributing to the temple's development.
Although the Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga temple predates these periods, its significant renovations took place during the Vijayanagara reign, spanning from 1336 to 1678. During this era, the Mukha Mandapam of the Mallikarjuna Temple was constructed, along with a gopuram on its southern side.
Under the rule of Sri Krishnadevaraya, the Salu Mandapas and Rajagopuram were added, elevating the temple's grandeur to new heights. In 1674, Maratha King Chhatrapati Shivaji spearheaded various temple renovations and revived temple festivals.
Subsequently, the region came under the rule of the Mughals, Nawabs, and later the British, who also assumed control of the temple's administration. In 1929, a committee was established by the British to oversee the temple's management. Then, in 1949, the temple's administration was transferred to the Endowments Department.
Legend behind the Sri Sailam Mallikarjuna Swamy TempleNumerous ancient Hindu epics also make mention of this jyotirlinga. For example, the Agni Purana recounts how Demon King Hiranyakashyap performed penance here and offered his supplications to Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy. According to another revered Hindu text, the Skanda Purana, during the Tretha Yuga, Lord Rama and Goddess Sita visited this sacred place.
In the Dwapara Yuga, during their exile, Arjuna and his Pandava brothers spent a period here, engaging in prayers and devotions. Even in the Kali Yuga, the significance of this temple has not waned; instead, it has grown exponentially. Renowned saints and philosophers such as Siddha Nagarjuna, Adi Shankara, Siva Sarani Akka Mahadevi, Veerashaiva Saint Allama Prabhu, among others, devoted considerable time here, offering worship and prayers to the Lord.
The Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is surrounded by many legends. According to one legend, a debate arose between Lord Brahma, the God of creation, and Lord Vishnu, the God of Harmony, regarding the superiority of their powers. In an effort to settle this dispute, Lord Shiva decided to test them both. Lord Shiva pierced all three worlds with an infinite number of pillars of light, which came to be known as jyotirlingas.
Subsequently, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma were tasked with finding the ends of these light pillars, each searching in a given direction, either upward or downward. Lord Vishnu acknowledged his inability to do so, while Lord Brahma falsely claimed to have found the end. In response, Lord Shiva declared that devotees would worship Lord Vishnu throughout all the ages, while Lord Brahma would not be revered in the same manner.
Another legend associated with the Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple recounts that Lord Shiva manifested as a Shivalingam at three locations, one of which is Srisailam, with the other two being Kaleshwaram and Bhimeswaram/Draksharamam.
Yet another legend tells of the son of Silada Maharshi, Parvatha, who sought atonement through prayers to Lord Shiva. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Shiva granted his wish to reside on his body. Thus, Parvatha transformed into the hill known as Sri Parvatha, while Lord Shiva took his abode on the hill as Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy.
Architecture of Mallikarjuna Swamy TempleThe primary temple of Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy comprises an expansive complex, housing two distinct shrines dedicated to Lord Mallikarjuna and Bhramaramba Devi. This temple complex boasts a grand ensemble, featuring mandapams, spacious halls adorned with magnificent pillars, and various smaller shrines like Vriddha Mallikarjuna, Sahasra Lingeswara, Arthanariswara, Veerabhadra, and Uma Maheswara.
Within the inner courtyard, you will discover nine temples collectively known as the Nava Brahma temples. Encompassing the temple complex is a majestic stone wall, punctuated by four principal gates, referred to as dwaras.
The eastern entry point is known as the Maha Dwaram. Beyond the Mahadwaram, there lies an expansive mandapam supported by approximately 42 pillars, with porches extending towards the north, east, and south. At the heart of this mandapam, a colossal sculpture of Nandi stands, facing Lord Mallikarjuna. Adjacent to it is another mandapam named the Nandi Mandapa. To its western side stands the Veeraiah Mandapam, believed to have been constructed in 1378 AD.
At the center of the inner courtyard stands the Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, oriented towards the east. This temple comprises distinct sections, including the Mukha Mandapa, Antarala, and Garbhagriha. On the western side of the Virasoro Mandapa, you'll find the Mukha Mandapa, also referred to as the Maha Mandapa.
Intimately connected with this mandapa is the Antharala, a somewhat simpler structure adorned with pillars on both sides, forming an entrance-like configuration. The Garbalaya, covering an area of 60 square feet, is a structure of great significance, featuring an impressive entrance, and at its center resides the self-manifested jyotirlinga.
Festivals at Mallikarjuna Srisailam Swamy TempleWhile visiting the Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is possible year-round, the experience becomes even more enchanting when you plan your visit during the temple's vibrant festivals. One of the most renowned celebrations is the seven-day-long Maha Shivaratri Brahmotsavam, typically held in the months of February or March. Additionally, the Ugadi festival, which spans five days, is another widely popular temple festival.
For those seeking a rich cultural experience, the Dasara celebrations, Devi Sarannavaratrulu, observed over nine days, are a must-attend event at the temple. You can also immerse yourself in the festive spirit during occasions like Kumbhothsavam, Sankranthi Utsavams, Arudrothsavam, Kartheeka Mahothsavams, and Sravananamosothsvams, all of which hold significant importance in the temple's calendar.