Nestled in the sacred town of Srikalahasti, Andhra Pradesh, the Srikalahasti Temple, revered as the "Kashi and Kailasa of the South," this temple has attracted devotees and pilgrims for centuries, its spiritual aura transcending time and space.
The temple's origins trace back to the Pallava period in the 5th century, later receiving significant contributions from the Chola and Vijayanagara empires. The present-day structure, a marvel of South Indian temple architecture, was built in 1516 by the illustrious Vijayanagara king, Krishnadevaraya.
Over time, rulers and patrons, including the Chola kings in the 11th century, enhanced the temple’s grandeur by adding new monuments, expanding corridors, and introducing intricate stone carvings that depict mythological narratives. The temple’s historical significance is further cemented by references in Tamil Sangam literature and praises by renowned poets such as Nakkeerar and Telugu poet Dhoorjati.
Let’s look at the Vaayu Lingam of the Pancha Bhotam Sthalams
Srikalahasti Temple is renowned as one of the five Pancha Bhuta Sthalams, representing the element of Air (Vaayu). The sanctum radiates a mystical energy believed to cleanse the soul and elevate one’s spiritual consciousness. Unlike other temples that close during solar and lunar eclipses, Srikalahasti Temple remains open, emphasizing its divine significance.
The temple’s name is rooted in an ancient legend, where a spider (Sri), a snake (Kala), and an elephant (Hasti) ardently worshipped Lord Shiva to attain Moksha (liberation). Moved by their devotion, Shiva granted them salvation, and thus, the place became known as Srikalahasti.
Among the temple’s many divine stories, one of the most celebrated is that of Kannappa, a hunter who unknowingly became one of Lord Shiva’s greatest devotees. Upon seeing blood oozing from the Shiva Lingam, he attempted to stop it by offering his own eyes. Before he could complete the act, Lord Shiva intervened, blessed him, and granted him liberation. This unparalleled devotion cemented Kannappa’s place among the 63 Nayanmars (Shaivite saints).
Another legend recounts the tale of Goddess Parvati, who was cursed by Lord Shiva and transformed into a mortal. Through years of intense penance at this temple, she regained her divine form as Gnana Prasunambika Devi, symbolising the power of unwavering devotion.
Furthermore, it is believed that Lord Vayu (the Wind God) worshipped Lord Shiva here for thousands of years. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Shiva granted him the boon of omnipresence, further establishing the temple’s spiritual supremacy.
The unique Rahu-Ketu Pooja and it’s astrological significance
Srikalahasti Temple is particularly famous for the Rahu-Ketu Pooja, a powerful ritual believed to nullify the adverse effects of planetary alignments. Devotees from across the globe visit this sacred shrine to seek relief from astrological afflictions and obstacles in life.
The sacred vibrations of Srikalahasti Temple continue to inspire millions, offering solace, blessings, and a path to spiritual enlightenment. Whether for its historical grandeur, divine legends, or astrological remedies, this temple binds humanity to the divine.
To visit Srikalahasti is to walk on the path of countless saints, devotees, and seekers who have, for centuries, found peace and liberation in its sacred precincts. Truly, it remains a jewel of South Indian spirituality, where the winds of devotion never cease to blow.
Source / Image Credit : peepultreestories , Behind Every Temple, Famous Temples of India, It's My Tirupati