Mallikarjuna Jyothirlingam Temple

Introduction to Srisailam Temple:

Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh, is one of the twelve Jyothirlingams of Lord Shiva. In this temple, Lord Shiva is worshipped as Brahmaramba Mallikarjuna, and Goddess Parvati is worshipped as Goddess Brahmaramba. This place is also worshipped as “ Shakthi Peetam”, where the body parts of Goddess Shakthi fell on earth. This temple is highly sacred, as the combination of Shaivam and Shaktam is highly significant. This is one among the “Paadal Petra Sthalams”, where Tamil Saints called Nayanmars had composed hymns on this temple and the deity.

History and Legend of Srisailam Temple:

It is believed that Lord Muruga had a fight with his parents and went to Srisailam. To console their son, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, came and stayed in the names of Mallika and Arjuna. Thus, this place was called as Mallikarjun as both the Lord and the Goddess together appeased their son, Lord Muruga. Once Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati wanted to find a suitable life partner for their sons. Lord Ganesha and Lord Muruga had a bitter argument, as to who would get married first.

Lord Shiva gave a challenge that whoever ambulates the world first would get married earlier. Thus Lord Muruga sat on his vehicle, the peacock, and started his expedition. But Lord Ganesha merely ambulated his parents seven times. According to Sanathana Dharma, ambulating the parents is equivalent to going around the world once. Lord Shiva got his son, Lord Ganesha, married to Goddess Buddhi and Goddess Siddhi. When Lord Muruga returned, he was furious and left for Mount Kraunja, as he saw his brother winning the challenge. On seeing Muruga furious, disappointed, and filled with rage, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati came to earth and pacified him after which they returned to their heavenly abode.

The Architecture of Srisailam Temple:

The temple is built by the Satavahana dynasty during the 2nd century. Later, a lot of renovations were done during the Vijayanagara period. The entire complex is built on an area of more than 2 acres. The temple has prominent halls with pillars, which are intricately carved. The walls of this temple complex are tall and measure almost 183 m. The Sahasra Lingam, which is made of 100 small Lingams, is highly admired by devotees across the world. It is also believed that the Lingams were commissioned by Lord Rama, and the other Lingams were commissioned by the Pandavas.

Festivals Related to Srisailam Temple:

Many festivals are celebrated in this temple. Among them, Shiva Ratri and Navaratri are highly celebrated, where all the ten days are filled with a lot of celebrations. Pradosham and Bairava Ashtami are also important festivals. Telugu New Year/Ugadi and Makara Sankranthi are among the prominent celebrations.

Benefits of Srisailam Temple:

Lord Mallikarjuna blesses his devotees with a greater level of spirituality. He helps them to attain a problem-free life. He helps his devotees to achieve greater success in life. People with challenges in job, family, and children pray to the Goddess Brahmaramba.