Indian Temples : Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple- Andhra Pradesh- Highlights


The Srisailam Temple, officially known as Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, is one of the most sacred pilgrimage centres in India. Located on the banks of the Krishna River amid the dense forests of the Nallamala Hills in Andhra Pradesh, the temple is dedicated to Lord Mallikarjuna (Shiva) and Goddess Bhramaramba (Parvati). Srisailam holds exceptional spiritual importance as it is both one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and one of the 18 Shakti Peethas, making it a rare and supremely revered shrine.

History in Detail

Ancient References

  • Srisailam finds mention in ancient scriptures such as the Skanda Purana, Shiva Purana, and Padma Purana.
  • The sacred hill is traditionally known as Sri Giri, believed to have been worshipped since Vedic times.

Mythological Origins

  • According to legend, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati manifested here as Mallikarjuna and Bhramaramba to bless devotees in Kali Yuga.
  • The temple is associated with the story of Kumaraswamy (Kartikeya), whose devotion led Shiva and Parvati to reside on this hill.

Historical Development

  • Early construction is attributed to the Satavahana dynasty (2nd century BCE – 2nd century CE).
  • Major expansions and endowments were made by the Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, and later the Vijayanagara kings.
  • Emperor Krishnadevaraya made significant donations, including gold-plated ornaments and temple structures.
  • Over centuries, the shrine evolved into a fortified temple complex with towering gopurams and massive stone walls.

Significance

  • Jyotirlinga: Mallikarjuna is one of the twelve self-manifested Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
  • Shakti Peetha: Goddess Bhramaramba is worshipped as one of the eighteen Shakti Peethas.
  • Srisailam is regarded as a place where Shaivism and Shaktism converge.
  • The temple is a vital stop in the Pancharama Kshetras and also revered by Veerashaiva and Nath yogi traditions.
  • Devotees believe that worship here grants liberation (moksha), protection, and spiritual fulfillment.

Temple Details (Full Description)

Main Deities

  • Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy (Shiva) in Jyotirlinga form.
  • Goddess Bhramaramba Devi, worshipped as the divine mother.

Architecture

  • Built in classic Dravidian style, blended with regional Deccan influences.
  • The temple complex is enclosed by high stone walls, forming a protective fort-like structure.

Key Structures

  1. Mukha Mandapam
    • Main entrance hall with ornate pillars.
  2. Veerasiromandapam
    • Features finely sculpted pillars depicting mythological scenes.
  3. Bhramaramba Devi Shrine
    • Separate sanctum within the complex.
  4. Pathala Ganga
    • Sacred bathing ghat on the Krishna River below the hill.
  5. Sahasra Linga Mandapam
    • Houses numerous Shiva lingas worshipped by devotees.
  6. Akasha Ganga
    • Holy waterfall used for ritual abhishekams.

Important Festivals

  • Maha Shivaratri
  • Brahmotsavam
  • Navaratri
  • Karthika Masam
  • Ugadi

Temple Timings

Ritual / Darshan Timings
Suprabhatam 4:30 AM
Sarva Darshan 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Abhishekam Early morning hours
Temple Closed 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM (brief afternoon break)

Timings may vary during festivals and special occasions.

Connectivity

By Road

  • Well-connected by road from Hyderabad, Kurnool, and Vijayawada.
  • APSRTC operates frequent bus services.

By Rail

  • Nearest railway stations: Markapur Road and Nandyal.
  • Further travel by road from these stations.

By Air

  • Nearest airport: Hyderabad International Airport, approximately 230 km away.

Legacy

The Srisailam Temple stands as a timeless symbol of spiritual unity, where Shaiva and Shakta traditions meet in harmony. For centuries, saints, sages, kings, and common devotees have walked the sacred forest paths of Srisailam in search of divine grace. Beyond ritual worship, the temple has preserved ancient traditions, supported religious scholarship, and fostered devotion across generations.

Even today, surrounded by forests and flowing river waters, Srisailam remains a profound spiritual retreat—offering devotees not just darshan, but a deep sense of inner transformation and peace.



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