On the loftiest heights of Srisailam, where gods are believed to gather and peace permeates the air, rests Shri Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga. This ancient pilgrimage, located in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district along the serene Krishna River, is hailed as the second Jyotirlinga—one of the twelve special abodes of Lord Shiva. Its spiritual might is so profound that, as told in revered scriptures, even a single visit here is said to dissolve sorrows and fulfill the deepest yearnings of the soul.
“I bow to the one and only Lord Shri Mallikarjuna, who lives with joy upon the high peak of Srisailam, surpassing even the greatest mountains, where divine assemblies abound. He is the bridge to cross the ocean of worldly troubles.”
Spiritual Importance and Blessings
The Mahabharata and Shiva Purana deeply praise this Jyotirlinga. Rituals and worship at Srisailam are described as being equal in merit to the greatest Vedic sacrifices. According to the scriptures, those who have the fortune to behold and worship here are blessed with happiness, spiritual fulfillment, and ultimate liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
“From the moment Shri Mallikarjuna manifested on Srisailam, this Jyotirlinga became renowned throughout all three worlds. Whoever worships it is freed from all sins, finds all wishes fulfilled, sorrow disappears, supreme joy is attained, and liberation from rebirth is assured.”
The Heartwarming Story Behind the Jyotirlinga
The legend of this sacred temple is filled with wisdom. Lord Shiva and Parvati hoped to see their sons, Kartikeya and Ganesha, embark into family life. But both wanted to marry first, leading to a divine contest: whoever circled the earth and returned first would be wedded first.
Kartikeya, confident in his speed, sped off on his peacock. Ganesha, renowned for his wisdom, saw deeper. Respectfully walking around his parents seven times, he said, “My parents are the heart of the universe—by honoring them, I honor all creation.” Impressed and delighted, Shiva and Parvati granted Ganesha the victory and honor of being worshipped first.
Kartikeya, upon hearing this, chose solitude at Krauncha Mountain. Mother Parvati and Lord Shiva lovingly followed, and in that sacred place, Shiva appeared as a self-radiant Jyotirlinga, forever known as Mallikarjuna—“Mallika” for Parvati and “Arjuna” for Shiva, representing their eternal union.
Temple Experience: Rituals, Architecture, and Festivals
The Dravidian-style temple is ringed by massive stone walls decorated with carvings and majestic gateways. The eight-finger-tall swayambhu (self-manifest) Lingam is set in a plain stone base, radiating a simple, intense spiritual energy.
Inside the complex, smaller Shiva shrines and the temple of Parvati—here worshipped as Mallikadevi—stand nearby. During festivals like Maha Shivaratri, the vibrations of devotional songs and prayers fill the temple and its surroundings.
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Darshan timings: 6 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and again 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
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Rituals begin at 4:30 a.m. and close with peaceful night prayers.
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A special celebration, the “wedding” of Shiva and Parvati, is held annually.
Around Srisailam: Holy Sites and Pilgrims’ Comfort
The divine energy of Srisailam extends beyond the main temple:
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Bhramaramba Devi Temple, just 3km away, is one of the holiest Shakti Peeths.
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Shikhreshwar Temple, 9km distance, is famous for a view believed to grant freedom from rebirth.
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Patalganga (Krishna River), where pilgrims take sacred baths.
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Nearby shrines and ancient temples at Alamapur, Maahanadi, and Bilvavan add to the region’s sanctity.
Srisailam is easily reached by road (bus service from Hyderabad and Secunderabad), train (via Kurnool or Markapur Road), or air (Hyderabad airport). Accommodation options range from simple cottages to modern complexes.
Wisdom for the Modern Seeker
The story of Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga teaches us humility, devotion, and the wisdom to honor our roots. Ganesha’s victory was not of speed but of insight—true spiritual progress comes from love, knowledge, and reverence.
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Let the grace of Lord Mallikarjuna fill you with peace, strength, and new light on your life’s path. With each step towards devotion and awareness, may you always find the divine presence within and around you.
Read Also: Why Is Somnath Temple Called the Earth’s First Jyotirlinga? Complete Guide