Temples in Srisailam
Mallikarjuna Temple
This temple, dedicated to Lord Siva, is nestled in the Rishabagiri Hills on the south bank of the Krishna River. It is also called Sriparvata. The Mallikarjuna Swami Temple is one of the 12 jyotirlinga Siva temples, or main Siva temples in the country. The main temple has four lofty towers and was built by King Harihara Raya. The temple is surrounded by an 8.5m high wall. As you enter this temple you will first notice a well-carved mukha-mandapa (hall) with a huge carved stone Nandi (bull). The Lord's consort is known as Bhramarambika.
Anyone who comes here is allowed to touch the Lord or bow and touch their heads to the linga. There are also smaller shrines dedicated to Panchapandavas, Vata Vriksha, and Sahasra-linga in this temple.
To the right of the main temple is the Old or Vriddha Mallikarjuna Sivalinga (7th century), which is the original Siva-linga that was installed in this temple. It is said that because this Sivalinga was originally worshiped with jasmine, or mallika flowers, it was given the name Mallikarjuna. The interesting Mirror Hall directly to your right as you enter the main gate is where the Lord takes rest at night.
Lord Caitanya visited this temple, and Sankaracarya also stayed at Srisailam for sometime. The Maratha General Shivaji came here in 1674. It is said this temple was visited by Prahlada Maharaja and also by Lord Rams, after He returned from Lanka. Lord Rama is said to have personally installed the Sahasra-linga here. This Sahasra-linga is surrounded by a three-headed Naga and consists of 1001 miniature lingas. There are five lingas in the inner courtyard that are said to have been installed by the Pandavas called the Panchapandavas.
Behind the main temple and up a flight of stairs is the temple of the goddess Bhramarambika (Parvati), who is said to have assumed the form of a bee to kill the demon Mahisasura. If you press your ear to a tiny hole on the exterior back wall of the sanctum, you can hear the buzzing of a bee.
The outer enclosure walls of' the Mallikarjuna Temple have five regular rows of sculptures on the eastern, southern, and northern walls. The Sivaratri festival here in February-March is huge, being the high point of the year. Non-Hindus are allowed to enter this temple.
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