Article by Mr. Shankara Narayanan
Srisailam, home to Mallikarjunaswamy, one of the revered Jyotirlingas, stands as a testament to divine serenity on the southern banks of River Krishna, approximately 250 kilometers south of Hyderabad, in the district of Kurnool.
Steeped in antiquity, the origins of this sacred site fade into the mists of time, with references found in ancient texts like the Skanda Purana and the Mahabharata. Renowned saints and sages of yore have extolled its virtues, with Adi Sankara himself gracing its precincts and composing his Sivananda Lahiri.
Legends and Lore
Legend has it that Shiva's sacred bull, Nandi, undertook penance here until Shiva and Parvati, in the forms of Mallikarjuna and Brahmaramba, blessed him. Heroic tales from the Mahabharata and Ramayana adorn the temple walls, immortalizing Srisailam as Sri Parvata — the blessed hill. The Brahmaramba temple harbors a unique phenomenon, where the faint buzz of a bee emanates from a tiny crevice, commemorating Parvati's slaying of the demon Mahisasura.
Historical Significance
The twelfth century witnessed Srisailam's ascension to eminence during the Sharana movement and Vachana Sahitya spearheaded by Basavanna. It is believed that one of the caves here witnessed the emancipation of the renowned poet and social reformer Akka Mahadevi.
Journey to Sanctity
The journey to Srisailam from Hyderabad is best undertaken by road. Regular buses ply between the two cities, with deluxe buses completing the journey in approximately six hours and normal express buses in about seven hours. The route traverses through a plateau for the initial 70 kilometers before immersing into the dense forests of Nallamala, home to a Tiger Sanctuary.
Travel Tips
Travel through the Nallamala forest is permitted from 6 am to 7 pm, and nighttime travel is strongly discouraged due to safety concerns. Visitors are advised to exercise caution and avoid carrying valuables while traversing through the forest region.
Exploring Srisailam
Upon arrival at Srisailam, devotees can expect a seamless darshan experience, with the entire process typically taking less than an hour. The town offers a variety of dining options, allowing visitors to savor local cuisine before embarking on their return journey. En route, a stop at the museum and a glimpse of the Srisailam Dam are highly recommended.
Accommodation and Safety
For those wishing to extend their stay, Srisailam offers a range of accommodation options, with room rates varying depending on the season. Charitable trusts provide clean and affordable accommodations, albeit with certain restrictions such as no smoking or drinking.
In conclusion, a pilgrimage to Srisailam promises a blend of spiritual fulfillment and natural tranquility, making it a must-visit destination for devotees and travelers alike.
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