Srisailam Temple: Historical Significance, Recent Discoveries, and Cultural Heritage
About Srisailam Temple
- Dedication: The temple, also known as Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, is devoted to Lord Shiva (Mallikarjuna Swamy) and Goddess Parvati (Bhramaramba Devi).
- Location: Situated in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh, amidst the forests of Nallamala Hills, overlooking the Krishna River.
- Religious Significance:
- One of the 12 Jyotirlingas (manifestations of Lord Shiva).
- Also a Shakti Peetha, where Goddess Shakti is revered as Bhramarambha.
- Architecture:
- Built in the Dravidian style with lofty towers and sprawling courtyards.
- Represents Vijayanagara architecture, with references dating back to the 2nd century CE (Satavahana dynasty).
- Patronized by dynasties such as the Kakatiyas, Vijayanagara Empire, and Qutb Shahis.
- Unique Feature: Combines Jyotirlinga and Mahashakti (Bhramarambha) shrines within the same campus, a rare architectural phenomenon.
Historical and Religious Highlights
- The temple was visited by the great religious leader Adi Sankara, who composed the “Sivananda Lahiri” here.
- Several endowments and inscriptions from different dynasties indicate its rich historical and cultural heritage.
Recent Archaeological Discoveries
Key Findings
- Copper Plates and Inscriptions:
- 20 sets of copper plates comprising 72 leaves.
- Gold coins were also uncovered.
- Discovered in the temple’s Ghantamandapam by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
- The inscriptions date back to the 2nd century BCE (Satavahana dynasty).
Current Studies and Publications
- Documentation has been completed by the ASI Mysore Epigraphy Branch.
- Findings are being studied for insights into the temple’s cultural, historical, and religious heritage.
- A book detailing these discoveries will soon be published by Pragati Publications, Hyderabad, in collaboration with the Srisailam Devasthanam and the ASI.
Significance of the Discovery
- Offers valuable insights into ancient Indian history, religion, and culture.
- Highlights the temple’s enduring patronage across centuries by several powerful dynasties.
What is Srisailam Temple
Srisailam Temple, also known as Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva (Mallikarjuna Swamy) and Goddess Parvati (Bhramaramba Devi).
Where is Srisailam Temple located?
The temple is located in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh, amidst the forests of the Nallamala Hills, near the Krishna River
What is the religious importance of Srisailam Temple?
It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and also one of the Shakti Peethas, making it sacred to followers of both Shaivism and Shaktism.
What is unique about this temple?
It combines a Jyotirlinga (Lord Shiva) and Mahashakti (Goddess Bhramaramba) within the same temple complex, a rare architectural and religious feature.
What style is the Srisailam Temple built in?
It is built in the Dravidian style, featuring lofty towers, sprawling courtyards, and Vijayanagara architectural elements.
How old is the Srisailam Temple?
Its exact origins are uncertain, but references to the temple date back to the 2nd century CE during the Satavahana dynasty.
Which dynasties contributed to the development of the temple?
The temple was patronized by dynasties such as the Satavahanas, Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Vijayanagara Empire, and Qutb Shahis.
What was recently discovered in Srisailam Temple?
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) found 20 sets of copper plates (72 leaves), gold coins, and inscriptions in the Ghantamandapam of the temple.
What information is expected from these discoveries?
The findings may provide valuable insights into the historical, cultural, and religious heritage of the temple.
Who is studying the copper plates and inscriptions?
The ASI’s Epigraphy Branch in Mysore has documented the materials, which are now under detailed study.
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