Sri Kalahasti Temple, located in the town of Srikalahasti in Andhra Pradesh, is one of South India’s most revered and ancient temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known as the “Dakshina Kailasam” (Kailash of the South), it is especially famous for its unique form of Shiva Linga, representing the element of air or “Vayu,” making it one of the five Pancha Bhoota Sthalas (temples representing the five elements). Here’s a detailed look at its history, legends, architectural features, and significance:
Mythological Origins and Legends
The origin of the Srikalahasti Temple is steeped in Hindu mythology, with several legends explaining its significance:
1. The Story of Sri, Kala, and Hasti: The temple’s name, “Srikalahasti,” is derived from three devotees of Lord Shiva: Sri (a spider), Kala (a snake), and Hasti (an elephant). According to legend, each of these creatures worshiped Shiva in their own way at this site. The spider spun a web around the Linga to protect it, the snake decorated the Linga with precious stones, and the elephant bathed it with water from the nearby river. Despite the differences in their forms of worship, each creature’s devotion pleased Lord Shiva, and he granted them salvation. The combination of their names, “Srikalahasti,” honors their devotion.
2. The Story of Kannappa Nayanar: Another significant legend associated with the temple is the story of Kannappa, a tribal devotee of Shiva, who is considered one of the 63 Nayanars, the saintly devotees of Shiva in Tamil Shaivism. Kannappa’s love and devotion to Shiva were so intense that when he saw blood dripping from one of the eyes of the Shiva Linga, he offered his own eye as a replacement. When the other eye began bleeding, Kannappa prepared to sacrifice his second eye as well. Before he could do so, Shiva appeared and blessed him, granting him a place in Kailasa, Shiva’s abode. This story emphasizes Kannappa’s unwavering devotion and is an important aspect of the temple’s legacy.
Historical Background and Development
The Srikalahasti Temple’s history spans over a thousand years, with references dating back to the early centuries of the Common Era. The temple gained significant prominence during various dynasties:
1. Pallava Period (6th – 9th Century): The initial structure of the temple is believed to have been built by the Pallavas, who were known for their temple architecture and devotion to Hindu deities. However, only minor parts of the original structure remain, as subsequent rulers expanded and renovated the temple.
2. Chola Period (9th – 13th Century): The Chola dynasty, particularly known for their contributions to temple architecture across South India, played an instrumental role in expanding and beautifying Srikalahasti Temple. During their reign, the temple saw considerable growth in its size and architectural embellishments. Inscriptions from this period found on temple walls provide historical context and details of Chola patronage.
3. Vijayanagara Period (14th – 17th Century): The Vijayanagara Empire, under the reign of rulers like Krishnadevaraya, made significant contributions to the temple’s development. King Krishnadevaraya, who ruled in the 16th century, personally funded the construction of the temple’s magnificent 120-foot-high gopuram (gateway tower) in 1516 CE. This towering structure stands as a testament to the architectural grandeur of the Vijayanagara period. The empire’s rulers also added intricately carved mandapas (pillared halls) and ornate sculptures, which became defining features of the temple.
Architectural Features
The Srikalahasti Temple is an impressive example of South Indian Dravidian architecture, known for its elaborate structures, intricate carvings, and massive pillars:
Vayu Linga: Unlike typical Shiva Lingas that are carved from stone, the Vayu Linga at Srikalahasti is a naturally formed Linga, worshipped as an embodiment of the element of air. It is unique because the presence of air can be felt as a continuous stream moving around the Linga, symbolizing the formless and omnipresent aspect of Lord Shiva.
Gopuram: The 120-foot-high gopuram built by Krishnadevaraya is one of the temple’s most striking features. This tower serves as the main entrance and is adorned with intricate carvings that depict various deities, mythological figures, and scenes from Hindu epics.
Mandapas (Halls): The temple complex houses several large mandapas, including the 100-pillared hall, which is intricately carved and showcases the sculptural mastery of the artisans. These mandapas are often used for religious gatherings, rituals, and processions.
The Temple Tank (Pathala Ganga): The temple tank, called Pathala Ganga, is located near the main complex and is used by devotees for ritual bathing before entering the temple. The river Swarnamukhi flows near the temple, adding to the temple’s sacred geography and providing water for the temple’s daily rituals.
Ritual and Pilgrimage Significance
Srikalahasti Temple is particularly known for rituals related to Rahu-Ketu Dosha, a concept in Vedic astrology that suggests obstacles due to planetary positions in a person’s life. Special poojas and ceremonies are performed at the temple to alleviate the negative effects of this dosha. The temple attracts pilgrims from all over India seeking spiritual guidance, blessings, and relief from planetary doshas.
The temple is also one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalas, representing the five natural elements—earth, water, fire, air, and space. Srikalahasti is dedicated to the element of air (Vayu), symbolizing the subtle, all-pervasive nature of life force. The other four temples include Ekambareswarar Temple in Kanchipuram (earth), Jambukeswarar Temple in Thiruvanaikaval (water), Annamalaiyar Temple in Thiruvannamalai (fire), and Chidambaram Nataraja Temple (space).
Later Periods and Restoration
Over the centuries, the temple has undergone several restorations. Many local rulers and wealthy devotees contributed to the maintenance and preservation of the temple. In the 20th century, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) recognized the temple’s historical importance and undertook measures to protect and conserve its ancient structures and inscriptions.
Festivals and Celebrations
The temple celebrates various festivals with grandeur, the most important being the Maha Shivaratri festival. During this festival, the temple comes alive with thousands of devotees gathering to offer prayers and participate in rituals, including special abhishekam (sacred bathing) ceremonies for Lord Shiva. Other important celebrations include Brahmotsavam, which features processions of the deities in decorated chariots and various cultural performances.
Present-Day Significance
Today, Srikalahasti Temple is a major pilgrimage destination, attracting devotees and tourists from across the country. Its close proximity to the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati makes it a popular addition to pilgrimages, as devotees often visit both temples as part of a single pilgrimage.
The temple’s architectural beauty, spiritual atmosphere, and deep-rooted connections to Hindu mythology and devotion continue to draw visitors seeking both cultural enrichment and divine blessings.
