Srikalahasteeswara Temple, Srikalahasti
Also known as: ஸ்ரீகாளஹஸ்தி கோயில் · శ్రీకాళహస్తి ఆలయం · श्रीकालहस्ती मंदिर
Andhra Pradesh Shiva
The air lingam (Vayu Lingam) among the five element temples, beside the Swarnamukhi river. Known for Rahu–Ketu pooja.
- Deity
- Srikalahasteeswara (Shiva), Gnana Prasunambika (Parvati)
- Tradition
- Shiva
- Place
- Srikalahasti, Tirupati
- State
- Andhra Pradesh
- Sacred tank / theertham
- Swarnamukhi river
Sthala Puranam
The name is said to come from three devotees: Sri (a spider), Kala (a snake) and Hasti (an elephant). Each worshipped Shiva here in their own way.
Mayura, Chandra and Indra were cursed to be born as a spider, a snake and an elephant. They bathed in the Swarnamukhi river and prayed here to be freed from the curse.
The hunter Kannappa saw blood flowing from the lingam's eye. He offered his own eyes, one after another, to stop it. Shiva stopped him before he gave the second eye and gave him moksha.
Speciality
- Vayu (air) lingam among the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams.
- Rahu–Ketu pooja is performed here for relief from the astrological effects of Rahu and Ketu.
- Devotees point out that a lamp flame in the sanctum flickers as if in a breeze, although the sanctum has no window.
- Maha Shivaratri is the main festival, with a 13-day Brahmotsavam.
Festivals
- Maha Shivaratri and Brahmotsavam (February–March), 13 days
How to reach
Location is approximate.
Before you go
- Dress modestly. Leave footwear outside the temple.
- Timings, ticket rules and dress codes change. Check the temple's own notice or website before you travel.
- Book darshan, rooms and special poojas only at the official counter or website, not through agents.
- Book the Rahu–Ketu pooja only from the temple's official counter or website. Brokers outside charge more.
- Photography inside the sanctum is not allowed.
Prayers for this temple
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