Devotees are thronging Srisailam Temple on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri, turning the sacred hill shrine into a sea of faith. The forest routes leading to the temple are witnessing heavy pilgrim movement. Thousands of Shiva Swamis and devotees have already reached the temple town. Authorities have stepped up arrangements to ensure a smooth and safe darshan experience.
One of the Twelve Jyotirlingas
Srisailam holds a special place among the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The presiding deity, Lord Mallikarjuna, attracts devotees from across India and abroad. Devotees believe that even a glimpse of the temple tower brings spiritual merit and liberation. Ancient scriptures and legends mention the temple’s glory, which has continued for centuries.
Chants of “Om Namah Shivaya” echo across the hills as devotees undertake padayatras through dense forests. Many complete their Mandala Deeksha and walk barefoot to seek blessings. Since the start of the Brahmotsavams, over two lakh devotees have visited the temple, according to officials.
Surge in Pilgrim Footfall
This year, officials expect nearly 30 per cent more devotees compared to last Shivaratri. They estimate that around 1.5 lakh pilgrims may have darshan on the main festival day alone. Therefore, authorities expanded queue lines to accommodate 15,000 devotees at a time, up from 11,000 earlier.
To maintain security, the administration deployed 3,000 police personnel and 2,000 private staff members. Additionally, officials arranged temporary boarding facilities, drinking water, and toilets for padayatra pilgrims coming from Atmakur mandal’s Venkatapuram route. NGOs are also providing food and essential services. Near the Alankara Mandapam, officials set up seating for over 500 devotees who conclude their Shiva Deeksha. Furthermore, they installed 1,250 mobile toilets and arranged cultural programmes at four different venues.
Spiritual Significance of Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna
The temple is dedicated to Lord Mallikarjuna (Shiva) and Goddess Bhramaramba (Parvati). Devotees worship Shiva as Mallanna and Parvati as Bhramaramba at this sacred site. Mythology states that epic figures like the Pandavas and Lord Rama visited this shrine and offered prayers. As a result, the temple enjoys immense spiritual importance among Hindus.
Pagalankarana Ritual Draws Massive Attention
A key highlight of Maha Shivaratri at Srisailam is the traditional Pagalankarana ritual. The Pritvi Venkateshwarlu family has performed this sacred service for generations. The family observes strict deeksha for a year and weaves one measure of cloth daily for 365 days to prepare the ceremonial turban.
On Maha Shivaratri night, they adorn the temple’s vimana kalashas and mandapam structures with the sacred cloth in complete darkness, following ancient customs. Devotees believe that witnessing this ritual brings divine blessings and prosperity throughout the year. Consequently, thousands gather to watch the ceremony with deep devotion.
Brahmotsava Kalyanam at Midnight
After the completion of Pagalankarana, the grand Brahmotsava Kalyanam of Sri Bhramaramba Sametha Mallikarjuna Swamy will take place from midnight. The celestial wedding ceremony forms the spiritual climax of the festival. Temple authorities have ensured that devotees can participate without inconvenience.
With elaborate arrangements and unwavering faith, Srisailam once again stands as a beacon of devotion during Maha Shivaratri, drawing lakhs of pilgrims seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings.
For the latest updates, click here.
