Srikalahasteeswara temple
Srikalahasti Temple is well-known as-
Srikalahasteeswara temple among the local residents. Srikalahasti temple is
sited at about a distance of 38 km from the North, Tirupati central and people
can reach both from road and railways to this pilgrimage. It is famous as one
of the most prominent temples of South India. Srikalahasti Temple is famous as
one of the Panchabhoota Sthalams- Vayu Linga which represents wind. This Shiva
Pilgrimage is also famed as Dakshina Kasi and Rahu-katu-Kshetra among the
tourists of Andhra- Pradesh. The temple was constructed in 5th century and was
rebuilt in 12th Century by Vijayanagara and Chola kings.
Legend has it, this place is famed where
Kannappa (saint). Kannappa Nayanar is popular as one of the 63 saints and the
ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. He sacrificed both of his eyes merrily to stop
the blood flowing out of the Shiva Lingam and he continued doing the same till
the time, he was not ceased by Lord Shiva. After the incidence Lord Shiva felt
happy with his sacrifice and devotion and thus gave him salvation.
The local people
celebrate- Mahashivaratri inside the
temple premise enthusiastically. This festival is observed in the Maasi month from
15th February to 15th March annually. And the fifth day of the Maasi
month is popular as- Mahashivaratri among the pilgrims and visitors. Fairs have
been organised and people often fast on the night of Shivratri and sing hymns
and praises in the name of Lord Shiva. Large carcades are carried out within
the city with people thronging the streets to catch a glance of the venerate
idol of Mahadeva.
