Sri Kapila Theertham Foot Hills Of Tirumala In Tirupati

                                                Sri Kapila theertham

Located at the Kapilatheertam, Sri Kapila theertham Temple in Tirupati is one of the famous 108 Sacred Theerthas on Tirumala Hills. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva who is known as Lord Kapileshwara. According to the Hindu mythology, the temple has been named after a great saint, Maharishi Kapila, who was a dedicated devotee of Lord Shiva. Impressed by his firm devotion, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati gave him their divine ‘darshan’ here after which a Kapila Lingam appeared out of the Earth. In front of the temple, there is a sacred waterfall and a holy lake ‘Sarovara’. The Lingam is believed to be self-created by Lord Shiva and is also known as ‘Svayambhu’ form of Lord Shiva. The temple receives thousands of devotees seeking blessing of Lord Kapileshwara. People usually visit this holy place during the Shivratri festival and the annual Brahmotsavam festival. The breathtaking view of hundreds of deepams (lamps) illuminating the premises of the temple is a must watch during Karthika Deepam.

Kapila Theertham History:-

•The description of Kapila Theertham temple goes back to 10th century. It also has been referred as the ancient inscriptions of Kulottunga Chola Kingdoms. The history of this temple also depicts that many great empires and sages have worked for the development of the temple which included Pallava kings, Vijayanagara kings and Tirumala Mahants.
•As this temple comprises of seven lakes, it is also known as the Seshachalam. The seven peaks are called Seshadri, Neeladri, Garudadri, Anjanadri, Vrushabhadri, Narayanadri and Venkatadri. The temple is situated on Venkatadri which is the seventh peak and so it also is known as the ‘Temple of Seven Hills.’
•Medieval history The Pallavas of Kanchipuram (9th century AD), the Cholas of Tanjore (10th century), and Vijayanagara pradhans (14th and 15th centuries) were committed devotees of Lord Venkateswara. During the invasion of Srirangam by Malik Kafur in 1310–11 AD, the Ranga Mandapam of the temple served as the shelter for the presiding deity of Srirangam, Ranganatha Swamy.
•Later, under the rule of the Vijayanagara emperors, was when the temple gained most of its current wealth and size, with the donation of diamonds and gold.
•In 1517 Vijayanagara ruler Sri Krishna Deva Raya, on one of his many visits to the temple, donated gold and jewels. This enabled the Vimana (inner shrine) roofing to be gilded. Statues of Sri Krishna Deva Raya and his spouse stand in the premises of the temple. After the decline of Vijayanagara Empire, kings from states such as Mysore and Gadwal gave ornaments and valuables to the temple.
•There are many stories associated with the manifestation of the Lord in Tirumala. The temple has a murti (deity) of Lord Venkateswara, which it is believed shall remain here for the entire duration of the present Kali Yuga.

Kapila Theertham:-

According to Puranas 'Kapilamuni' of 'Paataala' (under-world) originally worshipped the Linga at Kapila Theertham. Lord Shiva is said to have blessed Sage Kapila with a vision of himself and his consort etc. But for some cause the Kapila Lingam pierced up through the earth to its surface, 'Suras' (Devatas) started worshipping it. It is also said that even before the Linga forced itself up, the Kamadhenu (celestial cow) made her way through a hole to the earth and took form here. The Shiva Lingam is made of brass in one of the shrines of Kapila Teertham.


In front of Kapila Lingam lies a very sacred 'Sarovara' (lake), which is the 'Bilam' (cavity) through which 'Kapila Maharshi' came to earth. A spring falls on the temple. Both the temple and the waterfall are considered to be highly pious. A holy dip here is believed to confer maximum benefit and rid the devout of sins.


Bhavishyottara Puranam says that Vakuladevi , before going to Aakaasha raja to discuss Srinivasa’s (Lord Balaji) marriage to Padmavathi, had a sacred bath in Kapila Theertham, as ordained by the Lord.

Shiva Linga & Rituals:-

There is a mountain cave in one of the steep and vertical faces at the foot of the Tirumala Hills, at the entrance of which you will come across the huge, magnificent temple of Lord Shiva. The waters of a mountain stream, Paapa Vinasanam come down as a huge waterfall here. As is typical of Lord Shiva’s temple, there is a huge stone statue of the seated bull, Nandi, at the entrance to the temple.
The Shiva Linga in the Kapila Theertham shrine is made of brass. There is a holy lake known as ‘Sarovara’ in the front of the Kapila Lingam shrine, which is supposed to be the ‘Bilam’ or cavity through which Kapila Maharshi came to earth. A waterfall cascades down to the temple. The temple and the waterfall are worshipped with great piety. Kapila Theertham Temple functions under the aegis of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam and is protected and maintained by them. The TTD ensures that the annual festivals conducted in this temple are comparable in grandeur to those of Tirumala, such as the Brahmotsavam.
A prominent ritual at this temple happens on the full moon day, during the month of Karthika on the occasion of its ‘mukkoti’ (three crores). All the teerthas situated in the three worlds are believed to merge into the holy waters of Kapila Theertham at noon for about ten ‘Ghatikas’(one ghatika is equivalent to 24 minutes). There is a belief that when devotees bathe in Kapila Theertham during this time, they will attain Brahmaloka or salvation from the cycle of birth and death. There is also a belief that those who perform ancestral rites, known as ‘thithi’ or ‘thadhhina’, when they offer what is known as ‘pindam’ or rice balls offered to departed souls, if they perform the rites here will be blessed. Those who have discontinued ancestral rites can perform them here to wash off their sins of non performance.
The temple conducts some special sevas or offerings in which devotees can participate by paying a fee. Festivals like Vinayaka Utsavam, Annaabhishekam, Karthika Deepam and Maha Shivarathri are celebrated in the temple, attracting thousands of devotees.
 
Special Occasions at Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple :-
 
In the 'Annual Brahmotsavam' festival the entire Tirupati, Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple also forms an energetic part of the festivity. For the duration of the annual Shivarathri festival, the temple is looking by thousands of devotees which is the busiest period of this temple. In kapila theertham  Shiva special occasion like Vinayaka Utsavam, Karthika Deepam, which are held with immense  and festivals.



Religious importance:-

During 'Kartika' month on the occasion of its "mukkoti" on the 'Purnima' (full moon) day, all the teerthas situated in the three world's merge into this Kapila Teertham at noon for ten 'Ghatikas'(one ghatika is equivalent to 24 minutes). It is believed that persons bathing in it at that auspicious time will attain salvation from the cycle of birth and death ('Brahmaloka').[citation needed] Moreover, those who have never offered Pindam (thidhi or thadhhina) to their departed ancestor souls can do it here and wash off your sins for non performance of it in past. 

One more auspicious day is the full moon day in the Karthika Month, while attractive a plunge at the Kapila Theertham brings deliverance and peace and an additional beautiful sight, during the Karthika Deepam the whole temple location gets underwater in a flood of light.
 Many festivals like Devi Navarathri Utsavam, Kamakshi Devi Chandana Alankaram are special Poojas and Ustavaas and  Annabhishekam,  Float Festival, Maha Sivarathri, Skanda Sashti, Arudra Darsanam Utsavam, , Kamakshi Devi Chandana Alankaram, Devotees can perform Nithyabhishekam at the temple.  
You can also perform special Pooja's and ceremonies for the blessings of Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple. Among them the most important are

Sri Kapila Theertham  Sevas:-

S.No. Seva Price (Rs.)
1 Archana & Harathi 5.00
2 Abhisheka Darsanam 2.00
3 Sahasranama Archana 2.00
4 Nithyabhishekam - permanent 542.00
5 Nithyabhishekam - one year 42.00
6 Rudrabhishekam 50.00
7 Navagraha Abhishekam
& Archana (2 persons) 100.00
8 Archana Navagarahams 50.00
- for each graham 5.00
9 Sivaparvathula Kalyanam
(on every Mahasivarathri Day)
- for two persons (grihasthas) 250.00
10 Unjal Seva (every
Monday - for 5 persons) 116.00

The following festivals are conducted at the temple.
Vinayaka Utsavam
Annabhishekam
Karthika Deepam
Float Festival
Maha Sivarathri
Skanda Sashti
Arudra Darsanam Utsavam
Devi Navarathri Utsavam
Kamakshi Devi Chandana Alankaram
Devotees can perform Nithyabhishekam at the temple


The other places of interest are:-

Apart from some ancient Shiva temples like Gudimallam Parashurameshwara Temple, the others are Parasareswara temple in Yogi Mallavaram, Thiruchannoor Padmavathi Temple, the famous Sri Kalahashteeswara Temple and the Manikanteswara Swamy Devasthanam (Shivalayam) in Kanipakam. Some other temples are the Goddess Kamakshi temple, Veda Narayana Swamy Temple, Lakshmi Narayanaswamt Temple, Lord Ganesha’s Temple, Kumaraswamy and the Dakshineswara Temple.

1.The Tirumala Temple:-

 The seat of the Lord of the Seven Hills, Swamy Venkiteshwara, the God is an avatar of Lord Vishnu . This God is said to be second richest God in India.

2.Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple:-

 This temple is about 5 kms. from Tirupathi. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Padmavathi Devi, the consort of Lord Venkiteswara. Goddess Padmavathi is an avatar of Goddess Mahalakshmi.

3.Talakona Waterfall:-

 Situated 58 kms. from Tirupati, this waterfall is the highest at 270 feet in Andhra Pradesh.

4.Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanam Gardens:-

 This garden is situated in 460 acres and supplies 500 kilograms of flowers to the temple every day. Believed to be built in the 14th century by two great devotees, Sri Ramanuja and Sri Andalwar.

5.Sri Venkiteswara Museum:-

 This museum in Tirupati has some rare sculptures and the displays even belong to the period when King Sri Krishna Deva Raya reigned during  the 15th century.

6.Chandragiri Palace and Fort:-

 Built during the 141st century, Chandragiri was the fourth capital of the Vijayanagara Kingdom. It was actually in the possession of the Yadava Naidus till it came under the rule of the Vijayanagar Empire in 1367. Chandragiri is only 12 Kms. from Tirupathi.

7.Rock Garden:-

 also known as ‘Shilathoranam’ is a place with natural rock formation in the shape of an arch. This rock formation, as scientists believe, is several million years old. This arch formation is one of its kind in Asia. The locals believe that Lord Venkiteswara walked under this rock formation on his way from the heavenly abode of Vaikunta to Tirumala.

8.There are some other theerthams like the Japali Theertham, Papavinasanam Theertham, Tumbhuru Theertham, Vaikunta Theertham, Akashaganga Theertham and the Ramakrishna Theertham.

How to reach Tirupati :-

•By Air:-

 The airport of Tirupati is in Renigunta about 15 kms away from the main city, where flights can be found regularly from Chennai, Bangalore and Hyderabad. Then taxis can be used to move from the airport to the city which costs about Rs 300. The International airport nearest to Tirupati is in Chennai, which can be reached from any cities in India and abroad.

•By Train:-

 The Railway station to reach Tirupati is in Tirupati itself and connects by trains to Chennai, Bangalore, Visakhapatnam, Mumbai and Madurai which is a common balaji temple route. Another railway station can be found 15 kms away at Renigunta. It is in the Trivandrum – Delhi route that the railhead of Renigunta falls and, therefore, is reached from all cities in India.

•By Road:-

 APSRTC runs free buses from the Tirupati Railway station to Alipiri, with a frequency of 30 minutes.  Even the KSRTC buses are available from towns in Karnataka to reach tirupati.

Brahmotsavam And Sevas in Tirumala

Tirumala Brahmotsavam:-

Tirumala Brahmotsavam is a Hindu festival celebrated annually at Tirumala Venkateswara Temple at Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh. The festival continues for 9 days in the months of September and October.
It is believed that Lord Brahma was the first to start this festival. He worshiped Sri Balaji on the banks of the Pushkarini in Tirupati to thank him for the protection of mankind. Hence the festival bears his name ‘Brahmotsavam' which means Brahma's Utsav.

History of Tirumala Brahmotsavam:-

According to Hindu mythology the history behind this Festival traces to Lord Brahma (Creator of universe). It is believed that Lord Brahma worshipped Sri Balaji on the banks of the holy Pushkarini in Tirupati. Lord Brahma wanted to thank Sri Balaji for Balaji's protection of mankind.
Also, the name of this Festival "Brahmotsavam" traces its roots to the worship of Lord Brahma. People of the place celebrate this Festival of Tirupati with great enthusiasm and value it.

Importance of Brahmotsavam:-

Thousands of devotees every year gather to witness this grand Festival, participate in the rituals, and receive the blessings of Sri Venkateswara swami. The complete 9 day Festival is a memorable experience for all tourists and devotees. The feeling of complete bliss and heavenly connect is often termed as "Vaikunth anubhav".
On the first day of the Festival Garudadhwaja (flag with the emblem of a black garuda) is hoisted near the Srivari Alaya Dhwajasthambham. A procession then proceeds of Lord Venkateswara on the Pedda Seshavahana proceeds around four streets of the main temple for two hours until midnight.Ankurarpana and Senadhipati Utsavam are celebrated on the day just before the first day of Brahmotsavam.
In the Brahmotsav celebrations, the powerful snake transforms itself as the vehicle for god. The moral behind the prayers that are offered during Garodtsav, is to pray to God for a living with high values and morals.
‘Srivari Brahmotsavam Festival‘ which is held in the month of September to October is the very famous and the mostly celebrated festival of Tirumala Tirupathi Venkateswara temple, which will be celebrated in a great grand manner for about nine days every year.
Brahmotsavam Festival schedule conducted every year as below:
1st Day – Morning – Dwajarohanam , Evening – Pedda Sesha Vahanam
2nd Day – Morning – Chinna Sesha Vahanam , Evening – Hamsa Vahanam
3rd Day – Morning – Simha Vahanam , Evening – Mutyapu Pandiri Vahanam
4th Day – Morning – Kalpavriksha Vahanam , Evening – Sarvabhoopala Vahanam
5th Day – Morning – Mohini Avatharam , Evening – Garuda Vahanam
6th Day – Morning – Hanumantha Vahanam , Evening – Swarnarathotsavam & Gajavahanam
7th Day – Morning – Suryaprabha Vahanam , Evening – Chandraprabha Vahanam
8th Day – Morning – Rathotsavam , Evening – Ashwa Vahanam
9th Day – Morning – Chakra Snanam & Pallaki Utsavam , Evening – Golden Tiruchi Utsavam & Dwajavarohanam.

First Day -Dwajarohanam:-

 It is a flag hoisting ceremony which will be conducted in the morning session. The flag will be adorned with the emblem of Garuda, the mount of Lord Vishnu.

Pedda Sesha Vahanam:-

 In the evening the beautiful procession of Lord Venkateshwara is brought around the temple. The name of the Vahanam (vehicle) on which the Lord is carried is known as Pedda Sesha Vahanam, which will be in the shape of Adisesha.

Second day-Chinna Sesha Vahanam :-

The procession of Lord Venkateshwara is brought around the temple in Chinna Sesha Vahanam (Small vehicle) in the shape of Adisesha, which can be observed in the morning.
Hamsa Vahanam – The second night will be sparkle with Unjal Seva (Swinging ceremony) which take place at Uyala mandapam of Venkateshwara temple. After the Unjal Seva, a remarkable procession will take place, where Lord Venkateshwara will be housed on Hamsa Vahanam (a swan shaped vehicle).

Third day-Simha Vahanam:-

 The procession of Lord Venkateshwara on Simha Vahanam, a lion shaped vehicle, will be carried around, which can be noticed in the morning. Simha Vahanam is used in this procession, as it represents authority.

Mutyapu Pandiri Vahanam :-

 The procession of Lord Venkateshwara on Mutyapu Pandiri Vahanam, which is adorned with Pearls, can be observed in the evening.

Fourth day-Kalpavriksha Vahanam :-

 The procession of Lord Venkateshwara on Kalpavriksha Vahanam, a wish-fulfilling divine tree, will be discerned in the morning.

Sarvabhoopala Vahanam :-

After the completion of Unjal Seva (swinging ceremony) in the evening, the procession of Lord Venkateshwara on Sarvabhoopala Vahanam takes place. The Sarvabhoopala Vahanam signifies all the Kings on the earth.

Fifth day-Mohini Avatharam :-

The fifth morning of the festival starts with the grand celebration of Lord Vishnu as Mohini, the only female avatar of Lord Vishnu. The procession of beautiful idol of Mohini is carried on a palanquin, accompanied by Lord Krishna.

Garuda Vahanam :-

 Garuda Vahanam is considered to be the more sacred Vahanam among all other Vahanams. After the completion of Unjal Seva (swinging ceremony) in the evening, the procession of Lord Venkateshwara takes place in a grand manner where Lord is decorated with some sacred garlands with His main devotee and chief vehicle ‘Garuda‘ the king of birds as his vehicle.It is believed by the devotees that this ‘Garuda Sevai‘ is highly meritable to have darshan of the Lord seated on Garuda.

Sixth day-Hanumantha Vahanam :-

 The procession of Lord Venkateshwara on Hanumantha Vahanam, the mount of Lord Vishnu,and also the chief Devotee Lord Hanuman, can be observed. Spring festival is also observed on the same day.

Swarnarathotsavam & Gajavahanam :-

The procession of Lord Venkateshwara on Swarnarathotsavam, the golden chariot is observed in the evening. And tonight, the procession of Lord on Gajavahanam, the elephant shaped vehicle, is also observed.

Seventh day-Suryaprabha Vahanam :-

 The procession of Lord Venkateshwara on Suryaprabha Vahanam, the sun shaped vehicle, carried around the temple in the morning, can be perceived.

Chandraprabha Vahanam :-

 After the completion of Unjal Seva (swinging ceremony) in the evening, the procession of Lord Venkateshwara on Chandraprabha Vahanam, the moon shaped Vahanam, is admired.

Eighth day-Rathotsavam :-

 The procession of Lord Venkateshwara on Rathotsavam, a huge decorated chariot, is carried around the temple in the morning. The chariot can be carried even by the devotees who wish to carry the sacred Vahanam.

Ashwa Vahanam :-

After the completion of Unjal Seva (swinging ceremony) in the evening, the procession of Lord Venkateshwara on Ashwa Vahanam, the horse shaped Vahanam, can be observed.

Ninth day-Chakra Snanam & Pallaki Utsavam :-

on the final day, the Chakra Snanam & Pallaki Utsavam is held. In the temple tank, the Sudarshana chakra of Lord Venkateshwara is immersed by the temple priests and the devotees will take a holy dip in the temple tank and worship the Lord. This process is known as Chakra Snanam.
Golden Tiruchi Utsavam & Dwajavarohanam – The Brahmotsavam festival concludes with the event of Dwajavarohanam, the flag will be lowered. And mantras are chanted to pay obeisance to God. And the sandals and sacred Prasadam are distributed to the devotees.

Seva In Tirumala:-

On any day the sevas started from morning Suprabatham, Tomala Seva , Archana ,Kalyanotsavam, Arjita Brahmotsavam,Dolotsavam, Vasantotsavam ,Sahasra Deepalankara seva, and finally Ekanthaseva .
 
Suprabatha Seva:-

 Suprabatha Seva is done in early morning hours. Prathyusha Poojas starts with this Suprabatha Seva only. It is the first Seva done to Lord Venkateswara Swamy. It starts at 3.00A.m. Before this time temple Priests, Jeeyam Garulu, Ekangulu, Yadava Vamsikulu (Saniddigolla), who got the blessings of Lord Srinivasa come near the temple. They will ring the Temple bell near the Nagara Mandapam. First Sannidigolla enters into the temple through the Maha Dwaram. Then Preists also enters the temple. The keys of the temple are kept near the Kshetra Palaka near the Dwajasthamba and they will take his permission to open the temple doors. People who sing Suprbatham and the successors of Annamacharya will be ready along with their instruments to sing Maylukolupu (waking up Lord Srinivasa). Sannidhigolla opens the doors of BagaruVakili and goes inside with a Dhiviti (stick with fire) and Preists starts singing Suprabatham. It is followed by Sri Venkateswara Shotram, Prapathi, Mangala Sasanam. At the same time successors of Annamacharya play Thambura (musical instrument) and wake up Lord Venkateswara Swamy. Priests will now open the doors of Garbalayam and take the blessings of Lord Srinivasa by touching his feet and wakes him up. Curtain is placed in the front of the Lord. Main preist will offer Prasadam and Thambulam to the Lord. They will give  Navaneetha Harathi (Arthi) to the Lord. After reading Mangala Sasanam they will again open the doors and do Karpura Harathi and allow the devotees inside the temple. At this time the Darshan given by the god to the devotees is called as VISWAROOPA DARSANAM.  Around 200 to 250 devotees are permitted to view this Seva every day. The cost of the ticket is around 200Rs and can be purchased a day early from Vijaya Bank counter or procured from the Arjitham Officer by sending a D.D before hand.

Sudhi:-

 After Suprabhata Seva from 3.30 A.m to 3.45 A.m temple is cleaned. All the flower decorations done on the day before night are removed and dropped in the well which is called as Poola Bavi which is in the Sampangi Pradakshina . They do so see that no one else will again use them. This process is called as NIRMALYA SUDDHI.

 Archana:-

 Archana is also done in the early morning hours. For this pooja Jeeyam Garu (Priest) brings bamboo basket keeping it on his head which is filled with flowers and Tulasi garlands from the separate room which is meant for storing flowers. Before Archana, Abishekam is done to BOOGA SRINIVASA with Cow Milk, Turmeric water and, Sandal paste by chanting PurushaSuktam. After that idol is kept in its original place and Samprokshana is done to Boga Srinivasa and it is connected to the main deity with a golden thread. It is believed that through this thread power from the main deity flows to the Booga Srinivasa Idol. Pooja is done to main Deity and then Alankaram is done. By using Camphor Namam symbol is made on the face of Lord Srinivasa. He is also decorated with Yagnopaveetham. Later Lord Venketeswara’s feet, which are made of gold are kept on a (peetam) and Abishekam is done to them. 

Thomala Seva:-

 This Seva is also called as BHAGAVATHI ARADANA. As a part of this Seva Lord is decorated with flowers. In 6 days of a week this Seva is done after Suddhi. Only on Fridays after Abishekam, ThomalaSeva is done. This Seva is done between 3.45-4.30 A.M everyday but on Fridays it is done between 7-8 A.M. Ticket price is 220Rs and can be purchased daily at the beginning of the Vijaya bank or purchased from the agent Arijitham by sending a draft request. After ThomalaSeva Durbar is conducted in Thirumamani Mandapam to Koluvu Srinivasa for 15 minutes. Panchangam and Usthavas to be conducted on that day are read out and accounts of the before day including denominations are handed over to Baliberam (Koluvu Srinivasa). Later Prasadam made of Sesame (Nuvvulu) and Jaggery (Bellam) is offered to Koluvu Srinivasa.
  

SahasraNamarchana:-

 SahasraNamarchana is done from early morning 4.45 to 5.30. All thousand nama’s of Lord Vishnu given in Brahmanda Puranam are recited while doing Archana. After the completion of this Seva, with the Tulasi and flowers on the feet of Lord Venkateswara Pooja is done to Sridevi and Bhudevi. At that time Lakshmi SahasraNamalu given in Varaha Puranam are recited. Next Nakshatra Harathi and Karpura (Camphor) Harathi are given. 

First Bell Prasadam:-

 First SayanaMandapam is cleaned and doors of BangaruVakili are closed. Bells in Tirumamani Mandapam are rung. Only Priest stay inside and offer curd rice, lemon rice, pongali (items prepared by using rice), laddus, vadas appalu, dosas, polilu.

Astotra Satanamarchana:-

 Pooja is done by chanting all the 108 Names in  Varaha Purana. After finishing this Lakshminama Archana is done to Sridevi and Bhudevi.

Second Bell Prasadam:-

 After Astothara Sathanama Archana second bell will ring. Prasadam will be offered and then Thambulam and Harathi are offered.

Ekanthaseva :-

 At around night 1.30 Pavalimpu Seva is done it is also called as Ekantha Seva. The Ticket price is Rs120, and can be purchased daily at the beginning of Vijaya Bank counter. There are no reservations for this Seva. In this Seva Bhoga Srinivasa Murti is placed in a swing held by silver chains. They will offer milk, fruits, almonds (badam) as Nivadyam. It is believed that at night time Lord Brahma will come here to pray the Lord so, they will arrange sufficient water for Lord Brahma in a silver bowl. They will sing Annamayya Sankirthanas to lead the Lord to sleep. Ekantha Seva is done to Bhoga Srinivasa Murti for 11months but in Dhanurmasa (Dec 15 –Jan15) it is done to Lord Krishna. With this Poojas will come to an end.
 Temple is closed at 2’oclock. All the doors are closed at they are sealed.

Weekly Sevas:-


Vishesha Pooja (Monday)
Ashtadala Pada Padmaradhana (Tuesday)
Sahasra Kalasabhishekam (Wednesday)
Tiruppavada Seva (Thursday)
Abhishekam (Friday)
Vasthralakarana Seva (Friday)
Vasthralakarana Seva (Friday).

Annual Sevas:-

Teppotsavam
Vasantotsavam
Padmavati Parinayam
Abhideyaka Abhishekam
Pushpa Pallaki
Koil Alwar Tirumanjanam
Pavitrotsavam

Lord Siva as Vayu Lingam in Srikalahasti

Srikalahasti:-

The unique Shiva Linga here is located in picturesque soundings with the Dakshina Kailasa mountain at the back and the north flowing river Swarnamukhi in front.

Srikalahasti derives its name from His ardent devotees :-
1 . Spider called sri 
2 . Serpent called kala & 
3 . Elephant called Hasti 
From time immemorial countless gods, sages, saints, sinners and other devotees worshiped here and attained salvation. This holy place continues to draw thousands of devotees seeking fulfillment of their desires.

Realising the omnipresence and the omnipotence of the supreme, one will revel in Ananda. The eternal bliss can be achieved only through implicit faith humble submission and absolute devotion to the Almighty.

Everyday men in distress, men seeking knowledge and wealth and men imbued with wisdom flock to this sacred place and return with contentment.

The Vayu Lingam located in the temple, represents the element wind. The other four elements of Earth are Agni, Vaayu, Aakasam, Jalam and Prithvi. This temple is known for performing Sarpadosha (Rahu Ketu) Nivaarana Pooja. This temple was originated in the 12th century by the Chola King, Rajarajendra Chola.
In this temple during the Kalahasti Temple Festival, Lord Shiva is worshipped as Kalahasteeswara. A lamp burns inside the inner sanctum that constantly flickers despite the lack of air movement inside.
One can see the Vayu-Linga inspite of the doors being closed. The sanctum also has no windows, the lamp flames keep moving despite no air movement. The color of the linga is white and is considered Swayambhu – self manifested. Lord Siva, the destroyer among the Trimurties. The remaining two among the three Murties (also known as Trimurties) are Brahma and Bishnu.
The linga, here, is one of the Panchabhuta lingas (made up of the five elements) - wind, water, fire, earth and ether. The linga at Srikalahasti is Vayulinga or one made of wind.

There is a lamp burning inside the inner sanctum that constantly flickers despite the lack of air movement inside. The vayu-linga can be seen moving despite the doors being closed. The sanctum has no windows, the lamp flames keep moving despite no air movement. The linga is white and is considered Swayambhu - self-manifested.

Kalahasti is surrounded by two hills. The Durgamba temple on the north hill and the shrine of Kannabeswara on the south hill, in memory of the Sage Kannappa, who offered an eye to the Lord. There is also a temple dedicated to Subramanya on one of the hills. A river flowing in the north washes the foot of the temple. The main linga remains untouched by human hands, even the priests do not touch it. Abhishek (bathing) is done by pouring a mixture of water, milk, camphor and panchamrita. Sandal paste, flowers and the sacred thread are offered to the utsava-murti, and not the main linga. It has an enormous, ancient gopuram over the main gate, which is 36.5 metres (120 feet) high and the entire temple is carved out from the side of the hill. King Krishnadeva Raya built this temple in1516. The temple is very ornate with elaborately designed pillars, altars, etc.

According to ancient Tamil sources Sri Kalahasti has been known as the ‘Kailas of the South’ for slightly more than two thousand years and the small river on whose banks it sits, the ‘Ganges of the South.’ Kailas is perhaps India’s most revered spiritual symbol. It is the abode of Shiva, from whose head, according to legend, the Ganges is said to flow. Shiva, ‘that which is auspicious at all places, times and in all circumstances’ is a symbol of the Self and the Ganges flowing from his head represents the spiritualized or awakened mind. A mind sourced in Spirit is a river of immeasurable power and life-giving goodness. The claim that Kalahasti is the ‘Kailas of the South’ simply means that the small hill near the temple is to be taken as the spiritual equivalent of the Himalayan Kailas. Likewise, the small river flowing in a northerly direction beside the temple is to be taken as the mighty Ganges.

The God Dakshinamurthy whose name means ‘the one facing south’ and whose idol (murthy) is installed in the Kalahasti Temple, sits in the North and faces south. East often represents the dawning of wisdom, the sun being another common Self symbol.

SriKalahasti got its name because in days of yore a spider (sri), serpent (kala) and elephant (hasti) elephant worshipped Shiva with great devotion. A spider lived in the inner sanctum and worshipped the Lord by weaving elaborate temples and images of Shiva. One day a breeze came up and caused the altar fire to destroy the spider’s offerings. It became angry and was about to gulp down the flame, (realize the Self) endangering its (ego’s) life. Appreciative of its devotion, Shiva appeared and granted the spider a boon. The spider requested moksha, release from the cycle of births and deaths. Accordingly it became one with Shiva, the Self.


Legend:-

There is a legend that Lord Shiva was worshipped by a snake, spider and an elephant. The spider (Sri) built the web over it to protect it from the sun and rain. The snake (Kala) would placed a gem on the Lingam and perform worship. The elephant would get water with its trunk and bathe the lingam (perform abhisheka). Each of these devotees had offered prayers in their devotion and worshipped the Lingam. Lord Shiva granted salvation to all these three devotees. Sri, Kala and Hasti put together becomes the name of this temple Srikalahasti.

The marks that correlate the legend are still visible on the Lingam, which is a swayambhu (natural). The main lingam is shaped like an elephant trunk, with tusks on each side and a figure of the spider at the bottom. If you look at the lingam from above it looks like a snake with five hoods.

In the sanctum sanctorum of this temple is a hanging lamp that always keeps swinging with a flickering flame though there is no visible inlet for wind. No one knows where the wind comes from is a mystery. The presence of vayu devata cannot and should not be mistaken for anything else!

The Kalahasti Sthalapuranam states that when Brahma the creator began to perform penance in the presence of this lingam, Lord Shiva left Kailash and took his abode in this idol. It didn't matter anymore that our yatra to Kailash Manas Sarovar did not materialize this year. I was simply elated that yena kena prakarena I got to see the Lord of my heart!!!

Significance of the temple:-

This temple is also known as the Rahu-Khetu kshetra. The Rahu-Khetu Sarpa dosha nivarana pooja is performed in this temple and devotees who have any of these doshas or other problems like no children or unmarried men and women can participate. It is believed that after performing this pooja whole heartedly, all the problems in life will be solved.

The temple architecture is a treat to the eyes for all those who visit Srikalahasti. A huge white architecture with three lofty gopurams speaks volume for its construction that dates back to Krishnadevaraya and Chola dynasty. Srikalahasti Temple was built by Chola Kings including Todaman Chakravarti. Historically, the temple was constructed in parts by different kings of Chola Dynasty. It is the Chola Dynasty which is credited for renovating and embellishing the temple with intricate sculpture and art. Kulottunga Chola, the great Chola King, contrived and built the beautiful gopurams, located at the entrance facing south, during the 11th century AD. In the late 12th century, Veeranarasimha Yadavaraya festooned the temple with outer Prakaras and four other gopurams connecting four entrances.

The Mantapams and Galigopurams facing east were developed by the Vijaynagar rulers in 16th century. Finally, the Natukottai Chettiars of Devakottai gave a final touch to the temple in 1912 by contributing 9 lakhs of rupees.The tower built by Krishnadevaraya in 15th century over the main gate stands at an imposing height of 120 ft. Alongside, the hundred pillared Mantapam (hall inside temple) is another architectural splendour that Srikalahasti is famed for. The Prakara or the compound and four gopurams were built by Veeranarashimha Yadavaraya in 12th Century. The Mantapam or 100 pillared hall was contrived and built by Krishnadevaraya during 1516 AD.

In the centre of the bustling street and bazaars on the sides, Srikalahasti Temple stands elevated with an architecture enwrapped in old world charm. Estimated to be a 1000 and more years old, during a recent repair work, the Shiva temple reflects oodles of culture and antiquity in look.

Sculptures of sage Kannappa, Shakti Vinayak and Saivaite bronze figures are quiet old and the exact date of these idols are known till date. Even the lingam of the temple dates back to more than 1000 years. An inside view and study of the pillar and carvings in the temple prove its antiquity beyond 1000 years.


Srikalahasti Temple:-

                                 SriKalaHasti temple is one of the Pancha Bootha Sthalam and , represents the Vayu Sthalam . This temple is located in Chitoor district in Andhra pradesh. Sri Kalahasthi temple is situated 36kms away from Tirupathi and it is the only shrine for the God of Vayu . This temple was constructed by the Chola King, Rajendra Chola . Vayu is incarnated as Lord Shiva and worshipped as Kalahasteeswara. Goddess Parvathi devi is worshipped here as Gnanaprasunambika. 
                                  
                          This temple is also associated with Rahu and Ketu, (of the nine grahams or celestial bodies in the Indian astrological scheme). Sri Kalahasti Temple is also famous for performing poojas for Sarpa, Rahu, Ketu Doshas.
The temple is considered as the Kailash of the south or Dakshin Kailash.

                         Vishwakarma brahmin Sthapthis was the one who sculpted this temple. This temple features an enormous, ancient Gopuram over the main gate. The entire temple is carved out of the side of a huge stone hill. The temple is surrounded by two sacred hills, The Durgamba temple is found on the northern hill, while Kannappa Nayanar temple on the southern hill. It is found on the banks oif the river Swarna Mukhi.

                         The Lingam here is swayambu , and it is white in colour. The Main lingam is untouched by the human beings , even by the priest. Abhishekam is done by pouring a mixutre of water , milk, camphor and panchamrita. Sandal paste , flowers, and the sacred thread are offerred to th e Uthsava murthi , not the main Lingam.

                         There is a lamp inside the inner sanctum that is constantly flickering despite the lack of air movement inside. The air can be observed even when the priests close the main deity room, which does not have any windows. When all the lamps in the sanctum glow steadily, one can notice two lamps flickering now and then, proving the Lord's inhalation and exhalation.

                         

                         This ancient Sri Kalahasti temple dedicated to Lord Siva is one of the five Panchabhootha stalams (temples celebrating Lord Siva as the embodiment of the five primary elements), air (wind) being the element in this case; the other elements being water at (Thiruvanaikaval), fire at (Annamalaiyar Temple), earth at (Ekambareswarar Temple) and space at (Chidambaram Temple) that Siva embodies.

Importance  of This Srikalahasti Temple:-

The Srikalahasti Temple is additionally related to Rahu and Kethu (of the 9 grahams or celestial bodies within the Indian astrological scheme). The river Suvarnamukhi takes the northerly course at SriKalahasti virtually laundry the west wall of the celebrated Srikalahasti Temple. Within this terribly massive temple, located between 2 steep hills Sripuram and Mummidi-cholapuram, is that the Sivalinga set to represent the part of Vayu.

This Srikalahasti Temple is taken into account because the Kailash of the South or Dakshin Kailashi. Saivaite saints of the primary century herb concerning this temple.

What is sarp dosha puja :-

Sarp dosha occurs if a persons planets fall on one side of Rahu (head of a snake )and ketu (tail of a snake ) or if the moon is in the eighth house from rahu .There are several other methods in which this dosh occurs and it requires an astrologer -a real good one (I would say a super specialist) to diagnose such dosh.Sarp dosh or Kal Sarp Dosh results in
* unhappy or no marriage* spouse prone to fighting* endless struggles in life* No children* Lack of peace of mind* Enmity in family or society etc.

Teerthas :-

Sahasra Linga Teertham, from the Kalahasti it is about 5 miles far
Narada Teertham
Harhar Teertham
Mayura Teertham
Suka Teertham
Kalinga Teertham
Bharadwaja Teertham
Markandeya Teertham
Tatwa Prakasa Teertham
Manikarnika Teertham
Brahma teertham
Saraswati Teertham

Gnana Prasunambika Devi:-

There are many alternative legends connected to the glory of the Srikalahasti Temple. Distinguished among them is of Parvati WHO was cursed by Lord Shiva to discard her natural object and assume the human type. To induce free off the on top of curse Parvati did an extended penance here. Happy along with her deep devotion Lord Shiva once more restored her body – 100 times higher than her previous natural object and initiated varied mantras together with the Panchakshari. Sequent of this, Parvati gained and came to be called Shiva-Gnanam Gnana Prasunamba or Gnana Prasunambika Devi.

Gnanakala  of Srikalahasti Temple:-

Cursed to become a ghost Ghanakala prayed at Srikalahasti for 15 years and when singing Bhairava Mantra over and over Lord Shiva restored her original kind.


Devatas  prayed:-

Mayura, Chandra and Devendra were additionally free of their curses when taking bathtub within the stream Swarnamukhi and prayed at Srikalahasti.

Markandeya prayed:-

To Bhakta Markandeya, Lord Shiva appeared in Sri Kalahasti and preached that a Guru alone may build esoteric teachings and, so he’s Brahma, Vishnu and Maheswara.

Kannappa prayed:- 

At Srikalahasti Temple, Lord Shiva tested the unshakable devotion of Thinnadu (Later became Bhaktha Kannappa) before the sages gathered at SriKalahasti. together with his divine power, Lord Shiva created a tremor and also the roof first-rate of the temple began to fall. All the sages ran far from the scene except Kannappa WHO lined the linga together with his body to stop it from any harm.

                                            Kannappa Placed his Eyes to this Lingam


In another incident, Kannappa plucked out one in every of his eyes and placed within the eye of Linga that was oozing with blood and tears. once the tears and also the blood were still trickling from another eye, Kannappa set to remove his second eye and placed one of his feet on the spot of the correct eye of the Shiva Linga. Before he may pull out his second eye with the arrow, Lord Shiva appeared and restored  his eye whereas granting him a boon to occupy an area near him.

According to Hindu Sivananda’s book, 63 Nayanar Saints, pg. 44, some Saivite traditions believe that Kannappa was the reincarnation of Arjuna. Arjuna, loved Shiva for seeking the Pasupatha Astra and didn’t acknowledge Him within the style of a hunter. Thus, in keeping with this tradition, Arjuna had to change state as a hunter and love the Lord before attaining final liberation.

Places to be seen:-

Sri Durga Temple
Hillock
North from temple
Sri Subrahmanya Temple
Hillock
East from temple
Sri Kannappa Temple
Hillock
South from temple
Sri sukabrahmashram
Close to the Main temple
Sri Pancha Mukeswara Temple
Adjacent to Main Temple
South from temple
Sri Dakshina kali Temple
Approximately 06 km
South from temple
Sri Veyi Lingala Kona (Hills)
Approximately 08 km
South from temple
Sri Varadaraja Swamy Temple
0.5 KM from Main temple
Sri Mutyalamma Temple
1 KM from Main temple towards Court road
Sri Chakreswara Swamy Temple
1 KM from Main temple towards Court road
Sri Dharmaraju Temple
2KM from Main temple towards Sullurpet Road
Sri Shiridi Saibaba Temple
2 kilometres (1.2 mi) from Main temple towards Sullurpet Road
Sri Neelakanteswara swami Temple Urandur
1.5 kilometres (0.93 mi) form Railway station
Gudi Mallam
Approximately 20 kilometres (12 mi)
South from temple
Thala Kona
Approximately 120 kilometres (75 mi)
West from temple (Via Tirupati)
Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple
Approximately 100 km
East from temple (Via Nagalapuram)
Thondamanadu sri venkateshwara swamy temple built by thondaman chakravarthy brother of sri padmavathi ammavaru(brother-in-law to sri venkateswara swamy) and Temple is located 10 km away from sri kalahasthi, good transport facility is available and this is only temple where u can see swamy will be sitting along with sri lakshmi devi and padmavathi ammavaru.
kodandaramaswara kamashidevi temple lord siva Bokkasampalem village
8 km form srikalahasti main temple is located in bokkasampalem village near thodamanadu.

it has an historical place, there is available aptourism rooms.temple located 0.5 km away from thondamanadu sri venkateshwara swamy temple.

Festivals of Srikalahasti Temple:-

Maha Shivaratri which occurs in the Tamil month of Maasi (Feb 15 through March 15) is one of the greatest festival seasons here, and the celebrations are marked by processions of the deities. The fifth day of the festival in the month of Maasi coincides with the Maha Shivaratri the Shiva Linga of Srikalahasti Temple is considered to be one of the five important Lingas. According to Hindu mythology the five lingas represent the five great elements namely – Water, Fire, Ether, Air and Earth, established in the five great ‘Kshetras’. At Srikalahasti Temple Lord Shiva is worshiped as Vayu Linga of the wind God. A flame present in the Garbhagraha of the temple flickers even though no wind can enter the shrine.

Darshan Timings:-

Rituals of the Temple

S.No	Seva	Timing
1	Suprabatham	5-30 AM
2	Sarvadarshanam	6-00 AM
3	Pradhama Kala Abhishekam	7-30 AM
4	Dwthiya Kala Abhishekam	9-00 AM
5	Ucchi kala Abhishekam	10-30 AM
6	Rudhra Homam	11-00 AM
7	Chandhi Homam	11-00 AM
8	Nityothsavam	11-00 AM
9	Nithya Kalyanam	11-30 AM
10	Prodhosha Kala Abhishekam	5-30 PM
11	Nirajana Manthra Pushpam	7-00 PM
12	Ekantha Seva	9-00 PM
13	Temple Closing time	9-00 PM (every day)  9-30 PM (on Saturday to Monday)

On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 6 am to 9 pm and on other days fom 6 am to 9.30pm.

How to reach:-

Air:-

The nearest airport from the place is the Tirupathi which is at the distance of 60 kilometers from Srikalahasti. Tirupati is connected to Madhurai, Chennai, Hyderabad and Bangalore. Taxis are available to connect to the temple directly to Kalahasti.

Road:-

 There are many such state owned buses that are available from the nearby town like Vijaywada, Tirupati, Bangalore, Chennai and Nellore. The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation is operating number of buses from the city.

Railways:-

 Tirupati is the railway head that is connected to almost all the major cities of the country as well as from the state. From Renigunta railway junction there, a traveler can proceed to the Srikalahasti (45 meters) through Erpedu.



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