Shri Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Introduction
Shri Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is famous as the second Jyotirlinga among the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. This holy and divine pilgrimage is situated on the banks of Krishna River on the Srisailam mountain in Andhra Pradesh. Srisailam is also known as the “Kailas of the South”, as it is considered to be the special abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
The name “Mallikarjuna” is made up of two words — “Mallika” meaning Goddess Parvati and “Arjuna” meaning Lord Shiva. Thus, the combined divine form of both Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati is manifested in Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga. It is believed that seeing and worshiping here with devotion destroys sins and brings happiness and prosperity in life.
The Mythology of Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga
According to mythological stories, once there was a dispute between Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati's sons Shri Ganeshji and Kartikeyaji as to who would get married first. To end this dispute, Lord Shiva told both of them that whoever would complete the seven circumambulations of the entire earth first would get married first.
Kartikeyaji immediately set out on his vehicle, peacock, to circumambulate the earth. When Shri Ganeshji circumambulated his parents and told them that parents are equal to the entire universe. Pleased with his knowledge and devotion, Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati got Ganeshji married first.
When Kartikeyaji returned, he came to know about this and became very sad and went to live on Kraunch mountain. Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati tried many times to convince him, but he did not return. Finally, Mother Parvati and Lord Shiva themselves reached Kraunch mountain.
Kartikeyaji went further away after learning about the arrival of his parents. Then Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati appeared in the form of divine light at the same place and Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga was established there. Since then, this place has been famous all over the world as a very holy Shivdham.
Religious importance of Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga
Shri Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is considered a place of salvation. Here, the joint blessings of Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati are received. Devotees believe that worshipping here with devotion destroys the sorrows, obstacles and sins of life.
This pilgrimage holds special significance for Shaivites and Shakti worshippers. Apart from being one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, Mallikarjuna Temple is also counted among the 18 Shaktipeethas, as the Shaktipeeth of Mata Bhramaramba Devi is located here.
The form of Mallikarjuna Temple
The Mallikarjuna Temple of Srisailam is a wonderful example of the Dravidian architectural style. The magnificent carvings of the temple, the sanctum sanctorum and the vast premises make the devotees feel spiritual peace.
The picturesque view of the mountains, forests and the Krishna River around the temple makes this pilgrimage more sacred and attractive.
Major places associated with Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga
There are many holy places around the Sri Mallikarjuna Tirthakshetra, of which the Bhramaramba Devi Temple, Patalganga, Shikhreshwar Temple, Hatkeshwar Temple and Ekamma Devi Temple are particularly famous.
Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Mantra
To obtain the grace of Lord Mallikarjuna, devotees chant the following mantra:
“Om Mallikarjuna Namaha”
“Om Namah Shivaya”
Festivals associated with Mallikarjuna
Special pujas and festivals are held at the Mallikarjuna temple during Mahashivratri, Shravan month, Kartik Purnima and Navratri. During these times, lakhs of devotees come to Srisailam to have darshan of Lord Shiva.