About Srisailam Sakshi Ganapati Temple

Overview

In Sakshi Ganapati Temple, it is believed that Lord Ganesha looks at the account of every devotee who comes to visit Mallikarjuna Swamy. This temple holds the essence of higher order for Lord Ganapati's devotees, who are known as the remover of obstacles. The Ganapati over here is the guardian and bookkeeper of every soul that enters the temple. It is situated at a distance of 2 KM from the Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple. The temple is home to devotion, faith, peace and virtue between the Lord and his devotees.

God

The beloved deity of Sakshi Ganapati Temple, Srisailam, is Lord Ganapati and is worshipped to receive happiness and prosperity in life.

Sakshi Ganapati Temple History

The city of Srisailam holds prominence in historical evidence, spreading over a thousand years, with several dynasties leaving their mark on its cultures and rituals. The Sakshi Ganapati Temple's history is linked with Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple and is connected with the region's historical and cultural evolution. The temple's early construction and architectural style show the influence of the Chalukya dynasty. The temple was renovated and expanded later with the arrival of other dynasties.

The first dynasty of South India, the Satavahanas, has left its mark in the form of inscriptions at Srisailam. The temple was vastly established and celebrated among the people. The earliest reference to Srisailam Hill can be seen in the Nasik Prashasti of Pulumavi of the 2nd Century AD. There is an argument between historians about tracing the temple's origins to the rule of Pallavas and the extension to the reign of the Reddy Kings. The temple is also mentioned in the records of 14th-century poet Srinatha in his work called Kasikhandam. Sage Agastya also visualised Sakshi Ganapati Temple during his visit to Mallikarjuna Swamy.

Architecture

Intricate sculptural work, towers, pillars and fort-like walls decorate the beauty of Srisailam Sakshi Ganapati Temple. The construction is primarily in Dravidian style. The temple's architecture showcases intricate traditional Hindu art, with detailed carvings in vibrant colours, projecting a visually fascinating ambience. The idol of Ganapati is black in colour and is holding a book in his left hand and a pen in his right hand, in a posture where he is inscribing the names of the devotees.

The idol of the temple was ancient and was replaced by another one. It is a considerably small temple; the exterior walls are engraved and there are idols of Lord Ganesha fighting a demon. The temple mandapam is adorned with pillars, with at least ten steps before the sanctum sanctorum (garbagriha). The walls at the front facing wall are engraved with Narada Tumbarulu. The other sides are adorned with Shivarchana and Natya Ganapati.

Significance

The temple is famous for giving devotees directions to the right path in life. This Lord helps its ardent followers seek stability, prosperity and a fulfilled life experience. The one who witnesses your deeds also offers wisdom, clarity and protection to give you a life to reckon with. The spiritual and serene ambience of the Sakshi Ganapati temple gives the devotees a space to pray and seek all the blessings from the Lord. The believers of Lord Ganapati are blessed with a life free from hindrances.

The significance of this temple is highly religious but also crucial for its scenic surroundings amid dense greenery. Srisailam occurs in scriptures by distinct names like Sriparvatam, Sirigiri and Srinagam. Ancient texts mention its name in all four yugas; for example, Narasimha Swamy visited the temple in Satya Yuga. In Treta Yuga, Lord Rama and Goddess Sita saw the temple during their vanvaas. In Dwapara Yuga, Pandavas and Draupadi visited the place to seek blessings. Kali Yuga eternalises the divine spirituality of the place through several Rishis, Yogis, kings, preachers, poets and devotees visiting it.

Key Insights into Sakshi Ganapati Temple, Srisailam

Best time to Visit

It is situated in the state of Andhra Pradesh, where summers are said to exceed limits and become hot and humid. It is recommended that you visit Mallikarjuna Temple from September to March. The weather is pleasant for darshan and sightseeing.

Festivals Celebrated at Sakshi Ganapati Temple

The most important festival at the Srisailam Sakshi Ganapati Temple is Ganesh Chaturthi; during this time, devotees celebrate Lord Ganapati's divine presence with grandeur and devotion.

How to Visit

Dress Code to be Followed at Sakshi Ganapati Temple

It is a must to abide by the traditional dress code while visiting Sakshi Ganapati Temple. Male devotees are requested to wear a Pancha with a dhoti or Kurta. Female devotees are advised to wear a saree with a blouse, half-saree, churidar with a dupatta or Punjabi salwar, or Kurta with a dupatta. Modern clothing is restricted inside the temple complex for the temple's respect and stature.

Do’s & Don’ts

• Do take a bath and wear clean clothes before the darshan.
• Do put customs and rituals in high regard.
• Do give your donations and offerings in the hundi only.
• Don't smoke or drink inside the temple.
• Don't chew tobacco or spit inside the temple.
• Don't carry a smartphone inside the temple.

Darshan/Pooja/Seva

Sakshi Ganapati Temple timings

The temple is open all days of the week, with darshan allowed in two slots. Morning timings are 6 AM to 2 PM. The evening entry timings are 5 PM to 10 PM. Darshan varies from Seeghra Darshanam, Athisheegra Darsham to Sparsha Darshanam. Devotees are requested to strictly adhere to the timings while visiting the temple according to the temple rules and regulations.

Interesting Facts

• Sakshi Ganapati Temple in Srisailam brings proof of each devotee's acts and delivers to Lord Shiva, whether good or bad.
• Lord Ganesha is called the "Sakshi," keeping all the accounts.

Mythological Legends of Sakshi Ganapati Temple, Srisailam

Legends have it that Lord Ganapati's devotee was once falsely accused of theft. He prayed to Lord Ganapati in the cry for justice and to relieve him from getting a bad name as a thief. The Lord, pleased with his sincerity and devotion, took the avatar as an observer (Sakshi) to prove his devotee's virtue. Since that day, the temple has been dedicated to Lord Ganapati in the form of an onlooker, denoting his presence as the witness to righteousness and truth. It is believed that pilgrims first have to visit Sakshi Ganapati Temple before visiting Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple.

Paroksha seva is available for devotees who can participate in Ganapathi Homam.

Nearest Attractions

Temples

Adventure

Museum

FAQs

1. How to reach Sakshi Ganapati Temple in Srisailam?

You can visit Sakshi Ganapati Temple by road, train, or flight. The nearest railway station is Markapuram Railway Station, and the nearest airport is Kurnool Airport.

2. How much time is required to visit the Sakshi Ganapati temple?

It takes approximately 1 hour to visit the temple, depending on the number of devotees on a particular day, as this temple is already at the city centre.

3. Are there any specific rituals or offerings made at Sakshi Ganapati temple?

The paroksha ritual is available for devotees who can participate in Ganapati Homam; offerings can be of laddoos or modak. Donations can be made according to an individual devotee's devotion and capability.

4. Is there an entrance fee to Sakshi Ganapati temple?

No, there's no entrance fee to Sakshi Ganapati Temple.

5. Can I stay overnight near Sakshi Ganapati temple?

Yes, there are many accommodations near Sakshi Ganapati Temple for overnight stays.

6. How far is Sakshi Ganapati Temple from the main Srisailam temple?

It is approximately 2 km far from the main Srisailam temple.

7. Can I offer prayers and make vows at Sakshi Ganapati Temple?

Yes, one can offer prayers and make vows at Sakshi Ganapati Temple.

8. Is there a specific ritual or procedure to follow while visiting Sakshi Ganapati Temple?

Devotees are advised to follow the dress code and respect the temple's rituals and customs.

9. Are there any festivals or special occasions celebrated at Sakshi Ganapati Temple?

The most important festival at the Srisailam Sakshi Ganapati Temple is Ganesh Chaturthi.

10. Can I take photographs inside Sakshi Ganapati Temple?

Photography inside the sanctum sanctorum is not allowed at Sakshi Ganapati Temple.