Shri Parvat Shaktipeeth holds an exceedingly revered place in the sacred tradition of Shakta worship in Sanatana Dharma. According to the sacred lore, when Lord Shiva wandered across the universe carrying the divine body of Sati, Lord Vishnu deployed the Sudarshana Chakra to divide Her body to preserve cosmic equilibrium. The holy spots where the sacred limbs and ornaments of the Divine Mother fell became sanctified as Shaktipeethas.
Introduction
Shri Parvat Shaktipeeth is dedicated to the graceful and benevolent aspect of Adiparashakti. Sacred texts describe this Peetha as an auspicious seat for sadhana, meditation, and inner spiritual poise. Seekers turn to the Devi here for spiritual peace and life's upliftment.
The story of the Shaktipeeth
According to scriptural tradition, unable to bear the insult meted out to Her husband Lord Shiva at the sacrificial altar of Prajapati Daksha, Sati surrendered Her vital breath through Yogagni. Grieved by Her separation, Lord Shiva traversed the realms carrying Her holy form. To restore balance, Lord Vishnu released His Sudarshana Chakra to sever the body into sacred parts. Through this cosmic act, a holy fragment of Mata Sati descended upon the sacred realm of Shri Parvat.
Sati’s body part or ornament
According to the canonical Shakta text Tantrachudamani ('Peethanirnaya'), the dakshagulpha (right ankle or heel) of Mata Sati fell at Shri Parvat. In devotional tradition, it is also revered as Her right anklet.
The name of the Devi
The presiding Goddess of this Shaktipeeth is worshipped as Devi Shri Sundari. She represents the transcendent Divine Mother who bestows divine grace, serenity, and Moksha upon earnest devotees.
Bhairava
The guardian Bhairava presiding alongside the Devi at Shri Parvat is Sundarananda. The divine union of Shakti and Bhairava grants spiritual seekers fearlessness, balance, and protection.
Religious significance
Contemplation, Japa, and Puja performed in remembrance of Shri Parvat bring profound spiritual focus. Classical scriptural traditions consider this sacred ground ideal for penance and the attainment of self-knowledge.
Puja and darshan
At this holy seat, worship of Bhagavati is conducted with offerings of kumkum, flowers, incense, deepa, and naivedya. Devotees recite the Lalita Sahasranama, Durga Saptashati, and sacred Shakti mantras with deep devotion.
Major festivals
Chaitra and Sharadiya Navratri are celebrated with reverence and enthusiasm. In addition, the sacred night of Mahashivratri is observed with elaborate worship of Shakti and Bhairava.
History
In classical Sanskrit literature, the Mahabharata, and historical epigraphy, the name 'Shriparvata' refers primarily to the sacred hill of Srisailam in the Nallamala range of Andhra Pradesh. Historical research and classical texts identify this ancient pilgrimage center as the traditional seat, while regional devotional sentiments also revere Her presence across mountain landscapes.
How to reach
To visit the historical Shriparvata (Srisailam) region, the nearest major railway stations are Markapur Road and Kurnool. Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad serves as the nearest airport, connected to the sacred hill by well-maintained road networks.
Darshan timings
At the sacred complex of Srisailam Devasthanam, temple timings generally extend from 4:30 AM to 10:00 PM for daily rituals and darshan, with brief midday closures for prescribed sacred rites.
Distinctive traditions
Devotees believe that contemplating Devi Shri Sundari dissolves inner fear, despair, and doubt. Prayers are offered here with pure, selfless devotion for spiritual advancement and family harmony.
Spiritual message
Shri Parvat Shaktipeeth imparts the timeless truth that beyond transient worldly charms, the divine radiance of the soul is eternal. Wholehearted surrender to Shakti awakens purity and true dispassion within the seeker's consciousness.