Photo: Kalyan Kumar, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Sri Kalahasti is one of the five Panchaboota Sthallas i.e. place representing one of the five elements of nature. Kalahasti represents Vayu (Wind). The temple itself is a magnificent and large complex though not large enough to get lost in ! There are no meal breaks and the temple is kept open continuously throughout the day. The temple is also open to all - regardless of nationality, religious background, etc.
The Srikalahasti Temple is located in the town of Srikalahasti in Tirupati district in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. Siva in his aspect as Vayu is worshipped as Kalahasteeswara. The temple is also regarded as Rahu-Ketu kshetra and Dakshina Kailasam. According to regional tradition, it is said to be the site where Kannappa was ready to offer both his eyes to cover blood flowing from the Shivalinga before Shiva stopped him and granted him moksha.
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