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Uttarakhand P.C.S. (J) (Pre) 2005

Sacred Geography and Pilgrimage

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

In India, many pilgrims travel to Srisailam, which is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, is located in-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept Srisailam is a unique spiritual site that serves as both a major Jyotirlinga (Shiva) and a Shakti Peetha (Goddess), signifying the union of consciousness and energy.

Explanation Srisailam is located in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. It is situated on the banks of the Krishna River amidst the Nallamala Hills of the Eastern Ghats.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: The presiding deity is Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy.
Logic 2: It also houses the Bhramaramba Devi temple, which is one of the 18 Mahashakti Peethas.
Logic 3: It is the only site in India that is both a Jyotirlinga and a Shakti Peetha, making it a vital pilgrimage for both Shaivites and Shaktas.

Active Recall

Question

What is geographically unique about the Srisailam temple's location?

Answer

It is located in the dense Nallamala forest on a hill known as Srigiri, overlooking the 'Patalaganga' (Krishna River).

Core Insight

The dual status of Srisailam as a Jyotirlinga and Shakti Peetha underscores the syncretic nature of South Indian devotional traditions.

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