'Flickers without fuel': Srikalahasti Temple’s unblown lamp stuns devotees and experts

Produced by: Mohsin Shaikh

Breathing Temple

Srikalahasti Temple represents the air element, with a flickering flame seen as Lord Shiva’s breath.

Divine Worship

A spider, snake, and elephant worshipped Lord Shiva here, inspiring the name Srikalahasti.

Eternal Flame

A sacred lamp sways mysteriously inside the sanctum, flickering without air currents or fuel.

Unshaken Light

Despite strong winds in the temple, a hanging lamp remains lit, defying natural forces.

Hidden Ganesha

A rare 9-foot underground rock-cut shrine of Lord Ganesha lies within the temple complex.

Camphor Lingam

The Shiva Lingam, shaped like an elephant’s trunk, is believed to be made of solidified camphor.

Towering Legacy

Vijayanagara king Krishnadevaraya built the temple’s 120-foot-high gopuram in 1516 CE.

Credit: Shivaji Maharaj Antarrashtriya Parivaar (SMAP)

Self-Cleansing River

The Swarnamukhi River stays clear despite thousands of devotees bathing in its sacred waters.

Ultimate Devotion

Kannappa, a true devotee, offered his own eyes to Shiva, proving his unwavering faith.