In News:

• The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) uncovered ancient copper plates and gold coins at the Srisailam Temple in Andhra Pradesh, specifically in the Ghantamandapam area.
• The discovery includes 20 sets of copper plates, totaling 72 leaves, and various gold coins.
• The ASI's Epigraphy Branch in Mysore has completed the documentation of these findings, and the materials are being studied in detail.

Collaboration with Srisailam Devasthanam:

• In collaboration with the Srisailam Devasthanam, ASI plans to publish a book that will detail the findings and their historical significance.
• The book will be printed soon by Pragati Publications in Hyderabad.

Srisailam Temple Overview:

• The Srisailam Temple, also known as the Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, is a prominent Hindu pilgrimage site in Andhra Pradesh.
• It is located in the Nallamala Hills, overlooking the Krishna River.
• The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Parvati as Bhramaramba Devi.
• It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and one of the Shakti Peethas, making it significant in both Shaivism and Shaktism.

Architectural Significance:

• The temple is built in the Dravidian style, featuring lofty towers and expansive courtyards, and is considered a prime example of Vijayanagara architecture.
• Historical references to the temple date back to the Satavahana period (2nd century AD), and the temple was further endowed by the Kakatiyas and Vijayanagara rulers.

Cultural and Religious Importance:

• The Srisailam Temple is unique for housing both a Jyotirlinga (Lord Shiva) and a Shakti Peetha (Goddess Bhramaramba), a rare combination not found at other temples.
• The great religious figure Adi Shankaracharya is believed to have visited the temple and composed the Sivananda Lahiri there.

Historical Context:

• The copper plates and inscriptions discovered are likely to provide valuable insights into the historical and cultural significance of the temple, as well as the region's ancient religious practices.