The Keesaragutta Temple, located on a hilltop in Keesara, near Hyderabad, is a revered Shiva temple known for its ancient history, powerful divine presence, and panoramic views. Dedicated to Lord Shiva (Sri Ramalingeswara Swamy), this temple is an important Shaivite pilgrimage site in Telangana.
Keesaragutta is associated with Lord Rama, who is believed to have installed the Shiva Lingam here to atone for killing Ravana. The temple attracts thousands of devotees, especially during Maha Shivaratri and Karthika Masam.
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History of Keesaragutta Temple
The Keesaragutta Temple is believed to be more than 2,500 years old and has significant connections to the Ramayana and Shiva Purana.
Legend Behind the Temple
- After defeating Ravana, Lord Rama wanted to worship Lord Shiva to cleanse himself of the Brahmahatya Dosha (sin of killing a Brahmin).
- He instructed Hanuman to bring a Shiva Lingam from Kailash, but since Hanuman was delayed, Lord Shiva himself manifested in the form of a Swayambhu Lingam (self-existing Lingam) at Keesaragutta.
- When Hanuman arrived with 101 Lingams, he was disappointed, so Rama installed those Lingams around the temple complex.
- The place was originally called “Kesari Giri”, named after Hanuman’s father, Kesari, which later became Keesaragutta.
Deities Worshipped at Keesaragutta Temple
1. Sri Ramalingeswara Swamy (Main Deity)
- The Shiva Lingam in the sanctum is believed to be Swayambhu (self-manifested).
- Lord Shiva is worshipped as Sri Ramalingeswara Swamy, acknowledging Lord Rama’s devotion to Shiva.
2. Goddess Bhavani (Parvati Devi)
- A shrine for Goddess Bhavani, a form of Parvati Mata, is present in the temple complex.
3. Lord Hanuman and Lord Lakshmana
- Hanuman and Lakshmana idols stand next to the Shiva Lingam, representing their role in the installation of the Lingams.
4. 101 Shiva Lingams
- Spread around the temple premises, these Lingams symbolize Lord Hanuman’s devotion and offering to Shiva.
Daily Rituals and Special Pujas at Keesaragutta Temple
The temple follows traditional Shaivite worship and is known for its powerful Abhishekams and Rudrabhishekam rituals.
1. Suprabhatam and Abhishekam – 5:30 AM
- The temple opens with Suprabhatam (morning hymns), and Abhishekam (holy bath) is performed for the Shiva Lingam with milk, honey, and Bilva leaves.
2. Rudrabhishekam and Kumkum Archana – 7:00 AM
- A special Rudrabhishekam is performed for health, wealth, and removal of negative energies.
3. Madhyana Puja and Maha Naivedyam – 12:00 PM
- Midday puja is offered to Sri Ramalingeswara Swamy, followed by prasad distribution.
4. Sandhya Aarti and Bhajans – 6:30 PM
- The evening Aarti is accompanied by Shiva bhajans and Harathi.
5. Shayana Aarti (Night Puja) – 9:00 PM
- The final Aarti before closing the temple, preparing the deity for rest.
Major Festivals Celebrated at Keesaragutta Temple
1. Maha Shivaratri (February–March)
- The biggest festival at the temple, where devotees fast and perform night-long bhajans.
- Special Rudrabhishekam and Kalyanam (celestial wedding of Shiva and Parvati) take place.
2. Karthika Masam (November–December)
- Devotees light Deepams (lamps) throughout the temple, and special Lingarchana (worship of Shiva Lingams) is conducted.
3. Sri Rama Navami (March–April)
- Since Lord Rama is associated with this temple, Rama Navami Kalyanam (wedding of Rama and Sita) is celebrated.
4. Hanuman Jayanti
- Special pujas are held for Lord Hanuman, as he played a major role in bringing the Lingams to Keesaragutta.
5. Pradosham
- Every fortnight on Trayodashi (13th day of the lunar cycle), Pradosha Puja is performed to please Lord Shiva.
Best Time to Visit Keesaragutta Temple
Temple Timings
- Morning: 5:30 AM – 1:00 PM
- Evening: 3:30 PM – 9:00 PM
- The temple remains open all days, including major festivals.
Best Days for Darshan
- Mondays and Saturdays – Special Shiva and Hanuman pujas.
- Maha Shivaratri and Karthika Masam – The best time for spiritual experiences.
- Early mornings and evenings offer peaceful darshan and meditation opportunities.
Spiritual Importance of Keesaragutta Temple
- A Powerful Shiva Kshetra – Worshipping Lord Shiva here removes sins and grants Moksha (liberation).
- Lord Rama’s Connection – Devotees believe that seeking Shiva’s blessings here brings Rama’s divine grace.
- Hanuman’s Devotion – The presence of 101 Lingams brought by Hanuman makes this a powerful place for Hanuman Bhakti.
- Ideal for Meditation – The hilltop location and natural surroundings make it a perfect spot for meditation and spiritual upliftment.
How to Reach Keesaragutta Temple, Hyderabad
By Road
- Located 40 km from Hyderabad city center, well-connected by TSRTC buses, autos, and cabs.
By Metro
- The nearest metro station is Uppal Metro Station, followed by a cab ride to Keesaragutta.
By Train
- The nearest railway station is Secunderabad Junction, around 35 km away.
By Air
- Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (Shamshabad) is 55 km from the temple, with taxi services available.
Conclusion
The Keesaragutta Temple in Hyderabad is a sacred Shiva temple with historical, mythological, and spiritual significance. Whether you seek Lord Shiva’s blessings, Hanuman’s devotion, or Rama’s divine grace, this temple offers a powerful spiritual experience.
Call to Action
- Plan a visit to Keesaragutta Temple to experience divine peace and spiritual awakening.
- Participate in Maha Shivaratri and Karthika Deepotsavam for divine blessings.
- Visit Bhakti Margam for more Hindu temple guides and devotional insights.
Om Namah Shivaya! 🙏