A Spiritual Journey to Mata Jagulamba Temple:
By Lokanath Mishra
As we stepped out of our vehicle, the warm sun cast its golden rays upon us, signaling the beginning of a divine adventure. Alongside my wife, her brother, and sister-in-law, I embarked on a spiritual journey to the revered Mata Jagulamba temple, nestled near Hyderabad. The date was March 21, 2025.
Our destination, Alampur, was a tranquil town situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River in Telangana. This sleepy town is considered the western gateway to Srisailam and boasts stunning remnants of ancient temples, showcasing the intricate Badami Chalukyan architecture.
As we entered the temple complex, we were struck by the beauty of the Jogulamba temple. The principal deities, Jogulamba and Balabrahmeshwara, are revered for their spiritual significance. Goddess Jogulamba, seated on a corpse with a scorpion, frog, and lizard on her head, embodies the fierce aspect of the divine feminine. Her naked avatar, with her tongue stretched outside, symbolizes her role as the Mother of Yogis, granting siddhi in yoga.
According to legend, the great saint Rasa Siddha, who lived in the 6th century, possessed the extraordinary power to convert base metals into gold. He was instrumental in the construction of the ‘Nava Brahmas’ temples, including the nine temples dedicated to Lord Siva. These temples – Swarga Brahma, Padma Brahma, Vishva Brahma, Arka Brahma, Bala Brahma, Garuda Brahma, and Taraka Brahma – stand as testaments to the rich cultural heritage of the Chalukya dynasty.
As we explored the temple complex, we discovered the confluence of the Tungabhadra and Krishna rivers, earning Alampur the nickname “Dakshina Kailasam.” According to myth, Brahma performed a great penance at Alampur, pleasing Lord Siva, who bestowed upon him the powers of creation. This legend explains the origins of the deity Brahmeswara and the goddess Yogini or Jogulamba, synonymous with Mother Parvathi.
Our visit to the Mata Jagulamba temple was a deeply spiritual experience, allowing us to connect with the divine and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Alampur. As we departed, we carried with us memories of the temple’s serene beauty and the profound legends surrounding this sacred site.
