Srikalahasti Temple
Why this is the Air (Vayu) sthalam
The deepa (oil lamp) in the closed inner sanctum flickers as if blown by wind year-round — proof of Vayu element. Devotees can see the lingam slightly shake. Name derives from Sri (spider), Kala (serpent), Hasti (elephant) — three devotees who worshipped here and attained moksha.
The Lingam
Vayu Lingam — flickers as if blown by wind even in a closed sanctum; oil lamps inside flicker constantly though no draft
Signature ritual
Rahu-Ketu sarpa dosha nivarana puja — most famous in South India; pilgrims travel here for snake-planet remedy. Conducted continuously in 4 daily slots.
Major festival
Maha Shivaratri (10-day Brahmotsavam), Kanu Pongal
Significance
Most powerful Rahu-Ketu dosha nivarana temple in India. Lingam never touched by human hand — abhishekam done from above via brass pipe. Kannappa Nayanar — hunter devotee — attained moksha here.