Dating back to the 2nd century, Sri Bala Parvathi Sametha Jaladheeswaralayam in Ghantasala,  is one of Andhra Pradesh’s oldest and most revered shrines. Here, Agastya Maharshi himself consecrated the Shiva Lingam and Bala Parvathi Ammavaru. It is the only temple in the world where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi sit together on a single Panivattam, a profound representation of their divine union.

According to the Sthala Purana, after Daksha Yagna, Goddess Parvathi was reborn on Earth, performing intense penance to reunite with Lord Shiva. Their celestial wedding was attended by all beings, causing a shift in the Earth’s balance towards the North. To restore equilibrium, Shiva sent Agastya Maharshi to the South, where he consecrated the Shiva-Parvathi murti at Ghantasala. Here, he performed sacred rituals that culminated in the divine vision of Shiva Parvathi Kalyanam.

This sacred site has also been graced by Sri Adi Shankaracharya, and its Kshetra Palakas are Sri Kala Bhairava and Sri Narasimha Swamy. It is believed that having darshan at this temple is equivalent to visiting all 12 Jyotirlingas and 18 Shakti Peetams. The intricately sculpted Nandi, with its lifelike presence, adds to the temple’s uniqueness.

Throughout history, the temple has flourished under the Satavahanas, Ikshvakus, and East Chalukyas, reflecting its enduring spiritual and cultural importance. More than just a place of worship, Sri Jaladheeswara Swamy Temple stands as a living testament to history, heritage, and dharma.

To honor Agastya Maharshi at this sacred Kshetra, the temple management has entrusted Satsankalpa Foundation with the creation of a dedicated shrine. This initiative seeks to deepen devotees’ connection with Agastya Maharshi and Lopamudra Devi at this revered site.

The project was successfully completed on February 12th, 2025, with the installation of Agastya Maharshi and Lopamudra Devi Vigrahams, on the tithi of Magha Purnima. It is a remarkable coincidence that Agastya Maharshi consecrated the Vigrahams of Siva and Parvathi Devi at this temple on the day of Magha Purnima.

A stone inscription featuring some of Agastya Maharshi’s contributions to humanity was set up at the shrine by the Foundation.

Through this effort, the spiritual legacy of Agastya Maharshi at Sri Jaladheeswara Swamy Temple will be preserved for generations to come.