Research Paper
Tracing Nātha Siddhas: Authors of the Lost Tradition of Tantric Alchemy at Srisailam
Authors: Prasanna Mallik & Vrushab Mahesh
Year: 2025, Volume: 16, Page/Article: 77-89, DOI: https://doi.org/10.47509/AA.2025.v16i.6
Abstract
The Nātha Siddhas are an order of renunciate ascetics renowned for the historical practice of haṭha yoga and tantra. The sect is encountered from Kashmir to Tamil Nadu, however, it has historically evolved into diverse regional forms, encompassing varied hagiographies, practices, beliefs, etc. The Nātha Siddhas aimed to attain siddhis (perfections) through various yogic and tantric practices, including rasāyana (alchemy). Srisailam is a prominent Śaivite pilgrimage site in Āndhradeśa and an enigmatic center of Siddhas. The prākāra wall of Mallikārjuna temple at Srisailam features an array of ascetic and Siddha figures, depicted in acts such as haṭha yoga, alchemy, etc. This paper in the aforesaid context attempts to situate alchemy in the regional nature of the Nātha Siddha sect in Āndhradeśa. It presents the textual and archaeological evidence of Srisailam as a center of rasāyana, alongside an iconographic analysis of sculptural panels depicting Siddha alchemy. Further, it highlights the role of alchemical practices in the historical prominence of Nātha Siddhas in medieval Āndhradeśa.
Keywords: Nātha, Siddha, Alchemy, Tantra, Śaivism, Srisailam, Vijayanagara