Siddha Yogis and Naths in Medieval South India : Goddess and Shiva

Omtale

Exploring the tantric traditions that emerged in India around the 5th century CE of Siddhas and Nath yogis, this book constructs the developmental phases of Siddhas and Nath yogis and the ways in which Kaula transmissions and Tantra yoga practices have shaped the religious culture of the Telugu region (Andhra Pradesh and Telangana) from medieval to modern times. It investigates three dimensions: reconstructing the forgotten story of Siddha lineages established under the authority of goddess Kubjika (Kalika) and Siva at Srisailam; exploring diverse Saiva Yogi groups and Naths from the thirteenth to the fifteenth century; and examining the role of siddha-yogis, yogi-poets, and Nath ascetics in the Saiva eclectic environment of Telugu region from the sixteenth to the eighteenth centuries. The author blends the philological study of texts, religion, art history and material culture into one interdisciplinary exploration of how Srisailam became the epicenter for Siddhas and Nath yogis. Through this approach, the book provides the first comprehensive account of the intertwined development of Siddha and Nath groups in Telugu states, challenging previous assumptions and opening new directions for regional and comparative research. Bridging a gap by studying the development of Siddha and Nath yogi traditions in South India, especially in the Telugu region, and how their practices shaped the local religious culture, this book will therefore be of interest to scholars and postgraduate students in the fields of Hinduism, South Asian religion, Telugu studies, as well as Saiva and tantric studies. The book will also be an important reference on Siddhas, Naths, and Goddess traditions in South India.