In order to protect the panch mathas, the ancient centres of educational and spiritual learning, the state government has notified them as archaeological sites. Ghanta matham, Bheemashankara matham, Vibuthi matham, Rudraksha matham and Sarangadara matham in Srisailam in Kurnool district have thus been notified as protected monuments under the AP Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act. The panch mathas, constructed in the 7th century AD are in ruins, and the Srisailam Devasthanam’s efforts to revive them have failed.
Ghanta matham is situated on 9,900 square feet of land, Shankar matham on 10,131.25 sq ft, Vibhuthi matham on 18,303 sq ft. Dr P.V. Sesha Sai Aswamedhayaaji, chief of the School for Scientific Analysis on Indian Traditional Systems, says, “The five mathams housed sages in ancient times. These five mathams helped many saints to stay comfortably in the deep jungle.” “Ghanta Matham has six faced goddesses and a cave entrance and an unusual metal bell. Tantra Sastra says that 24 persons have to stay here while the bell is rung continuously. Water is brought from the well for abhishekam during Shiva Rathri,” Dr Sesha Sai said.
