The Mahakaleshwar temple is located on the banks of the Kshipra River where famous Kumbh Mela organised in every twelve years, and is known for its unique architecture and spiritual significance. It is believed to have been built during the 4th century BC and was later rebuilt in the 18th century by the Maratha ruler, Ranoji Scindia.
The main deity of the temple is Lord Mahakaleshwar, who is believed to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva. The lingam, or the symbolic representation of the deity, is believed to be self-manifested and is considered to be one of the most powerful symbols of the divine.
The temple complex also includes several other shrines dedicated to various deities, including Lord Ganesh, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Kartikeya. The temple is known for its elaborate daily rituals and puja ceremonies, which are attended by thousands of devotees from all over the world.
The Mahakaleshwar Temple is a popular pilgrimage site and attracts millions of devotees every year. It is also an important cultural and historical landmark, and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ancient history of Mahakaleshwar Temple
The history of Mahakaleshwar Temple dates back to ancient times, and the temple has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries.
According to legend, the temple was originally built by the demon king, Ravana, who was a great devotee of Lord Shiva. He created a lingam, or the symbolic representation of Lord Shiva, and offered his devotion to it. It is believed that the lingam was later placed at the current site of the Mahakaleshwar Temple.
Historical records suggest that the temple was a major center of worship during the Mauryan and Gupta dynasties in ancient India. The temple was also an important pilgrimage site during the reign of the Chalukya, Rashtrakuta, and Gurjara-Pratihara dynasties.
During the medieval period, the temple was destroyed several times by Muslim invaders. It was rebuilt by the Paramara rulers in the 11th century and was later renovated by the Scindia dynasty in the 18th century. The temple underwent further restoration in the 20th century under the supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India.
Today, the Mahakaleshwar Temple is a symbol of the rich cultural and religious heritage of India, and is recognized as one of the most important Shiva temples in the country. It attracts millions of visitors every year and is a testament to the enduring power and appeal of Hindu spirituality.
Mythology behind the Mahakaaleshwar Temple
The Mahakaleshwar Temple is steeped in mythology and legend, and several fascinating stories are associated with the temple and its deity, Lord Mahakaleshwar. Here are a few mythological facts regarding the temple:
- According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva appeared in the form of Mahakaal to defeat the demon Dushana and save the city of Ujjain from his tyranny.
- It is believed that the Mahakaaleshwar Temple is the only Jyotirlinga where the Shivalinga faces south instead of the usual eastward direction. It is said that this is because Lord Shiva here is considered to be the Lord of Death and is meant to keep a watchful eye over the spirits that reside in the southern direction.
- The temple is said to be one of the most ancient and sacred shrines of Lord Shiva, dating back to the prehistoric era. It is believed that the temple was built by King Vikramaditya during his reign.
- According to legend, the temple was destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries due to various invasions primarly by Muslims invaders and natural calamities. The present-day temple was built during the Maratha period in the 18th century.
- The temple is famous for its Bhasma Aarti, a daily ritual where the Lingam is covered with ash and offerings are made to Lord Shiva. It is said that the ashes used during the Aarti have healing properties and can cure diseases.
- It is believed that taking a dip in the holy waters of the Kshipra River, which flows near the temple, can wash away sins and bring prosperity.
- The temple is also associated with the Navagrahas, or the nine planets, and it is believed that worshipping at the temple can help mitigate the negative effects of planetary movements on one’s life
- According to Hindu mythology, the lingam at the Mahakaleshwar Temple is believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, or the holy lingams of Lord Shiva that are spread across India. It is said that Lord Shiva manifested himself as the Mahakaleshwar lingam to save his devotees from the cycle of birth and death.
- The temple is associated with the legend of the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) by the gods and demons. It is said that during the churning, a deadly poison (halahal) emerged from the ocean, and Lord Shiva consumed it to save the world. The place where Lord Shiva drank the poison is believed to be the site of the Mahakaleshwar Temple.
- Another mythological story associated with the temple relates to the sage Vedshira. According to legend, Vedshira was a great devotee of Lord Shiva and had performed intense penance to please the deity. Impressed by his devotion, Lord Shiva appeared before him and granted him a boon. Vedshira asked that Lord Shiva stay in the city of Ujjain forever, and Lord Shiva granted his wish by manifesting himself as the Mahakaleshwar lingam.
In a word, Mahakaaleshwar Temple is steeped in myth and legend, and its ancient and sacred history continues to attract millions of devotees from all over the world.
How You can go to Mahakaalsehwar Temple from capital city(Bhopal) of Madhay Pradesh
Mahakaaleshwar Temple is located in Ujjain, which is about 183 kilometers away from Bhopal. Here are the ways to reach Mahakaaleshwar Temple from Bhopal:
- By Road: One of the most convenient ways to reach Mahakaaleshwar Temple from Bhopal is by road. You can take a taxi or a bus from Bhopal to Ujjain, which takes around 4-5 hours, depending on the traffic conditions. There are also private buses that run between the two cities.
- By Train: There are several trains that run between Bhopal and Ujjain, including the Bhopal-Indore Intercity and the Malwa Express. The journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the train you choose. Once you reach Ujjain, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach Mahakaaleshwar Temple, which is located in the heart of the city.
- By Air: The nearest airport to Ujjain is the Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport in Indore, which is about 55 kilometers away. You can take a flight from Bhopal to Indore and then hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ujjain. From there, you can easily reach Mahakaaleshwar Temple.
In a word, traveling to Mahakaaleshwar Temple from Bhopal is quite easy, and there are several options to choose from. You can choose the one that suits your budget and convenience.
Occassions were you must visit The Mahakaalsehwar Temple to see its magnificence
Mahakaaleshwar Temple is one of the most revered temples in India, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Several festivals and special occasions are celebrated at the temple throughout the year. Here are some of the most important festivals and occasions celebrated at Mahakaaleshwar Temple:
- Maha Shivaratri: This is one of the most important festivals celebrated at the temple. It falls on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in the month of Magha according to the Hindu calendar. Devotees flock to the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
- Shravan Maas: The month of Shravan, which falls between July and August, is considered auspicious for Lord Shiva’s worship. Devotees visit the temple during this month and offer prayers and perform special rituals.
- Navratri: The nine-day festival of Navratri is also celebrated at the temple with great enthusiasm. It is believed that during this time, the goddess Durga visits the temple, and devotees offer prayers and seek her blessings.
- Kartik Purnima: This festival falls on the full moon day in the month of Kartik, which usually falls in November. On this day, devotees take a dip in the holy waters of the Kshipra River, which flows near the temple, and offer prayers to Lord Shiva.
- Mahashivratri Jalabhishek: It is a special event that is celebrated at the temple on the occasion of Mahashivratri. In this event, the Shiva Linga is bathed with water and milk, and devotees offer prayers to Lord Shiva.
- Baisakhi: The festival of Baisakhi is also celebrated at the temple with great enthusiasm. It marks the beginning of the New Year as per the Hindu calendar, and devotees visit the temple to seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
In a word, Mahakaaleshwar Temple celebrates several festivals and occasions throughout the year, which attract millions of devotees from all over the world.
Other famous Sites or Temples situated in Ujjain
Ujjain is a city located in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh and is considered one of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism. Apart from the Mahakaaleshwar Temple, there are several other famous sites and temples in Ujjain. Here are some of them:
- Kumbh Mela: Ujjain is one of the four places where the Kumbh Mela is held. This is a Hindu pilgrimage festival that is held every twelve years and attracts millions of devotees from all over the world.
- Vikram Kirti Mandir Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and achievements of King Vikramaditya, who is said to have ruled over Ujjain. The museum houses several artifacts, including ancient manuscripts, sculptures, and coins.
- Sandipani Ashram: This ashram is believed to be the place where Lord Krishna and Sudama received their education. It is now a popular destination for spiritual seekers and those interested in yoga and meditation.
- Harsiddhi Temple: This temple is dedicated to the goddess Harsiddhi, who is believed to fulfill the wishes of her devotees. The temple is located on a hill, and the view of the city from here is breathtaking.
- Kaal Bhairav Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Bhairav, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its unique architecture and is a popular destination for devotees. Here devotee offer alcohol to the lord kaal Bhariva to stay away from these Sin product and get blessed with prosperity
- Chintaman Ganesh Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god, and is believed to be one of the most powerful temples in Ujjain. The temple is located on the banks of the Kshipra River and is surrounded by lush greenery.
In a word, Ujjain is a city that is steeped in history and spirituality and diverse culture of inda, and there are several other famous sites and temples that you can visit while you are there.
Comments