During the month of Sawan, devotees worship Mahadev Bholenath, the God of Gods, as it holds great significance for Lord Shiva. As per the Hindu calendar, this year the month of Sawan coincides with the occurrence of Malmas, extending the Sawan period to two months. During this time, a ritual of daily worship of Lord Shiva is observed throughout the entire Sawan month. In this article, we will explore the intriguing tales of 5 miraculous and mysterious Mahadev temples.
Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple:
Situated in the heart of Dholpur, Rajasthan, the Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple stands as a testimony to the mystical wonders of the divine. This ancient Hindu temple is famous for the unique phenomenon where the color of the Shivling changes thrice a day. According to local legends, the Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple holds immense historical and mythological significance. Believed to have been constructed during the reign of the Chauhan dynasty, the temple's origins can be traced back to ancient times. The name "Achaleshwar" derives from "achala" meaning immovable and "Ishwar" meaning Lord Shiva. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple draws devotees from far and wide to witness the color-changing Shivling.
Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple:
Perched atop the hills of Bhojpur, the Bhojeshwar Temple stands as a grand, albeit unfinished, Shiva temple. Built by King Bhoja of the Parmara dynasty during his reign from 1010 AD to 1055 AD, it showcases architectural brilliance and devotion of the bygone era. The temple boasts a colossal Shivalinga, carved out of a single stone and made of smooth red sandstone, considered the largest ancient Shivling in the world. The temple, often referred to as the "Somnath of North India," captivates devotees with its massive Shivling and intricate craftsmanship.
Stambheshwar Mahadev Temple:
Located in Gujarat, the Stambheshwar Mahadev Temple is a unique marvel associated with mysterious events. This sacred Shiva temple disappears twice a day during high tide. The temple submerges as the water rises, leaving only its shikhara or "pillar" visible above the surface. According to Shivpuran, a devotee Asura named Tadkasur had pleased Lord Shiva with his penance, resulting in a boon that only Shiva's son could kill him. After causing chaos in the three worlds, Tadkasur was ultimately slain by Kartikeya. Realizing that Tadkasur was a devotee of Shiva, Kartikeya sought Lord Vishnu's guidance and established a Shivling at the site, now known as Stambheshwar Temple.
Bijli Mahadev Temple:-
Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh, the Bijli Mahadev Temple is a place of divine wonder. This ancient temple is known for a unique phenomenon that occurs once every 12 years when lightning strikes the Shivalinga, shattering it into pieces. Legend has it that the temple was built after defeating a demon named Kulant, who sought to submerge the valley by stopping the flow of the Beas river. Lightning strikes the Bijli Mahadev Temple during the monsoon season, breaking the Shivling into fragments. However, the temple priests collect and reassemble the pieces using salt, butter, and sattu, miraculously restoring the Shivling to its original form.
Laxmaneshwar Mahadev Temple:
Located in Kharod Nagar, Chhattisgarh, the Laxmaneshwar Mahadev Temple is believed to have been established by Laxman himself. The Shivling in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple is called Lakshling due to its one lakh holes. One hole is connected to the underworld, absorbing all water poured into it, while another hole called Akshay Kund always remains filled with water. The water offered on the Lakshlinga is believed to flow into the tank behind the temple, which never dries up. The Swayambhu Linga, positioned about 30 feet above the ground, adds to the temple's significance. Shri Ram is said to have built this temple at the behest of Laxman after defeating Khar and Dushan.