Lord Shiva is called the God of Gods, Mahadeva. It is believed that those who worship him with a pure heart receive their desired blessings. He is worshipped in the forms of Nataraja and the Shiva Lingam. Many unmarried women observe a fast on Mondays, seeking a suitable husband. The festival of Mahashivratri is also very special for his devotees. Celebrated on the fourteenth day of the dark fortnight of the month of Phalguna, Mahashivratri involves fasting, worship, and the performance of Rudrabhishek (a ritualistic bathing of the Shiva Lingam). Lord Shiva is considered the creator of the universe, and he is known and worshipped by different names in various parts of India. Let’s learn about some of the major Shiva temples in India.
Let’s learn about the famous Shiva temples of India
Ujjain Mahakaleshwar Temple
The Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, is one of the most important temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. As one of the twelve famous Jyotirlingas in the world, the temple in Ujjain attracts devotees throughout the year. During Mahashivratri, in particular, people from all over the world flock here to seek the blessings of Lord Mahakal.
RudraSagar lake flows near the temple, enhancing the beauty of the place. This site is considered one of the holiest places associated with Lord Shiva. This magnificent temple showcases an exquisite example of architecture. The temple remains open from 4 AM to 11 PM. A unique feature of this temple is the famous Bhasma Aarti performed at 4 AM, after which Lord Shiva is adorned in a divine and majestic manner. He is decorated with cannabis, sandalwood paste, dry fruits, and clothes, and is adorned like a king.
Kedarnath Temple
Every year, a large number of people visit the Kedarnath Temple to worship Lord Shiva. This religious site is considered one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. This sacred Shiva temple is one of the four pilgrimage sites of the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, along with Yamunotri, Gangotri, and Badrinath. Located at an altitude of 12,000 feet in the Rudra Himalaya range in Uttarakhand, the temple remains closed for six months of the year due to heavy snowfall.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Thousands of people flock to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. This temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, is located on the banks of the Ganges River in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The temple is situated in Vishwanath Gali, amidst bustling streets. Another unique feature of this magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is that it is also known as the Golden Temple. During Mahashivratri, devotees gather here in large numbers to offer prayers to Lord Shiva. The idol of Lord Shiva in the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is known as Vishwanath or Vishweshwar.
Somnath Temple
The Somnath Temple is considered the first among the 12 Jyotirlingas and is regarded as the holiest of all Shiva temples in India. This temple is located in Kathiawar, Gujarat. The history of the Somnath Temple spans centuries. In fact, the temple has been rebuilt several times. A Triveni Sangam (confluence of three rivers) is also located near this temple.
Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga
This temple is counted among the ancient temples of Lord Shiva. It is also referred to as the Varanasi of the South. According to mythology, after winning the war against Ravana, Lord Rama came to this temple to atone for the lives he had taken. It is believed that he established a Shiva temple at this site at that time. The temple attracts a large number of devotees throughout the year, especially during Mahashivratri. Several mythological stories are associated with this temple, making it a center of faith for people.
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