THE 12 JYOTIRLINGAS IN INDIA

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OVERVIEW

The Jyotirlingas are the centers of celestial power and are symbolic of Shiva’s dwellings, which are widely dispersed throughout the nation. Beyond customary rites, 12 Jyotirlingas in India (Dwadash Jyotirling) reveal the significance of spiritual growth and cultural heritage. A religious image of the supreme God Shiva is called a Jyotirlinga or Jyotirlingam. Jyoti, which means “light,” and lingam, which means “icon or symbol” of Shiva, are combined to form the word.

To comprehend the spiritual importance and achieve enlightenment, Hindu devotees travel to 12 Jyotirlinga temples. They thought that after visiting Lord Shiva’s temples, all of their misdeeds would be forgiven. In order to revitalize your soul and enrich your life with blessings, we will take you on a spiritual journey to discover the 12 Jyotirlingas of India.

HISTORY OF 12 JYOTIRLINGAS TEMPLES

Each of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India has its own mythological story and presents a different aspect of Lord Shiva. The pilgrims learn about the fabled stories recorded in the Puranas and sacred texts through the history of the nation’s twelve Jyotirlinga temples. It is thought that Lord Shiva took on various guises, reaching three distinct worlds with the pillar of light before evolving into the Jyotirlingas.

A conflict broke out between Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma about who was the ultimate authority in the universe, according to the Shiva Mahapurana. Lord Shiva showed up to settle the dispute and put them to the test by creating a massive pillar of light. Shiva commanded them to locate the pillar’s ends, and the person who does so will be crowned the highest of all. When Brahma lied about discovering the end of the pillar, Lord Shiva became enraged and condemned Lord Brahma, while Vishnu conceded his defeat. Even if Lord Brahma created the universe, no one will worship him.

NAME & LOCATIONS OF 12 JYOTIRLINGAS IN INDIA

Although there are 64 Jyotirlingas in the nation, Hindu visitors view these twelve as extremely sacred and auspicious.

The following is a table listing the 12 Jyotirlingas in India:

S.NO	JYOTIRLINGA NAME	LOCATION	STATE
1	SOMNATH JYOTIRLINGA	Prabhas Patan	Gujarat
2	MALLIKARJUNA JYOTIRLINGA	Srisailam	Andhra Pradesh
3	MAHAKALESHWAR JYOTIRLINGA	Ujjain	Madhya Pradesh
4	OMKARESHWAR JYOTIRLINGA	Omkareshwar	Madhya Pradesh
5	KEDARNATH JYOTIRLINGA	Kedarnath	Uttrakhand
6	BHIMASHANKAR JYOTIRLINGA	Bhimashankar	Maharashtra
7	KASHI VISHWANATH JYOTIRLINGA	Varanasi	Uttar Pradesh
8	TRIMBAKESHWAR JYOTIRLINGA	Trimbak	Maharashtra
9	BAIDYANATH (VAIDYANATH) JYOTIRLINGA	Deoghar(or Parli)	Jharkhand(or Maharashtra)
10	NAGESHWAR JYOTIRLINGA	Dwarka	Gujarat
11	RAMESHWARAM JYOTIRLINGA	Rameswaram	Tamil Nadu
12	GRISHNESHWAR JYOTIRLINGA	Ellora(Aurangabad)	Maharashtra

1. SOMNATH JYOTIRLINGA TEMPLE, GUJARAT

One of the twelve temples of Lord Shiva in India is Somnath Jyotirlinga in Gujarat, which has long been a significant Hindu holy site and is believed to be the first Jyotirlinga on Earth. Even after numerous reconstructions, the magnificent architecture of the Somnath Temple continues to be a representation of Hindu devotees’ deep dedication and faith. Three times a day, in the morning, afternoon, and evening, visitors to the temple are able to give prayers and aartis.

Visitors and devotees can enjoy a captivating view from the temple, which is located near the Arabian Sea. Sacred texts including the Rig Vedas, Shiva Purana, Skanda Purana, and Shrimad Bhagwat Gita all reference the shrine by name.

History and Spiritual Significance of Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple

According to its history, the Somnath Temple was built with cold and silver metals, but it was eventually rebuilt multiple times following the devastation brought forth by invaders such as Aurangazeb and Alauddin Khilji. The historical documents pertaining to the Somnath Temple span the years 320–500 AD.

The ‘Moon God’ (Somdev), who favored his wife Rohini over his other wives, the daughters of Daksha Parajati, is central to the temple’s legendary traditions. Daksha Prajapati became enraged by all of this and responded by cursing Somdev. The curse caused Somdev to lose his brilliance, and for four thousand years he worshipped Lord Shiva’s Jyotirlinga. After being impressed, Lord Shiva granted the wish, letting the moon reduce the brightness for just half of each month. Honored by this, Somdev constructed a shrine to Lord Shiva on the advice of Lord Brahma, which is now the location of Gujarat’s Somnath Temple.

Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Best time to visit: October to February

How to Reach?

• Nearest Airport: Keshod Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Veraval Railway Station

A Unique Attraction Visitors can enjoy the “Joy Somnath” light and sound performance every evening from 8 to 9 p.m.

2. MALLIKARJUNA JYOTIRLINGA TEMPLE, ANDHRA PRADESH

The serene setting and breathtaking vistas of the surroundings have earned the Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga the moniker “The Kailash of the South.” The peaceful Krishna River envelops the Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga, also called Srisailam Temple, which is situated in Andhra Pradesh’s stunning Nallamala hills. One of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples, the Jyotirlinga is a revered Shiva temple that shares its sacred grounds with Goddess Bhramaramba Temple and spreads its spiritual significance among followers.

In addition to being a hub for important Shaivite temples in India, Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga’s elaborate carvings serve as a monument to ancient Indian temple construction.

History and Spiritual Significance of Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Temple

The temple’s origins date back to Vijayanagar’s reign under King Harihara Raya. Ikshvakus, Pallavas, Chalukyas, and Reddis were among the monarchs and kings who helped build and maintain the building. Shrines were also restored with the help of Chhatrapati Shivaji.

The Shiva Purana states that when Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati came to this holy location on Krauncha Mountain to appease their son Kartikeya, it became the location of a Jyotirlinga. Lord Ganesh, Kartikeya’s younger brother, had gotten married before him, which infuriated him. According to another tradition, Lord Shiva came here as Arjuna on a night without a moon, and Goddess Parvati showed up as Mallika on a night when the moon was full. Consequently, the place was dubbed Mallikarjuna.

Temple Timings: 4:30 AM to 10:00 PM

Best time to visit: October to February

How to Reach?

• Nearest Airport: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Markapur Road Railway Station

A Unique Attraction

Every year in March, tourists can take in the Jathra Mahotsavam.

the sole Shiva temple where visitors are permitted to touch the Jyotirlinga.

3. MAHAKALESHWAR JYOTIRLINGA TEMPLE, MADHYA PRADESH

The temple is a five-story building featuring representations of Goddess Parvati, Ganesha, Kartikey, and Nandi on each floor, as well as several manifestations of Shiva, including the Omkareshwara Linga, Nagchandreshwar Linga, Sidhnath, Gupteshwar, Dhwajeshwar, and Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga.

History and Spiritual Significance of Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple

The Matsya Purana and Avanti Khanda both mention the Mahakaleshwar Temple, which was built in the fourth century BC. Even under the Mauryan, Sunga, and Gupta regimes, the temple was revered. The construction and importance of the temple were influenced by the Paramara dynasty in the eleventh century. Nevertheless, the temple remained a site of devotion and remained holy in spite of several obstacles.

Numerous ancient scriptures and chanting mantras that represent India’s spiritual culture and traditions make reference to the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga. Legend has it that when Lord Shiva came to Earth to vanquish a demon called Dushana, he was causing misery to both sages and commoners. Lord Shiva chose to reside in this sacred city and has been bestowing his heavenly blessings ever since he vanquished the demon and took the form of Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga.

Temple Timings: 3:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Best time to visit: October to March

How to Reach?

• Nearest Airport: Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Ujjain Junction

A Unique Attraction

The Shivling is showered in ashes from the funeral pyre during the dawn ceremony of Bhasma Aarti, which attracts millions of devotees, particularly during the months of Sawan and Nag Panchami.

4. OMKARESHWAR JYOTIRLINGA TEMPLE, MADHYA PRADESH

The fourth Jyotirlinga devoted to the Lord is Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, which is situated in Madhya Pradesh’s picturesque Mandhata Island, which is encircled by the Narmada River. The temple’s splendor is enhanced by the river, which draws thousands of pilgrims each year. Particularly during the holidays of Shivratri and Kartik Poornima, a sizable number of visitors and devotees go to the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga to offer prayers and immerse themselves in the local spirituality.

The Omkareshwar and Mamleshwar temples’ attractiveness is enhanced by the Jyotirlinga here. There is a narrow ridge between the temples of Mamleshwar and Omkareshwar. According to Hindu mythology, the island containing the Jyotirlinga is shaped like the holy symbol “OM.”

History and Spiritual Significance of Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple

The history of the Omkareshwar Temple is extensive and extensively recorded in historical documents. The temple is mentioned in numerous Puranic passages that address its origins and significance. According to historians, the Paramara Kings of Malwa constructed the temple in the eleventh century. In the thirteenth century, Muslim invaders ruthlessly destroyed Omkareshwar. The temple was restored to its present condition by Holkar monarchs, chiefly Rani Ahalya Bai Holkar, later in the nineteenth century.

The Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is linked to numerous mythological tales and legends in Hinduism. According to one story, “Vindhya Parbat” exercises devotion in order to appease Lord Shiva, who is pleased and grants Vindhya’s wish to surpass “Meru Parbat” in size. As instructed by the gods and sages, the Linga that Vindhya Parbat worshipped was ultimately divided into two parts, “Omkareshwar” and “Mamleshwar,” signifying the completeness of the Shiva Lingam. According to another mythology, Lord Shiva emerged as Jyotirlinga after King Mandhata and his sons appeased him through mediation. According to another story, Lord Shiva transforms into Omkareshwar during a titanic conflict between the Devas and Asuras.

Temple Timings: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Best time to visit: October to March

How to Reach?

• Nearest Airport: Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Ujjain Junction

A Unique Attraction

An enormous feast and a fantastic carnival are planned for the devotees each year during the Maha Shivratri celebration.

5. KEDARNATH JYOTIRLINGA TEMPLE, UTTARAKHAND

Located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand at an elevation of 3,584 meters, Kedarnath Jyotirlinga is the highest of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and the most important of the Chardham Yatra shrines. The river Mandakini flows near the temple, and snow-capped mountains encircle the Kedarnath Dham. One will feel a sense of spirituality and tranquility in the surroundings when they visit the Jyotirlinga in the Himalayas.

In addition to its religious significance, the temple’s stunning vistas of the surrounding mountain ranges draw pilgrims. The pilgrimage tour is an important trek towards Lord Shiva because of the difficult path, harsh temperature, and high altitude.

History and Spiritual Significance of Kedarnath Jyotirlinga Temple

The temple of Kedarnath is said to have been constructed in the eighth century by the renowned philosopher Adi Shankaracharya. By presenting the Chardham Yatra to the populace, he helped to popularize Hinduism in the nation. According to a different mythology, it was constructed by the Pandavas when they traveled to the Himalayas to atone for their misdeeds, gain salvation, and do penance to Lord Shiva.

Temple Timings: 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Best time to visit: May to June and September to October

How to Reach?

• Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh/Haridwar Railway Station

A Unique Attraction

The aarti mantras are sung at the temple in Kannada, which is a really unexpected sight.

6. BHIMASHANKAR JYOTIRLINGA TEMPLE, MAHARASHTRA

The holy site of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, which is located in Maharashtra’s lush Western Ghats, exemplifies the ideal fusion of spirituality with scenic beauty. The Sahyadri Range’s hills encircle the Jyotirlinga, which is situated near the Bhima River, the Krishna River’s main tributary.

A major factor in the allure of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, one of Shiva’s twelve Jyotirlinga Shrines, is its exquisite Nagara-style architecture, which showcases the temple’s rich cultural heritage and significance. Due to its established animal sanctuary, which provides guests with a serene and heavenly experience, the temple area is also a haven for those who enjoy the outdoors and wildlife.

History and Spiritual Significance of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple

The temple has historical roots and is mentioned in a number of ancient texts, such as the Shiva Purana. Several dynasties and kings, most notably the Chalukya and Maratha, contributed to the temples’ expanding structure over time.

The old legends and tales speak of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga’s history where Lord Shiva appeared in the ‘Rudra’ form to defeat the demon Tripurasura. The demon was a great threat to the three realms of the universe: Heaven (Swarglok), Earth (Bhulok) and Netherworld (Patalok) as it was destroying everything that was in his way. Lord Shiva after defeating the demon rested on the Sahyadri Mountains and while resting, the sweat released from his body formed the Bhima River. The Gods and Goddesses asked Shiva to live here in these mountains in the form of Jyotirlinga which became a divine site of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga.

Temple Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:30 PM

Best time to visit: October to February

How to Reach?

• Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Karjat Junction

A Unique Attraction

The area is littered with various religious sites, such as the Gupt Bhimashankar, the Hanuman Lake, and many more, and the wildlife sanctuary is a great place to see the wild.

7. KASHI VISHWANATH JYOTIRLINGA TEMPLE, UTTAR PRADESH

Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga is one of the Dwadasa Jyotirlingas in the holy city of Varanasi. It is situated near the banks of the Ganga River and draws millions of pilgrims to offer prayers and ask Lord Shiva for blessings. Because of its gold-plated dome, the temple of Kashi Vishwanath is sometimes referred to as the “Golden Temple of Varanasi.

The cycle of life and death is exquisitely depicted by the Kashi Vishwanath. Visitors can experience the sound of the bells ringing, the sight of the sacred aartis, and a sense of spirituality that will infuse their hearts with pure divinity as they meander around the temple’s winding paths.

History and Spiritual Significance of Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga Temple

King Vikramaditya is thought to have constructed the Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga temple, which has a history that extends back around 2500 years. The temple may be as old as the sixth century, according to the Kasha Kandra, an antique record that mentions it. The temple is even mentioned in a number of Hindu sacred texts.

According to the legend surrounding the Jyotirlinga, Lord Shiva appeared as the beam of a massive pillar to resolve a dispute between Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu, in which they had to locate the ends of the pillar in order to become the supreme power. Since no one was able to locate the ends, Lord Brahma lied about the situation, cursed Shiva to be worshipped by no one, and bestowed the title of supremacy upon Lord Vishnu. After the massive pillar vanished from the three realms, a tiny piece of it remained and became the Vishwanath Jyotirlinga.

Temple Timings: 3:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Best time to visit: November to February

How to Reach?

• Nearest Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Varanasi Junction

A Unique Attraction

1.People think that if one makes a wish while gazing at the golden tower, it would be granted.

2.Additionally, it is thought that a person will achieve moksha if they live or die here.

8. TRIMBAKESHWAR JYOTIRLINGA TEMPLE, MAHARASHTRA

The magnificent Brahmagiri mountains in Nasik, Maharashtra, which are devoted to Lord Shiva, enthrall Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga. Visitors can enjoy peaceful views of the temple from the sacred River Godavari, which is infused with a spiritual aura.

Because the Jyotirlinga contains the lingam with three faces that stand in for Lord Shiva, Lord Brahma, and Lord Vishnu, it is extremely significant to the pilgrims who visit the temple. Because of its distinctive lingam and magnificent design, the Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the most well-known Hindu temples in India.

History and Spiritual Significance of the Temple

According to Trimbakeshwar’s temple history, the temple was first built in the 18th century by Nana Saheb Peshwa, a Maratha king. This adds to the temple’s grandeur and architectural magnificence while also tying it to Hindu texts and legends. The history of the temple is also linked to the Kumbh Mela, a major occasion that takes place in the holy city of Nashik once every twelve years.

One of the many mythical stories connected to Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is the story of how, while seeking sanctuary in the Brahmagiri Hills, the sage Gautam unintentionally caused the death of a cow. He began worshiping Lord Shiva beside the Ganga River to cleanse his soul and get rid of his sin. The gods applauded Lord Shiva and pleaded with him to settle here as the Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga after witnessing the water pouring down as the Godavari. Kushavarta is the name of the sacred pond on the temple grounds where the Godavari first appeared. Another mythical account describes the history of Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, when Lord Shiva manifested as three lingas, each of which stood for Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh (Shiva).

Temple Timings: 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM

Best time to visit: November to February

How to Reach?

• Nearest Airport: Nashik Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Nashik Road Railway Station

A Unique Attraction

1.The three-faced linga that draws millions of devotees from all over the world is what makes the Jyotirlinga special.

2.At “Kushavarta,” the birthplace of the River Godavari, pilgrims take a sacred dip.

9. BAIDYANATH (VAIDYANATH) JYOTIRLINGA TEMPLE, JHARKHAND

The Baidyanath (Vaidyanath) Jyotirlinga is located in the Indian state of Jharkhand and is regarded as one of the most well-known Lord Shiva temples in the country due to its opulent architecture and religious significance for pilgrims. Located in Jharkhand’s Deoghar region, the Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga, also known as Baba Baidyanath Jyotirlinga, hosts the “Shravan Mela” every year, drawing millions of devotees who exhibit their unwavering devotion to the Shiv Linga by offering holy water on it.

Both devotees and visitors can find spiritual rejuvenation in Deoghar’s serene surroundings and the temple’s hallowed presence. It is a common belief among pilgrims who visit the Jyotirlinga of Vaidyanath that praying there will provide them prosperity and good health.

History and Spiritual Significance of the Temple

The temple’s history dates back to the eighth century AD, during the reign of Adityasena Gupta, the final Gupta ruler. Even during India’s Mughal dynasty, the temple remained significant.

The Baba Baidyanath Jyotirlinga is linked to one of the most intriguing stories, in which Ravana, the demon king, hacked off his nine heads in order to attract Lord Shiva’s attention. The location was named Baidyanath Dham after Shiva, a healer (Vaidya), arrived in front of Ravana and reunited the heads with his body.

Another story about Ravana asking Lord Shiva to give him a linga in return for making Lanka his home. But Ravana was asked not to keep the lingam down while traveling. The gods became curious and requested that Varuna Dev halt his expedition. To aid Ravana with the lingam, Lord Varuna pretended to be a Brahmin and fooled him by making him thirsty. Lord Vishnu placed the linga on the ground and vanished as Ravana went to console himself. Upon his return, Ravana found the linga, which was fixed to the ground and immobile. After realizing that he had been duped, he bowed to what is today thought to be Deoghar.

Temple Timings: 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Best time to visit: October to March

How to Reach?

• Nearest Airport: Atal Bihari Vajpayee International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Jasidih Junction

A Unique Attraction

Every year, the area hosts the “Shravan Mela,” which draws thousands of pilgrims from all across the nation for the “Kanwar Yatra.”

10. NAGESHWAR JYOTIRLINGA TEMPLE, GUJARAT

From a distance, a huge statue of a seated Shiva may be seen at the temple’s location. For the pilgrims, the Shiva construction inside the temple represents faith and tranquility. A tranquil setting and spiritual enlightenment are experiences that visitors to the temple of Nageshwar Jyotirlinga can have.

History and spiritual significance of the Temple

Nageshwar Temple has a long history that dates back thousands of years, and thanks to numerous repairs, its current building is very recent. Since the original temple is thought to be underwater, the present temple is located precisely where the old one once stood.

The Shiv Purana mentions the account of the demon Daruka, who was blessed by the blessings of Goddess Parvati, one of the many myths and legends connected to the temple. among addition to imprisoning Supriya, a devout follower of Shiva, and others, Daruka abused his position of authority to instill dread among the local population. Shiva’s devotees began to pray to be spared this pain, which infuriated Daruka. When the demon tried to attack Supriya, Lord Shiva showed up as a Jyotirlinga, which is now known as the Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, to protect everyone.

Temple Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Best time to visit: October to March

How to Reach?

• Nearest Airport: Jamnagar Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Dwarka Junction

A Unique Attraction

Only those dressed traditionally are permitted to perform pujas and Abhishek inside the temple beside the priest.

11. RAMESHWARAM JYOTIRLINGA TEMPLE, TAMIL NADU

The Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of India, is housed in Tamil Nadu’s Ramanathaswamy Temple and is a component of the Hindus’ Bada Chardham Yatra. People must cross the Pamban bridge to get to the Jyotirlinga of Rameshwaram, which is located on the Tamil Nadu island of Pamban. Because it is a flawless illustration of theology, mythology, and architecture, the Rameshwaram Temple holds immense significance for its followers.

Inside the sanctum where the idol of Vishvalingam is worshipped before the Ramalingam, the Jyotirlinga Shrines of Ramalingam and Vishvalingam are positioned next to each other. Based on its moniker, ‘Master of Rama,’ the Ramanathaswamy Temple in the south symbolizes Lord Rama’s unwavering devotion to Lord Shiva. Numerous additional noteworthy locations, including “Agnitheertham,” “Gandhamadhana Parvatham Temple,” “Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple,” and “Rama Setu,” are surrounded by the temple.

History and Spiritual Significance of the Temple

The temple’s history began in the 12th century when work on the structure started on Pamban Island and was finished under several monarchs in different times.

The city of Rameshwaram is said to have become sacred when Lord Rama, after defeating the Demon King Ravana in Lanka, began to worship Lord Shiva.

Rama began worshiping the Shivling in order to atone for his guilt of murdering Ravana and to make amends. Goddess Sita created a Shivling out of sand in retaliation for Hanuman’s tardiness in bringing a Shivling from the Himalayas.

Temple Timings: 4:30 AM to 9:00 PM

Best time to visit: October to March

How to Reach?

• Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Rameshwaram Railway Station

A Unique Attraction

With great fervor and devotion, people celebrate the festivals of Maha Shivaratri, Thirukalyanam, Mahalaya Amavasai, and Thai Amavasai.

 Before accessing the Shivling’s interior construction, devotees must plunge in one of the 22 holy water tanks, known as “theerthams.”

12. GRISHNESHWAR JYOTIRLINGA TEMPLE, MAHARASHTRA

The famous lingam of Lord Shiva, Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga, is located close to the Maharashtra city of Aurangabad. The serene ambiance and spiritual flavor of Ghrishneshwar continue to draw pilgrims and tourists from all across the nation. The Grishneshwar Temple is also called Ghushmeshwar Temple.

The sculptures and architectural carvings showcase the depth of Indian culture during the Middle Ages. The five-story Shikara-style building was built using red and black stones. The temple’s walls feature carvings of Vishnu’s Dasavatar, which are visible to visitors.

History and Spiritual Significance of the Temple

The 13th century is when the Grishneshwar temple in Maharashtra first appeared. The 18th-century Malwa Kingdom’s monarch, monarch Ahilyabai Holkar, oversaw the construction of the Grishneshwar Temple, also called Gru Someshwara and Kusum Eswarar.

A woman known as Ghushma or Kusuma, a devoted follower of Lord Shiva, is said to have constructed the temple, according to a tradition. According to the Shiv Purana, Ghushma’s sister killed her kid. In order to get over her grief, she began to pray to Shiva, and because of her undying devotion, Lord Shiva granted her wish and saved her son’s life. Shiva permanently appeared here as the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga at Ghushma’s request.

Temple Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:30 PM

Best time to visit: October to February

How to Reach?

• Nearest Airport: Aurangabad Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Aurangabad Railway Station

A Unique Attraction

Beside the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, explore the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

CONCLUSION 

In addition to being temples, the 12 Jyotirlingas are also spiritual landmarks that represent the omnipresence and boundless power of Lord Shiva. With roots in mythology, devotion, and cultural tradition, each shrine has a special meaning. Millions of devotees are inspired to go off on a spiritual awakening and faith-filled journey by the sacred circuit they make together. With their blessings, consolation, and promise of emancipation (moksha), these Jyotirlingas serve as a constant reminder of the eternal bond between the divine and the mortal. They serve as timeless representations of India’s rich spiritual heritage.

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