–Part 1 of 5 – Ashta Vinayak Temples and Hanuman Temples
Varanasi temples List, Executed Plan for Darshan, Details of Ashta Vinayak Temples & Hanuman Temples
INDEX of Contents
- 1.0 Introduction
- 2.0 Varanasi Temples List
- 3.0 Satsang at Varanasi
- 4.0 Embedded Interactive GoogleMap of Varanasi temples
- 5.0 Executed Plan for Darshan
- 6.0 Ashta Vinayak Temples
- 7.0 Other Ganesh Temples
- 8.0 Hanuman Temple in Varanasi
1.0 Intoduction
The Blog series on 104 Top Varanasi temples is divided into 5 parts : In this blog, Varanasi temples List, Executed Plan for Darshan, Details of 8 Ashta Vinayak Temples & 3 Hanuman Temples are given. In Part 2 of the Blog,Details of 12 Jyothirlinga Temples and 17 Main Shiva Temples are given . In Part 3, 26 Durga, Gauri and Devi Temples are given. In Part 4 of blog, Details of 12 Dwadash Aditya temples & 12 Vishnu temples are given. In Part 5 of the Blog, details of 9 Bhairav Temples and 8 Varanasi Ghats are given.
Since the Blog is quite lenghty, hyperlinks have been given in the INDEX so that one can navigate to the desired paragraph. At frequent intervals, facility to return back to INDEX also has been given
Varanasi’s ancient name is Kashi and is the heritage of ancient India’s cultural and archaeology. Kashi or Varanasi is one of the seven holy moksha puri’s of Hindus. These are the seven holy pilgrimage Sites in India , which bless the pilgrims with moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). A sloka from Garuda Purana that describes the 7 Pilgrimage centres:
अयोध्या मथुरा माया काशी काञ्ची अवन्तिका । पुरी द्वारावती चैव सप्तैते मोक्षदायकाः ॥
Ayodhya, Mathura, Maya (Mayapuri or Haridwar), Kashi (Varanasi), Kanchi (Kanchipuram), Avantika (Ujjain) and Dwaravati (Dwaraka); These seven cities are giver of Moksha (Liberation) (and are called Mokshapuri).
It is one of the most sacred sites in India because it is believed to have been the home of Lord Shiva. Some Hindus believe that the River Ganges pays its respects to Lord Shiva by the direction in which it flows. Usually, the river flows from the north to the south, but at Varanasi it flows from the south to the north.
Varanasi’s ghats, stone embankments along the sacred Ganges River where locals and pilgrims perform ritual ablutions, are draws for both the faithful and tourists. In the evenings, visitors often hire boats to watch priests at Dashashwamedh Ghat perform the aarti, while devotees help put thousands of candles or floating lamps on the river in dedication to Lord Shiva. Varanasi called Kashi, Benares, is an ancient city, said to be the oldest inhabited one. The city was known by several names such as Avimuktaka, Anandakanana, Mahasmasana Surandhana ,Brahma Vardha, Sudarsana, and Ramya.
It has been the centre of religious learning with sages, philosophers, writers and musicians making it their home in the past several centuries. But much of its temple glory was subject to plundering and destruction by Mohammad Ghauri in the 12th century. The temples and religious institutions seen now in the city are mostly of the 18th century vintage
Even after the demolition of temples by the Islamic rule, still the count of temples in the city is claimed to be 23,000 and the bathing ghats number more than 100. The most venerated and frequented ghats for devotional worship by the pilgrims are the Manikarnika Ghat, Harishchandra Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat and Panchganga Ghat. At two of the ghats (Manikarnika and Harishchandra Ghats), Hindus cremate their dead. The rivers ‘Varuna‘ and ‘Asi‘ combined form the name of the city “Varanasi”. These two rivers flowing on the left bank of the Ganges enclose the old city of Varanasi.
Varanasi is also known as the favourite city of Lord Shiva as it has been mentioned in the Rigveda that this city in older times was known as Kashi or “Shiv ki Nagri”. The Pandavas went to Kashi in search of Shiva to atone for their sins of fratricide and bramhanahatya that they had committed during the epic Kurukshetra war of Mahabharata epic.
Among the innumerable temples in the city, most worshipped are: the Kashi Vishvanath Temple of Shiva; Shree Annapurna Mandir, Shri Vishalakshi Mata Shaktipeeth Temple, Maha Mrityunjay Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple; Kaal Bhairav temple, Vishvanatha temple in the Banaras Hindu University campus. Ancient Buddhist monasteries are seen at Sarnath, but they are mostly in ruins. There are also temples built by the Maha Bodhi Society and by the Chinese, Burmese, and Tibetan Buddhists. However There are 9 Nav Durga temples, 9 Nav Gauri temples, 11 Kashi Bhairav temples, 12 Aditya Temples, 8 Ashta Vinayak Temples which are very rare and found only in Varanasi and several other temples which are missed out by pilgrims
| Sl no | Nav Durga temples | Nav Gauri temples | Kashi Bhairav | 12 Aditya Temples | Ashta Vinayak Temples |
| 01 | Shailputri Durga | Mukhnirmalika Gauri | Shri Kaal Bhairav | Arunaditya | Ark Vinayak |
| 02 | Brahmacharini Durga | Jyeshtha Gauri | Shri Batuk Bhairav | Drupad Aditya | Durg Vinayak |
| 03 | Chandraghanta Durga | Saubhagya Gauri | Shri Ashta Bhairav | Gangaditya | Chand Vinayak |
| 04 | Kushmanda Durga | Shringar Gauri | Shri Ruru Bhairav | Keshavaditya | Dehli Vinayak |
| 05 | Skandamata Durga | Vishalakshi Gauri | Shri Chand Bhairav | Khakholakaditya | Uddand Vinayak |
| 06 | Katyayani Durga | Lalita Gauri | Shri Asitang Bhairav | Lolarkaditya | Pash Pani Vinayak |
| 07 | Kalratri Durga | Bhavani Gauri | Shri Krodhan Bhairav | Mayukhaditya (inside Maha gauri temple) | Kharva Vinayak |
| 08 | Mahagauri Durga | Mangala Gauri | Kapal Bhairav (Laat Bhairav) | Saambaditya | Siddhi Vinayak |
| 09 | Siddhidatri Durga | Mahalakshmi Gauri | Shri Samhar Bhairav | Uttararkaditya | |
| 10 | Dedicated in Shardiya Navratri | Dedicated in Vasant Navarathri | Unmatt Bhairav | Vimaladitya | |
| 11 | Red indicates could not be marked in Google map | Shri Bheeshan Bhairav (Bhoot Bhairav) | Vriddhaditya | ||
| 12 | Dhandapani Bhairav | Yamaditya |
कहते हैं कि काशी में अगर भैरव के दर्शन न करें तो बाबा विश्वनाथ का दर्शन पूरा नहीं होता (It is said that in Kashi, if one does not have darshan of Bhairav Ji, then Shri Vishwanath Ji darshan is not complete)
Kashi Vishnu Yatra:18 temples Shri Bindu Madhav , Shri Adi Keshav, Shri Narad Keshav, Shri Prahlad Keshav, Shri Yagya Varah, Shri Vidar Narsimha, Shri Gopi Govind, Shri Hayagreeva Keshav, Shri Shwet Madhav, Shri Prayag Madhav,Shri Ganga Keshav, Shri Vaikunth Madhav, Shri Prachand Narsimha, Shri Atyugra Narsimha, Shri Kolahal Narsimha, Shri Vitank Narsimha, Shri Kokavarah, Shri Dharanivarah (Black color not had darshan)
Other Vishnu temples had darshan: UDUPI SHRI KRISHNA MADHWA Temple, Shri Satynarayan Tulsi Manas Mandir, Shree Sanatan Gaudiya Matt, Shri Swami Narayan Mandir, Madhusudan Temple
Char Dham Yatra in Kashi: Badri Narayan Temple, Shri Jagannath Ji Temple Rameshwaram temple & Dwarakadeesh temple.
Other Vishnu temples (19) : Bheeshma Keshav, Bhrigu Keshav, Gopi Govind, Gyan Keshav, Gyan Madhav, Lakshmi Narsimha, Mahabal Narsimha, Nar Narayan, Narad Keshav, Prachand Narsimha, Tamra Varaha, Tribhuwan Keshav, Trivikrama, Vaikunth Madhav, Vaman Keshav, Veer Madhav, Vidar Narsimha, Vitank Narsimha, Yagya Varaha (Dharanivarah (Black color not had darshan)
Ashta Pradhan Vinayak Yatra (8) : Siddhi Vinayak, Trisandhya Vinayak, Asha Vinayak, Kshipra Prasadhan Vinayak, Dhundhiraj Vinayak, Vakratunda Vinayak, Gyan Vinayak, Avimukt Vinayak
Ekadash Vinayak Yatra (11) :-Dhundhiraj Vinayak, Harishchandra Vinayak, Kapardi Vinayak, Bindu Vinayak, Sena Vinayak, Seema Vinayak, Chintamani Vinayak, Maharaj Vinayak (Bada Ganesh),Mitra Vinayak, Kuditaksh Vinayak,Bhagirath Vinayak
Fifty Six Vinayak Temples (56) (to see the details of temples)
Abhay Vinayak, Ark Vinayak, Asha Vinayak, Avi Mukta Vinayak, Bhimchandi Vinayak, Chatur Dant Vinayak, Chintamani Vinayak, Chitra Ghanta Vinayak, Dant Hast Vinayak, Dehli Vinayak, Durg Vinayak, Durmukh Vinayak, Dwar Vinayak, Dwi Mukh Vinayak, Eka Danta Vinayak, Gaja Karna Vinayak, Gaja Vinayak, Gana Nath Vinayak, Gyan Vinayak, Heramba Vinayak, Jyeshta Vinayak, Kaal Vinayak, Kali Priya Vinayak, Kharva Vinayak, Koonitaksh Vinayak, Kooshmanda Vinayak, Koot Dant Vinayak, Kshipra Prasad Vinayak ,Lambodara Vinayak, Mangal Vinayak, Manikarnika Vinayak, Mitra Vinayak, Moda Vinayak, Modak Priya Vinayak, Munda Vinayak,Nagesh Vinayak, Paas Pani Vinayak, Panchasya Vinayak, Pichandil Vinayak, Pramoda Vinayak, Pranav Vinayak, Raj Putra Vinayak, Shal Kant Vinayak, Shrishti Vinayak, Siddhi Vinayak
Other Vinayak temples had darshan: Sri Sri Chintamani Ganesh Temple, Dundi Ganapathi Temple, श्री चिंताहरण गणेश, Sakshi Vinayak Temple, Trisandhya Vinayak Mandir
Shiva Temples of Varanasi :
JYOTIRLINGS (12) ON ALLINDIA BASIS CORRESPONDING TEMPLES IN KASHI
Somnath, Saurashtra Someshwar, Man Mandir Ghat
Mallikarjun, Shri Shailam Tripurantakeshwar, Sigra
Mahakaleshwar, Ujjain Mahakaleshwar, Daranagar
Omkareshwar, near Indore Omkareshwar, beyond Machhodari
Baijnath, Parli (Maharashtra) /Bihar Baijnatheshwar, Kamachha
Bheema Shankar, Nashik-Pune Rd Bheemeshwar, Kashi Karvat Temple
Rameshwar (Tamil Nadu) Ganeshwar(Rameshwar), Manmandir Ghat
Nageshwar (Maharashtra/Dwarka) Nageshwar, Bhonsla Ghat
Visweshwar (Varanasi) Visweshwar (Varanasi),
Triambakeshwar (Nashik) Triambakeshwar, Godowlia
Kedareshwar, Uttarakhand Kedareshwar, Kedar Ghat
Grishneshwar (Ellora,Maharashtra) Grishneshwar, Kamakhya Devi Temple
Main Shiva Temples : Atma Veereshwar , Dharmeshwar, Gabhasteeshwar, Kedareshwar, Krithi Vaseshwar (Krithi Vaseshwar) ,Mrityunjay Mahadev, Omkareshwar, Visweshwar (Vishwanath), Vridha Kalelshwar
Other Shiva temples had darshan : Shri Kedareshwar Temple, Birla Mandir, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dharmeswar Mahadev, Sri Tilbhandeshwar Mahadeva Temple, Baba Trilingeshwar Mahadev Temple, Srinivasheshwar Mahadev Temple, Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple, Shukreswar Mahadev Mandir,Nepali Temple , Atmaveereshwar Mahadev Temple,, Bruhaaspathiswar Mahadev Temple, TRILOCHAN MAHADEV TEMPLE, Nageswar Temple, Kameshwar Mahadev.Assi Sangameshwar Temple
Other Shiva Temples (141) (see details of temples – excellent work by Smt Lalita)
Other Shiva Temples (A-D)
Aadi Mahadev , Aadi Varaheshwar, Aapa Stambeshwar, Agasthyeshwar, Agneeshwar, Agni Dhruveshwar, Amareshwar, Amriteshwar, Angeerayeshwar, Ashadeshwar, Aswani Kumareshwar, Avadhooteshwar, Avi Mukteshwar, Balmikeshwar, Bhadreshwar, Bhagirateshwar, Bharabhooteshwar, Bheemeshwar, Bhoor Bhuva Suva Ling, Bhooteshwar, Brahmeshwar, Brihaspateeshwar, Budheshwar, Chakreshwar (Yantreshwar), Chandeeshwar, Chandreshwar, Chatur Mukheshwar, Chitrangadeshwar, Daksheshwar, Dandapani, Dasaswamedheshwar, Dhanvantareshwar, Dhruveshwar, Divodaseshwar, Dwareshwar
Other Shiva Temples (E-K)
Eeshaneshwar, Ganeshwar (Rameshwar), Gangeshwar, Garudeshwar, Gautameshwar, Gopreksheshwar, Gyaneshwar, Hareshwar, Harikesheshwar, Harishchandreshwar, Hasti Paleshwar, Hatkeshwar, Hiranya Garbheshwar, Jambukeshwar, Janakeshwar, Jarasandheshwar, Jateeshwar (Pataleshwar), Jaygeeshyeshwar, Jwara Hareshwar, Jyeshteshwar, Jyoti Rupeshwar, Kacheshwar, Kaholeshwar, Kaleshwar, Kameshwar, Kandukeshwar, Kapardeeshwar, Kardhameshwar, Karkotak Nageshwar, Karuneshwar, Karvireshwar,Kashyapeshwar, Kirateshwar, Kooshmandeshwar, Koteeshwar (Koti Ling), Krishneshwar, Kshemeshwar, Kubereshwar, Kukkuteshwar
Other Shiva Temples (L-R)
Langlishwar, Madalaseshwar, Madhyameshwar, Maha Siddheshwar, Mahakaleshwar, Mahalakshmeeshwar, Malteeshwar, Mangaleshwar, Markandeyshwar, Moksha Dwareshwar, Muchkundeshwar, Nageshwar, Nakshatreshwar, Nal Koopeshwar, Narmadeshwar, Neelkantheshwar, Nikumbeshwar, Panch Gangeshwar, Panch Krosha Temple, Panchaksheshwar, Parvateeshwar, Parvateshwar, Pasupateshwar, Pawaneshwar,Pingaleshwar, Pita Maheshwar, Pitreshwar, Prahladeshwar, Prayageshwar, Pulaheshwar, Ratneshwar, Rudreshwar
Other Shiva Temples (S-Y)
Sahasraksheshwar, Samudreshwar, Satishwar, Shaileshwar, Shaneeshwar, Shatkaleshwar,Shool Tankeshwar, Shruteeshwar, Shukreshwar, Siddhi Ashtakeshwar, Someshwar, Sookshmeshwar, Swarg Dwareshwar, Swarleeneshwar, Til Parneshwar, Triambakeshwar, Trilochan, Tripurantakeshwar, Trisandhyeshwar, Up Shanteshwar, Vamadeveshwar, Varuna Sangameshwar, Varuneshwar, Vashishteshwar, Vasukeeshwar, Vedeshwar, Vibhandeshwar, Vidhyeshwar, Vimaleshwar, Vishalaksheeshwar, Vishwakarmeshwar, Vrisheshwar, Vyagreshwar, Vyaseshwar, Yagya Valkeshwar
Other Devi Temples : Bandi Devi, Chamunda Devi , Chandi Devi, Charma Munda Devi, Chitra Ghanta Devi, Hayakanti Devi Kamakhya Devi (Kamakshi), Mani Karnika Devi, Sankata Devi, Siddha Lakshmi Devi, Tri Lokya Sundary, Tripura Bhairavi , Varahi Devi, Vindhya Devi, Vishwa Bhuja Gauri
Devi temples had darshan : Sheetla Mata Mandir, Kaudi Mata Temple (Gavalamma Temple), Varahidevi Temple, Sankahtha Mata Mandir ,Shree Maa Lakshmi Ji Ka Mandir, Shri Kamakhya Devi Mandir, Chandra Ghanta Devi Temple, Sri Tripura Bhairavi Mandir,
Hanuman Temples: Shri Prachin Sankat Haran Hanuman Temple ,Sankatmochan Temple, Bade Hanuman Ji Ka Mandir, Meerghat,
Varanasi Ghats : More than 100. Some of them :
Adi Keshava Ghat , Ahilya Ghat, Ahilyabai Gha, Assi Ghat, Badri Nayarana Ghat, Bajirao Ghat, Bauli /Umaraogiri / Amroha Ghat, Bhadaini Ghat, Bhonsale Ghat, Brahma Ghat, Bundi Parakota Ghat, Chaowki Ghat ,Chausatthi Ghat, , Cheta Singh Ghat, Dandi Ghat, Darabhanga Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat,, Digpatia Ghat, Durga Ghat, Gaay Ghat, Ganga Mahal Ghat (I), Ganga Mahal Ghat (II),Genesha Ghat, Gola Ghat, Gularia Ghat, Hanuman Ghat, Hanumanagardhi Ghat, Harish Chandra Ghat, Jain Ghat, Jalasayi Ghat, Janaki Ghat, Jatara Ghat, Karnataka State Ghat, Kedar Ghat, Khirkia Ghat, Khori Ghat, Lala Ghat, Lali Ghat, Lalita Ghat, Mahanirvani Ghat, Mana Mandira Ghat, Manasarovara Ghat, Mangala Gauri Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Mata Anandamai Ghat, Meer Ghat, Mehta Ghat, Munshi Ghat, Nandesavara Ghat, Narada Ghat, Naya Ghat, Naya Ghat, Nepali Ghat, Niranjani Ghat, Nishad Ghat, Old Hanumanana Ghat, Pancaganga Ghat, Panchkota Pandey Ghat, Phuta Ghat, Prabhu Ghat, Prahalada Ghat, Prayaga Ghat, Raj Ghat built by Peshwa Amrutrao Raja Ghat / Lord Duffrin bridge / Malaviya Bridge, Raja Gwalior Ghat, Rajendra Prasad Ghat, Ram Ghat, Rana Mahala Ghat, Rewan Ghat,Sakka Ghat, Sankatha Ghat, Sarvesvara Ghat, Scindia Ghat, Shitala Ghat, Shivala Ghat, Sitala Ghat, Somesvara Ghat, Telianala Ghat, Trilochana Ghat,Tripura Bhairavi Ghat, Tulsi Ghat, Vaccharaja Ghat, Venimadhava Ghat,Vijayanagaram Ghat,
Varanasi has the unique distinction of having 9 temples for Goddess Durga’s 9 nine forms : Shailputri Durga, Brahmacharini Durga, Chandraghanta Durga, Kushmanda Durga, Skandmata Durga, Katyayani Durga, Kalratri Durga, Mahagauri Durga, Siddhidatri Durga. Probably only city in India to have such distinction. One must have darshan of these temples apart from the famous ones like Lord Viswanatha, Visalakshi, Annapoorni devi, Kal Bhairav etc.
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3.0 Satsang at Varanasi
I had the oppurtunity to attend the Satsang by Bramhasri Nochur Acharya between October 12-19th 2019, at Kovilur Mutt Grounds opposite Udipi Krishna temple, next to Assi Ghat. In this period, I could visit some of the rare Varanasi temples – darshan details & program given in this blog.
4.0 Map of Varanasi Temples
I had marked the temples of Varanasi in Google map and van be viewed: Varanasi Temples & Ghats For all Varanasi Temples locations, an interactive Google Map embedded in the post is given below:
I had planned the entire trip on Google Map. However it could not be executed due to a) The roads were very narrow and even auto could not go in some roads b) All traffic was stopped after 9 am in major areas and so had to walk for most of the temples. However Google Map could be used to locate the temple. The auto driver was very helpful. I have given below the plan executed by me. with time constraint – attending Satsang as well temple visit. However the temples could be planned and visited better. I missed darshan of several temples and they also could be covered in one week.
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5.0 Executed Plan for Darshan
| 12-10-2019 PM Hotel Broadway by auto (3 ghats 3 temples) Auto driver : Rahul Gupta 9696933504 |
| Prachin Hanuman Ghat, Near, Shivala Ghat, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010 |
| Maharaja Harishchandra Ghat, Ghats of varanasi, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 |
| Kedar ghat, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001; Kedar Eswarar & Gowri Temple |
| Shri Panch Dashnam Juna Akhara, Hanumaan Ghat, Shivala, Shivala Ghat, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221002; Hanumanji , Rameshwaram Temple |
| Anandh Bhairav Or Ruru Bhairav, B4/19, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 |
| New Hotel Broadway |
| 13-10-2019 0430 Hrs |
| Kedar Ghat bath , Kedar eswarar, Gowri – abhishek with ganga water and bilwa patra 0430 Hrs |
| Shri Kedareshwar Temple, Kedar ghat, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 |
| Sri Sri Chintamani Ganesh Temple, B7/208,Near, Road, Sonarpura Road, Kedar ghat, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 0530 Hrs |
| Hotel Broadway |
| 13-10-2019 Auto from Udupi temple (nearby) (12 temples) 9 kms 40 min (Total 12 kms 3 hrs) 0900 Hrs |
| UDUPI SHRI KRISHNA MADHWA Temple, Dumraon Colony, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005 |
| Shri Jagannath Ji Temple, Ravindrapuri Rd, Assi Road, Near Assi Ghat, Anandbagh, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010 0900 Hrs |
| Shri Prachin Sankat Haran Hanuman Temple, Pachkoshi Rd, Pachkoshi,Hanuman Mandir, Rachkoshi, Dumraon Colony, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005 0920 Hrs |
| Birla Mandir, Banaras Hindu University Campus, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 0940 Hrs |
| Shri Satynarayan Tulsi Manas Mandir, Sankat Mochan Rd, Durgakund Rd, Near Jalan, Anandbagh, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005 1015 Hrs |
| Sheetla Mata Mandir, सरायनंदन खोजवाॅ, Sarai Nandan, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010 1030 Hrs |
| Prachin Shri Durg Vinayak Ganesh Mandir, B27/1, 1, Durgakund Rd, Anandbagh, Bhelupur, Durgakund, Anandbagh, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010 1035 Hrs |
| Shri Durga Temple, 27, Durgakund Rd, Durgakund, Anandbagh, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005; (Kooshmanda Devi Durga Temple 1035 Hrs |
| Sankatmochan Temple, Sankat Mochan Rd, Padampuri Colony, Durgakund, Jawahar Nagar Colony, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010 1055 Hrs |
| Kaudi Mata Temple (Gavalamma Temple) Sankat Mochan Rd, Durgakund, Opposite Karpatri, Durgakund, Jawahar Nagar Colony, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010 ; 1135 Hrs |
| Lolark Kund, Sri Lolarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Assi ghat, Bhadyni, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005 |
| LOLARK ADITYA MANDIR, B2/31, Shivala, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 |
| Amarnath Temple |
| Ark Vinayak Temple, Ghats of varanasi, Shivala, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005 |
| Udupi mutt |
| 14-10-2019 Shree Annapurna Mandir by auto and then walk (5 Temples) 0845 Hrs |
| Dundi Ganapathi Temple, dundi raju galli,, Varanasi, Uttar Prades 0900 Hrs |
| Shree Annapurna Mandir, Annapurna Math Mandir D 9, 1, Vishwanath Galli, Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 |
| Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 |
| Shri Vishalakshi Mata Shaktipeeth Temple, Kashi, Sri Kasi Vishalakshi Devi Temple, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 22100 |
| Dharmeswar Mahadev, Near Vishalakshi Temple, D3/96, Vishwanath Galli, Meer Ghat, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 |
| 15-10-2019 Auto upto Bindu Madhav ,Walk; auto from Shailaputri 0600 Hrs |
| Sri Tilbhandeshwar Mahadeva Temple, Malti Bagh, Tilbhandeshwer, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 (one of the oldest temples in Varanasi) |
| Vimala Aditya, Jangambari, Ramapura Luxa, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001; Hari Keshav 6.50 am |
| Sansthan Bindumadhav Devsthan, K 22/33, Maidagir Road, Town Hall, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001; – (Also 108 Shivlingas in the temple) 7.35 am |
| Shree Laxmi Narayan Mandir, Panch Ganga Ghat, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 7.45 am |
| Prachin Laxmipati Sri Vishnu Mandir, Near Laxmikund Pokhora, Luxa, Sidhgiribagh, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010 could not visit |
| Baba Trilingeshwar Mahadev Temple, D 5/17, God Walia, Near Golden Temple, Dashaswmedh,, D 5/17, Tripura Bhairwi Rd, God Walia, Near Golden Temple, Dashaswmedh, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, U. P. 22100 7.50 am |
| Maha Gauri Mandir, D10/11, Vishwanath Gali, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 (Maa Mangala Gauri Mandir) |
| Dhandapani Bhairav Temple 11, 23, Vishwanath Gali, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 (Dhandapani Bhairav) |
| Baba Kaal Bhairav, Pandeypur Rd, Golghar, Naibasti, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221002 |
| Samba Aditya Temple, D51/52, Maulvibagh, Sidhgiribagh, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 0910 Hrs |
| भूत भैरो मंदिर ,Nakhash Rd, Bulanala, Varanasi, U.P. 221001 0930 Hrs |
| Vyagreshwar Mahadev Temple, Nakhash Rd, Bulanala, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 |
| Srinivasheshwar Mahadev Temple, Nakhash Rd, Bulanala, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 |
| Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple, K52, 39, Daranagar, Visheshwarganj, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 (Houses Shri Asitang Bhairav & Vridha Kaleshwar & Nageshwar Jyothirling) 0955 Hrs |
| Bagheswari devi Skandh Mata Mandir, Jaitpura Varanasi, J 7/2,, Digiya Rd, Kachi Bagh, Jaitpura, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 1040 Hrs |
| Shailputri Durga Temple, Shailputri varanasi, Jalalipura, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 (Shaileswar) 1145 Hrs |
| Lat Bhairav Temple, Jalalipura, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 (Kapal Bhairav) 1220 Hrs |
| Sri Adhi Kesava Perumal Temple, Rajghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001; Also Hari Keshav Aditya, Gyan Keshav, Gnaneswar, & Chinta Haran Ganesh temples 1250 Hrs |
| KESHAVADITYA MANDIR, Unnamed Road, Rajghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 |
| श्री चिंताहरण गणेश, Unnamed Road, Rajghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 |
| Hotel New Broadway |
| 16-10-2019 From Hotel New Broadway Auto 0400 Hrs |
| Hotel to Kedar Ghat bath , Kedar eswarar, Gowri temple & Back to hotel |
| 16-10-2019 From Hotel New Broadway Auto & walk 0630 Hrs |
| Shukreswar Mahadev Mandir, D 8/30, Kalika Galli, Varanasi (location approx.) 0650 Hrs |
| Kalaratri Durga Temple, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, U. P. 221001 0655 Hrs |
| Sri Tripura Bhairavi Mandir, Tripura Bhairwi Rd, Vishwanath Galli, Dashaswmedha Gali, Dashaswmedha, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 0700 Hrs |
| Varahidevi Temple, D 5/17, God Walia, Near Golden Temple, Dashaswmedh Bhairwi Rd, God Walia, Dashashwamedh Ghat Rd, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 0705 Hrs |
| Bade Hanuman Ji Ka Mandir, Meerghat , Near, Sri Kasi Vishalakshi Devi Temple, Vishwanath Galli, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, U.P. 221001 0735 Hrs |
| Vruddha Aditya Temple, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, U. P. 22100 0750 Hrs |
| Shri Vishalakshi Mata Shaktipeeth Temple, Kashi, Sri Kasi Vishalakshi Devi Temple, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 22100 0755 hrs |
| Sakshi Vinayak Temple, Vishwanath Galli, Near Mankameshwar Mandir, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 |
| Lalita Gauri Mandir, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 2210019 (Viswanath temple area fully dug up -was very difficult to go to this temple and 2 temples below- path was steep and slippery) 0825 hrs |
| Nepali Temple , near Lalita Ghat, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 (Pasupathinath Temple) 0830 Hrs |
| Ganga Aditya Temple, Ghats of varanasi, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 0835 hrs |
| Trisandhya Vinayak Mandir,D 5/17, God Walia, Near Golden Temple, Dashaswmedh,, D 5/17, Tripura Bhairwi Rd, God Walia, Near Golden Temple, Dashaswmedh, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, |
| Manikarnika Ghat, Near Rajendra Prasad Ghat, Garawasi, Jugul Tola, Ghats of varanasi, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 |
| Siddhi Vinayak Temple, CK 21/20, Shitala Gali, Thatheri Bazar, Govindpura, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 0920 Hrs |
| Anandh Bhairav Or Ruru Bhairav, B4/19, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 0925 Hrs |
| Atmaveereshwar Mahadev Temple, Scindia Ghat,, Garwasitola, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001; (Katyayani Durga Temple located in the premises of this temple) Swami Vivekananda’s mother prayed here for a child – so gave Atmaveereshwar as a first name to Narendran 0935 Hrs |
| Bruhaaspathiswar Mahadev Temple (location approximate) |
| Sankahtha Mata Mandir , CK 21/20, Shitala Gali, Garwasitola, Govindpura, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 1000 Hrs |
| Yama Aditya Temple, Sankatha Ghat, Garwasitola, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 1010 Hrs |
| Vashishteswar & Vamadeveswar Temple (location approximate) |
| Adi Vindhyavasini & Achanak Mata Ji Mandir (location approximate) |
| Mata Siddheshwari Temple, Siddheswari Gali, Garwasitola, Govindpura, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 (Siddhidatri temple) 1025 Hrs |
| विंध्यवासिनी देवी मंदिर, 130, behind Sankatha Mandhir, Garwasitola, Govindpura, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 (Vindhya Vasini & Achanak Mata temple) 1035 hrs |
| Mangla Gauri Temple, K24/66, Ram Ghat Rd, Golghar, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001; Lord Gabhastheeswarar & Mayuka Aditya temple inside; near Panchaganga ghat 1055 hrs |
| Maa Brahmacharini Devi Durga Mandir,Panchganga Ghat, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 1105 hrs |
| Hotel New Broadway |
| 17-10-2019 0400 Hrs Auto from Hotel – back to Hotel |
| Hotel to Kedar Ghat bath , Kedar eswarar, Gowri temple & Back to hotel |
| 17-10-2019 Auto from Udupi Mutt – back to Udupi 0830 Hrs |
| Sri Dwarikadish Mandir , Sunderpur Khojwan Rd, Sankuldhara, Khojwan, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005 0840 Hrs |
| Shree Maa Lakshmi Ji Ka Mandir, Near Sankuldhara Phokhara, Sankuldhara, Khojwan, Sankuldhara, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010 0852 hrs |
| Shri Kamakhya Devi Mandir, Rathyatra Kamachha Rd, Near Batuk Bhairav Mandir, Kamchchha, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 22100; Shri Krodhan Bhairav Temple is next to Kamakya Devi in this temple; Also Drishneshwar Jyothir ling is here. 0902 hrs |
| Shri Batuk Bhairav Mandir, Rathyatra Kamachha Rd, Near Kashirag Apartment, Gurubagh, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010 0924 hrs |
| Shree Sanatan Gaudiya Matt, Bhelupur Rd, Near LIC Office, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 0930 Hrs |
| Kedar Ghat , Kedar Easwar & Gowri Temple |
| Udupi Mutt |
| 18-10-2019 0400 Hrs Auto from Hotel New Broadway and back |
| Hotel to Kedar Ghat bath , Kedar eswarar, Gowri temple & Back to hotel |
| 18-10-2019 0630 Hrs Auto from Hotel New Broadway upto Viswanath Temple |
| Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 0700 Hrs |
| Chandra Ghanta Devi temple, Thatheri Bazar, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 0733 hrs |
| Shri Swami Narayan Mandir, A1/1 Machodari Road, Gai Ghat Rd, Near Overhead Tank, Machodari, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 0740 Hrs |
| TRILOCHAN MAHADEV TEMPLE, Unnamed Road, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001; Arun Aditya Is here 0800 Hrs |
| Madhusudan Temple , A2/29, Kameshwar Mahadev, Gai Ghat Rd, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 0815 hrs |
| Badri Narayana Ghat, k-30/67, Ghasi Tola, Ghats of varanasi, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001; Badri Narayan Mandir nearby located at House No. A-1-72 Badri Narayan Ghat 0825 Hrs |
| Nageshwar Mahadev Jyothirling temple, 130, behind Sankatha Mandhir, Garwasitola, Govindpura, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 Nageswar Temple, A2/34, Ghats of Varanasi, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001( opposite to Badri Narayan Mandir); 0830 hrs |
| sanghar Bhairo temple, Unnamed Road, Ghasi Tola, Domari, Uttar Pradesh 221001 (Samhar Bhairav) 0835 hrs |
| Kameshwar Mahadev + Kakhol Aditya Temple,, A2/9, Rabindranath Tagore Road, Opp. Birla Hospital, Machodari, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001; also Khakola Aditya inside 0910hrs |
| KHAKOLA ADITYA MANDIR, A1/10 Patan Darvaja Varanasi, near Bidla Hospital, Machodari, Kotwali, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 |
| Assi Sangameshwar Temple, b1, 178, Shivala, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 |
| Hotel New Broadway |
6.0 Ashta Vinayak Temples
According to a legend mentioned in Kashi Khand when during Padma Kalp there was a severe drought all across the world, then all creatures were severely afflicted by it. So, Lord Brahma was worried as it was difficult for him to see his creation being on the verge of destruction. After a long search for a solution, Lord Brahma saw King Ripunjay who was dedicatedly engrossed in the penance. Being pleased by him, Lord Brahma renamed him to King Divodas and requested him to take the world under his throne and save the humanity. King agreed with this but he had one condition that he wanted to rule peacefully without intervention, so that he could reform the dharma without any disturbance. Therefore, he wished that all Gods and Godly entities should remain in the heaven only and should not return to land. Lord Brahma also kept a condition that King should be an excellent administrator and that every person staying in his kingdom or visiting his kingdom should be treated well with proper religious pursuits. King agreed. On the command of Brahma, all Gods left to the heaven. But, it was not easy for Lord Brahma to ask Lord Shiva to leave Kashi and go to heaven as Kashi is believed to be one of the favourite places of Lord Shiva. So, when Lord Shiva appeared in front of Madaranchal being pleased with his prayers and Mandaranchal asked Lord Shiva to reside upon him along with Goddess Parvati and his family as a boon, finding right time to aware Lord Shiva about King Divodas’ condition, Lord Brahma told how King Divodas can save humanity and about King’s condition that all gods should leave to heaven. As Lord Shiva could not deny the request of Lord Brahma, so he also left to Mandaranchal from Kashi. As per his condition, King Divodas took the throne and worked vigorously to bring order in the decaying world. With the favours obtained from Lord Brahma, king established a rule so flawless that was never seen before. Under his regime, his subjects prospered and justice flourished.
As time passed, Lord Shiva desired to again come back to his own city Kashi. But due to Brahma’s boon to Divodasa, he was unable to set feet in Kashi. Soon Lord Shiva came to know that other gods too are unable to stay in Kashi. Not happy with this kind of attitude of the Divodas, Lord Shiva decided first to cast some dents into the flawlessness of Divodas’ rule in order to reduce his powers and then to end his regime. For this purpose Lord Shiva sent Yoginis and various gods to Kashi. But when Suryadev and Yoginis were failed to find out the loop holes in the kingdom of Raja Divodas, sent by Lord Shiva. Then as per the orders of Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha left Mandarachal and came to Kashi. In Varanasi, Lord Ganesha spread his Maya Jaal, and controlled the people. He also controlled King and Queen. Later Lord Ganesha assumed himself as successful in his mission and established himself in Varanasi in fifty six forms (Chappan – 56 Vinayak). In Kashi, a visit to all these Vinayakas is considered very fruitful and sacred.
Out of the above fifty six Vinayaks, some are full fledged/stand alone temples while many are housed in the premises of other temples. A few of the Vinayaks are idols fixed in the wall or by the side of the road or inthe steps of River Ghat. But local people worship these deities with all religious fervour.
There are many religious groups in Kashi which help to undertake YATRA (Religious Pilgrimage) of the fifty six places of worship of Vinayak popularly known as Chhappan Vinayak Yatra. (Chhappan in Hindi means fifty six). The yatra may take two-three days.
From fifty six forms (Chappan Vinayak) of Lord Ganesha, eight forms have been included in Ashta Vinayak Yatra. According to the beliefs, devotees can get rid of all their hurdles if they go on Ashta Vinayak Yatra and they can achieve prosperity and knowledge. The following forms of Vinayak are included in this yatra:- Ark Vinayak , Durg Vinayak, Chand Vinayak, Dehli Vinayak, Uddand Vinayak, Pash Pani Vinayak, Kharv Vinayak, Siddhi Vinayak.
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6.1 Ark Vinayak Temple
Ark Vinayak Temple is located near Lolark Kund, Tulsi Ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. According to the beliefs, devotees can get rid of all their hurdles if they go on Ashta Vinayak Yatra and they can achieve prosperity and knowledge. The following forms of Vinayak are included in this yatra:- Ark Vinayak, Durg Vinayak, Chand Vinayak, Dehli Vinayak,Uddand Vinayak, Pash Pani Vinayak, Kharv Vinayak, Siddhi Vinayak.
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As per legend described in Kashi Khand, Ark Vinayak form of Lord Ganesha established in Kashi has been included in Ashta Vinayaka Yatra which is located at the confluence of River Ganga and Asi . According to the beliefs, devotees can attain prosperity, good results and peace by worshipping Ark Vinayak. It is also believed that by worshipping Ark Vinayak, all obstacles of devotees are removed and they are protected from all kinds of troubles. On the occasion of Guru Purnima , worshipping Ark Vinayak is of utmost importance. The temple is very small but Ganesha Idol is quite big.
Worshipping here on Sundays holds special importance. The temple is open all time during the day.
6.2 Prachin Shri Durg Vinayak Ganesh Mandir
Prachin Shri Durg Vinayak Ganesh Mandir is located behind Durgakund, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
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According to the beliefs, devotees can get rid of all their hurdles if they go on Ashta Vinayak Yatra and they can achieve prosperity and knowledge. The following forms of Vinayak are included in this yatra:- Ark Vinayak, Durg Vinayak, Chand Vinayak, Dehli Vinayak,Uddand Vinayak, Pash Pani Vinayak, Kharv Vinayak, Siddhi Vinayak
As per legend mentioned in Kashi Khand, the Durg Vinayak form of Lord Ganesha is included in the Ashta Vinayak Yatra. As per beliefs, devotees can get rid of from their distress by worshipping Durg Vinayak, simultaneously they can enhance their prestige.
The occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, which falls in the month of January, is celebrated in the temple with gaiety and fervor. During this occasion grand Shringar of Durg Vinayak is done and a large mass of pilgrims reach the temple to participate in this grand festivity. Apart from this, on the occasion of Chaturthi of every month, large number of devotees come to the temple for the darshan of Lord Vinayak. Devotees believe that by worshipping Durg Vinayak during or before any job/project, they can attain success in that venture.
Durg Vinayak is a stand alone temple with twoentrances and is open for worship from 04.00 a.m. to 12.00 Noon and 04.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m. Mangala Aarti is held at 05.00 a.m., Bhog at 12.00 Noon, Sandhya Aarti at 07.00 p.m. and Shayan Aarti at 10.00 p.m. These aarties are attended by large number of devotees.
As per beliefs, devotees can get rid of from their distress by worshipping Durg Vinayak, simultaneously they can enhance their prestige.Staunch devotees believe that worshipping Durg Vinayak during orbefore any job/project, will certainly give success in that venture. Shri Santosh Mishra is one of thePoojaries of the temple and he can be contacted on his Cell no. (0)9616585856 for performing any special pooja.
6.3 Chand Vinayak Temple
Exact location could not be marked on the google map.. According to the beliefs, devotees can get rid of all their hurdles if they go on Ashta Vinayak Yatra and they can achieve prosperity and knowledge. The following forms of Vinayak are included in this yatra:- Ark Vinayak, Durg Vinayak, Chand Vinayak, Dehli Vinayak,Uddand Vinayak, Pash Pani Vinayak, Kharv Vinayak, Siddhi Vinayak
Based on a legend mentioned in Kashi Khand, the Chand Vinayak form of Lord Ganesha is included in the Ashta Vinayak Yatra. This form of Lord Ganesha is located in the south-west portion of Bhimchandi area. According to the beliefs, merely by darshan of Chand Vinayaka biggest fears of the devotees are removed. It is believed that if devotees worships Lord Ganesha and Goddess Chandi together then they are blessed with success and happiness.
Temple remains open for worship throughout the day.
6.4 Dehli Vinayak Temple
Dehli Vinayak is located in Bhatauli village, 20 kms from Varanasi, which is the second halt between Bhimchandi and Rameshwaram temple in the Panchkroshi Parikrama route.
Based on a legend described in Kashi Khand, the Dehli Vinayak form of Lord Ganesha is included in the Ashta Vinayak Yatra. This form of Lord Ganesha is located on the western boundary of Kashi. As per beliefs, Dehli Vinayak removes all the distress from the lives of their devotees. According to beliefs, by worshipping Dehli Vinayak, devotees can get rid of all their obstacles. The temple remains open for worship throughout the day
6.5 Uddand Vinayak Temple
Uddand Vinayak is located in Bhuili village which is 20 kms from heart of Varanasi & about 1 km from Rameshwaram Temple which is the second halt between Bhimchandi and Rameshwaram temple in the Panchkroshi Parikrama route.
Based on a legend mentioned in Kashi Khand, the Uddand Vinayak form of Lord Ganesha is included in the Ashta Vinayak Yatra. This form of Lord Ganesha is located in the North-Western direction of Kashi, before 1 KM of Rameshwar temple. It is believed that by worshipping Uddand Vinayak, devotees get rid of obstacles of their lives.
Temple remains open for the worship throughout the day
6.6 Pashupani Vinayak Mandir
Pashupani Vinayak Mandir is located at Sadar Bazar, Varanasi cantonment, Uttar Pradesh
According to the beliefs, devotees can get rid of all their hurdles if they go on Ashta Vinayak Yatra and they can achieve prosperity and knowledge. The following forms of Vinayak are included in this yatra:- Ark Vinayak, Durg Vinayak, Chand Vinayak, Dehli Vinayak,Uddand Vinayak, Pash Pani Vinayak, Kharv Vinayak, Siddhi Vinayak.
As per legend, based on a story mentioned in Kashi Khand, the Pash Pani Vinayak form of Lord Ganesha is included in the Ashta Vinayak Yatra. This form of Lord Ganesha is located in the Northern direction of Kashi. As the name defines, in the idol Lord Vinayak is holding a lock in his hand. It is believed that by worshipping in this temple devotees can get rid of all kinds of difficulties and achieve happiness throughout their lives.
Temple remains open for worship throughout the day.
Must have darshan of all Ashta Vinayak Mandirs.
6.7 Kharva Vinayak Temple
Kharva Vinayak temple is located at Rajghat mound in a house beside Basanta College, almost near the Adi Keshav Temple.
According to a legend described in Kashi Khand, the Kharva Vinayak form of Lord Ganesha is included in the Ashta Vinayak Yatra. Lord Kharva Vinayak is positioned in the North-Eastern corner of the temple. According to the beliefs, by worshipping Kharva Vinayak, the difficulties of devotees are reduced and they can get rid of all the difficulties. The place of worship remains open throughout the day. Aarties are held twice a day at 07.30 a.m. and 07.00 p.m
Must have darshan of all Ashta Vinayak Mandirs.
6.8 Siddhi Vinayak Temple
Siddhi Vinayak Temple is located near Manikarnika kund Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. According to the beliefs, devotees can get rid of all their hurdles if they go on Ashta Vinayak Yatra and they can achieve prosperity and knowledge. The following forms of Vinayak are included in this yatra:- Ark Vinayak, Durg Vinayak, Chand Vinayak, Dehli Vinayak,Uddand Vinayak, Pash Pani Vinayak, Kharv Vinayak, Siddhi Vinayak.
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As per legend in Kashi Khand, the Siddhi Vinayak form of Lord Ganesha is included in the Ashta Vinayak Yatra. The idol of Shree Siddhi Vinayak is considered to be self manifested (Swayambhu) and is approximately 3.5 feet high and 3 feet wide, with the trunk on the left. The orange glaring figure has three eyes and dressed in red attire. It is believed that by worshipping Siddhi Vinayak devotees can attain Siddhi.
The place of worship remains open throughout the day day. Must have darshan of all Ashta Vinayak Mandirs
7.0 Other Ganesa Temples had darshan
7.1 Sri Sri Chintamani Ganesh Temple
Shri Chintamani Ganesh Temple is located near Kedar ghat, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. By worshipping Chintamani Vinayak, the devotees will attain whatever good things they desire.
Here the Deity of Ganesh is Swayambhu (self manifested) and it is one of the 56 Vinayaka temples of Varanasi.. It is believed that Chintamani Ganesh overcomes the concern even of Shri Kashi Vishwanath. This is the only temple where Ganesh ji resides with the family.
Ganesha is with his consorts, Riddhi-Siddhi. There is also the Deity of Ashtabhuja also. The most important point is that this temple and the idol of Ganesha are Dakshina Mukhi (south facing) and . In such a situation, the importance of these Ganesh ji increases much more.
It is believed that when someone is afflicted by sorrow, daridra, surrounded by worries, then worshiping these Ganesh ji for 40
days continuously removes all his worries. All troubles are removed. Yash,Kirti, Wealth is attained. For worshiping Ganesha, one should worship with Durva Grass, Paddy Lava and Besan Laddu. Worshiping Durva Grass makes a person rich. By offering lava, there is an increase in fame.
Praying to Ganesh ji helps in in education & learning. of children. If the parents of those children who do not have interest reading, offer their lava for 40 days and meditate, then their vow is fulfilled. At the same time, all kinds of aspirations are fulfilled by offering laddus. Also coconut should be offered for 40 days on the completion of honorary rituals from worship.
The place of worship is open practically throughout the day.
7.2 Dundi Ganapathi Temple
Dundi Ganapathi Temple is located at dundi raju galli,, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.Dundi Raj Ganesh Mandir lies just a few minutes away from the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple
As per legend , in Kashi Khand, Dhundhiraj Vinayak form of Shri Ganesha is the part of Ashta Pradhan Vinayak Yatra. According to story mentioned in Ashta Pradhan Yatra, when Lord Ganesha succeeded in finding the deficiency in the rule of King Divodas, he settled down in Varanasi in the form of fifty six idols (Chhapan Vinayak). Thereafter, Lord Vishnu dethroned King Divodas as per the vow. Lord Vishwanath arrived Kashi from Mandarachal along with all the Gods. As soon as Lord Vishweshwar stepped in Kashi he firstly worshipped and praised the Gadnayak (Lord Ganesha) and chanted the hymns of Dhundhiraj and proclaimed that at this place Lord Ganesha will be known as Dhundhiraj and pilgrims who will offer prayers to Dhundhiraj prior to the Lord Vishweshwar will be graced by the blessings of Lord Vishweshwar. It is believed that reverents who regularly offer prayers to Dhundhiraj . .Vinayak get rid of all the sins and attains salvation.
Devotees can worship at temple throughout the day.
7.3 Chintaharan Ganesh Temple
Chintaharan Ganesh mandir is located at Rajghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. As the name itself suggests, Sri Chintha haran Ganesh gives relief for all our worries, tension etc.
Ganesha is considered the master of intellect and wisdom. He is depicted as a big-bellied, yellow or red god with four arms and the head of a one- tusked elephant, riding on, or attended to by, a mouse. He is frequently represented sitting down, with one leg raised in the air and bent over the other. His Consorts are : Riddhi (knowledge), Siddhi (perfection).
Ganesha is the remover of obstacles , the patron of arts and sciences; and the deva of intellect and wisdom. As the god of beginnings, he is honoured at the start of rites and ceremonies. Ganesha is also invoked as patron of letters and learning during writing sessions .
Chinta haran Ganesh Mandir in Varanasi is an ancient temple and one must have darshan.
7.4 Sakshi Vinayak Temple
Sakshi Vinayak Temple is located in Vishwanath Galli, Near Mankameshwar Mandir, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh .Sakshi Vinayaka or the “witness-bearing Lord Ganesha or Vinayaka”.is also Close to Annapurna Temple
Though the idol of Lord Ganesh on the plinth is grand but strictly in architectural terms, it cannot be termed as temple. On the road between these two temples is a red glaring figure of Lord Ganesh, with silver hands, trunk, feet, ears, and poll, squatting down on the floor, which is raised a little above the pathway.
Pilgrims, on completing the journey of the Panchkosi road (Panchkosi Parikarama), must pay a visit to this shrine, in order that the fact of their pilgrimage may be verified. Panchkosi Parikrama is the 10 miles circumambulation of the temples in Kashi. Should they neglect to do this, all their pilgrimage would be without merit or profit. The temple is in a square and was erected by a Maratha Peshwa in 18th century.
7.5 Trisandhya Vinayak Mandir
Trisandhya Vinayak Mandir is located at God Walia, , Dashaswmedh, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
Varanasi is credited with more than 63000 temples and many of them destroyed by the Moghul invaders and Aurangazeb. There are a large number of Vinayak temples as well in Varanasi. Trisandhya Vinayak Mandir is one such temple reclaimed . It is available for darshan all dat and devotees can view Lord through the grills.
8.0 Hanuman Temples in Varanasi
8.1 Shri Prachin Sankat Haran Hanuman Temple
Shri Prachin Sankat Haran Hanuman Temple,is located at Pachkoshi, , Dumraon Colony, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. near Assi ghat. Devotees normally visit the famous Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple Varanasi situated on the banks of the Assi river. But very few know about the ancient Shri Prachin Sankat Haran Hanuman Temple. Nearby, there is a Shri Jagannath Ji Temple which is also very ancient.
“Sankat Mochan” meaning the “reliever from troubles” The temple is very small – but murthy is very powerful. Must have darshan.Sankatmochan Temple, Sankat Mochan Rd, Padampuri Colony, Durgakund, Jawahar Nagar Colony, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010;
Devotees normally visit the famous Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple Varanasi situated on the banks of the Assi river. But very few know about the ancient Shri Prachin Sankat Haran Hanuman Temple. Nearby, there is a Shri Jagannath Ji Temple which is also very ancient.
“Sankat Mochan” meaning the “reliever from troubles” The temple is very small – but murthy is very powerful. Must have darshan.
8.2 Sankatmochan Temple
Sankatmochan Temple is located at Durgakund, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The temple was established by famous Hindu preacher and poet saint Sri Goswami Tulsidas in the early 16th century and is situated on the banks of the Assi river. The deity was named “Sankat Mochan” meaning the “reliever from troubles”.
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The temple, offerings to Lord Hanuman (called Prasad) are sold like the special sweet “besan ke ladoo”, which the devotees relish; the idol is also decked with a pleasant marigold flower garland as well. This temple has the unique distinction of having Lord Hanuman facing his Lord, Rama, whom he worshipped with steadfast and selfless devotion.
It is believed that the temple has been built on the very spot where Tulsidas had a vision of Hanuman. Sankat Mochan Temple was founded by Tulsidas who was the author of the Ramacharitamanasa, which is the greatest version of lord Ram story written in Avadhi
Every Tuesday and Saturday thousands of people queue up in front of the temple to offer prayers to Lord Hanuman. According to Vedic Astrology, Hanuman saves human beings from the anger of the planet Shani (Saturn), and especially people who have an ill-placed Saturn in their horoscopes visit this temple for astrological remedies. This is supposed to be the most effective way for appeasing Shani.
While it is suggested that Hanuman did not hesitate to engulfs in his mouth the sun, the lord of all planets, which humbled all the gods and angels, making them worship him for the Sun’s release. Some astrologers believe that worshiping Hanuman can neutralize the ill-effect of Mangal (Mars) and practically any planet that has an ill effect on human life.
With regard to character, strength and ability, Hanuman was far superior to even humans. His surrender to the divine cause and his devotion to Lord Rama was unique, exemplary and unconditional. Even today devotees say that wherever the name of Lord Rama is chanted or mentioned, this sacred being would be present there listening to the chanting of his name and absorbed in his thoughts.
Lord Hanuman symbolically stands for pure devotion, complete surrender and absence of ego or the lower self. His character tells us what we can do in our lives by becoming pure devotees of God, aligning ourselves with the forces of good, helping the weak, with self control, unconditional faith and total surrender.
As the son of Vayu, he symbolically represents the subtle bodies, namely the breath body, the mental body and the intelligence body. The breath body is responsible for the movement of life energy or prana in our bodies. It is especially strong in people who lead ethically clean and celibate lives, performing austerities, for which Anjaneya was particularly famous.
As a devotee, Hanuman represents the mental body, which is made up of the thought currents that float in our chitta or consciousness. It is responsible for our imagination, astral travel and dream experiences. The intelligence body is made up of buddhi or discretionary intelligence, which is considered one of the highest tattvas or principles of Nature. Our buddhi is said to be a direct reflection of divine intelligence. It is responsible for our decision-making ability, rational thinking and conscience.
8.3 Bade Hanuman Ji Ka Mandir
Bade Hanuman Ji Ka Mandir is located at Meerghat , Near, Sri Kasi Vishalakshi Devi Temple, Vishwanath Galli, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh .
Devotees normally visit the famous Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple Varanasi situated on the banks of the Assi river. But very few know about the ancient Bade Hanuman Ji Ka Mandir near, Sri Kasi Vishalakshi Devi Temple.
There is a big idol of Hanumanji on rock and In front if you see the eye of Hanumanji, it is calm since it is looking at his mother- Anjana Devi; If you look at the other eye through the side window, it exhibits anger – since it is looking South(Sri lanka) who was abducted by Rakshas Ravana.
Also in this temple, Dwar Bhairav & Jarasandeshwar Mahadev idols installed by Jarasandh of Mahabharat fame asura are here. Very Ancient temple and there is an enthusiastic young priest who explains all the details of the temple.
Continued in Part 2 – Details of Shiva Temples, Bhairav Temples & Vishnu Temples of Varanasi Continued in Part 3 – Details of Nav Durga Temples, Nav Gauri Temples & Other Devi Temples Continued in Part 4 – Details of Dwadasha Aditya & Varanasi Ghats References : 1) http://pawanpath.up.gov.in/ 2) https://varanasitemples.in/
Interested in travelling and having Darshan of several Temples in India and abroad. Retired as President from Navayuga Spatial Technologies Ltd & previously as General Manager (AS&DM) , NRSC, Department of Space View all posts by kalyangeetha
Top 100 Varanasi Temples -Part 2 of 5 – 12 Jyothirlinga & Main Shiva Temples
Index of Contents
- 1.0 Introduction
- 2.0 Varanasi Shiva Temples
- 2.1 Jyothirlings(12) Temples in Kashi
- 2.1.1 Someshwar Jyothirlinga
- 2.1.2 Tripuratkeswar Mahadev ji and Sri Mallikarjun Mahadev Mandir
- 2.1.3 Maha Kaleswar Jyothirling
- 2.1.4 Omkareswar Mandir
- 2.1.5 Baijnatha Mahadev Mandir
- 2.1.6 Bheemeshwar Jyothirling
- 2.1.7 Rameshwar Jyothirling
- 2.1.8 Nageshwar Jyothirling
- 2.1.9 Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- 2.1.10 Tryambakeshwar Mahadev
- 2.1.11 Shri Kedareshwar Temple
- 2.1.12 Grishneshwar Jyothirling
- 2.2 Main Shiva Temples
- 2.2.1 Birla Mandir
- 2.2.2 Atmaveereshwar Mahadev Temple
- 2.2.3 Dharmeshwar Mahadev
- 2.2.4 Lord Gabhstheeswarar
- 2.2.5 Kriti Vasheshwar Mahadev Temple
- 2.2.6 Sri Tilbhandeshwar Mahadev Temple
- 2.2.7 Baba Trilingeshwar Mahadev Temple
- 2.2.8 Srinivasheshwar Mahadev Temple
- 2.2.9 Vyagreshwar Mahadev temple
- 2.2.10 Shukreswar Mahadev Temple
- 2.2.11 Nepali Temple
- 2.2.12 Brihaspatheswar Mahadev Temple
- 2.2.13 Trilochan Mahadev Temple
- 2.2.14 Nageshwar Temple
- 2.2.15 Kameshwar Mahadev
- 2.2.16 Til Parneshwar
- 2.2.17 Assi Sangameshwar Temple
- 2.1 Jyothirlings(12) Temples in Kashi
NOTE Since the Blog is lengthy, If you Click on any Title, you will be taken to the concerned paragragh by the link provided. Also you can return to the Index of Contents for which links have been provided at several places in the Blog.
1.0 Introduction
The Blog series on 104 Top Varanasi Temples, is divided into 5 parts : In Part 1 of the blog, Varanasi temples List, Executed Plan for Darshan, Details of 8 Ashta Vinayak Temples & 3 Hanuman Temples are given. In this Blog,Details of 12 Jyothirlinga Temples and 17 Main Shiva Temples are given . In Part 3, 26 Durga, Gauri and Devi Temples are given. In Part 4 of blog, Details of 12 Dwadash Aditya temples & 12 Vishnu temples are given. In Part 5 of the Blog, details of 9 Bhairav Temples and 8 Varanasi Ghats are given.
Since the Blog is quite lenghty, hyperlinks have been given in the INDEX so that one can navigate to the desired paragraph. At frequent intervals, facility to return back to INDEX also has been given
Google Map Locations of Varanasi Temples could be seen in the embedded Interactive Google Map below:
2.1 JYOTIRLINGS (12) TEMPLES IN KASHI
A Jyotirlinga or Jyotirling or Jyotirlingam (Sanskrit: ज्योतिर्लिङ्ग) are shrines where Lord Shiva, is worshipped in the form of a Jyotirlingam. ‘Jyothi’ means ‘Radiance’ and Lingam, the Shiva Lingam-‘the mark or sign’ of The Almighty or the phallus symbol. Jyotir Lingam means the The Radiant sign of The Almighty. The worship of the Jyotirlingas has great significance and importance in the Hindu religion.This is the shorter version of the stotra, which is praise or stuti of the 12 Jyotirlinga.It is said that who so ever remembers the 12 Jyotirlanga with sincerity washes away the sins which he has accumulated in his past seven lives.
The 12 Jyotirlinga shrines are Somanath (Gujarat), Srisailam (Andhra Pradesh), Mahakal (Madhya Pradesh), Omkareshwar (Madhya Pradesh), Kedarnath (Uttarakhand), Bhimashankar (Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra), Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Uttar Pradesh), Trimbakeshwar (Maharashtra), Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga Temple (Deogarh), Nageswar Jyothirlinga Temple (Maharashtra), Rameswaram (Tamil Nadu), and Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Shrine (Maharashtra).
DWADASA JYOTIRLINGA STOTRAM :
सौराष्ट्रे सोमनाधञ्च श्रीशैले मल्लिकार्जुनम् । उज्जयिन्यां महाकालम् ॐकारेत्वमामलेश्वरम् ॥
पर्ल्यां वैद्यनाधञ्च ढाकिन्यां भीम शङ्करम् । सेतुबन्धेतु रामेशं नागेशं दारुकावने ॥
वारणाश्यान्तु विश्वेशं त्रयम्बकं गौतमीतटे । हिमालयेतु केदारं घृष्णेशन्तु विशालके ॥
एतानि ज्योतिर्लिङ्गानि सायं प्रातः पठेन्नरः । सप्त जन्म कृतं पापं स्मरणेन विनश्यति ॥
Devotees worship CORRESPONDING JYOTIRLINGS (12) TEMPLES IN KASHI
2.1.1 Someshwar Jyotirlinga (Near Manmandir ghat)
Someshwar Jyotirlinga located in Varanasi is a replica of Someshwar Jyotirlinga situated in Prabhas area of Kathiawar in Gujarat which is one of the Dwadash Jyotirlingas. According to Kashi Khand, Someshwar Jyotirlinga is situated near Manmandir Ghat in Varanasi.
Kashi Khand, Chapter 100 states that devotees should undertake religious tour (Yatra) of several deitiessituated within the main area of Kashi. This Yatra is known as Antargrihi Yatra and should be undertaken daily. One such deity among the deities to be worshipped is Someshwar. People who worship this deity will always be blessed with happiness and prosperity
As per legend, in Shiv Mahapuran related to origin and significance of Someshwar Jyotirlinga, according to which Mahatma Prajapati Daksh married his twenty seven daughters to Chandra Dev. Among his twenty seven wives, Rohini was more loved by Chandra Dev. Therefore, feeling neglected, all his wives except Rohini went to their father Daksh seeking help. Daksh requested Chandra Dev not to show such a behaviour to his other daughters However Chandra Dev did not pay much attention to what Daksh said and continued with his unequal behaviour towards his wives. Daksh became angry and cursed him with Tuberculosis. As soon as he was cursed, Chandra Dev became feeble that created chaos all around. Seing such a condition Chandra Dev along with Lord Indra and other gods approached Lord Brahma asking for his forgiveness and seeking a solution to remove Daksha’s curse to which Lord Brahma told Chandra Dev that he must go to Prabhas area and worship Lord Shiva with full devotion while chanting Mahamrityunjay mantras to free himself from Daksh’s curse.
As told by Lord Brahma, Chandra Dev went to Prabhas area and performed Lord Shiva’s penance for continuous six months while chanting Mahamrityunjay mantra. Pleased with his worship, Lord Shiva appeared before him and granted him a boon. Lord Shiva told Chandra Dev that in one fortnight, Chandra Dev’s radiance and beauty will increase day by day and he will shine in all glory, however, Daksha’s curse cannot be completely removed, so, in the next fortnight after he will shine, his radiance will deteriorate each day and he will again loose his radiance according to Daksha’s curse. Afterwards, Chandra Dev along with other gods praised Lord Shiva and asked him to establish himself there along with Goddess Parvati. Then being pleased by the prayers of Chandra Dev and other gods, Lord Shiva established himself there in a form of Jyotirlinga and this Jyotirlinga was renowned as Someshwar or Somnath in all the three worlds that enhanced the significance of that place and glory of Chandra Dev.
It is believed that by worshipping Someshwar Jyotirlinga, devotees can be freed from diseases like Tuberculosis and Leprosy etc. According to a belief, by worshipping Jupiter, reverents may get rid of tuberculosis or any incurable disease and devotees who worship ten Somnath Linga they attain salvation.
It is believed that devotees in Kashi, who cannot travel upto Somnath in Gujarat, can worship this Shiv Ling, Someshwar, in Kashi and they will derive the same amount of blessings The temple timings are :from 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
2.1.2 Sri Tripuratkeswar Mahadev Ji And Sri Mallikaarjun Mahadev Mandir
Sri Tripuratkeswar Mahadev Ji And Sri Mallikaarjun Mahadev Mandir is located at Sigra, Mahmoorganj, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. According to Kashi Khand, Chapter 69, the place where Lord Shiva wore the skin of Gajasur after slayingthe latter, was called Rudra Vasam.
Once the Lord, in his form as Krithi Vaseshwar, was sitting along with Goddess Uma Devi when Nandi offered his prayers and stated that there are 68 places of worship dedicated to Lord Shiva in this holy place. Various idols/Shiv Lings have been brought from several other places and installed in Kashi.
From Shri Shail Mountain one Ling by name of Tripurantak has appeared in the Holy city of Kashi, which is called Tripurantakeshwar. By worshipping this deity, the devotee derives the benefit of worship the HolyShri Shail Mountain. A devotee who worships Tripurantakeshwar will attain Moksha and need not worry about rebirth.
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On all India basis there are twelve Jyotirlings and there are twelve important Shiv Lings in Kashi whichrepresent the aforesaid twelve Jyotirlings. Tripurantakeshwar is worshipped as Mallikarjun Jyotirling (SriSailam, Andhra Pradesh).
Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga lis a replica of Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga situated at Shree Shail Parvat that is on the bank of River Krishna in Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh, which is one of the Dwadash Jyotirlingas. Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga situated in Andhra Pradesh is also renowned as “Kailash of South”. According to Kashi Khand Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is situated at Tripurantakeshwar (mound in Sigra region) in Varanasi.
As per legend, in Shiv Mahapuran when Lord Kartikeya returned to Kailash after circumambulation of earth, he left for Krauncha Parvat after greeting his parents. Being unhappy with this, Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva decided to go to Krauncha Parvat to meet Lord Kartikeya. On other hand, when Lord Kartikeya came to know about this, then he moved 3 yojana away from Kraunch Parvat.
On reaching Krauncha Parvat when Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva did not find Lord Kartikeya there, then in affection for their son, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati established themselves there in the form of Jyotirlinga and it is believed that Lord Shiva marks his presence here on every Amavasya and Goddess Parvati on every Poornima to take a glimpse of Kumar Kartikeya.The Shivlinga established here is renowned by the name of Mallikarjuna. It consist of Jyotir forms of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati both. “Mallika” means “Goddess Parvati” and “Arjuna” means “Lord Shiva”.
It is believed that by worshipping Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga reverents can get rid of all their sins and all their wishes are fulfilled. It is believed that merely by darshan of Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga reverents can attain overall happiness in their lives. Temple is open for worship from 6:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM in the evening.
2.1.3 Maha Kaleswar Jyothirling in Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple
Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple (Houses Shri Asitang Bhairav & Vridha Kaleshwar, Maha Kaleswar Jyothirling & Nageshwar Jyothirling)
Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple is located at , Daranagar, Visheshwarganj, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.(adjacent to the Kalbhairav temple) and is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it is several thousands of years old temple. And there is no other temple of Mahamrityunjaya anywhere in the world. It is believed that offering prayer at this temple results in destruction of all sorrows.
Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple houses Shri Asitang Bhairav ,Vridha Kaleshwar, Maha Kaleswar Jyothirling & Nageshwar Jyothirling.
Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple in Varanasi is the very famous and glorious temple. This temple is the holy place of worship and belongs to the Lord Mahadev (Known as Lord Shiva by pilgrims). The meaning of the word Mrityunjay Mahadev is “The God who triumphs over of death”. It is considered as, the Shivling in this temple keep away all the devotees from their unnatural death. Lord Shiva is worshiped as Mrityunjay Mahadev by devotees in order to get triumph over his unnatural death. People from all over India come hre and perform “Mrityunjay Path” to get rid of their problems.
Here the Deity of Mrityunjay Mahadev is Swayambhu (self manifested). The smaller shrines within the temple are said to be thousands of years old. However the current building was constructed in 18th century, Other deities in the temple are : Lord Hanuman idol (established by Goswami Tulsi Das) , Nageshwar Mahadev , Deity of Stang Bhairava, temple of Maha Kaleshwar, Deity of Mother Kali and Mother Lakshmi . Brahmins continue to chant the Siddha Mahamrityunjaya Mantra in the huge courtyard.
In the campus of the temple there is an ancient Lord Dhanwantari’s well (also known as koop). The water of this well has therapeutic effect on human beings. It is considered as it has mixture of several underground water streams and has miraculous effect for curing numerous diseases.
Another story behind the magical well is that, a famous person “Dhanvantari” (father of the Ayurveda) has poured all his medicine in that well, that’s why the water of this well is sacred and has medicinal effect as well as able to cure various diseases.
As per legend, to a question raised by Goddess Parvaty, Lord Shiva was describing the various sacred Teerths (Ponds),Koops (Wells) and places of worship in Kashi. Lord Shiva described such places with pleasure.
Towards the east of Daksheshwar Ling is the Mahakaleshwar Ling. By worshipping this Ling, the devotee gets the benefits of worshipping the entire world. (Kashi Khand, Chapter 97). Here, it may mean that of allthe deities spread over the world. Mahakaleshwar is capable of saving devotees from untimely death.
While Mahakaleshwar Jyotirling is in Ujjain, people worship this temple in Kashi (as Jyotirling of the same name) as it is stated to be equivalent in strength.
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Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga in Varanasi is a replica of Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga situated in Ujjain on bank of River Kshipra in Madhya Pradesh which is one of the Dwadash Jyotirlingas. According to Kashi Khand, Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is located in Mahamrityunjay Mahadev Temple premises in Maidagin area of Varanasi.
A story has been described in Shiv Mahapuran related to origin and significance of Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, according to which a noble Brahmin used to reside in Avanti Nagar with his four sons. His eldest son was Devpriya, second was Medhapriya, third was Sukrit and youngest was Dharmvahi. In the same era, a Dooshan named Asura after receiving boon from Lord Brahma created chaos all over and attacked Dharma and Dharmatmas. In the end, Dooshan attacked Brahmins of Avanti Nagar with his troops. As per the orders of Dooshan, four frightening demons appeared from four directions and surrounded Brahmins. This scared all the Brahmins of Avanti Nagar. Then Brahmin sons assured all Brahmins that they should believe in Lord Shiva and by saying this, they themselves got engrossed in Lord Shiva’s meditation while worshipping Shivlinga.
While Brahmin’s sons were worshipping Shivlinga, as soon as the demon attacked on Brahmins, a pit was formed at the place of Shivlinga and from that pit Lord Shiva appeared in a formidable form. He then destroyed all the demons. Afterwards, all the saints and gods including Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu praised Lord Shiva with various strotas. Upon prayers of all, Lord Shiva established himself there in the form of Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga to protect the masses.
According to Shiv Mahapuran, by the darshan of Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga reverents does not have to face any kind of grief even in their dreams. All the wishes of reverents get fulfilled and they attain salvation by the darshan of Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga
Poojari of the temple: Shri Housila Prasad Mishra Mobile no. : 9336761783.
Mahakaleshwar Temple is open for worship from 4:00 AM till 12:00 AM.
2.1.4 Omkareshwar Mandir
Omkareshwar Mandir is located opposite Makareshwar Mandir, Aalampura, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
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Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga in Varanasi is a replica of Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga situated in Mandhata on banks of the River Narmada in Madhya Pradesh. According to Kashi Khand, Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is located in Omkareshwar Mohalla in Varanasi.
According to Kashi Khand, Chapter 73, Goddess Parvati wanted to know about Omkareshwar Ling and Lord Shiva narrated as under : Once Lord Brahma underwent severe penance for several long years and a mighty or very strong force erupted from beneath, piercing the ground, radiating divine light all over. This assumed the form of a divine Ling and Lord Brahma beheld a divine energy which was representative of all the Vedas (Rig, Yajur and Sam Veda), the energy which represented Akaar, Ukaar and Makaar. Lord Brahma saw in that divine light, theenergy of OM which governs the entire universe.
Lord Brahma visualized a creature with four horns, seven hands, two heads. The Lord also saw a divine energy encompassing all the Vedas, Puranas, five Brahms (Akaar, Ukaar, Makaar, Naad and Bindu). Lord Brahma was so enchanted with the Panchakshara Ling (Panch+Akshar means five letters mentioned within the coasts above) that he started singing praises of Lord Shiva whom he could visualize in person, standingin front.
Kashi Khand has described in detail the praises and eulogy which were expressed by Lord Brahma inveneration of Lord Shiva. Very pleased with the prayers of Lord Brahma, Lord Shiva granted a divine boon to the former. Lord Brahma desired that Lord Shiva should always be present in the Shiv Ling which had appeared as a Divine energy and the name of the Ling should be Omkareshwar. Lord Shiva granted accordingly and stated that the Shiv Ling was to be called Shiva Panchayatan, symbolic of Akaar, Ukaar, Makaar, Naad and Bindu.
A devotee who takes a holy dip in Matsyodari Teerth and worships Omkareshwar will not have the fear of rebirth. A person who worships Omkareshwar will derive the benefits accruing out of performing AshwaMedha Yagna. Worshipping Omkareshwar is equivalent to reciting one lakh Rudra Japam and is alsoequivalent to worshipping all the Shiv Lings in the world.
As per another legend, in ancient times Devarshi Naradji went to Gokarn Teerth and worshipped Gokarn form of Lord Shiva. Then, he went back to Vindhyanchal Mountain and worshipped Lord Shiva there also.
Vindhyanchal Mountain being egotistical assumed that he is perfect. Then Naradji told Vindhyanchal that although he is flawless yet he is not counted in gods, whereas Sumeru mountain is even greater than him and is included in gods. By saying this Naradji left but Vindhya became very dejected and disheartened and being restless he made Parthiv Shivlinga and performed rigorous penance continuously for six months. Ultimately, being pleased with his penance Lord Shiva appeared in front of Vindhyanchal and asked him about his wish. In reply Vindhyanchal asked for a boon by which he can fulfill all his wishes with his intelligence.
Hearing this wish of Vindhyanchal, Lord Shiva became bit concerned as he has asked for a wish which can be the reason for grief for others. Therefore, Lord Shiva became confused as he wanted to grant wish to Vindhyanchal in such a way by which others are not troubled. So, he said “ Tathastu” and then established himself there in a form of Shivlinga. Then, this Shivlinga separated into two parts in which Pranav was renowned as Omkareshwar and Parthiv was renowned as Parmeshwar.
It is believed that reverents who worships Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga attains salvation.
A person who is a devotee of Omkareshwar will attain Mukti even if he dies at any place other than Kashi.Lord Shiva told Lord Brahma that with the radiating energy of Omkareshwar, Lord Brahma will besuccessful in his job of creating human beings. After granting all the boons to Lord Brahma, Lord Shivadisappeared inside the Ling.
Earlier there were five Shiv Lings representing Shiva Panchayatan viz. Akaareshwar, Omkareshwar,Makaareshwar, Naadeshwar and Bindu Ling. Now there are only three Lings, Akaareshwar, Omkareshwarand Makaareshwar.
Omkareshwar Ling is also known as Kapileshwar and Nadeshwar. Omkareshwar ling was stated to be on thebanks of Matsyodari Teerth where, during rainy season, the rising river Ganges also used to join.
Pt. Shivdutt Pandey is the Poojari of the temple Mob: number (0)9307750377and (0)9305818473
2.1.5 Baijnattha Mahadev Mandir
Baijnattha Mahadev Mandir is located at Kamaccha Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh . Baidyanath Jyotirlinga in Varanasi is a replica of Baidyanath Jyotirlinga situated near E.R. Railway Jasidih Station in Santhal Pargana of Jharkhand. According to Kashi Khand Baidyanath Jyotirlinga is located in Kamachha area of Varanasi and is renowned as Baijnathya.
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A story has been described in Shiv Mahapuran related to origin and significance of Baidyanath Jyotirlinga, according to which when Ravana failed to please Lord Shiva even after performing rigorous penance at Kailash mountain then he started chopping off his head and offered it to Lord Shiva as a sacrifice. Pleased with the prayers of Ravana, Lord Shiva appeared in front of him and restored all his heads and asked him to seek a boon. Hearing this, Ravana requested Lord Shiva to come with him to Sri Lanka.
Lord Shiva replied “ You can take my linga to your home but keep in mind that while taking the Shivlinga to Sri Lanka if you will put it on earth, it will become stable there and will not be able to move further.” Afterwards, Ravana took the shivlinga and went back to Sri Lanka. On his way, he felt that he need to urinate so he handed over the shivlinga to a shepherd and went for urinating. Shepherd could not bear the heavy weight of the shivlinga, so he kept that on earth. As soon as the shivlinga was kept on the earth, it was established there. When Ravana returned he tried to lift the shivlinga off the earth but he couldn’t suceed. Since then, this established shivlinga is renowned as Baidyanatheshwar and is believed to grant salvation to devotees.
Although Ravana could not take shivlinga with him to Lanka yet gods were worried when they get to know about boons received by Ravana from Lord Shiva. To ask for the resolution, all gods went to Lord Brahma. Hearing them, Lord Brahma assured that he will find some solution to this problem. Afterwards, Naradji went to Ravana and praised him and asked all the details of his penance. Ravana replied proudly that with the boon granted by Lord Shiva to him, he will soon conquer all the three worlds. To which Naradji said “ Hey Ravana! Now I will tell you something of your interest. To check that till what extent the boon given by Lord Shiva is fruitful, you must go to Kailash mountain and should try to root out the Kailash mountain.” Ravana got this point and left for Kailash mountain. When he reached there, he started shaking Kailash mountain to uproot it. When Lord Shiva came to know about this act of Ravana, he became angry and cursed Ravana that soon a brave man will take birth who will shatter his ego. Hearing this Ravana went back.
The greatness of this jyotirlinga has been described in Shiv Mahapurana which states that by darshan of this jyotirlinga all the wishes of reverents get fulfilled and they can get rid of their sins. Temple remains open for worship from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. To return to INDEX, Click HERE. Otherwise Continue
2.1.6 Bheemeshwar Jyotirling in Sri Kashi Karvat Mandir
Sri Kashi Karvat Mandir is located at Govindpura, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 . Bheemeshwar Jyotirlinga located in Varanasi is a replica of Bheemashankar Jyotirlinga situated at Sahyadri hills in Pune area of Maharashtra. According to Kashi Khand, Bheemeshwar Jyotirlinga is established at Kashi Karvat temple in Varanasi.
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As per legend, in Kashi Khand, Chapter 69, the place where Lord Shiva wore the skin of Gajasur after slayingthe latter, was called Rudra Vasam.
Once the Lord, in his form as Krithi Vaseshwar, was sitting along with Goddess Uma Devi when Nandi offered his prayers and stated that there are 68 places of worship dedicated to Lord Shiva in this holy place. Various idols/Shiv Lings have been brought from several other places and installed in Kashi.
From Sapt Godavari Teerth the Lord has appeared in Kashi by name of Bheemeshwar for bestowing happiness and granting Moksha to devotees. All those devotees who worship Bheemeshwar which is to the east of Nakuleshwar, will be freed from even the most heinous sins committed by them.
As per another legend, in ancient times there was a demon named Bheem who was a son of Kumbhkarana and Karkati. He was cruel and used to torture religious people. In his childhood he used to live with his mother and grandparents in Sahyadri hills. Once when he asked about his father, his mother told him that Kumbhkaran, brother of Ravana was his father who was killed by Lord Rama during a war. Therefore, after death of his father his mother Karkati started living with her parents. Once a saint named Agastya killed his grandparents too.
When Bheem came to know about this, he was filled with rage and he took a vow that he will take a revenge of his father’s death from Lord Vishnu. He then started performing rigorous penance worshipping Lord Brahma. After thousand years of his rigorous penance, Lord Brahma being pleased with his prayers appeared in front of him and asked for his wish. Then, Bheem asked for immense strength as a boon. Accordingly, Lord Brahma granted him wish
After receiving immense strength from the boon, Bheem won the battle with gods and also defeated Lord Vishnu in the battle. After that, he headed towards south and there he defeated king of Kamroop and made his entire empire his hostage. Swami Kamroopeshwar was a devotee of Lord Shiva. So, in the jail itself he created shivlinga and worshipped Lord Shiva daily along with his wife praying for the welfare of humanity.
All the gods requested Lord Shiva to slaughter him as soon as possible. Lord Shiva asked all gods to go and ask Swami Kamroopeshwar to continue worshipping Lord Shiva, at right moment he will go there to kill the demon. Accordingly, gods went to Swami Kamroopeshwar and asked him to continue worshipping shivalinga.
Someone told Bheem that Kamroopeshwar is trying to kill him. Hearing this he became angry and rushed to the king with his sword for killing him. But as soon as the sword reached Shivalinga, from Shivalinga Lord Shiva appeared and he slaughtered Bheem. Later, all the saints and gods worshipped Lord Shiva and this form of him was renowned as Bheemashankar.
It is believed that reverents who visit and worships Bheemashankar Mahadev, all their problems are resolved easily.
Temple remains open for worship throughout the day. In the temple, Shivalinga is established below the ground level; therefore, it can be viewed from the top only.
2.1.7 Rameshwar Jyotirlinga near Manmandir ghat
Rameshwar Jyotirlinga in Varanasi is a replica of Rameshwar Jyotirlinga situated on sea shore in Tamil Nadu. According to Shiv Mahapuran, this Jyotirlinga was established by Lord Ram in Treta Yuga. According to Kashi Khand, Rameshwar Jyotirlinga is established in Man Mandir Mohalla in Varanasi.
As per legend, in Shiv Mahapuran, when Ravana abducted Sita and took her to Lanka in Treta Yuga, then Lord Vishnu in Ramavatar reached seashore present in Southern India along with Sugreev, Hanuman and Padma Vanar Sena. On sea shore he worshipped Lord Shiva and prayed for his protection and prayed to Lord Shiva to help him in the battle with Ravana to take Sita back home. Pleased with the prayers, Lord Shiva appeared in front of Lord Ram and asked him his wish to which Lord Ram asked Lord Shiva to establish himself there for the welfare of the mankind. Lord Shiva fulfilled his boon and established himself there as Rameshwar Jyotirlinga. Afterwards, with the blessings of Lord Shiva, Lord Ram along with his troop crossed the sea and after killing Ravana and his demon army took Sita back home.
It is believed that whosoever pour divine ganga jal (jalabhishek) on Rameshwar Jyotirlinga, attains salvation.
Temple remains open for worship from 5:00 AM till 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM till 9:00 PM.
2.1.8 Nageshwar Jyothirling in Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple
Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple, (Houses Shri Asitang Bhairav, Nageshwar Jyothirling & Vridha Kaleshwar) another place where Nageshwar is in Bhonsala Ghat 25.31261 N, 83.01524 E ; Nageshwar Mahadev Temple is located at in the premises of Maha mrityunjaya temple Varanasi. Another place where Nageshwar is mentioned to be in Bhonsala Ghat.
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga in Varanasi is a replica of Nageshwar Jyotirlinga located in Dwarka of Gujarat. According to Kashi Khand, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is situated in Mahamrityunjay Mahadev Temple located in Maidagin area of Varanasi.
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As per legend in Shiv Mahapuran, in ancient times there was a demonic named Daruka, who became egoistical after getting a boon from Goddess Parvati. Her husband’s name was Daruk. Once, Daruk with his army of demons started torturing humans and began to destroy the religion. Being frightened, people went to the shelter of Maharishi Aurav. Maharishi Aurav assured people and cursed demons saying “ if you all will torture humans or destroy the religion then you will loose your lives.” When god came to know about this they attacked Daruka and his demons’ army. This frightened demons. Seeing this Daruka told demons that with the special boon granted by Goddess Parvati to her , she can carry that forest to anywhere according to her wish. Hearing this demons requested Daruka to anyhow protect their lives. Therefore, Daruka carried that forest and placed it in the middle of the sea. After that, these demons started living peacefully in the middle of the sea. There they started captivating and torturing saints, gods and humans whomsoever they encountered. Amongst all the prisoners, there was a prisoner named Supriy who was a Lord Shiva’s devotee. He worshipped Lord Shiva with full dedication in the prison itself and also encouraged other prisoners to worship Lord Shiva too. Consequently, all the prisoners started chanting “ Namah Shivay”. Pleased with the prayers of devotees Lord Shiva appeared in front of devotees in the prison.
Meanwhile, Daruk came to know about the presence of Lord Shiva by one of his attendant and he angrily rushed to the prison. When Daruk asked Supriya about the divine presence, Supriy denied which made Daruk angry and he ordered his soldiers to kill him. As soon as Daruk’s soldier attacked Supriy, Lord Shiva appeared and started slaughtering the demons. Within seconds all the army of Daruk was demolished.
Seeing this, Daruka prayed to Goddess Parvati for the protection. Pleased by her, Goddess Parvati said to Lord Shiva “ At the end of this era, Tamasi Srishti will arise. Daruka is my Shakti, she will reign over demons.” To this Lord Shiva replied that “ I will protect my devotees by residing here. In the beginning of Sat Yuga, a king named Veersen will be renowned who will become emperor after worshipping and visiting me.
Thus, Shiv-Parvati were established here in a form of Jyotirlinga that was renowned as Nageshwar Jyotirlinga and Goddess Parvati was renowned as Nageshwari. In the beginning of Sat Yuga king of Nishad who was Lord Shiva’s devotee had a son named Veersen who performed rigorous penance for 12 years. Meanwhile, with the boon granted by Goddess Parvati, a demonic named Malechch became virtuous.
It is believed that this Jyotirlinga have a capability of fulfilling the wishes of all the three worlds. Thus, reverents can attain salvation by its darshan and all their wishes are also fulfilled.
Temple timings are : from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM till 8:00 PM.
2.1.9 Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Jyothirling)
Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in Vishwanath Gali of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh The Temple stands on the western bank of the holy river Ganga, and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, or Jyotirlingams, the holiest of Shiva Temples. The main deity is known by the names Shri Vishwanath and Vishweshwara literally meaning Lord of the Universe. Varanasi city was called Kashi in ancient times, and hence the temple is popularly called Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The etymology of the name Vishveshvara is Vishva: Universe, Ishvara: lord, one who has dominion. One must recite Vishwanathashtakam composed by Sri Adi Shankaracharya – a few lines: (There are more verses – one must try to recite)
गङ्गातरङ्गरमणीयजटाकलापं गौरीनिरन्तरविभूषितवामभागम् ।
नारायणप्रियमनङ्गमदापहारं वाराणसीपुरपतिं भज विश्वनाथम् ॥१॥
Ganggaa-Tarangga-Ramanniiya-Jattaa-Kalaapam
Gaurii-Nirantara-Vibhuussita-Vaama-Bhaagam |
Naaraayanna-Priyam-Anangga-Madaa-[A]pahaaram
Vaaraannasii-Pura-Patim Bhaja Vishvanaatham ||1||
Meaning:
1.1: (Salutations to Sri Vishwanatha)
Whose Matted Hair forming a Beautiful Bundle, is Beautifully decorated
with the Streams of River Ganga,
1.2: Whose Left-Half is always adorned by Devi Gauri (the Universal Shakti),
1.3: Who is Dear to Sri Narayana, and Who has destroyed the pride of Ananga (Kamadeva),
1.4: Worship that Vishwanatha, Who is the Lord of the City of Kashi,
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It is one of the shrines of the Vaippu Sthalams sung by Tamil Saivite Nayanar Sambandar (Sung by Sundarar without actually visiting this temple.)
Some of the important and ancient temples affected were : Somnath Temple (Jyotirlinga shrine) Gujarat- The Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple (Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, converted to Shahi Idgah mosque Sri Rama temple(Ram Janmabhoomi, Ayodhya),converted to Babri Masjid Mosque, The Kashi Vishwanath temple(Varanasi) converted to Gyanvapi Mosque, Govind Dev Temple (Mathura), Madan Mohan Temple near the Kali Ghat in Vrindavan, Chausath Yogini Temple Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, Ellora, Trimbakeshwar, Narasinghpur, Pandharpur, The Martand Sun Temple, Kashmir, Modhera Sun Temple, Gujarat, Hampi temples, of Rudra Mahalaya, Siddhpur, Patan district of Gujarat, Meenakshi Temple, Madurai, Vijay Temple in city of Vidisha Madhya Pradesh, Bhojshala is an ancient temple of Mata Saraswati at Dhar district in Madhya Pradesh , Adinath Temple –Location at Pandua, West Bengal , Bhadrakali Temple, Ahmedabad etc
The Temple has been referred to in Hindu scriptures for a very long time as a central part of worship in the Shaiva Philosophy. It has been destroyed by the Moghuls several times and re-constructed a number of times in history. A choice target for Muslim invaders, the prominent edifice was destroyed in 1194, then rebuilt 20 years later, only to be demolished again in the 15th century. Under the reign of the unusually tolerant Akbar in the 16th century, it was rebuilt once again; but Akbar’s grandson, Aurangzeb, destroyed it yet again in 1669, building Gyanvapi Mosque in its place. The present temple was erected a few feet from the mosque in 1780 by Maratha queen Ahilya Bai Holkar.of Indore in 1780 The gold roof seen in the photo below was donated in 1839 by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the Sikh ruler of Punjab
Standing on the western bank of India’s holiest river Ganges, Varanasi is the oldest surviving city of the world and the cultural capital of India. It is in the heart of this city that there stands in its fullest majesty the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in which is enshrined the Jyotirlinga of Shiva, Vishweshwara or Vishwanath which confers liberation from the bondages of maya and the inexorable entanglements of the world. There is a popular belief that Shiva himself blows the mantra of salvation into the ears of people who die naturally in Varanasi.
The Temple has been visited by all great saints- Adi Shankaracharya, Ramkrishna Paramhansa, Swami Vivekanand, Goswami Tulsidas, Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati, Gurunanak and several other spiritual personalities A visit to the temple and a bath in the river Ganges is one of many methods believed to lead one on a path to Moksha (liberation). Thus, Hindus from all over the world try to visit the place at least once in their lifetime.
As per the Shiva Purana, once Brahma and Vishnu had an argument about who was supreme. To test them, Shiva pierced the three worlds as a huge endless pillar of light, the jyotirlinga. To determine who was mightier Vishnu took the form of Varaha and sought out the bottom while Brahma took the form of a swan to fly to the pillar’s top. Brahma out of arrogance lied that he had found out the end, offering a katuki flower as witness. Vishnu modestly confessed to being unable to find the bottom. Shiva then took the form of the wrathful Bhairava, cut off Brahma’s lying fifth head, and cursed Brahma that he would not be worshipped. Vishnu for his honesty would be worshiped as equal to Shiva with his own temples for all eternity
The jyotirlinga is an ancient axis mundi symbol representing the supreme formless (nirguna) reality at the core of creation, out of which the form (saguna) of Shiva appears. The jyothirlinga shrines, thus are places where Shiva appeared as a fiery column of light. There are 64 forms of Shiva, not to be confused with Jyotirlingas. Each of the twelve jyotirlinga sites take the name of the presiding deity – each considered different manifestation of Shiva. At all these sites, the primary image is lingam representing the beginningless and endless Stambha pillar, symbolizing the infinite nature of Shiva
This is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga Temples; List : 1) Somnath(Gujarat) 2) Malikarjuna Swami(Andhra Pradesh) 3) Mahakaleshwar(Madhya Pradesh) 4) Omkareshwar(Madhya Pradesh) 5) Kedarnath (Uttarakhand) 6) Bhimashankar(Maharashtra) 7) Kashi Vishwanath Temple(Uttar Pradesh) 8) Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple(Maharashtra) 9) Nageshvara Jyotirlinga(Gujarat) 10) Baidyanath Temple(Jharkhand) 11) Rameshwar(Tamil Nadu) 12) Grishneshwar(Maharashtra)
2.1.10 Tryambakeshwar Mahadev Temple
Tryambakeshwar Mahadev, is located near Spice K.C.M. Cinema, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. As per Kashi Khand, Chapter 69, the place where Lord Shiva wore the skin of Gajasur after slayingthe latter, was called Rudra Vasam. Once the Lord, in his form as Krithi Vaseshwar, was sitting alongwith Goddess Uma Devi when Nandi offered his prayers and stated that there are 68 places of worship dedicated to Lord Shiva in this holy place. Various idols/Shiv Lings have been brought from several other places and installed in Kashi.
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From Trisandhyam Teerth one Ling by name of Triambak has appeared in the Holy city of Kashi, which iscalled Triambakeshwar. By worshipping this deity, the devotee will get the respect normally given to Lord.(In other words, he will be held in high esteem).
Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga located in Varanasi is a replica of Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga situated on bank of River Godavari near Brahma Giri in Nasik district of Maharashtra which is one of the prime Dwadash Jyotirlingas. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga in Varanasi also known as Triloknath at Purshottam temple in Badadev Mohalla.
As per another legend in Shiv Mahapuran, in ancient times there was a sage named Gautam whose wife was Ahilya. He performed rigorous penance in the south direction of Brahma Giri mountain for around ten thousand years. Once for around hundred years there was no rain in that region. Therefore, it became difficult for the survival of all organisms there. By seeing such a situation, sage Gautam got engrossed in the penance to please Lord Varuna. Being pleased with the prayers, Lord Varuna appeared in front of him and asked him to seek a boon. As a boon sage Gautam asked for water. Lord Varuna granted his boon and asked Gautam to dig a pit of his hand’s size, sage Gautam did as asked. Then Lord Varuna with his divine powers filled the pit with water and told sage Gautam that this teerth will be Akshay Jal Teerth (inexhaustible water pilgrim) and will be known by sage’s name only. Thereafter, that water pilgrim was known as Gautam Teerth and also stated that whosoever will perform activities like donations, havan, penance and worship their forefathers here will be blessed.
Once disciples of sage Gautam went to take water from this water teerth. At the same time wives of other sages too came to take water from there. On the water teerth a dispute arose between sage Gautam’s disciples and other sages’ wives that who would take the water first. Meanwhile, sage Gautam’s wife Ahilya came there and asked other sages’ wives to allow disciples to first take water as they came there before them. Due to this, wives of other sages felt inferior and thought that Ahilya is taking side of sage’s disciple because that water was due to sage Gautam’s penance.
Therefore, being disgruntled with Ahilya, sages’wives provoked their husbands to let down sage Gautam. Thereafter, all the sages started worshipping Lord Ganesha for this purpose. Being pleased when Lord Ganesha appeared in front of them, they asked Lord Ganesha to somehow remove the sage Gautam from this ashram. Hearing this, although Lord Ganesha tried to explain sages that this is unfair, yet they all were firm in their wish. Eventually, Lord Ganesha had to fulfill their wish. So, Lord Ganesha took a form of a weak cow and started grazing grain in the field of sage Gautam. Seeing a cow grazing his field, saint softly tried to move cow out of his field. During this, that cow fell on the ground and died.
All the sages when came to know about this they blamed sage Gautam for Gau Hatya (cow slaughter) and evicted him along with his family from Ashram. Sage Gautam was anguished with this whole event and he left and started living around 2 miles away from the Ashram. But all sages made it difficult for him to live there also. Even they deprived sage Gautam from the right of praying and performing yagnas.
When sage Gautam asked other sages about a remedy for atonement, then sage told him that the only remedy for atonement is that he must circumambulate whole earth thrice and then come back to this place and must fast for a month or must circumambulate Brahm Giri mountain for around one thousand times and then he must bring Ganga to that place with his penance in which he must take a holy bath and then he must establish around ten million parthiv shivlingas and perform rudrabhishek of them, then only he can get rid of his sin of Gau Hatya.
Sage Gautam agreed to this and after circumambulating the Brahm Giri mountain he started worshipping shivlinga after establishing it, his wife accompanied him with all the disciples of the sage. As told by sages, sage Gautam performed all the acitivities and then he started worshipping Lord Shiva.
Pleased with his prayers, Lord Shiva appeared in front of him and asked him to seek a boon. As a boon sage Gautam asked Lord Shiva to free him from the sin of Gau Hatya. Hearing this Lord Shiva told sage that he was falsely blamed for Gau Hatya, instead those sages who blamed him are the real culprits and should be punished for that. But sage Gautam requested Lord Shiva to forgive them as due to them only he was able to have darshan of Lord Shiva. This behaviour of sage pleased Lord Shiva and he again asked sage to seek a boon. In reply sage asked Lord Shiva that he should give him Gangaji so that he can save the world. Lord Shiva agreed and gave him a part of Ganga that was gifted to him by Lord Brahma on his marriage. As a result, Gangaji appeared there in form of a beautiful lady. Seeing her there, sage Gautam praised her and asked her to sanctify him with his holy water.
Hearing this wish of sage Gautam, Lord Shiva commanded Ganga to sanctify the sage. Hearing this Gangaji agreed to sanctify the sage but insisted that after doing so she will return back to heaven.
Lord Shiva then ordered Gangaji to remain there till Kalyug will prevail. Gangaji agreed to this and asked Lord Shiva to reside on earth along with Goddess Parvati. In this way Ganga originated in the south in form of Godavari. All the sages along with sage Gautam worshipped Lord Shiva and Gangaji and Lord Shiva established himself there in form of Trimbak Jyotirlinga.
As a result of the worship of sage Gautam, Gangaji originated from that mountain and from that time the place became famous as Gangadwar. It is believed that reverents who worship and visit here are freed from all kinds of sins.
When all other sages came to Gangaji to sanctify themselves, Gangaji disappeared. Seeing this sage Gautam requested river Ganga to give her darshan to other sages also. Then there was a Akashvani that the sins of that sages will be removed only when they will circumambulate Brahm Giri mountain one hundred times and only after this they will have a darshan of holy river Ganga. All the sages did as told by Gangaji and the lower part of Gangadwar became famous as Kushavart and then river Ganga appeared there also. It is believed that reverents who take a holy dip here are freed from all their sins and attain salvation. In the same way, reverents who worship Trimbak Jyotirlinga are freed from their sins and attain salvation.
Temple timings are : from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM and from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
2.1.11 Shri Kedareshwar Temple
Shri Kedareshwar Temple is located at , Kedar ghat, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh .According to Shiv Mahapuran, Kedarnath is located in Kedar Parvat of Himalayas in the western direction of Mandakini. Kedareshwar Jyotirlinga located at Kedar Ghat of Varanasi is a replica of Kedarnath of Himalayas. It is believed that by worshipping Kedareshwar Jyotirlinga of Varanasi, reverents can obtain same punyafal as that received from darshan of Kedarnath of Himalayas.
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According to KashiKhand, one gentleman performed the upnayanam ceremony of his son named Vashisht at Ujjain. The boy,Vashisht, was very religious and performed all poojas including Linga pooja etc. He used to visit Kedareshwar Temple in Himalayas alongwith his Guru regularly and perform pooja of Lord Kedareshwar.
Once, on the way to Kedareshwar, the Guru died unfortunately and since he had all along done only good deeds, he found a place for himself at Mount Kailas. Vashisht who was 12 at that time, got an enlightenment that those who go for having darshan of Kedareshwar are blessed with all punyas. He then went and settleddown at Kashi.
But on all Chaitra Month Poornima days (March 20-April 21), Vashisht (who remained a Brahmachari) used to visit Kedareshwar Ling at Himalayas and this went on for 61 years. But due to old age, he could not moveout and he started praying to Lord Shiva at Kashi. Lord Shiva blessed him with a wish and Vashisht requested that Lord Shiva should kindly appear at Kashi itself as Kedareshwar.
Lord Shiva was overwhelmed with the sincerity and devotion of Vashisht and granted accordingly. Heappeared as Kedareshwar at Kashi and told Vashisht that performing pooja at Kedareshwar at Kashi willyield seven times greater punya as compared to performing pooja at Kedareshwar at Himalayas (KashiKhand, Chapter 77).
Gauri Kund, Hans teerth and Manasarovar teerth find mention in Kashi Khand in reference to Kedareshwar but now only Gauri Kund remains. Manasarovar and Hans Teerth have dried up.
Kashi is divided into three Khands, Omkar Khand, Vishweshwar Khand and Kedar Khand. It is believedthat a person who dies in Kashi attains Mukti. Going a step further, if the person dies in the area governed by Kedar Khand, he obtains immediate mukti while in other two Khands, there are some sort of hardships tobe faced.
As per legend, in Shiv Mahapuran, once Lord Vishnu took a twin-brother avatar as Nar and Narayan. They both went to Badrika forest area of Himalayas and started performing penance after establishing a parthiv shivalinga there. Being pleased with their prayers, Lord Shiva appeared in front of them and asked them to seek a boon. Then as a boon Nar-Narayan asked Lord Shiva to established himself there so that all his devotees can be blessed with his presence.
Lord Shiva granted their wish and established himself there in form of jyotirlinga in Kedar of Himalayas and was renowned as Kedareshwar. In this way Lord Shiva who destroys all the miseries, sufferings, fears and sins of all creatures, devotees and reverents started residing in Kedar mountain. It is believed that by worshipping and darshan of Kedareshwar all the wishes of reverents are fulfilled.
Temple timings are from 3:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Mangala Aarti is performed at 3:15 AM, Bhog Aarti at 10:00 AM, Sandhya Aarti at 5:30 PM and Shayan Aarti at 10:30 PM. For performing any pooja at the temple, devotees may contact The Agent, Kumaraswamy Mutt, Kedar Ghat,Varanasi. The telephone number of Kumaraswamy Mutt is 0542-2454064. E-mail id isagentskmutt@gmail.com .. Kumaraswamy Mutt is a well managed Trust and offers rooms of various types for stay also.
2.1.12 Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga in Shri Kamakhya Devi Mandir
Shri Kamakhya Devi Mandir ( Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga & Shri Krodhan Bhairav) Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga is located in Kamchcha Devi Temple premises in Varanasi. It is a replica of Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga situated in Maharashtra which is one of the Dwadash Jyotirlingas. According to Kashi Khand in Varanasi Ghrishneshwar Mahadev Temple is located near Batuk Bhairava in Kamchha Devi Temple premises.
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A story has been described in Shiv Mahapuran related to origin and significance of Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga, according to which there was a Brahmin named Bharadwaj who used to reside on Devgiri mountain in south direction along with his wife Sudharma. This Brahman was prosperous, generous, meritorious and was a great devotee of Lord Shiva. His wife Sudeha was also a beautiful, versatile woman and a great devotee of Lord Shiva. When she could not conceive for a long period. So, to obtain the happiness of being a mother she made every possible effort. But all gone in vain. Atlast, Sudeha being anguished went to her husband and insisted that he should do something about this, else she will kill herself.
Brahmin started worshipping Lord Shiva then he offered two flowers in the fire of yagna and asked his wife to choose any one while wishing in his mind that if his wife will choose the flower of his right hand then they will be blessed with a son. But Sudeha chose the wrong flower. Seeing this Brahmin became hopeless and told his wife that nothing can be contradicted by what God has created and asked her to leave the hope of getting a son and serve the Lord. But Sudeha did not leave her wish for a son and requested his husband to marry once again so that they can have a son. Brahmin disagreed with this and tried to explain her that it would be inappropriate to go against god’s wish. Being deprived of motherhood, Sudeha married her husband with her sister Ghushma. Ghushma as per her sister’s orders daily created parthiv shivalingas, worshipped Lord Shiva and immersed these shivalingas in a lake situated nearby. Soon with the blessings of Lord Shiva, Ghushma gave birth to a beautiful and multi talented son. Seeing him, Brahmin was quite happy but seeing this Sudeha was depressed and became jealous of her sister. When her son was grown up, Ghushma married her son and brought his bride home.
Seeing a happy family of her sister, Sudeha’s mind was filled with envy and she became out of her mind and one night she killed Ghushma’s son while he was asleep and drowned his body in the same lake where Ghushma used to immerse shivalingas. After this cruel act of her, Sudeha came back to her house and slept happily. In the next morning, Ghushma and Sudeha woke up as usual and started performing their daily activities. When Ghushma’s daugther in law woke up she saw that her husband’s bed was having blood stains so she got scared and ran to Ghushma and told her about this and started mourning.
But in such a difficult situation also, Ghushma did not gave up her usual devotional worship and when she went to lake to immerse parthiv shivalinga as usual, she found her son standing on the bank of the lake. Ghushma surprisingly looked at her and her son told her that due to her good deeds, her son has received a boon of life. At the same time, Lord Shiva appeared there and told Ghushma that he is pleased with the prayers of her and that her sister only killed her son. Hearing this Ghushma requested Lord Shiva to forgive Sudeha. Pleased with her generosity Lord Shiva told Ghushma to ask for a boon. Then as a boon Ghushma asked Lord Shiva to bless all by residing there. Lord Shiva accordingly established himself there in form of Ghushmeshwar Jyotirlinga and blessed Ghushma that her coming generations will also be blessed with great sons. Afterwards, Sudeha accompanied Ghushma and they both worshipped Lord Shiva. It is believed that reverents who worship here they attain happiness. To return to INDEX, Click HERE. Otherwise Continue
2.2 Main Shiva Temples
2.2.1 Birla Mandir
Birla Mandir is located at Banaras Hindu University Campus, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh at a distance of 12 km from Varanasi Junction, Shri Vishwanath Mandir also known as Vishwanath Temple, New Vishwanath Temple and Birla Temple is one of the most famous temples and biggest tourist attractions in the holy city of Varanasi and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Shri Vishwanath Mandir is one of the tallest tower around 250 feet.
According to history, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya planned to replicate Sri Kashi Vishwanath Mandir in the campus of Banaras Hindu University and the Birla family undertook the construction. Birla Temple is made up of the marble and was completed in 1966. it is a temple complex which consists of 7 temples. The Shiva temple is situated on the ground floor, whereas Durga temple and Lakshmi Narayan temple are located on the first floor. The walls of the temple are adorned with spectacular sculptures of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. Other temples within the temple complex are Nataraja, Mata Parvati, Lord Ganesh, Panchmukhi Mahadev, Lord Hanuman, Saraswati and Nandi.
The temple attracts huge crowd on many special occasions such as Shivratri, Navratries, Krishna Janmashtami, Shravan Mahotasva, Annakut, and Deepawali. The temple Timings are : 4 AM – 12 PM & 1 PM – 9 PM
2.2.2 Atmaveereshwar Mahadev Temple
Atmaveereshwar Mahadev Temple is located at Scindia Ghat,, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh . Katyayani Durga Temple located in the premises of this temple. Swami Vivekananda’s mother prayed here for a child – so gave Atmaveereshwar as a first name to Narendran(Vivekananda).
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Kashi Khand, Chapter 83, states that a person who performs pooja of Veereshwar gets the benefit of doing pooja of three crore Lingas.. It is also considered auspicious to perform abhishek of this Ling with Panch Amritam (five ingredients namely milk, curd, honey, sugar and clarified butter). Though this Ling is mentioned as Veereshwar in Kashi Khand, presently, this ling is called as AtmaVeereshwar or the soul of Veereshwar
Varanasi has the unique distinction of having 9 temples for Goddess Durga’s 9 nine forms : Shailputri Durga, Brahmacharini Durga, Chandraghanta Durga, Kushmanda Durga, Skandmata Durga, Katyayani Durga, Kalratri Durga, Mahagauri Durga, Siddhidatri Durga. Probably only city in India to have such distinction. One must have darshan of these temples apart from the famous ones like Lord Viswanatha, Visalakshi, Annapoorni devi, Kal Bhairav etc.
Sri Katyayani Durga Devi, the sixth manifestation of Goddess Durga is worshipped in the form of Goddess Katyayani She was pleased with the hard penance of Maharishi Kaatyaayana and took birth on earth in the form of his daughter in accordance with his desire. The goddess is known as Katyayani as she was born to Sage Katyayan and was first worshipped by him only.
Her form is supposed to be so simple and divine. She has four hands, upper-left-hand holding a sword, upper-right-hand showing Abhaya Mudra, lower-right-hand showing Vara Mudra, and lower-left-hand holding a lotus flower. The devotees of Goddess Katyayani throng the temple on the 6th day of Navaratri
The sixth day of Shardiya Navratri is dedicated to the worship of sixth form of Goddess Durga that is Goddess Katyayani. It is believed that by worshipping this form of Goddess Durga, devotees are freed from all sorts of grief and fear. She is believed to radiate a supernatural energy. Goddess Katyayani is also known as Vikta Devi which is a well known Shakti Peeth. Fasting and worshiping the mother removes obstacles in the marriage of virgin girls.It is believed that the Gopis kept a Katyayani fast to get Lord Krishna as a husband .
As per legend, Mother Katyayani, hearing the prayers of the gods, fought with Mahishasura.While fighting with Mahisasura, when the mother got tired, she ate a honey laden betel leaf. Eating honey-rich paan relieved the fatigue of mother Katyayani and killed Mahishasura. Those who practice Katyayani and do devotion should offer honey-containing paan to the mother’s happiness .
Mother Katyayani’s time of meditation is the twilight period. It is believed that in this time, worshiping the mother with incense, lamp, guggul removes all kinds of obstacles. Those who offer prasad to the virgin girls by offering five kinds of sweets to the devout mother, the mother removes the hindrance in their income and the person is successful in earning money according to their hard work and ability. Must have darshan of Atmaveereshwar and Katyayani Durga.
2.2.3 Dharmeswar Mahadev Temple
Dharmeswar Mahadev mandir is located near famous Vishalakshi Temple, Meer Ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Here one Dharmeshwar Mahadev Temple and one Dharmakupa mandir exist. It has a well which was built before the Ganges came to earth. It was built by Suryaputra Yama sometime before the Ganga descent .With the blessing of Lord Shiva, Yamraj’s naming ceremony took place here. During the Mahabharata period, Dharmaraja Yudhishthira also came here and did penance of Yamraj during his secret abode.(अज्ञात वास).
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As per legend,before the descent of Ganga, Lord Shankar was very worried about whether the people who died on earth would find a place in heaven or in hell. Who would bring them from the Earth people. Yama came to Kashi and did penance on Lord.. But Shiva did not give darshan to him.. Then Vishnu asked Yama to build a tank here and worship sixteen quartets after bathing in it. Mahadev was pleased with the tenacity of Yama and gave a boon that from today onwards everyone will call him as Yamraj.
It is believed that Shiva entrusted the responsibility of keeping the accounts of those who got salvation. Since then they decide who should go heaven and who to hell.
The Dharma Purana describes this entire incident. Because of the naming of Yamraj here, this temple got its name Dharmeshwar Mahadev Temple. Here it is believed that Yamraj himself sits with Lord Shiva. It is said that if the image does not appear in the water when one peeps in this well, then the death of that person is certain within 6 months. Also, the sacrifice and shraadh done by the water of this well is equal to ‘Gaya benefit’.
2.2.4 Lord Gabhastheeswarar in Mangla Gauri Temple
Mangla Gauri Temple (Lord Gabhastheeswarar & Mayukhaditya Temple also located here); Gabhastheeshwar is located in Mangala Gauri Temple, Panchganga ghat. Once Lord Surya installed a Shiv Ling and a devi idol at Panchanada Teerth (Panchganga Ghat) and started immensely propitiating Lord Shiva. (Importance of Panchganga Ghat is described elsewhere).
The intensity of Lord Surya’s prayers started reflecting in the extreme heat generated thereby. Sunrays started getting warmer and warmer. Finally it became extremely unbearable for all living beings and all physical activities practically came to a standstill.
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Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvaty came to know about this and they
appeared in person in front of Lord Surya. Lord Surya opened his eyes
and started singing praises of Goddess Parvaty and Lord Shiva whereupon
both of them became extremely happy. They granted several divine wishes
to Lord Surya.
Lord Shiva told Lord Surya that the Shiv Ling
installed by Lord Surya will be known as Gabhasteeshwar. A person who
takes bath at Pancha Nada Teerth (Panchganga) and worships
Gabhastheeswar will be free from all sins and will certainly attain
Moksha. (Kashi Khand, Chapter 49)
The temple is open from 5am to 1 pm & 3pm to 10pm. Chief priest : Manoj kumar Pandey Mob : 9305645502 ;Shri Umesh Kumar Sharma Mob: 9450284728
2.2.5 Kriti Visheshwar Mahadev Temple (Krithi Vaseshwar)
Kriti Visheshwar Mahadev Temple (Krithi Vaseshwar) is located at Daranagar, Kotwali, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. All sins committed in previous births and present births are washed away by performing various poojas andgood/righteous actions. But a mere darshan of Krithi Vaseshwar would cleanse the devotee of all his sins. Whatever benefit is derived by reciting seven crore Rudra Jap, will be attained simply by one Rudra Jap(japam) in front of Krithi Vaseshwar. (Kashi Khand, Chapter sixty eight).
According to Brahma Vaivart Puran, Krithi Vaseshwar makes the life of Kashi Vasis (residents of Kashi whohave adopted divine life) fruitful and gives Moksha to devotees who pray at this temple. According to Koormapuran, whether a devotee attains Moksha even after thousand births or not, with blessings of Krithi Vaseshwar, the devotee certainly attains moksha and is liberated.
Elsewhere in Kashi Khand, Goddess Parvaty desired to know about the Lingas which are worshipped in Kashi and which are capable of giving mukti. Lord Shiva told Goddess Parvaty that there are crores ofLingas in Kashi (Kashi Khand, Chapter 73) of which many are Swayambhu Lingas and many have been established by devotees after observing vedic rituals. Of the above Lings, there are fourteen prominent Lingas and by merely uttering the names of such Lings, thedevotee is absolved of all his sins. Fourth among such Lings is Krithi Vaseshwar Ling.
Many Mughal rulers destroyed some of the important temples of Kashi: . Vishweshwar Temple, Krithi Vaseshwar Temple and Bindu Madhav Temple (Vishnu). Krithi Vaseshwar temple was situated to the north of Kal Bhairav temple and was destroyed by Aurangzeb. Near the temple was Hans Teerth. People were known to take bath in Hans (Swan)Teerth and pray at Krithi Vaseshwar temple.
After destruction of the temple, the reconstruction was undertaken by Raja Patnimal after a long gap and thepresent temple was constructed at a place to the South of the ancient temple and worship is being done atthis newly constructed temple now.
Original Krithi Vaseshwar was in a huge temple premises. A mosque was constructed after destruction of the temple and there was a fountain, precisely at the place where Krithi Vaseshwar Ling existed once. Till about 3 years back, devotees used to pray at the fountain on Shiv Ratri days, at the spot where the Ling stood once. A few years back, one huge Ling had been installed again on that spot. It is learnt that the devotees are offering simple prayers at the above spot also.
HansTeerth as mentioned in ancient texts is now known as Har Tirath and many buildings have now come upwhere once the pond existed.
British attacked Kriti Visheshwar Mahadev Temple with dagger 4 times. (Shivling shows the marks of dagger attack) .It is said that due to attack by foreign invaders, Mahadev left Kashi and got absorbed in Narmada river in Madhya Pradesh. King Patnimal rebuilt this temple in 1656. After that 21 bramhins went to Madhya Pradesh and sent seafarers and divers to Narmada river to look for the lingam – but could not find. Kriti Vasheshwar Mahadev .himself came out and was brought to Kashi.Adjacent to the temple is the mosque built by Aurangazeb which houses ancient Shivling.
Shri Dinesh Chandra Gaur, Poojari of the temple Mob: 9369004142
2.2.6 Sri Tilbhandeshwar Mahadeva Temple
Tilbhandeshwar Mahadeva Templeis located in Pandey Haveli, Bhelupur, adjacent to Bengali Tola, Varanasi.
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It is one of the, ancient oldest and most famous temples in the holy city of Varanasi. This temple has great religious importance in Hinduism and is dedicated to the Lord Shiva. Tilbhandeshwar Mandir was built in 18th century As per the Hindu mythology, The Shiv Linga inside the temple premise is a Swayambu – emerged by itself 2,500 years ago and increases every year by the size of a “til. i.e. Sesame Seed) Presently the Shiv Ling is 3.5 feet in height and the diameter of the base is approximately 3 feet. It is also believed that Mata Sharda had spent some days in this temple.
2.2.7 Baba Trilingeshwar Mahadev Temple
Baba Trilingeshwar Mahadev Temple is located at Trailinga Mutt, God Walia, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh .Trilanga Swami (also Tailang Swami, Telang Swami) whose monastic name was Swami Ganapati Saraswati, was a yogi and mystic famed for his spiritual powers who lived in Varanasi, He is a legendary figure in Bengal, with stories told of his yogic powers and longevity. Trailanga Swami lived for 280 years.
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He was born in Holia at Vizianagaram.He lived his whole life after 40 as a recluse in a cottage after the death of his parents. He did a hard spiritual practice for twenty years and he then got sannyasa by the initiation of his Guru Bhagirathananda in 1679. After getting sannyasa he went on a pilgrimage and reached at Prayag in 1733 and finally he got settled in the Varanasi in 1737.
He was a contemporary of Lahiri Mahasaya and Sri Ramakrishna, great saints in their own right. Trailanga Swami was a fervent devotee of Lord Shiva and spent many years living in Varanasi, which is where he rose to prominence.. He is regarded by devotees as an incarnation of Shiva. Sri Ramakrishna referred to him as “The walking Shiva of Varanasi. He was an avadhūta incarnates on Earth.
Some of his well-known miracles are as follows: eating deadly limestone when offered to him in a dare, which caused immediate agony for the person who gave it to him (instant karmic transfer). Sitting/floating for hours on the surface of the Ganges river (without sinking) or remaining submerged under the water for hours. Sitting motionless surrounded by five small fires under the punishing Indian sun. Being locked up by the police for his persistent nakedness only to appear on the roof of the jail. This feat looked all the more dramatic since Trailanga Swami had a very large body, 300 pounds by some estimates, even though he ate very little.
Telang Swami had described the attachment of human to the world, the liberation and the assimilation in God. According to the Telang Swami, if someone attained the desirelessness state this world is then altered into the heaven. And he can be liberated from the cycle of birth and death. Just like, this world is a chronic disease and the medicine is the way to detachment from disease.
He described to his devotees that all the desire senses of the human body is his enemy and the control senses is his friend. He had given the real description of a poor person that the one who is very greedy is very poor. He described the Sadhu as one who has no attachment and desire.
In the temple, there is a massive Shiva Lingam stone that Trailanga Swami purportedly lifted right out of the Ganges with his own hands. Inside the small temple is a life-size mūrti or statue of the great saint, which makes a strong impression with its large white eyes. The walls of the temple were filled with pictures of Trailanga Swami, Sarada Devi, Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda. In another part of the temple is the murti of Mother Kali. This was the same Kali Maa that Trailinga Swami worshiped.
Just below the Shiv ling i is Trailinga Swami’s Maha Samadhi room -. a room where He often practiced meditation. The room is underground of the temple..There is a small temple of Sakshi Gopal. The Trilingeshwar Mahadev temple is calm, serene and Divine.
2.2.8 Srinivasheshwar Mahadev Temple
Srinivasheshwar Mahadev Templeis located at Bhoot Bhairav Mohalla, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
It is in walking distance from Bhoot Bhairav Mandir. It is an ancient Shiva temple which one can have darshan when visiting Bhoot Bhairav Mandir. It is a very small temple. Darshan is possible through grilled gate throughout the day
2.2.9 Vyagreshwar Mahadev Temple
Vyagreshwar Mahadev Temple is located at Bhoot Bhairav Mohalla, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. It is in walking distance from Bhoot Bhairav Mandir. Once various learned Brahmins were offering intense prayers to appease as well as to invigorate various Gods. Precisely at that time, Prahlad’s maternal Uncle, known as Dundubhi Nihrad, who always wanted to conquer Devas, developed some evil designs. He thought he would destroy all the Brahmins who were performing pooja etc. at religious places, thus the devas would lose their powers and could ultimately be conquered easily. Thus he started killing the Brahmins one by one.
Once a learned Brahmin devotee of Lord Shiva was performing pooja of a Shiv Ling near Jyeshteshwar on the day of Shivratri. The devotee was so immersed inhis prayers that he did not know what was happening in the nearby places. Dundubhi soon approached thesite, assumed the form of a tiger and was about to attack the brahmin, that Lord Shiva came out of the Lingand faced Dundhubi. In the fight that ensued. Lord Shiva took hold of the tiger and crushed him to death. Before dying, the tiger let out a deafening roar which was heard by the entire world (Kashi Khand, Chapter65).
All the devotees nearby rushed to the site and they were glad to behold the death of the tiger. The devotees prayed to Lord Shiva and requested him to be always present in the Ling, which came to be known as Vyaghreshwar. Lord Shiva granted accordingly and stated that a devotee who worships Vyaghreshwar will find all his obstacles in life removed and he will be successful in all his ventures. If a warrior devotee, after worshipping the Vyaghreshwar Ling, proceeds to battle ground, he will emerge victorious. Saying this, Lord Shiva disappeared into the Ling. Darshan is possible through grilled gate throughout the day.
2.2.10 Shukreswar Mahadev Mandir
Shukreswar Mahadev Mandir is located in a lane parallel to the lane occupied by Annapurna temple and Visweshwar temple at Kalika Galli, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh .
As per legend, Long time ago, Shukra came to Kashi, intalled a Shiv Ling, dug a Well and started worshipping Lord Shivaby offering various prayers. He offered various types of flowers, leaves etc. in the course of his pooja. Shukra thus prayed Lord Shiva for several years. Despite his devotion, Lord Shiva did not appear before him.
Shukra then started surviving by consuming the fumes of burnt rice husk and he continued his sincereprayers for a long long time. Finally Lord Shiva appeared before him and blessed him with divine wish.Shukra started singing various kinds of praises of Lord Shiva and again started performing various Poojas. Lord Shiva was overwhelmed by Shukra’s sincerity and stated that the latter will be regarded as his (Lord Shiva’s) own son.
Lord Shiva also told him the secret of Mrita Sanjivini (elixir or potion capable of giving life to the dead). Lord Shiva also granted that Shukra will shine in the Galaxy among all planets and those marriages which are cosummated with Shukra in a favourable position will be blissful and happy marriages. (Even today,when marriages are fixed, the astrologers ensure that Shukra’s planetary position is not adverse).
Those who worship the Ling installed by Shukra (Lord Shiva named this Ling as Shukreshwar) will beblessed with all happiness and attainment in life. A devotee who performs pooja etc. of Shukreshwar Lingfor one year with complete devotion will be blessed with good children and will attain all happiness. Afternarrating all these, Lord Shiva disappeared into the Shukreshwar Ling. (Kashi Khand, Chapter 16).
Even today, when a person is having a very good time, people regard him as having a Shukra Dasa (timeallotted to Shukra in a person’s life). Similarly, for marriage purpose Shukra is given much importance. There is a well called Shukra Koop nearby which is supposed to have divine properties. The temple is open for darshan through a window throughout the day.
2.2.11 Nepali Temple (Pasupathinath Temple)
Nepali Temple is located near Lalita Ghat, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.Shri Samrajeswar Pashupatinath Mahadev Mandir, also known as the Nepali Mandir , Kanthwala Mandir and Mini Khajuraho (Kanthwala in Hindi means wooden), is one of the oldest and most famous temples in the holy city of Varanasi. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Constructed in the 19th century A.D by the King of Nepal, the temple is made of terracotta, stone and wood and is replica of the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu. The king built this temple and followed an ascetic life in Varanasi taking the title of ‘Swami Nirgunanda.’ Surrounding the temple are many trees like tamarind and peepal. Adorned by pagoda style architecture, the temple offers a glimpse of exquisitely carved out of wooden sculptures.
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The temple has Pagoda style architecture, mainly carved out of wood. It has sculptures similar to ones displayed in Khajuraho Group of Monuments and hence it is also called “Mini Khajuraho.This temple is completely built in the Nepali architectural style and this temple was not only built by artisans of Nepal but its construction materials were also brought from Nepal. Mostly wood is used so it’s also known as Kath ka Mandir. Lofty balconies are having carved wooden brackets and door jambs carved with mythological stories. Black stone Nandi can be seen outside the sanctum. This is a fascinating architectural monument.
2.2.12 Brihaspteswar mahadev Temple
Brihaspteswar mahadev temple is located at Scindia Ghat, Varanasi, opp. Atma Veereshwar temple. As per the legend, Brihaspati or Guru was the son of Angira. He was having all the good qualities of a gentleman, leader, goodSamaritan, respectful to the elders and teachers etc. He came to Kashi, installed a Shiv Ling and performed prayers to Lord Shiva for several years at a stretch. Lord Shiva appeared before him through that Ling in the form of Jyoti (Divine Light).
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On seeing Lord Shiva, Brihaspati became ecstatic and started singing praises of Lord Shiva whereupon theLord granted that Brihaspati will be the Lord of all Devas. Since Brihaspati had sung prayers of Lord Shiva,the latter also granted that Brihaspati will be called Vachaspati (having excellence in speech). The Linginstalled by Brihaspati will be called Brihaspateeshwar.
Lord Shiva further stated, a devotee who performs pooja etc. of Brihaspateeshwar on a regular basis will getall his wishes fulfilled. Lord Shiva then summoned Lord Brahma, Lord Indra and other Devas. With allthose celestials around, Lord Shiva ordained that Vachaspati (Brihaspati) will be the Guru (Teacher) of allDevas. Vachaspati will become the lord of all intelligent persons.
A devotee who performs prayers at Brihaspateeshwar on Thursday when Pushyami Star conjoins, will besuccessful in all his endeavours. (Pushyami star is called Poosam in Tamil and Pooyam in Malayalam). A person who prays to Brihaspateeshwar for six consecutive months is cleansed of all his sins. (Kashi Khand,Chapter 17).
The temple is open from 06.00 a.m to 9.00 p.m. Aarties are performed at 6.00 a.m., 2 p.m. and 10 p.m.Besides the above aarties, special aarties are held on Thursdays and Fridays at 11.00 p.m. also. Shri Kali Charan Mishra is the Poojari of the temple
2.2.13 TRILOCHAN MAHADEV TEMPLE
TRILOCHAN MAHADEV TEMPLE is located at Trilochan ghat Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh . The temple also houses Arun Aditya & Varanasi Devi.If all the Shiv Lings in the world are visualised as a human being (personified), Trilochan Ling is the Eye ofthe Personified structure. Local pundits believe that Trilochan Ling is the third eye of Vishweshwar Ling.
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Trilochan Ling finds mention in Kashi Khand as Trivishtabh Ling. In the south of Trilochan, three holyrivers Yamuna, Saraswati and Narmada joined together once. It is believed that these three rivers themselves performed abhishek of Trilochan Ling (Kashi Khand, Chapter 75).
While Omkareshwar Ling attained prime importance among all Lings in Kashi, the importance of darshan ofTrilochan Ling is given more prominence. Trilochan is a Swayambhu (Self manifested) Ling and it is stated in Kashi Khandthat the Ling came to the earth from seven Patal Lokas, piercing each and every layer.
It is said that even uttering the word of Trilochan by mouth will cleanse the devotee of his sins. A person knowingly or unknowingly committing sins in any place, finds mukti in Kashi and a person committing a similar sin in Kashi finds mukti by eulogizing (praising) Trilochan Ling. (Kashi Khand, ibid).
The three rivers Yamuna, Saraswati and Narmada join together in a Teerth called Pilpila Teerth. It is believed that taking abath in Pilpila Teerth and having darshan of Trilochan is considered very auspicious.In Kashi Khand, besides Pilpila Teerth, there is mention of Padodak Koop (well). This Koop is still existingin the temple premises. Pilpila Teerth is existing in the form of Pilpila Koop very near to Trilochan temple.While the Padodak well has been kept covered, there is a pump attached to the well, with the help of whichwater is drawn.
Performing pooja/archana of Trilochan on all Ashtami and Chaturdashi days are auspicious. In VaishakaMonth (April 20-May 20) Shukla Paksha Tritheeya (third day after Amavasya), also known as AkshayTritheeya is a very very auspicious day and people who observe vrath (fast) on that day and perform Shraadh Karma (rituals towards their forefathers) attain high level of enlightenment and obtain blessings of theirancestors and Gods.
TRILOCHAN MAHADEV TEMPLE is an important Shiva temple in Varanasi. Arun Aditya Is also.here.Varanasi has been home to numerous Surya-related temples. Predominantly lord Surya is worshipped in following twelve forms in Varanasi Arun Aditya, Drupad Aditya, Ganga Aditya, Keshava Aditya, Kakholkh Aditya, Lolark Aditya, Mayukh Aditya, Sambha Aditya Uttarark Aditya, Vimal Aditya, Vriddh Aditya & Yama Aditya. Probably only city in India where one can find such 12 Aditya Temples.
Arun(son of Sage Kashyap and Vinta.) established an idol of Lord Surya in Varanasi and started performing penance. As a result, Suryadev manifested, blessed him with a number of boons and established himself there in form of Arun Aditya. Must have darshan of all Aditya temples in Varanasi
The temple is open for worship 05.30 a.m. to 12.00 noon and 05.00 p.m. to 11 p.m. Mangala Aarti isperformed at 05.30 a.m. and Shayan Aarti at 11.00 p.m. Pandit Girija Shankar Pandey is the Poojari of the temple and his Mob number(0)9236511267
2.2.14 Nageswar Temple (opposite to Badri Narayan Mandir)
Nageswar Temple, is located opposite to Badri Narayan Mandir at Badri Narayan ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh . It is believed that Nageshwar Mahadev Temple is located at in the premises of Maha Mrityunjaya temple Varanasi.Nageshwar Jyotirlinga in Varanasi is a replica of Nageshwar Jyotirlinga located in Dwarka of Gujarat.
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As per legend in Shiv Mahapuran, in ancient times there was a demonic named Daruka, who became egoistical after getting a boon from Goddess Parvati. Her husband’s name was Daruk. Once, Daruk with his army of demons started torturing humans and began to destroy the religion. Being frightened, people went to the shelter of Maharishi Aurav. Maharishi Aurav assured people and cursed demons saying “ if you all will torture humans or destroy the religion then you will loose your lives.” When god came to know about this they attacked Daruka and his demons’ army. This frightened demons. Seeing this Daruka told demons that with the special boon granted by Goddess Parvati to her , she can carry that forest to anywhere according to her wish. Hearing this demons requested Daruka to anyhow protect their lives. Therefore, Daruka carried that forest and placed it in the middle of the sea. After that, these demons started living peacefully in the middle of the sea. There they started captivating and torturing saints, gods and humans whomsoever they encountered. Amongst all the prisoners, there was a prisoner named Supriy who was a Lord Shiva’s devotee. He worshipped Lord Shiva with full dedication in the prison itself and also encouraged other prisoners to worship Lord Shiva too. Consequently, all the prisoners started chanting “ Namah Shivay”. Pleased with the prayers of devotees Lord Shiva appeared in front of devotees in the prison.
Meanwhile, Daruk came to know about the presence of Lord Shiva by one of his attendant and he angrily rushed to the prison. When Daruk asked Supriya about the divine presence, Supriy denied which made Daruk angry and he ordered his soldiers to kill him. As soon as Daruk’s soldier attacked Supriy, Lord Shiva appeared and started slaughtering the demons. Within seconds all the army of Daruk was demolished.
Seeing this, Daruka prayed to Goddess Parvati for the protection. Pleased by her, Goddess Parvati said to Lord Shiva “ At the end of this era, Tamasi Srishti will arise. Daruka is my Shakti, she will reign over demons.” To this Lord Shiva replied that “ I will protect my devotees by residing here. In the beginning of Sat Yuga, a king named Veersen will be renowned who will become emperor after worshipping and visiting me.
Thus, Shiv-Parvati were established here in a form of Jyotirlinga that was renowned as Nageshwar Jyotirlinga and Goddess Parvati was renowned as Nageshwari. In the beginning of Sat Yuga king of Nishad who was Lord Shiva’s devotee had a son named Veersen who performed rigorous penance for 12 years. Meanwhile, with the boon granted by Goddess Parvati, a demonic named Malechch became virtuous.
It is believed that this Jyotirlinga have a capability of fulfilling the wishes of all the three worlds. Thus, reverents can attain salvation by its darshan and all their wishes are also fulfilled
2.2.15 Kameshwar Mahadev Temple
Kameshwar Mahadev + Kakhol Aditya Temple is located , Opp. Birla Hospital, Machodari, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh . Kameshwar Mahadev Temple is one of the important Shiva temples to be visited in Varanasi.also Khakola Aditya idol is inside this temple.
There are two lings in the temple. The bigger Ling is referred to as Durvaseshwar Ling and the smaller Ling is referred to as Kameshwar Ling or Man Kameshwar Ling. While Durvaseshwar Ling is symbolic of Bhakti, Kameshwar Ling symbolizes Shakti.
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As per legend, Lord Skanda (Kartikeya) was describing the Kashi Mahatmya to Agastya Rishi in Kashi Khand. According to Lord, Durvasa Rishi (who is well known for his temper) travelled worldwide and reached Kashi. He dug akund (pond) for taking bath and installed a Shiv Ling nearby where he performed pooja and archana of Lord Shiva.
For some reasons he got angry and was about to curse Kashi and its denizens. At this point, Lord Shivaappeared in person before him and Durvasa lost his anger. Lord Shiva granted a divine wish to Durvasa. Durvasa requested that the Kund dug by him should be known as Kamkund and the Ling installed by himshould be called as Kameshwar Ling. Lord Shiva granted boon accordingly.
Lord Shiva said, when Saturday, Trayodashi (13th day after Amavasya or Poornima) and Pradosha daycoincide, persons taking bath in Kamkund and performing pooja of Kameshwar are cleansed of all their sins,their wishes will be fulfilled and they will reach heaven after death. (Kashi Khand, Chapter 85) .
Kamkund is now fully dried up and apparently buildings have been constructed over the spot. Instead of the bath envisaged in Kamkund, people take bath in river Ganges now. In Kashi Khand there is mention of bothDurvaseshwar Ling and Kameshwar Ling with reference to the above incident of Sage Durvasa.
Varanasi has been home to numerous Surya-related temples. Predominantly lord Surya is worshipped in following twelve forms in Varanasi Arun Aditya, Drupad Aditya, Ganga Aditya, Keshava Aditya, Kakholkh Aditya, Lolark Aditya, Mayukh Aditya, Sambha Aditya Uttarark Aditya, Vimal Aditya, Vriddh Aditya & Yama Aditya. Probably only city in India where one can find such 12 Aditya Temples
When Vinta(Dakshprajapati daughter) got freedom from slavery (she got by losing her bet with her sister Kadru) she moved to Kashi for atonement of the sins that made her slave. She made an idol of Khakholak Aditya and was engrossed in a rigorous penance. Suryadev being pleased by her penance established himself there as a boon to her and became popular as Khakholak Aditya. As per beliefs, Khakholak Aditya removes the hurdles from the lives of his devotees. Those who worship Khakholak Aditya get rid of all kinds of sins.
The temple timings are from 05.00 a.m. to 12.00 Noon and 05.00 p.m. to 10.30 p.m. Mangala Aartiis held at 5.30 a.m. and Shayan Aarti at 09.30 p.m. It is believed that if a person is afflicted with frequent bouts of anger on account of Mangal (Kuja) affliction, pooja etc. performed at this temple will rectify the problem.Shri Rajesh Giri is the Poojari of the temple and his Mobilke number (0) 9839703054
2.2.16 Til Parneshwar
Shri Durga Temple (Kushmanda Devi DurgaTemple) (Chand Bhairav Termple & Til Parneshwar temple at the entrance) : Til Parneshwar is located just near the main entrance of Durga Devi Temple at Durga Kund, towards theright side, near a shop selling bangles
As per legend, after the few batches of Shiv Gans failed to return, Lord Shiva sent few more batches of Shiv Gans from Mandarachal to Kashi.
These Shiv Gans also decided to settle down in Kashi and they installed Shiv Lings which came to be known after their names. One Shiv Gan named Til Parn installed a Shiv Ling and started worshipping Lord Shiva. This Ling came to be known as Til Parneshwar. Kashi Khand, Chapter 53 states that a devotee who worships Til Parneshwar is absolved of all his sins.
2.2.17 Assi Sangameshwar Temple
Assi Sangameshwar Temple is located at Assi ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh .Situated at the confluence of Ganga and Asi rivers, Assi Ghat is the southernmost Ghat in Varanasi, where pilgrims bathe before paying their homage to Lord Shiva in the form of huge lingam situated under a peepal tree. Assi Ghat also constitutes the southern end of conventional city. Another lingam worshipped here is the Asisangameshwar lingam representing the lord of confluence of the Asi, enshrined in a small marble temple near the Assi Ghat. It was at the Assi Ghat where the famous Indian poet saint, Tulsi Das had written the much-celebrated Ramcharitmanas.
There are numerous references of Assi Ghat in early literature of the Hindus. We find the mention of Assi Ghat in matsya purana, Agni purana, kurma purana, padma purana and kashi khanda.
As per legend, Goddess Durga had thrown her sword after slaying the demon, Shumbha- Nishumbha. The place, where the sword had fallen resulted in a big stream, known as Assi River. Assi Ghat is located at the confluence of River Ganga and Assi River.
In Kashi Khand, Assi Ghat is referred as Assi “Saimbeda Tirtha” and according to it one gets punya of all the Tirthas (religious places) by taking a dip here. Thousands of Hindu pilgrims take holy dip here in the months of Chaitya (March/ April) and Magh (Jan/Feb) and other important occasions like solar/ lunar eclipse, Ganga Dussehra, Probodhoni Ekadashi, Makar Shankranti etc. To return to INDEX, Click HERE. Otherwise Continue
References : 1) http://pawanpath.up.gov.in/ 2) https://varanasitemples.in/
Interested in travelling and having Darshan of several Temples in India and abroad. Retired as President from Navayuga Spatial Technologies Ltd & previously as General Manager (AS&DM) , NRSC, Department of Space View all posts by kalyangeetha
Top 100 Varanasi Temples – Part 3 of 5 – Durga, Gauri and Devi Temples
Index of Contents
- 1.0 Introduction
- 2.0 Shree Annapoorna Mandir
- 3.0 Nav Durga Temples
- 4.0 Varanasi Nav Gauri Temples
- 5.0 Other Devi Temples
NOTE Since the Blog is lengthy, If you Click on any Title, you will be taken to the concerned paragragh by the link provided. Also you can return to the Index of Contents for which links have been provided at several places in the Blog.
1.0 Introduction
The Blog series on 104 Top Varanasi Temples, is divided into 5 parts : In Part 1 of the blog, Varanasi temples List, Executed Plan for Darshan, Details of 8 Ashta Vinayak Temples & 3 Hanuman Temples are given. In Part 2 Details of 12 Jyothirlinga Temples and 17 Main Shiva Temples are given . In Part 3, 26 Durga, Gauri and Devi Temples are given. In Part 4 of blog, Details of 12 Dwadash Aditya temples & 12 Vishnu temples are given. In Part 5 of the Blog, details of 9 Bhairav Temples and 8 Varanasi Ghats are given.
Google Map Locations of Varanasi Temples could be seen in the embedded Interactive Google Map below:
2.0 Shree Annapurna Mandir
Shree Annapurna Mandir, Annapurna Math Mandir, D 9, 1, Vishwanath Gali, Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 (Bhavani Gauri Temple); Shree Annapurna Devi Mandir is situated in Visheshwarganj, Varanasi. It is situated 15 meters North-West of the famous Kashi Vishwanath Mandir,
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At the mention of Kashi, one remembers Shri Vishwanath, Sri Vishalakshi , Sri Annapurni & Shri Kala Bhairav. The famous Annapoorna Stotram composed by Sri Adi Shankaracharya – a few lines :
नित्यानन्दकरी वराभयकरी सौन्दर्यरत्नाकरी
निर्धूताखिलघोरपावनकरी प्रत्यक्षमाहेश्वरी ।
प्रालेयाचलवंशपावनकरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥१॥
Nitya-[A]ananda-Karii Vara-Abhaya-Karii Saundarya-Ratna-[A]akarii
Nirdhuuta-Akhila-Ghora-Paavana-Karii Pratyakssa-Maaheshvarii |
Praaleya-Acala-Vamsha-Paavana-Karii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||1||
Meaning:
1.1 Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Who always give Joy to Her
Devotees, along with Boons and assurance of Fearlessness (under Her
Motherly care); Who is a repository of great Beauty and makes their
minds beautiful by the touch of the Gem of Her (inner) Beauty,
1.2: Who Purifies
all the Poisons and Sufferings of their minds (by the touch of Her
Compassion and Bliss), and Who is the Great
Goddess manifested visibly in Kashi,
1.3: Who Sanctified the Lineage of
the King of the Mountain of Himalayas (by taking birth as Devi
Parvati); Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
1.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
अन्नपूर्णे सदापूर्णे शङ्करप्राणवल्लभे ।
ज्ञानवैराग्यसिद्ध्यर्थं भिक्षां देहि च पार्वति ॥११॥
Annapuurnne Sadaa-Puurnne Shangkara-Praanna-Vallabhe |
Jnyaana-Vairaagya-Siddhy[i]-Artham Bhikssaam Dehi Ca Paarvati ||11||
Meaning:
11.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) O Mother Annapoorna, You Who
are always Full (with the gift of Food and Blessings), You Who are
the Beloved of Shankara, …
11.2: … O Mother Parvati, Please grant me
the Alms of Your Grace, to awaken within me Spiritual
Knowledge and Freedom from all Worldly Desires.
One must recite all the 12 versus everyday in prayer.
Annapurna Devi Mandir also known as Annapurna Mata Mandir and Annapurna Mandir, is one of the most famous temples in the holy city of Varanasi. Annapurna is the goddess for nourishment and is a form of the goddess Parvati. The current Annapurna Mandir was constructed in the 18th century by Maratha Peshwa Bajirao
Some other idols are installed in the courtyard of the Annapurna temple, which can be seen year round. These idols include the idols installed in the temple of Maa Kali, Shankar Parvati and Narasimha Bhagwan. It is said that in the Annapurna temple itself, Adi Shankaracharya wished to attain enlightenment by creating the Annapurna Stothra. One such verse is ” Annapurne Sadapurne Shankara prana Ballabhe, Gyana Vairagya Siddhartha Bhiksham Dehi Cha Parvati” . In this, Lord Shiva is pleading with mother for alms.
The temple is constructed in Nagara architecture and has sanctum with large pillared porch, which houses a picture of goddess Annapurna. The temple also houses two icons of the goddess; one made of gold and other of brass. The brass icon is available for daily darshan (viewing & worship). The gold icon can be only seen once a year; on Annakut day
Had the good fortune to have darshan of Shree Annapurna Devi on Diwali day and had darshan of golden Annapurna devi.
She is considered the mother of food in all three worlds. It is said that Mother herself fed food to Lord Shiva. Such paintings are made on the walls of this temple. Goddess Kalchhi is caught in a picture. In this temple, only once a year on the Annakoot festival, the golden statue of Maa Annapurna is publicly taken out for a day. Only then can devotees see their amazing hue.
As per legend associated with this temple it is said that once there was a famine in Kashi, there was devastation all around and people were dying of hunger. At that time, even Mahadev could not understand what to do now. In such a situation, he meditated to find a solution, then he found a way that only mother Annapurna can save the city. For the accomplishment of this work, Lord Shiva himself went to mother Annapurna and asked for alms. At the same moment, the mother promised Bholenath that after today no one will be hungry in Kashi and the people’s sufferings will go away as soon as they find their treasure. Since then, on the day of Annakoot, treasures are also distributed during his visits. It is famous about which the recipient of this treasure never lacks.
Annapurna Devi referred to as Bhavani Devi by people., Kashi khand States that devotees should circulate bhavani [Annapurna] 108 times in Chaitra month, shukla paksha Ashtami. By doing this the devotees would derive the benefit of Circumambulating all the mountains, seas ,divine ashrams, all Is lands and the entire world. Devotees should Circumambulate this deity eight times daily and Worship Annapurna. If devotees face any sort of hardship in kashi, they should worship Maa Annapurna and they will be blessed with all prosperity and Their obstacles will be removed. Kashi Khand has described the greatness of Bhavani {Annapurna}
To bless her devotees Goddess Gauri resides in Kashi in her Nav Gauri forms. Varanasi has the unique distinction of having 9 temples for Goddess Gauri’s 9 nine forms : Mukhnirmalika Gauri, Jyeshta Gauri, Saubhagya Gauri, Shringar Gauri, Vishalakshi Gauri, Lalita Gauri, Bhavani Gauri, Mangla Gauri & Mahalaxmi Gauri . It is believed that by darshan of Goddess Gauri in the Vasantik Navratri devotees can attain happiness, prosperity, peace and can get rid of their sins. Worshipping Goddess Nav Gauri during Vasantik Navratri holds utmost importance. During this, nine forms of Goddess Gauri is worshipped on nine days Bhavani Gauri on the seventh day. Bhavani Gauri temple is located at the premises of Annapurna Devi. Must have darshan of Annapurna Devi & Bhavani Gauri.
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3.0 Nav Durga Temples
Varanasi has the unique distinction of having 9 temples for Goddess Durga’s 9 nine forms : Shailputri Durga, Brahmacharini Durga, Chandraghanta Durga, Kushmanda Durga, Skandmata Durga, Katyayani Durga, Kalratri Durga, Mahagauri Durga, Siddhidatri Durga. Probably only city in India to have such distinction. NavDurga Mantra in Devi Mahatmium :
प्रथमं शैलपुत्री च द्वितीयं ब्रह्मचारिणी ।तृतीयं चन्द्रघंटेति कूष्माण्डेति चतुर्थकम् ।। पंचमं स्क्न्दमातेति षष्ठं कात्यायनीति च ।सप्तमं कालरात्रीति महागौरीति चाष्टमम् ।। नवमं सिद्धिदात्री च नवदुर्गाः प्रकीर्तिताः ।। Chant this mantra for a healthy, happy and prosperous life
According to a legend described in Chapter 71 in Kashi Khand, Sage Agastya wanted to know from God Kartikeya, how Goddess got the name Durga. Lord Kartikeya narrated a story. Once a demon named Durgasur received special powers after performing rigorous penance for several years and he started torturing all the religious people. He got several worlds (Bhoolok, Swarglok etc.) under his control and created a chaos all over. Seeking a solution to this, all gods and human approached Lord Shiva and asked for almighty’s help. Lord Shiva was aware of the powers of Durgasur and the fact that he is blessed with a boon according to which he cannot be killed by a man. So, Lord Shiva requested Goddess Parvati for the solution. Therefore, Goddess sent her emissary, Goddess Kalratri, along with few other ladies to warn Durgasur and ask him to refrain from tormenting religious people and should return them to their land and go elsewhere otherwise Devi Parvati would certainly slay him. With utter arrogance, Durgasur asked his warriors to capture Goddess Kalratri and imprison her. When the warriors approached her, Goddess Kalratri exhaled jets of fire balls with a roar by which thousands of the warriors were killed. After that, Goddess Kalratri flew to Vindhyanchal mountains where Goddess was residing and narrated the whole incident to her. Soon Durgasur followed Goddess Kalratri to the place where Goddess Adishakti was residing and a fierce war ensued in which Goddess Adishakti divided her powers and took various divine forms to kill the demon. Goddess slaughtered the demon and his army with her supreme powers. Since then, on account of slaying Durgasur, Goddess was known as Goddess Durga.
3.1 Shailputri Durga Temple
Varanasi has the unique distinction of having 9 temples for Goddess Durga’s 9 nine forms : Shailputri Durga, Brahmacharini Durga, Chandraghanta Durga, Kushmanda Durga, Skandmata Durga, Katyayani Durga, Kalratri Durga, Mahagauri Durga, Siddhidatri Durga. Probably only city in India to have such distinction
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The first day of Shardiya Navratri is dedicated to the first form of Goddess Durga that is Goddess Shailputri . These days, meditation, fasting, bhajan, kirtan are done everywhere. It is believed that just by coming here, every wish of the devotees is fulfilled.
As per legend, Maa Parvati was born as the daughter of Himwan and called Shailputri. Once upon a time, Mother got angry with Lord Shiva on something and came to Kashi from Kailash. After this, when Bholenath came to celebrate him, he urged Mahadev that he felt very dear to this place and she does not want to go from there, after which the mother is sitting here. Every devotee who came to see the mother is colored in the color of his divine form.
It is said that the marriage of the mother in Navratri is done to ward away the marital troubles of the married couple. Her vehicle is Taurus called Nandi and has a trident in his right hand and a lotus in her left hand. They are also considered as the form of Parvati. They are considered as protectors of wildlife. In the settlements situated in inaccessible sites, the temple of Shailaputri is first established so that the place can remain safe. It is believed that this form of Goddess had done harsh penance for Shiva. All the marital troubles are overcome with the mere sight of them.
In her former birth, she was born as the daughter of Prajapati Daksha’s house. She was then named ‘Sati’ and was married to Lord Shankar. Once Prajapati Daksha performed a huge yajna in which he invited all the gods to get their own yagna-portion. But Daksha did not invite Shankarji in this yagya. When Sati heard that her father was performing a very big yajna ritual, her mind got distraught to go there. She conveyed his wish to Shankarji.
After considering all the things, he said – In his yajna, he has invited all the gods. Their sacrificial parts have also been dedicated to them, but we have not deliberately called us. In such a situation, it will not be good for you to go there in any way. Sati howeverwanted to see the father’s yagya and to meet the mothers and sisters Seeing her strong request, Shankarji finally gave him permission to go there.
Sati reached the father’s house and saw that no one was talking to him with respect and love. . This behavior of the family brought a lot of grief to Sati’s mind. When Sati saw that there is a feeling of disdain towards the four-pronged Lord Shankar ji and Daksha also made some derogatory utterances towards him. Seeing all this, Sati’s heart was with anger, guilt and anger and he thought not to listen to Lord Shankar ji, having come here, I have made a big mistake. Sati could not bear the insult of her husband Lord Shankar and she immediately consumed that form by yogagni.
Sati consumed her body by yogagni and was born as the daughter of Shailraj Himalaya in the next life. This time she became known as “Shailputri”. The goddess “Shelputri” was also married to Shankarji. Like her previous birth, she also became an ardhangini of Shiva this time.
3.2 Maa Brahmacharini Devi Durga Mandir
Maa Brahmacharini Devi Durga Mandir is located at Panchganga Ghat, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
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Varanasi has the unique distinction of having 9 temples for Goddess Durga’s 9 nine forms : Shailputri Durga, Brahmacharini Durga, Chandraghanta Durga, Kushmanda Durga, Skandmata Durga, Katyayani Durga, Kalratri Durga, Mahagauri Durga, Siddhidatri Durga. Probably only city in India to have such distinction. One must have darshan of these temples apart from the famous ones like Lord Viswanatha, Visalakshi, Annapoorni devi, Kal Bhairav etc. On the second day of Shardiya Navratri is dedicated to the second form of Goddess Durga that is Goddess Brahmacharini. Here Brahmacharini means one who observes penance. It is believed that Goddess Brahmacharini underwent a rigorous penance for several thousand years to be blessed with Lord Shiva as her husband.
The goddess Brahmacharini wears white clothes, holds a japa mala in her right hand and Kamandal, a water utensil in her left hand.
As per legend, maiden Parvati resolves to marry Shiva. Her parents learn of her desire, discourage her, but she pursues what she wants and did Tapasya for about 5000 years. In mean time Gods approached god Kamadeva – Manmathan- the Hindu god of desire, erotic love, attraction and affection and asks him to generate desire in Shiva for Parvati. They did this because of an asura named Tarkasur who gained the boon of being killed by only Lord Shiva’s child. Kama reaches Shiva and shoots an arrow of desire. Shiva opens his third eye in his forehead and burns the Kama to ashes. Parvati does not lose her hope or her resolve to win over Shiva. She begins to live in mountains like Shiva, engage in the same activities as Shiva, one of asceticism, yogin and tapas – it is this aspect of Parvati that is deemed to be that of goddess Brahmacharini. Her ascetic pursuit draws the attention of Shiva and awakens his interest. He meets her in disguised form, tries to discourage her, telling her Shiva’s weaknesses and personality problems. Parvati refuses to listen and insists in her resolve. Shiva finally accepts her and they get married. Her abode is in the Svadhishthana Chakra. Brahmacharini signifies bachelorhood and the colour white signifies purity.
3.3 Chandra Ghanta Devi temple
Chandraghanta devi temple is located at Thatheri Bazar, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. It is It is the third of the nine forms of Durga – In the Chandraghanta form, Goddess Durga is seen with her third eye open. She is known as the Goddess of War and is believed to always be ready for a fight against demons. The name “Chandra” means moon and ghanta means ”bell”. People pray to the Chandraghanta form of Goddess Durga during Navratri to seek blessings of bravery and courage as the Goddess is considered to be adept in both. Thousands of devotees pay their respects to Goddess Chandraghanta to appease her so that she can ride them of their physical and emotional sufferings.
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Derived from “Chandra + Ghanta”, as Goddess Durga wears the semi-circular moon (Chandra) which appears like a bell (ghanta) on her forehead, Goddess is worshipped at the third day of Navaratri and has ten hands with different weapons riding a lion and ready for battle ground.
According to the 70th chapter of Kashi Khand, The third day of Shardiya Navratri is dedicated to the third form of Goddess Durga that is Goddess Chandraghanta. It is believed that by bathing in Chitra koop and worshipping Chandhghanta, no matter how many sins a devotee has committed, whether he has abandoned the path of faith, his name will never be mentioned in books of Chitragupta and he will not face Yamayatna. By her grace all the sins, distresses, physical sufferings, mental tribulations and ghostly hurdles of the devotees are eradicated.
“Varanasi has the unique distinction of having 9 temples for Goddess Durga’s 9 nine forms : Shailputri Durga, Brahmacharini Durga, Chandraghanta Durga, Kushmanda Durga, Skandmata Durga, Katyayani Durga, Kalratri Durga, Mahagauri Durga, Siddhidatri Durga. Probably only city in India to have such distinction. One must have darshan of these temples apart from the famous ones like Lord Viswanatha, Visalakshi, Annapoorni devi, Kal Bhairav etc.
As per Shiva Maha Purana, Chandraghanta is the “Shakti”, of Lord Shiva in the form of Chandrashekhara. Each aspect of Shiva is accompanied by Shakti, therefore they are Ardhanarishvara. Chandraghanta has ten hands where two hands hold a Trishula(trident), Gada(mace), bow-arrow, khadak(sword), Kamala(lotus flower), Ghanta(bell) and kamandal (waterpot), while one of her hands remains in blessing posture or abhayamudra(Fear dispelling). She rides on a tiger or lion as her vehicle, which represents bravery and courage, she wears a half moon depicting a Bell on her forehead and has a third eye in the middle of her forehead. Her complexion is golden. Shiva sees Chandraghanta’s form as a great example of beauty, charm and grace.
Chandraghanta rides a tiger or lion as her vehicle, representing bravery. This is a terrible aspect and is roaring in anger. This form of Durga is not completely different from earlier forms. It shows that when provoked she can be malevolent. Her malevolent form is said to be Chandi or Chamunda Devi. She is otherwise the very embodiment of serenity.
The devotees who adore and worship Chandraghanta develop an aura of divine splendor. Their persons emit invisible power-waves which exercise a great impact on those who come in contact with them. They easily achieve success in life. Chandraghanta is ready to destroy the wicked, but to her devotees she is a kind and compassionate Mother showering peace and prosperity.
During the battle between her and the demons, the horrible sound produced by her bell sent thousands of wicked demons to the abode of the Death God. She is ever in a warring posture which shows her eagerness to destroy the foes of her devotees so that they may live in peace and prosperity. Divine vision is acquired by her grace. If a devotee happens to enjoy divine fragrance and hears diverse sounds, he is said to be blessed by the Mother. Her abode is in Manipura chakra.
3.4 Kushmanda Devi Durga
Shri Durga Temple is located at Durgakund, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (Kushmanda Devi DurgaTemple).
The fourth day of Shardiya Navratri is dedicated to the fourth form of Goddess Durga that is Goddess Kushmanda. It is believed that Goddess Kushmanda improves health and bestows wealth and strength to her devotees.
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As per legend, Goddess Durga created the universe with a “little egg”, i.e. “Ku + Ushma + Anda = “Little + Energy + egg” , means the one who create the universe as “Little Cosmic Egg” with the energy of Her divine smile is called “Kushmanda”.Secondly, as She liked the sacrifice of pumpkin (Sanskrit Kushmand, pumpkin,) so She is known by the name Kushmanda.Thirdly, Kushmanda is also known as “Ashtabhuja” as she is often depicted as having eight arms. In her seven hands she holds kamandalu, bow, arrow, lotus, a jar of nectar, discus and mace. In Her eighth hand She holds a rosary capable of giving Ashta Siddhis and Nava Niddhis, also riding a lion which represents “Dharma”.
In adhyaya (chapter) 23 of the Devi-Bhagavata Purana, this temple’s origin is explained. As per the text, Kashi Naresh (king of Varanasi) called for a Swayamvar for his daughter Sashikala’s marriage. The King later learnt that the princess was in love with vanvasi prince Sudarshan. So Kashi Naresh got his daughter secretly married to the prince. When the other Kings (who were invited for Swayamvar) got to know about the marriage, they got angry and went on war with Kashi Naresh. Sudarshan then offered prayers to Durga, who came on a lion and fought the war for Kashi Naresh and Sudarshan. After the war, Kashi Naresh pleaded to Durga to protect Varanasi and with that belief, this temple was constructed
During Navaratri devotees take bathe in Durga Kund and worship Goddess Kushmanda Durga Devi Who washes away all sins accumulated over entire life time Particulary the fourth day Durga Puja belongs to Goddess Kushmanda who eliminates ailments and sorrows and bestowes longevity, name, strength and health.
Durga Mandir was constructed in the 18th century by a Hindu Bengali Rani – Rani Bhabani of Natore. (Bengali queen). The temple was built in North Indian Nagara style of architecture. The temple is painted red with ochre to match the colours of the central icon of Durga, the goddess of strength and power. Inside the temple, many elaborately carved and engraved stones can be found. The temple is made up of many small sikharas conjoined together.
This temple is also locally called as “Monkey temple” because of the presence of large number of monkeys around the temple. As per legend, the present statue of Goddess Durga was not made by man but appeared on its own in the temple (swayambu). The temple has multi-tiered spires and is stained red with ochre, representing the red colour of Durga. Built by a Bengali Maharani, the architecture is of Nagara Style, which is typical of North India. Thousands of Hindu devotees visit the Durga temple during Navaratri and other auspicious occasions.
The temple has a rectangular tank of water called the Durga Kund. The Kund was initially connected directly to the river thus the water was automatically replenished. This channel was later closed, locking off the water supply, which is now replenished only by rain or drainage from the Temple. Every year on the occasion of Naga Panchami, the act of depicting Lord Vishnu reclining on the coiled-up mystical snake or “Shesha” is recreated in the Kund..Inside the temple, besides Swayambu Durga amman, Bairavar, Saraswathy, Lakshmi, and Vishnu are enshrined. Outside the temple premises one can have the darshan of Lord Sankata Vimochana Hanuman.
Shri Chand Bhairav – one of Ashta Bhairavs is located next to the idol of Kali Mata. Must have darshan.Lord Chand Bhairav is believed to provide his devotees an incredible energy that helps them in attaining success over their competitor. It is believed that Lord Chand Bhairav is good-looking.
3.5 Skandamātā – Bagheswari devi Skandh Mata Mandir
Bagheswari devi Skandh Mata Mandir is located Jaitpura Varanasi, , Uttar Pradesh . This is the only temple of Mother in Kashi in India. Apart from India, there is a temple of these Mata Rani in Nepal this temple is also recognized as Bagishwari Devi temple.
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Skandamātā is the fifth form of Hindu Goddess Durga. Her name comes from Skanda, an alternate name for the war god Kartikeya, and Mātā, meaning mother.Her abode is in Vishuddha chakra.Skandamātā is four-armed, three-eyed, and rides on a lion. One of her hands is in the fear-dispelling Abhayamudra position while the other is used to hold the infant form of her son Skanda on her lap. Her remaining two hands are typically shown holding lotus flowers. She is light complexioned, and as she is often pictured seated on a lotus, she is sometimes referred to as Padamasani.
It is believed that if those children who do not have happiness, worship these mothers, then their wish is definitely fulfilled. Apart from this, the mother queen also removes the hurdle in the education of children and young people.
Varanasi has the unique distinction of having 9 temples for Goddess Durga’s 9 nine forms : Shailputri Durga, Brahmacharini Durga, Chandraghanta Durga, Kushmanda Durga, Skandmata Durga, Katyayani Durga, Kalratri Durga, Mahagauri Durga, Siddhidatri Durga. Probably only city in India to have such distinction. One must have darshan of these temples apart from the famous ones like Lord Viswanatha, Visalakshi, Annapoorni devi, Kal Bhairav etc.
The fifth day of Shardiya Navratri is dedicated to the worship of fifth form of Goddess Durga that is Goddess Skandamata. This form of Goddess Durga is known as Skandamata as she is represented along with her child Skanda (Kartikeya) seated on her lap. It is believed that by worshipping her, all the desires of the devotees are fulfilled, they get peace and happiness and easily attain salvation.
On the first floor of this temple is the Deity of Skanda Mata, then in the cave below is the Deity of Bagishwari Mata. Apart from this, the temple of Siddhi Vinayak is also in this complex.
The name of Sanat Kumar, born of the power of Bhagwati, is Skanda. This form of Bhagwati has been called Skandmata due to being Skanda Mata.The seeker who practices Bhagwati Skanda Mata has no physical, divine, physical suffering.
Skanda Mata is actually a symbol of the sky element. Nav Durga has four girls on one side and Skanda Mata in the middle. There is motherhood among them. That is, it is the basic point form of all elements. On the one hand, there are four elements in ground water, fire and air. On the other hand, mind, intellect, ego, these four elements are the goal of the mother of the sky. The basis of all types of elements is the sky. Therefore Skanda Mata Prakriti is the functional organ. Akash is instantaneous.
3.6 Katyayani Durga
Atmaveereshwar Mahadev Temple is located at Scindia Ghat,, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh . Katyayani Durga Temple located in the premises of this temple. Swami Vivekananda’s mother prayed here for a child – so gave Atmaveereshwar as a first name to Narendran(Vivekananda)
Atmaveereshwar Mahadev Temple: According to Kashi Khand, Chapater 82, Lord Shiva described the power of Veereshwar Ling as under : Once a kingdom was ruled by a very religious minded ruler named Amitrajit. He was a staunch devotee ofLord Vishnu and he made it a rule that all the citizens of his kingdom also became devotees of Lord Vishnu. One day Narad Rishi visited his palace and was welcomed with due respect by the King.
As per the direction of Narad Rishi, King Amitrajit saved one beautiful girl called Malayagandini from theclutches of one evil person. The King subsequently married her and they came to Kashi and wereimmediately happy with the beautiful surroundings. In due course, Malayagandini was blessed with ahandsome male child, who was destined to become 16 years old, immediately after birth. However, since hewas born in an inauspicious planetary combination, the Ministers of the King told the Queen that she wouldhave to sacrifice the child, otherwise the King would die.
In order to save the King, she sent the child to Vikata Devi. But no one was inclined to slay the handsome boy who had been 16 years of age by then. The boy undertook severe penance of Lord Shiva, whereuponLord Shiva appeared before him in form of a Ling. This Ling was named by Lord Shiva as Veereshwar Ling. According to Lord Shiva, a person who performs Pooja, Abhishek and archana of Veereshwar Ling attainsall sort of happiness, prosperity and success.
Kashi Khand, Chapter 83, states that a person who performs pooja of Veereshwar gets the benefit of doing pooja of three crore Lingas. It is considered auspicious to worship this Ling during Chaturdasi nights without going to sleep or bed. It is also considered auspicious to perform abhishek of this Ling with Panch Amritam (five ingredients namely milk, curd, honey, sugar and clarified butter) (Kashi Khand ibid).
Kashi Khand, Chapter 11, mentions the importance of pooja/archana of Atma Veereshwar for being blessed with a child. One Sage Vishwanar and his pious wife prayed at various places in Kashi and finally arrived at the Siddha Peeth of Atma Veereshwar. He performed all rituals and rites at this temple for many months, reciting a prayer called Abhilasha Ashtakam and one day he saw a boy aged eight years standing near the Ling. The sage started worshipping the boy with the same fervour as one would worship Lord Shiva with.
The boy was none other than Lord Shiva himself who directed his devotees to recite Abhilasha Ashtakam for one year, as was done by Sage Vishwanar, which will certainly result in progeny for childless couples. Subsequently, the boy disappeared into the Atma Veereshwar Ling.
Though this Ling is mentioned as Veereshwar in Kashi Khand, presently, this ling is called as AtmaVeereshwar or the soul of Veereshwar.
Katyayani Durga Temple:
Varanasi has the unique distinction of having 9 temples for Goddess Durga’s 9 nine forms : Shailputri Durga, Brahmacharini Durga, Chandraghanta Durga, Kushmanda Durga, Skandmata Durga, Katyayani Durga, Kalratri Durga, Mahagauri Durga, Siddhidatri Durga. Probably only city in India to have such distinction. One must have darshan of these temples apart from the famous ones like Lord Viswanatha, Visalakshi, Annapoorni devi, Kal Bhairav etc.
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Sri Katyayani Durga Devi, the sixth manifestation of Goddess Durga is worshipped in the form of Goddess Katyayani She was pleased with the hard penance of Maharishi Kaatyaayana and took birth on earth in the form of his daughter in accordance with his desire. The goddess is known as Katyayani as she was born to Sage Katyayan and was first worshipped by him only.
Her form is supposed to be so simple and divine. She has four hands, upper-left-hand holding a sword, upper-right-hand showing Abhaya Mudra, lower-right-hand showing Vara Mudra, and lower-left-hand holding a lotus flower. The devotees of Goddess Katyayani throng the temple on the 6th day of Navaratri
The sixth day of Shardiya Navratri is dedicated to the worship of sixth form of Goddess Durga that is Goddess Katyayani. It is believed that by worshipping this form of Goddess Durga, devotees are freed from all sorts of grief and fear. She is believed to radiate a supernatural energy. Goddess Katyayani is also known as Vikta Devi which is a well known Shakti Peeth. Fasting and worshiping the mother removes obstacles in the marriage of virgin girls.It is believed that the Gopis kept a Katyayani fast to get Lord Krishna as a husband .
As per legend, Mother Katyayani, hearing the prayers of the gods, fought with Mahishasura.While fighting with Mahisasura, when the mother got tired, she ate a honey laden betel leaf. Eating honey-rich paan relieved the fatigue of mother Katyayani and killed Mahishasura. Those who practice Katyayani and do devotion should offer honey-containing paan to the mother’s happiness .
Mother Katyayani’s time of meditation is the twilight period. It is believed that in this time, worshiping the mother with incense, lamp, guggul removes all kinds of obstacles. Those who offer prasad to the virgin girls by offering five kinds of sweets to the devout mother, the mother removes the hindrance in their income and the person is successful in earning money according to their hard work and ability. Must have darshan of Atmaveereshwar and Katyayani Durga.
Katyayani Durga Temple Ram Ghat, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001, “Latitude” : “25.3147253””Longitude” : “83.0172229”
There is another Katyayani Durga Temple in Ram ghat. Devotees worship here as well on the sixth day of Shardiya Navratri which is dedicated to the worship of sixth form of Goddess Durga that is Goddess Katyayani. It is believed that by worshipping this form of Goddess Durga, devotees are freed from all sorts of grief and fear.Must have darshan
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3.7 Kalaratri Durga Temple
form of Goddess Durga that is Goddess Kalratri. According to a belief, body of Goddess Kalratri is depicted as pitch black skinned just like darkness, her hair appears disbanded, she wears a skull garland around her neck which shines like lightning, she has three eyes that are round like universe and light continuously radiate out from her eyes. She exhales fire flames continuously through her nose. Although her appearance is fierce, yet she always grant auspicious boons to her devotees, which is why she is believed to be a Shubhkari. With her blessings devotees are freed from any kind of fear. According to beliefs, Kalratri is a very powerful Goddess that blesses her devotees with fearless life. Her devotees are free from the fear of fire, water, animals, enemies and night etc.
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This is the most fearsome form of goddess Durga. The complexion of Goddess Kalaratri is like a dark night, having a bountiful hair and her necklace is shining like thunder. She has three eyes which emanate rays like lightning. Flames appear through her nostrils when she inhales or exhales air. This form of Goddess is believed to be the destroyer of all demonic entities.
Her right-upper-arm shows Abhaya Mudra and lower-upper-arm holds Vara Mudra. She holds a cleaver and a torch in her left two hands. Her hair always open and waves in the air. Goddess Kalratri is seated on a donkey. This manifestation of the goddess is very auspicious and is also known as Shubhkari.
The puja on the seventh day is performed like any other day of Navaratra in the morning. But, special offerings and rituals are performed to worship the goddess at midnight of the Saptami. Various kinds of tantrik rituals are performed on this day, so alcohol is also offerd to the goddess. This is the night of Siddh Yogis & sadhaks who practice penance on Shashastra Chakra on this day.
It is believed that offering garland of flowers, red chunri, coconut, fruit,sweetmeat, vermilion, roli, perfume and liquor is considered to be particularly fruitful at the feet of Mata.
After slaying the demon and taking the form of Durga Devi, Kashi Khand states that Durga Devi guards Kashiin form of various Shaktis/Devis at various places in Kashi. Kalratri is one of them.
Maa Durga’s seventh form is Kalratri. Her body is pitch black just like darkness. Her hair is in disorder. Shehas garland around her neck which shines like lightning. She has 3 eyes which are round like the universe andgive out lightning rays continuously. She exhales fire flames continuously through her nose. Her vehicle is adonkey. Her upper right hand grants blessings and lower right hand assures protection. Her upper left hand hasan iron thorn and her lower left hand has a dagger.
Though her appearance is fearsome, she always grants auspicious boons. So her name is Shubhkari. Herdevotees need not fear her. She destroys evil, so demons and ghosts run away even when somebody thinksabout her. Her devotees are freed from fear (phobia) of fire, water, animals, enemies, night etc i.e. all kinds of fear.
Adi Shakti Kaalratri Temple Tripura Bhairwi Rd, Kaalika Galli, Vishwanath Galli, Near Shri Vishwanath Sanatan Dharm Inter College, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001, “Latitude” : “25.3101749”,”Longitude” : “83.0106330” Adi Shakti Kaalratri Temple is another Kaalrathri Durga temple which devotees on the seventh day of Shardiya Navratri worship in the seventh form of Goddess Durga that is Goddess Kalratri. According to beliefs, Kalratri is a very powerful Goddess that blesses her devotees with fearless life. Her devotees are free from the fear of fire, water, animals, enemies and night etc. .The seventh day of Shardiya Navratri is dedicated to the worship of sixth for.of Goddess Durga that is Goddess Kalratri.
3.8 Maha Gauri Mandir
Maha Gauri Mandir is located at Vishwanath Gali, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (Maa Mangala Gauri Mandir) According to Purans, Goddess Annapurna established in old Kashi Vishwanath temple is known as Goddess Mahagauri. She is eighth form of Goddess Durga.It is believed that by worshipping Goddess Mahagauri, devotees can get rid of their sins and can attain divine achievements. According to beliefs, by worshipping Goddess Mahagauri devotees can obtain benefits of worshipping all the goddesses in the world. Every year from Dhanteras viz. Triyodashi before Deepavali Amavasya to one day after Amavasya (total four days), South Indian devotees come for Deepavali Darshan of Golden Annapurna along with Ganga Snan and Vishwanath Darshan.
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Mayukhaditya (inside mangala gauri temple.Varanasi has been home to numerous Surya-related temples. Predominantly lord Surya is worshipped in following twelve forms in Varanasi Arun Aditya, Drupad Aditya, Ganga Aditya, Keshava Aditya, Kakholkh Aditya, Lolark Aditya, Mayukh Aditya, Sambha Aditya Uttarark Aditya, Vimal Aditya, Vriddh Aditya & Yama Aditya. Probably only city in India where one can find such 12 Aditya Temples..
Suryadev did tough penance here worshipping Lord Shiva and is popularly known as Mayukh Aditya. As per beliefs, devotees are freed from all sorts of diseases if they worship Mayukh Aditya and if they worship on Sundays, they does not have to face poverty in their lives.
3.9 Mata Siddheshwari Temple (Siddhidatri temple)
Mata Siddheshwari Temple is located at Govindpura, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (Siddhidatri temple)
The ninth day of Shardiya Navratri is dedicated to the worship of ninth form of Goddess Durga that is Goddess Siddhidatri. She gives all sorts of siddhi to her devotees. There are several types of Siddhis mentioned in various Purans. According to a legend associated with this form of the Mother Goddess, Lord Shiva worshipped Siddhidatri and attained all the Siddhi by her blessings. It is said that she is the manifestation of the formless Adishakti, who bestowed Siddhi on Mahadev. She is the one who grants spiritual knowledge to seekers and blesses them with knowledge Shiva’s half body assumed the form of Goddess. So he is also called Ardha Narishwar.
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Maa Siddhi Dhatri has four hands. Her vehicle is Lion. She sits on a lotus flower. She has a Chakra in her lower right hand, a mace/club in her upper right hand, a conch in her lower left hand and a lotus flower in her upperleft hand. Her devotees are freed from sorrow and they get salvation after enjoying all happiness in the world
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4.0 Nav Gauri temples
In Sharadiya Navratri, Shakti form of Jagadamba is worshiped and in the Vaasantika Navratri is worship of Gauri form.
Both Navratri’s relation to Maryada Purushottam Ram
Whether Navratri is Shardiya or Vasantik both have their relation with Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram in one way or the other. In the Shardiya Navaratri where Lord Sri Rama wins over Ravana. The day is celebrated as Vijayadashami. At the same time, Mahanavami of Vasantik Navaratri is celebrated on the birth day of Lord Shri Rama. It also has great significance in Kashi.
Worship of nine Gauri in Vasantik Navratri
During this, nine forms of Goddess Gauri is worshipped on nine days viz. Mukhnirmalika Gauri on first day (Pratipada), Jyeshta Gauri on the second day, Saubhagya Gauri on the third day, Shringar Gauri on the fourth day, Vishalakshi Gauri on the fifth day, Lalita Gauri on the sixth day, Bhavani Gauri on the seventh day, Mangla Gauri on the eighth day and Mahalaxmi Gauri on the ninth day. Temples of nine forms of Goddess Gauri is situated at different locations across Varanasi. It is believed that by darshan of Goddess Gauri in the Vasantik Navratri devotees can attain happiness, prosperity, peace and can get rid of their sins.
4.1 Mukh Nirmalika mandir
Mukh Nirmalika mandir is located at Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh . To bless her devotees Goddess Gauri resides in Kashi in her Nav Gauri forms. Varanasi has the unique distinction of having 9 temples for Goddess Gauri’s 9 nine forms : Mukhnirmalika Gauri, Jyeshta Gauri, Saubhagya Gauri, Shringar Gauri, Vishalakshi Gauri, Lalita Gauri, Bhavani Gauri, Mangla Gauri & Mahalaxmi Gauri . Probably only city in India to have such distinction. It is believed that by darshan of Goddess Gauri in the Vasantik Navratri devotees can attain happiness, prosperity, peace and can get rid of their sins.
Worshipping Goddess Nav Gauri during Vasantik Navratri holds utmost importance. During this, nine forms of Goddess Gauri is worshipped on nine days viz. Mukhnirmalika Gauri on first day (Pratipada),
Nature’s nature is the natural tendency of man. The tradition of worshiping nature by displaying it in various forms is prevalent all over the world. Earth,river, mountain, sky, sea, moon and sun are worshiped in almost all ancient civilization. Festivals based on nature and various seasons are prevalent in the public mind. Along with the development of culture and civilization, the method of worship of various gods and goddesses was developed for security, peace and development. Under this, nine Gauri forms are worshiped in Vasantik Navratri. Mukhi Nirmalika Gauri is worshiped on the first day of Vasantik Navratri in Kashi.
Kashi Khand, Chapter 100 has prescribed Gauri Yatra (religious tour of Gauri temples). This Yatra is to beundertaken on Triteeya after Amavasya (3 rd day after Amavasya). Devotees are advised to take bath in Gopreksha Teerth and worship Mukhnirmalika Gauri. Mukh Nirmalika Gauri Devotees who worship Mukhnirmalika Gauri will get all sorts of happiness and prosperity in life..
The temple is open for worship from 05.00 a.m. to 08.00 a.m. and from 05.00 p.m. to 08.00 p.m. Aarties areheld in the morning and evening. According to the devotees in the temple, people whose marriages are getting delayed on account of MangalGraha (planet Mars), perform special pooja at this temple
4.2 Jyeshtha Gauri
Jyeshtha Gauri temple is located at Nakkhas, Bhoot Bhairav – Shri Bheeshan Bhairava ; Shree Bhut Bhairav temple is located at Nakasha, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
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To bless her devotees Goddess Gauri resides in Kashi in her Nav Gauri forms. Varanasi has the unique distinction of having 9 temples for Goddess Gauri’s 9 nine forms : Mukhnirmalika Gauri, Jyeshta Gauri, Saubhagya Gauri, Shringar Gauri, Vishalakshi Gauri, Lalita Gauri, Bhavani Gauri, Mangla Gauri & Mahalaxmi Gauri . It is believed that by darshan of Goddess Gauri in the Vasantik Navratri devotees can attain happiness, prosperity, peace and can get rid of their sins.
Worshipping Goddess Nav Gauri during Vasantik Navratri holds utmost importance. During this, nine forms of Goddess Gauri is worshipped on nine days Jyeshta Gauri on the second day.Jyeshtha Gauri temple is located at Bhoot Bhairav.
The importance of Jyeshta Gauri has been described amply in Kashi Khand, Chapter 63. Lord Shiva said, in theJyeshta Month (May 20 to June 20), eighth day after Amavasya (Shukla Paksha Ashtami), people should havedarshan of Jyeshta Gauri.
If a girl, who may be most unfortunate, visits the Jyeshta Gauri Temple and prays with sincerity, she becomesmost fortunate (Sowbhagyavati). It is stated that persons visiting Kashi and having darshan of Jyeshta Gauriwill reach a high position in life (Kashi Khand, ibid).
Jyeshta Gauri temple is one of the Nine Gauri temples, which are worshipped in Vasantha Nav Ratri (9 dayspreceding Rama Navami day).
Temple is open for worship from 6.00 AM to 10.00 AM and from 6.00 PM to 8.00 PM. Timings are flexible. Aarties are held in the morning and evening.
4.3 Saubhagya Gauri
Saubhagya Gauri is near Adi Vishwanath Temple. The Deity of these Bhagwati is located behind Masjit in the Gyanvapi complex..
The third day of Vasantik Navratri is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Saubhagya Gauri form of Goddess Gauri. There is a special mention of worshipping this form of Goddess Gauri in religious scriptures. It is believed that by worshipping Goddess Saubhagya Gauri, devotees can attain all sorts of happiness and prosperity in their lives.
Kashi Khand, Chapter 100 has prescribed Gauri Yatra (religious tour of Gauri temples). This Yatra is to beundertaken on Triteeya after Amavasya (3rd day after Amavasya).
Devotees take bath in Gyan Vapi and worship Sowbhagya Gauri. Devotees who worship Sowbhagya Gauri will get all sorts of happiness and prosperity in life.
Sowbhagya Gauri is located at Ck.38/8, Adi Vishwanath Temple. If a devotee travels from Bansphatak toChowk, after crossing flower market (on the left side), there is a flight of steps leading to a fairly big ground and Shiva temple. On the right side of the ground (north side), the devotee will find Sowbhagya Gauri. Devotees visit this place of worship on the third day of Chaitra Navaratri in March-April.
Temple is open for worship from 06.00 a.m. to 11.00 a.m. and from 06.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m. Timings are flexible. However devotees can worship throughout the day through the grill gate.
4.4 Shringar Gauri Temple
Shringar Gauri Temple is located behind Gyanvapi Masjid (mosque) and Darshan is allowed only on two days in a year. However, devotees worship this deity in Vishwanath (Visweshwar) temple premises marked as Annapurna Devi. The fourth day of Vasantik Navratri is dedicated to Goddess Shringar Gauri. Goddess Shringar Gauri temple is opened only once a year on the fourth day of Vasantik Navratri by the administration for devotees to worship. On this day thousands of devotees come to temple to worship and have darshan of Goddess Shringar Gauri. It is believed that devotees who worship Goddess Shringar Gauri gets all sorts of happiness and prosperity in their lives.
4.5 Shri Vishalakshi Mata Shaktipeeth Temple
Vishalakshi Temple or Vishalakshi Gauri Temple is one of the famous temples of Varanasi, dedicated to Goddess Vishalakshi – a Sanskrit language word which means that she who has large eyes. The Vishalakshi Temple is located at Miraghat (Manikarnika Ghat) on the banks of River Ganges, at a few distance from Kashi Vishwanath temple.
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Varanasi’s ancient name is Kashi. Kashi is the heritage of ancient India’s cultural and archaeology. Kashi or Varanasi is one of the seven holy moksha puri’s of Hindus. Vishalakshi Temple of Kashi is mentioned in Devi Purana.
Visalakshi temple is known for the Kajali Tij festival, which is held on the third day during the fortnight (two weeks time) in the Hindu month of Bhadrapad (August) on the third day.
This temple is one of the 51 Shaktipeeths of Mother. Shakti is worshiped as Goddess Visalakshi in this temple and Bhairav is worshiped as Patron or Kaal Bhairav. According to the Puranas, wherever the pieces of the sati, the clothes or the ornaments held, have fallen, Shaktipeeth came into existence. They are called the most sacred shrines.
According to mythology, Daksha organized a great yajna, but did not invite Sati and Shiva. Uninvited, Sati reached the yajna-site, where Daksha ignored Sati and vilified Shiva. Unable to withstand this insult, Devi Sati gave up her life by jumping into the fire of Havan organised by her father.. The wild, grief-stricken Shiva wandered the universe with Sati’s corpse, then Lord Vishnu divided the body in 51 parts using his Sudarshan chakra. Out of those 51 parts, from which the right earring of Sati fell to this place. Hence this place is also called ‘Manikarnika Ghat’.
Visalakshi is mentioned as Shaktipeetha in several puranas and literature: The Tantric work Rudrayamala, The Kularnava Tantra, The Ashadashapitha ,Kubjika Tantra, Jnanarnava, Devi Bhagavata Purana. Bengali work Chandimangal, Mukundaram, Lakshmidhara The Pithanirnaya or Mahapithanirupana section from the Tantrachudamani and the Kshastradishas.
According to another narrative, Mother Annapurna, whose blessings, all the creatures in the world receive food, they are ‘Vishalakshi’. According to the legend of ‘Skanda Purana’, when the sage was not offering any food in Varanasi, then Vishalakshi appeared in the role of a housewife and gave food to the sage Vyas. The role of Visalakshi was very similar to Annapurna
To bless her devotees Goddess Gauri resides in Kashi in her Nav Gauri forms. Varanasi has the unique distinction of having 9 temples for Goddess Gauri’s 9 nine forms : Mukhnirmalika Gauri, Jyeshta Gauri, Saubhagya Gauri, Shringar Gauri, Vishalakshi Gauri, Lalita Gauri, Bhavani Gauri, Mangla Gauri & Mahalaxmi Gauri . It is believed that by darshan of Goddess Gauri in the Vasantik Navratri devotees can attain happiness, prosperity, peace and can get rid of their sins.
Worshipping Goddess Nav Gauri during Vasantik Navratri holds utmost importance. During this, nine forms of Goddess Gauri is worshipped on nine days Vishalakshi Gauri on the fifth day.
Vishalakshi, the “wide-eyed” goddess is often associated two other goddesses: Kamakshi, the “love-eyed” goddess of Kanchipuram and Meenakshi, the “fish-eyed” of Madurai, prominently because of their similar names. Together the three are regarded the most important Goddess temples by South Indians. While Vishalakshi dwells in North India, the other goddess temples are in Tamil Nadu, South India. There is a tradition in the Puranas that incense, lamps, perfumed necklaces and pearl jewelery, new clothes, etc. should be offered to Visalakshi Mata after bathing the Ganges. It is believed that this Shaktipeeth is a symbol of the power of Durga Maa. Every year lakhs of devotees come to visit this Shaktipeeth at the time of Durga Puja. Worship of Goddess Vishalakshi brings beauty and wealth from worship. Here salvation is attained by donating, chanting and performing Yajna.
The fifth day of Vasantik Navratri is dedicated to Goddess Vishalakshi Gauri. The temple of Goddess Vishalakshi is situated at Vishal Tirtha of the Dharmakoop area at Mir Ghat. It is believed that the devotees who take bath in Vishal Tirtha and worship Vishalakshi Gauri will attain the benefit of the great Lakshmi, who gives mangal in Ubhaylok and all their desires gets fulfilled. It is believed that by worshipping Vishalakshi Gauri, Childless women will be blessed with offspring and a wealthy and healthy life can be achieved.
Temple is known for its temple festival on Kajali Teej, held on the third day of the second week in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada (August). Any type of puja, charity, recitation of Devi mantras performed in this premises is considered to yield good results.
On a request from Sage Agasthya Lord Kartikeya happily started describing various Devis in Kashi.
Devi is present in the form of Goddess Vishalakshi in Vishal Teerth in River Ganga. A devotee should bathe in Vishal Teerth and worship Vishalakshi Devi for all round happiness.
In the month of Aswin (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) devotees should remain on fast and keep awake on the night ofTriteeya. In the morning they should devotedly offer new clothes and other related items and feed 14 girls. Afterperforming the above Kanya Pooja, they should break their fast.
Vishalakshi Devi temple is a powerful Shakti Peeth and any pooja, charity, recitation of devi mantras performedin this premises is considered to yield very high results. Unmarried girls worshipping Vishalakshi Devi are sureto get married, childless couple will certainly be blessed with a child, even the most unfortunate ladies will findall fortunes coming their way.
Kashi Khand, Chapter 70, has amply described the greatness of Vishalakshi Devi. Further, in Chapter 100,Kashi Khand has prescribed Nau Gauri Yatra (religious pilgrimage tour of nine Gauris and Vishalakshi is one ofthose Gauris).
South Indians attach great importance to this temple. They regard this as one of the three main Devi Temples inIndia viz. Kanchi Kamakshi, Madurai Meenakshi and Kashi Vishalakshi. The entire area encompassing Vishalakshy Devi, Dharmeshwar, Vishwa Bhuja Gauri etc. is a powerful ShaktiPeeth known as Dharma Peeth.
The temple is open from 04.30 a.m. in the morning to 11.00 a.m. and from 05.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m. The timings may change. Aarties are held in the morning and evening
4.6 Lalita Gauri Mandir
Lalita Gauri Mandir is located at Lalita Ghat Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh and the ghat was named after this temple. .The temple was constructed between 1800–1804 by Rana Bahadur Shah.
To bless her devotees Goddess Gauri resides in Kashi in her Nav Gauri forms. Varanasi has the unique distinction of having 9 temples for Goddess Gauri’s 9 nine forms : Mukhnirmalika Gauri, Jyeshta Gauri, Saubhagya Gauri, Shringar Gauri, Vishalakshi Gauri, Lalita Gauri, Bhavani Gauri, Mangla Gauri & Mahalaxmi Gauri . It is believed that by darshan of Goddess Gauri in the Vasantik Navratri devotees can attain happiness, prosperity, peace and can get rid of their sins.
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Worshipping Goddess Nav Gauri during Vasantik Navratri holds utmost importance. During this, nine forms of Goddess Gauri is worshipped on nine days Lalita Gauri on the sixth day, Located near Nepali Temple facing the river.
A person who worships Lalita Gauri with all sincerity is sure to get all wealth and prosperity. Aswin Month,(Sept. Oct.) Krishna Paksha, Dwiteeya, 2nd day after Poornima is considered auspicious for performing special pooja of Lalita Gauri. A person who takes bath in Lalita Teerth (now Lalita Ghat) and worships Lalita Gauri is sure to be blessed with prosperity. (Kashi Khand, Chapter 70).
The temple also houses Kashi Devi and Bhagirath Devi idols. The temple is open from 05.00 a.m. to 09.00 a.m.and from 05.00 p.m. to 09.30 p.m. The timings may vary. It is advisable to combine visit to this templealongwith other temples also.
King of Nepal, Rana Bahadur Shah took exile in Varanasi from 1800 to 1804 and titled himself as “Swami Nirgunanda”. During his exile, he decided to build a ghat to house replica of Pashupatinath Temple in Varanasi. The spot chosen was Lalit Ghat, which was named after the Lalita Gauri mandir. Shah constructed a Nepali Mandir along with the Ghat.
Filthy conditions resulting from unhygienic discharge of drains and broken stepped embankmentswere marring the beauty of the ghat.
This is one of the most revered ghat in the vicinity and devotees from different parts of the country and Nepal throng it for adip in the Ganga. The entire stretch from Vishnu Ghat to Raj Rajeshwari Ghat is known as Lalita Ghat and it has temples of Goddess Lalita along with replica of the Pashupati Nath Temple.
Apart from broken embankments, the steps are also found to be uprooted, causing craters and crevices on the banks of the ghat. If that was not enough, heaps of leftover of daily rituals, including rotten flowers and garlands along with broken pieces ofearthen bowls, are found to be accumulated along the platforms and stairs. The shiny stone plates that were pasted alongthe platforms to lend them strength are also found to be uprooted at many places. The iron railings put to beautify andprotect the embankments were also broken and placed along the pillars on which sewage pumping station was built.
“Instead of pumping out sewage from local areas to sewage treatment plants, the excess sewage is being flushed out near the ghat, which further mars the beauty of the ghat besides giving it a filthy look. Heavy deposition of mud and silt brought by theretreating Ganga in the post-monsoon season still gives nightmares to devotees when they take a dip in the Ganga.
This ghat is named after the famous Goddess Lalita (one of the incarnation of Goddess Durga) in Kashi and also in Prayag. The well known lingam of Ganga Kesava and shrines of Gangatitya, Kasi Devi, Lalita Devi and Bhagirath Tirtha are affiliated to this site. People believe that a glimpse of Lalita Devi brings the same reward as circumambulating the entire world. At the top of theghat, close to the Nepali Ghat, lies the Nepali Temple, a replica of Pashupatinath Temple which was built in 1843 under the patronage of Rajendra Sah, king of Nepal and assumed that the lingam there replicates the famous Pasupatisvara at Kathmandu. The temple has some wooden carving of the erotic scenes, and all the four gateways and doors are fully decorated with geomagnetic architectural frame. The ghat also enshrines the Lalita Gauri Temple, thronged by women devotees for prosperity of the family .
4.7 Bhavani Gauri
Bhavani Gauri is located between Kali Devi and Jagannath.in Annapurna Mandir) ; The seventh day of Vasantik Navratri is dedicated to Goddess Bhavani Gauri. It is believed that Goddess Bhavani Gauri removes all sorts of obstacles and disasters from the lives of her devotees. By taking bath in Bhavani Teerth and worshipping Goddess Bhavani Gauri, fear is believed to be removed from devotees’ lives and they attain happiness and prosperity.
Kashi Khand, Chapter 100 has prescribed Gauri Yatra (religious tour of Gauri temples). This Yatra is to beundertaken on Triteeya after Amavasya (3rd day after Amavasya).
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Devotees take bath in Bhavani Teerth and worship Bhavani Gauri. Devotees who worship BhavaniGauri will get all sorts of happiness and prosperity in life.
Bhavani Gauri is located at D.8/38, Ram Mandir annexed to the premises of Annapurna Devi. The deity islocated between Kali Devi and Jagannath.Temple remains open for worship from 05.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. and from 05.00 p.m. to 09.30 p.m. Timings are flexible.
4.8 Mangla Gauri Temple
Mangla Gauri Temple is located near Panchganga ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh . Mayukh Aditya temple is also located in this temple. Lord Shiva by the name of Gabhastheeswarar installed by Lord Surya is also within the temple premises.
To bless her devotees Goddess Gauri resides in Kashi in her Nav Gauri forms. Varanasi has the unique distinction of having 9 temples for Goddess Gauri’s 9 nine forms : Mukhnirmalika Gauri, Jyeshta Gauri, Saubhagya Gauri, Shringar Gauri, Vishalakshi Gauri, Lalita Gauri, Bhavani Gauri, Mangla Gauri & Mahalaxmi Gauri . It is believed that by darshan of Goddess Gauri in the Vasantik Navratri devotees can attain happiness, prosperity, peace and can get rid of their sins.
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As per Kashi Khand, the eigth day of Vasantik Navratri is dedicated to the eighth form of Goddess Gauri that is Goddess Bhavani Gauri. According a legend described in Kashi Khand, once Surya Dev established a Shivlinga and a idol of Goddess Gauri at Panchnad Teerth ( Panchganga Ghat) and performed rigorous penance. Being pleased with his prayers, Lord Shiva himself appeared in front of him along with Goddess Parvati and established himself there along with Goddess Gauri ( a form of Goddess Parvati) as a boon to Surya Dev. It is believed that by worshipping Goddess Mangala Gauri, devotees are blessed with all sort of happiness and prosperity in their lives.
As per legend, Once Lord Surya installed a Shiv Ling and a devi idol at Panchanada Teerth (Panchganga Ghat) and startedimmensely praying to Lord Shiva. The intensity of Lord Surya’s prayers started reflecting in the extreme heat generated thereby. Sunraysstarted getting warmer and warmer. Finally it became unbearable for all living beings and all physicalactivities practically came to a standstill.
Pleased with his penance, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvaty appeared in person in front of Lord Surya. Lord Surya opened his eyes and started singing praises of Goddess Parvaty and Lord Shiva whereupon both of them became extremely happy. They granted several divine wishes to Lord Surya.
Lord Shiva told Lord Surya that the devi idol installed by the latter would be known as Mangala Gauri. A person who worships Mangala Gauri with all devotion is blessed with all happiness and prosperity. Unmarried girls will soon find a suitable match for themselves and childless couples will be blessed with children.
Special importance is laid by Kashi Khand, Chapter 49 for Chaitra Month (March-April), Shukla PakshaTritheeya (3rd Day after amavasya) for worshipping this Goddess.
The temple is open from 05.00 a.m. to 01.00 p.m. and from 03.00 p.m. to 10 p.m. Aarties are performed in the evening. There is usually a large crowd on Tuesdays. Mangala Gauri is one of the 9 Gauris which are worshipped in Navratri falling in March-April (9 days preceding Ram Navami). Shri Manoj Kumar Pandey is the chief priest and his cell number is (0)9305645502. Other priest is ShriUmesh Kumar Sharma whose cell number is (0)9450284728.
4.9 Mahalakshmi Gauri
Mahalakshmi Gauri Temple – wrongly marked as Maa Mangala Gauri Mandir; Mahalakshmi Gauri Temple is located Oposite Laxmi Kund, , Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
According to the 70th chapter of Kashi Khand,The ninth or last day of Vasantik Navratri is dedicated to Mahalakshmi Gauri. In Varanasi, Mahalakshmi Gauri temple is located at Luxa Area of Lakshmi Kund.
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It is described in Kashi Khand that this entire region is the Paramsiddhipad Mahapeetha. Mahalaxmi Peeth is the most powerful Shaktipeeth among all the other Shaktipeeths in Kashi for fulfilling all the siddhis. It is believed that by worshiping of Mahalaxmi Gauri, devotees will attain all the siddhis along with the wealth. By performing the liberation ritual for his ancestors and doing charity at this area, one can remain wealthy for lifelong.
There is a belief in this temple that vermilion, Bindi, Mahavar and items of shringar are offered to the mother. They also include a thread with sixteen bales. The temple worshipers make this thread touch the mother and give it to devotee. It is believed that this thread has the blessings of the mother, which the devotee receives as a blessing.
Devotees take bath in Lakshmi Kund and worship Mahalakshmi. Devotees also perform the rituals for their forefathers and give alms to needy people, whereby they will be blessed by Mahalakshmi.
Kashi Khand states that the entire locality is a Shakti Peeth (seat of vital energy). There are many powerful Devis in the area and of all the Shakti Peeths in Kashi, Mahalakshmi Shakti Peeth is the most powerful.
Devotees who worship Mahalakshmi regularly will attain all kinds of Siddhi (divine powers) and achievements.Mahalakshmi will always reside in their homes. (Here Mahalakshmi is symbolic of wealth and prosperity).
Further, in Chapter 100, Kashi Khand has prescribed Nau Gauri Yatra (religious pilgrimage of nine Gauris) and Mahalakshmi is the ninth Gauri.
The temple is open from 06.00 a.m. to 01.00 p.m. and from 05.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m. Aarties are performed in the morning and evening.
There is heavy rush during Fridays and on Navratri days (March-April). While devotees throng this temple on Chaitra Navratri (March-April) on the 9th day, there is generally a huge crowd on practically all days of both Navratris.
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5.0 Other Devi Temples
5.1 Sheetla Mata Mandir
Sheetla Mata Mandir is located at Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. According to Skanda Purana, when the Gods performed a sacrificial fire ceremony for Goddess Parvati, from that fire emerged Goddess Shitala, who was seated on a donkey, holding a pot, and a silver broom, in her two hands. At that moment, from Lord Shiva’s sweat was born Jwarasura, who spread disease all over the world. Goddess Shitala rid the world from the disease, and from then onwards, Jwarasura became her servant.
Shitala is represented as a young maiden crowned with a winnowing-fan, riding a donkey, holding a short broom (either to spread or dust off germs) and a pot full of pulses (the viruses) or cold water (a healing tool). Among Bahujan and tribal communities, she is represented with slab-stones or carved heads. Sometimes, she is said to be carrying a bunch of neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves, a medicinal herb used throughout India since ancient times that is believed by some to be an effective remedy to most skin diseases to this day.
Shitala is the form of folk demi-goddess Katyayani. She gives coolness to the patients of fever. According to Devi Mahatyam, when a demon named Jvarasura gave bacterial fever to all the children, goddess Katyayani came in the form of Shitala to purify children’s blood and to destroy the bacteria of fever in blood. In Sanskrit ‘jvara’ means “fever” and ‘shītala’ means “coolness”. Shitala is sometimes also depicted with Jvarasura, the fever demon; Ghentu-debata, the god of skin diseases; Raktabati, the goddess of blood infections and the sixty-four epidemics; and is often worshiped with Oladevi, another disease goddess (some say of cholera).[5]
She is also depicted enthroned in an 8 handed form holding trident, broom, discus (cakra), jar of abrasia or pot full of water, branches of neem, Scimitar, conch and vard mudra. She is also flanked by 2 donkeys. This depiction has established her as a goddess of protection, good fortune, health, and power.
5.2 Kaudi Mata Temple (Gavalamma Temple)
Kaudi Mata Temple (Gavalamma Temple) is located at Durgakund, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh The devi at this temple is supposed to be the sister of the lord Kashi Vishwanath; You buy sea shells at this place and offer them to the God saying that the virtues of donating the shells goes to her while you keep the virtues of having visited the holy shrines in Kashi and bathing in the ganges. The trip to Kashi is expected to yield results only after completing this custom
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The details of Maa Kaudi Mata visit to Kashi are also found in the Puranas. Kaudi Mata is the forest goddess/ Grama Devatha of South India who came to Benares to worship Lord Shiva. People here did not behave well with her. Irked with them, the goddess abandoned food and water.
After this Maa Annapurna Devi came and placed her in the form of Kodiya Devi here. She blessed the goddess who was considered worthless and told that Kaudi/Conch shells which are usually considered worthless will become valuable and will be offered to you. With your good influence, there will be no grief in the Devotee’s life. Without offering Kaudis to you a pilgrim’s Kashi Darshan would be incomplete.
From then devotees offer a piece of cloth, Kumkum, Turmeric and 5 conch shells to Kaudi Mata. Four of them are presented to the mother and the fifth one is returned to the devotee who keeps it at his money point which is supposed to make him prosperous
Some ancient literature considers, Kaudi Mata as re-incarnation of Shabari, an ardent devotee of Lord Rama in Dwapara Yuga. She used to pluck fruits for Lord Rama daily and would taste it first and if it was sweet she would offer to the God and used to discard the bitter ones. She just wanted to give sweet fruits to Lord Rama and the thought never came to her mind that she should not taste them before they are offered to the deity.
When she realized her mistake, she told the truth to the Lord Rama. Rama forgave her and blessed her that you will be worshipped in Kalyug and you will be offered Conch shells, now go and settle in Kashi, you will be relieved from your sin there. Thus, she settled here as Kaudi Mata
The main deity is on a raised platform with a small circum-ambulatory path around it. It is a modern day temple without any architectural significance.
There is no such temple of Kaudi Mata anywhere in the country. It is a worth visiting one.
5.3 Varahidevi Temple
Varahidevi Temple is located at Manmandir ghat, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Kashi Khand, Chapter 70 mentions Varahi Devi and the devotees who worship this devi will never fall into anydanger. Kashi Khand, Chapter 45 states that Lord Shiva sent sixty four Yoginis to Kashi to create disturbance in thegovernance of King Divodas. However, the sixty four yoginis were totally enthralled by the beauty of Kashiand they decided to settle down in Kashi itself. Varahi is one of them.
Varahi is one of the Matrikas, a group of seven mother goddesses in the Hindu religion. With the head of a sow, Varahi is the shakti (feminine energy) of Varaha, the boar avatar of the god Vishnu. Varahi is an incarnation of Bhu Devi. In Nepal, she is called Barahi.
According to the Shumbha-Nishumbha story of the Devi Mahatyam from the Markandeya Purana religious texts, the Matrikas goddesses appears as shaktis (feminine powers) from the bodies of the gods. The scriptures say Varahi was created from Varaha. She has a boar form, wields a chakra (discus) and fights with a sword. After the battle described in the scripture, the Matrikas dance – drunk on their victim’s blood.
The goddess Durga leads the eight Matrikas in battle against the demon Raktabija. The red-skinned Varahi (bottom row, leftmost) rides a buffalo and holds a sword, shield and goad. Folio from a Devi Mahatmya
According to a latter episode of the Devi Mahatmya that deals with the killing of the demon Raktabija, the warrior-goddess Durga creates the Matrikas from herself and with their help slaughters the demon army. When the demon Shumbha challenges Durga to single combat, she absorbs the Matrikas into herself. In the Vamana Purana, the Matrikas arise from different parts of the Divine Mother Chandika; Varahi arises from Chandika’s back.
The Markendeya Purana praises Varahi as a granter of boons and the regent of the Northern direction, in a hymn where the Matrikas are declared as the protectors of the directions. In another instance in the same Purana, she is described as riding a buffalo.[6] The Devi Bhagavata Purana says Varahi, with the other Matrikas, is created by the Supreme Mother. The Mother promises the gods that the Matrikas will fight demons when needed. In the Raktabija episode, Varahi is described as having a boar form, fighting demons with her tusks while seated on a preta (corpse).
In the Varaha Purana, the story of Raktabija is retold, but here each of Matrikas appears from the body of another Matrika. Varahi appears seated on Shesha-nāga (the serpent on which the god Vishnu sleeps) from the posterior of Vaishnavi, the Shakti of Vishnu.] Varahi is said to represent the vice of envy (asuya) in the same Purana.
The Matsya Purana tells a different story of the origin of Varahi. Varahi, with other Matrikas, is created by Shiva to help him kill the demon Andhakasura, who has the ability – like Raktabija – to regenerate from his dripping blood
5.4 Sankahtha Mata Mandir
Sankahtha Mata Mandir is located at Govindpura, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Sankata Devi temple falls in the vicinity of two Powerful Shakti Peeths, Panch Mudra Peeth (Atma Veereshwartemple) and Siddh Peeth (Siddheshwari Temple). Sankata Devi is a powerful form of Goddess and devoteeswho worship are showered with eternal happiness and prosperity.
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Kashi is called as Mokshapuri(city of salvation). There are such Siddh Peethas here, where all the sorrows of the devotees are eliminated by having a darshan. The religious belief of Kashi is that Lord Shiva himself frees devotees from the bondage of births by giving Taraka mantras at the Manikarnika Ghat here. At some distance from this is the temple of Maa Sankata, where all the troubles in life are ended by having a darshan.
Sankata Devi Mandir , also known as Sankata Mata Mandir or Sankata Mandir; is one of the most famous temples in the holy city of Varanasi. This temple is dedicated to the goddess Sankata Devi (Goddess of danger). The Mandir was constructed in 18th century by King of Baroda. It is believed that this is the only temple in India dedicated to Sankata Devi.
The name “Sankata” has been derived from the Sanskrit word “sankat” which means “danger”. Goddess Sankata Devi was originally a Matrika. In Puranas, she is referred to as “Vikat Matrika”, (the fierce mother). Sankata Devi is believed to have ten hands and the power to protect faraway husbands and to ensure their safe return.
The devotees pray to the deity with to avoid any danger in life or to alleviate any present crisis. It is also believed that the Pandavas during their exile, paid homage to Sankata Devi
Kashi Khand has prescribed Durga Devi Yatra during Navratri where devotees are advised to worship Durga Devi on all the nine days of Navratri. Devotees worship Sankata Devi on the 8th day of Navratri falling in September-October.
As per legend, when Lord Sati committed self-immolation, Lord Shiva became very distraught. Lord Shiva himself worshiped Maa Sankata, after which the distraction of Lord Shiva ended and Mother Parvati was joined.
As per another legend, when the Pandavas were in anonymity (Anjathavas), at that time he had come to Anand Van (Kashi was also formerly known as Anand Van) and the five brothers stood on one leg without taking food and water after installing a grand statue of Maa Sankata threy worshiped Her. After this, the mother gave darshan and blessed that by serving Go Mata, they will get Lakshmi and Vaibhav. All the problems of Pandavas will be eradicated. Pandavas did so. After this, the Kauravas were defeated by the Pandavas in the war of Mahabharata. Devotees do not forget to take the blessings of Go Mata after visiting the temple . In this Siddh Peeth, all the devotees who pray to the mother with true devotion and worship Her, all their troubles will be removed.
Mother Sankata is offered offerings of coconut and chunri, which makes the mother happy. The taste of coconut offered here is also very different.The temple timings are from 05.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and from 04.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m.
5.5 Vindhyavasini Devi Mandir
(Vindhya Vasini & Achanak Mata temple) विंध्यवासिनी देवी मंदिर, Vindhya Vasini Devi Mandir is located behind Sankatha Mandhir, , Govindpura, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Kashi Khand, Chapter 70 mentions various Devis in Kashi who are to be worshipped. All of them are powerful Devis. Among other Devis, Kashi Khand mentions Vindhya Devi which is a powerful deity.Devotees who worship Vindhya Devi will attain all kinds of Siddhi in their life.
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As per legend, as the daughter of King PrajapatiDaksha, Mother Jagadambika was born as Sati and married Lord Shiva.But Sati’s father Daksha was not happy with this marriage. Daksha performed a yajna inwhich he invited all the gods except his daughter Satiand Lord Shiva.
Sati went to the yagna without invitation, KingDaksha said derogatory things about Shiva.Sati could not bear it and dedicated herself to the altar ofsacrificial sacrifice. Shiva, immersed in sorrow, lifted the burning body of Sati and performed the destruction dance.
To prevent this, Vishnu cut the body of Sati using the Sudarshan Chakra. Wherever Sati’s body parts fell, those places became Shaktipeeth. Vindhyavasini Temple has also been called Jagrit Peetha, one of these Shaktipeeths is VindhyavasiniTemple of Uttar Pradesh, which is also considered as Jagrit Shaktipeeth.
In Shiva Purana, motherVindhyavasini is considered as Sati, then in Shrimad Bhagwat, it is called Nandja Devi.The other names ofthe mother, Krishnanuja, Vanadurga are also mentioned in the scriptures.It is also mentioned in thescriptures that Adi Shakti Devi is not completely seated anywhere.Vindhyachal is the only place wherethe entire Deity of the Goddess is seen.According to the scriptures, in other Shaktipeeths, different parts ofthe Goddess are worshiped as a symbol.
(Maa Vindhyavasini Mandir , Mirzapur 60 kms from Varanasi is one of the 51 Shaktipeeths) . Varanasi Vindhyavasini Devi Mandir timings are from 06.00 am to 10.00 p.m..
5.6 Shree Maa Lakshmi Ji Ka Mandir
Shree Maa Lakshmi Ji Ka Mandir, is located near Sri Dwarikadish Mandir Sankuldhara Phokhara, Sankuldhara, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh . It is a very small temple with a big water tank in front.
Lakshmi – ‘she who leads to one’s goal’ also known as Sri is the goddess of wealth, fortune, love, beauty, joy and prosperity,[ and associated with Maya (“Illusion”). Along with Parvati and Saraswati, she forms the trinity of Hindu goddesses (Tridevi).
Lakshmi is both the wife and divine energy (shakti) of Lord Vishnu, the Supreme Being of Vaishnavism; she is also the Supreme Goddess in the sect and assists Vishnu to create, protect and transform the universe. Whenever Vishnu descended on the earth as an avatar, Lakshmi accompanied him as consort, for example as Sita and Radha or Rukmini as consorts of Vishnu’s avatars Rama and Krishna respectively.
The eight prominent manifestations of Lakshmi, the Ashtalakshmi symbolize the eight sources of wealth. Ashta Lakshmis are : Adi Lakshmi.Dhana Lakshmi. Dhanya Lakshmi.Gaja Lakshmi.Santana Lakshmi. Veera/Dhairya Lakshmi.Jaya/Vijaya Lakshmi.Vidya Lakshmi.
Lakshmi is depicted as an elegantly dressed, prosperity-showering golden-coloured woman with an owl as her vehicle, signifying the importance of economic activity in maintenance of life, her ability to move, work and prevail in confusing darkness. She typically stands or sits on a lotus pedestal, while holding a lotus in her hand, symbolizing fortune, self-knowledge, and spiritual liberation. Her iconography shows her with four hands, which represent the four aspects of human life important to Hindu culture: dharma, kāma, artha, and moksha.
Archaeological discoveries and ancient coins suggest the recognition and reverence for Lakshmi existing by the 1st millennium BCE.[ Lakshmi’s iconography and statues have also been found in Hindu temples throughout Southeast Asia, estimated to be from the second half of the 1st millennium CE. The festivals of Diwali and Sharad Purnima (Kojagiri Purnima) are celebrated in her honor.
Must have darshan of Shree Maa Lakshmi Ji when visiting Sri Dwarikadish Mandir.
5.7 Shri Kamakhya Devi Mandir
Shri Krodhan Bhairav Temple is next to Kamakya Devi in this temple; Also Drishneshwar Jyothir ling is here. Shri Kamakhya Devi Mandir is located at Kamchchha, Bhelupur, Near Batuk Bhairav Mandir, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
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Inside the sanctum sanctorum of temple , the deity of Shri Krodhan Bhairav, Shri Bhadrakali, Shri Hanuman ji, Shri Chausath Yogini ji are established .Also Shri Dhrishnameshwara Jyotirlinga, Shri Dhananjaya Kupa, Shri Pratyagira Devi, Shri Jeeva Samadhi, Shri Akhand Dhu etc. Deities are enshrined. .It is said that this temple was built in Treta Yuga.
As per Bhavishya Purana, Shri Kamakhya Temple is established in Kashi. It is said that one of the 52 Shaktipeeths, Shri Kamarup Kamakhya Devi Temple, which is located in Assam-Gohati on the Neel Parvat, is the replica of Shri Kamakhya Devi Temple located in Kashi. The Deity of Mother Shri is installed in the temple as Shri Mahamudra Yantra, Therefore it is a Siddha Yantra Peeth. Kamakhya Devi Ji is the goddess of Tantra. The main festival of Sri Kamakhya Devi is Sri Ambuwachi Yoga festival.
Aa per legend, Lord Shiva was in Mandarachal and Kashi was ruled by a very pious and religious King named Divodas. In his Kingdom every one was very happy and there was all round prosperity. He had reached an understanding with Lord Brahma that as long as he was ruling, Devas and other celestial beings should stay away from Kashi andshould not create any disturbance in Kashi. (Kashi Khand, Chapter 45).
Lord Brahma agreed to it but on one condition that King Divodas should prove to be an excellentadministrator and all people living in Kashi and visiting Kashi should be treated well in their religious pursuits. The King agreed and accordingly gave excellent governance.
Lord Shiva was very upset at being away from Kashi for a long time and he wanted to make King Divodascommit some mistake. Accordingly, he sent sixty four Yoginis to create some disturbance, but they wereenthralled by the beauty and serene surroundings of Kashi which appeared to be a part of heaven. They ultimately settled down in Kashi and established themselves at various places all round the Kshetra. KAMAKHYA DEVI (KAMAKSHI DEVI) was one of them.
All the places where these Yoginis stationed themselves are regarded as Shakti Peeth. A person praying at theseplaces will get divine energy. The devotees will be blessed with mental peace, victory in competitions anddebates and will attain all round success. Kashi Khand, Chapter 72, in another reference has described Kamakhya as a super power created by Goddess inher fight with Durgasur
Shri Krodhan Bhairav Temple (One of Ashta Bhairavs) is next to Kamakya Devi in this temple. After having darshan of Shri Kamakhya Devi, one must have darshan of Shri Krodhan Bhairav. The Ashta Bhairav temples are : (Ruru Bhairav Temple, Chand Bhairav Temple, Shri Asitang Bhairav Temple, Krodhan Bhairav Temple, Shri Kapal Bhairav Temple, Samhar Bhairav Temple, Shri Unmatt Bhairav Temple, Shri Bheeshan Bhairav Temple) .Lord Krodhan Bhairav also known as Aadi Bhairav is believed to grant strength and courage to his devotees to achieve success. In his idol, he is depicted as carrying shield, a long sword and Parashu.
The temple is open from 03.00 a.m to 12.00 p.m. and from 04.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m. Aarties are held at 05.30a.m. and 07.30 a.m. Must have darshan of this mandir as well as all Bhairav Mandirs in Varanasi
5.8 Sri Tripura Bhairavi Mandir
Sri Tripura Bhairavi Mandir is located at Vishwanath Galli, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. This temple can be reached through Mir Ghat. This temple also houses Tripureshwar Shiv Ling (in the vicinity of Rudreshwar) which finds mention in Kashi Khand, Chapter 69. Devotees mayworship these two lings also
As per legend, When Goddess was fighting a fierce battle against Durgasur she released variousforms of energy (called Shakti) from her body. These Shakti Devis released intense energy in form of fire ballsto fight Durgasur and his army. (Kashi Khand, Chapter 72). Finally the battle was won.
One of those Shaktis is Tripura Bhairavi. Devotees who worship this deity will attain success in theirendeavours and they will gain mental strength. Out of more than 90 forms of Shaktis, only a few deities arepresent now. Many of their temples or idols have ceased to be in existence and one or two of them are insideprivate houses where public worship is not allowed.
The idol of Sri Tripura Bhairavi is Swayambu(self manifested). According to the belief, mother also provides happiness and wealth to her devotees along with learning. In this small temple, in front of the main gate, the statue of the mother’s very soulful posture is installed, which is visible from the street
The temple timings are from 05.00 a.m. to 10.00 a.m. and from 06.00 p.m.to 10.00 p.m. Aarties are heldin the morning and evening. Devotees can worship through grill gate during other times
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Continued in Part 4 – Details of Dwadasha Aditya & Varanasi Ghats are given. References : 1) http://pawanpath.up.gov.in/ 2) https://varanasitemples.in/
Interested in travelling and having Darshan of several Temples in India and abroad. Retired as President from Navayuga Spatial Technologies Ltd & previously as General Manager (AS&DM) , NRSC, Department of Space View all posts by kalyangeetha
Top 100 Varanasi Temples – Part 4 of 5 Dwadasa Aditya & Vishnu Temples
INDEX of Contents
- 1.0 Introduction
- 2.0 Dwadash(12) Aditya Yatra
- 3.0 Kashi Vishnu Yatra
- 4.0 Char Dham Yatra in Kashi
- 5.0 Other Vishnu Temples
- 5.1 Udupi Shri Krishna Madhwa Temple
- 5.2 Shri Satyanarayan Tulsi Manas Mandir
- 5.3 Shree Sanatan Gaudiya Mutt
- 5.4 Shri Swami Narayan Mandir
- 5.5 Shri Madhusudan Temple
- NOTE Since the Blog is lengthy, If you Click on any Title, you will be taken to the concerned paragragh by the link provided. Also you can return to the Index of Contents for which links have been provided at several places in the Blog.
1. Introduction
The Blog series on104 Top Varanasi TYemples , is divided into 5 parts : In Part 1 of the blog, Varanasi temples List, Executed Plan for Darshan, Details of 8 Ashta Vinayak Temples & 3 Hanuman Temples are given. In Part 2 Details of 12 Jyothirlinga Temples and 17 Main Shiva Temples are given . In Part 3, 26 Durga, Gauri and Devi Temples are given. In this blog, Details of 12 Dwadash Aditya temples & 12 Vishnu temples are given. In Part 5 of the Blog, details of 9 Bhairav Temples and 8 Varanasi Ghats are given.
Google Map Locations of Varanasi Temples could be seen in the embedded Interactive Google Map below:
2.0 Dwadash (12) Aditya Yatra
According to a legend mentioned in Kashi Khand when during Padma Kalp there was a severe drought all across the world, then all the creatures were severely afflicted by it. So Lord Brahma became worried as it was difficult for him to see his creation being on the verge of destruction. After a long search for a solution, Lord Brahma saw King Ripunjay who was dedicatedly engrossed in the penance. Being pleased by him, Lord Brahma renamed him as King Divodas and requested him to take the world under his throne and save the humanity. King agreed with this but he had one condition that he wanted to rule peacefully without intervention, so that he could reform the dharma without any disturbance. Therefore, he wished that all Gods and Godly entities should remain in the heaven only and should not return to land. Lord Brahma also kept a condition that King should be an excellent administrator and that every person staying in his kingdom or visiting his kingdom should be treated well with proper religious pursuits. King agreed.
On the command of Lord Brahma, all Gods left to the heaven. But, it was not easy for Lord Brahma to ask Lord Shiva to leave Kashi and go to heaven as Kashi is believed to be one of the favourite places of Lord Shiva. So, when being pleased with the prayers of Bramha , Lord Shiva appeared in front of him , Lord Brahma told Lord Shiva that how King Divodas can save humanity and about King’s condition that all gods should leave to heaven. As Lord Shiva could not deny the request of Lord Brahma, so he also left to Mandaranchal from Kashi. As per his condition, King Divodas took the throne and worked vigorously to bring order in the decaying world. With the favours obtained from Lord Brahma, king established a rule so flawless that was never seen before. Under his regime, his subjects prospered and justice flourished.
As time passed, Lord Shiva desired to again come back to his own city Kashi. But due to Brahma’s boon to Divodasa, he was unable to set feet in Kashi. Soon Lord Shiva came to know that other gods too are unable to stay in Kashi. Not happy with this kind of attitude of the Divodas, Lord Shiva decided first to cast some dents into the flawlessness of Divodas’ rule in order to reduce his powers and then to end his regime. Accordingly, he sent sixty four Yoginis to create some disturbance, but they were enthralled by the beauty and serene surroundings of Kashi which appeared to be a part of heaven. They ultimately settled down there. When the Yoginis failed to return, Lord Shiva sent Lord Surya with instructions to create some disturbance in Kashi so as to defeat King Divodas in his resolve. Lord Surya came to Kashi and disguised himself as an astrologer, a learned scholar, a religious propagator, a businessman, a brahmin etc. But he could not find anyfault with any person in Kashi or with the governance of King Divodas. Lord Surya was also very much attracted towards Kashi and the beauty of the city. Lord Surya thought, if he went back to Mandarachal without fulfilling the wishes of Lord Shiva, the latter would get angry.
Lord Surya finally decided to stay in Kashi. He said to himself, disobeying the instructions of Lord Shiva is a sin, but by staying in Kashi and undertaking religious activities, such sins will easily get cleansed. Accordingly Surya settled down in Kashi for the time being. Lord Surya is worshipped in his twelve forms and Kashi Khandhas narrated the importance of the twelve Adityas as under : Arunaditya Draupadaditya, Gangaditya, Keshavaditya, Khakholakaditya, Lolarkaditya, Mayukhaditya, Saambaditya,Uttararkaditya, , Vimaladitya, Vriddhaditya, , Yamaditya
2.1 Arun Aditya
Arun Aditya Is located in the Trilochan Mahadev Temple. According to a legend described in Kashi Khand, Sage Kashyap had two wives Kadru and Vinta. Kadru gave birth to hundred snake sons and Vinta gave birth to three sons namely Ulook, Arun and Garuda. Other birds removed Ulook from the designation of Pakshiraj by stated him as “Nirgun”. This depressed Vinta . So, when she conceived for the second time, she attempted to break the shell of the egg in the premature level only with the wish to see her child. After breaking the premature shell, Arun took birth from it. Arun was perverted being prematurely born. His body above the thighs was fully developed but lower portion was not properly developed. Just after his birth as a prematurely delivered baby, Arun cursed his mother that one day she will become a slave of her sister Kadru. When Vinta requested for the freedom from the curse, Arun told his mother that if she will let her another egg develop properly then she will give birth to a son who will make her free from slavery. With these words, Arun flew to Kashi, established an idol of Lord Surya there and started performing penance. As a result, Suryadev manifested, blessed him with a number of boons and established himself there in form of Arun Aditya and also stating that the latter will always be with him (Lord Surya) as his charioteer. Lord Surya said a person who worships me in the form of Arun Aditya will not know what is sadness and poverty will always remain at a distance.
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According to Kashi Khand, a person who worships Arun Aditya will never fall ill and there will be noobstacles in the devotee’s smooth life. The devotee will not know what is misery
Temple remains open for worship from morning 5:00 A.M. to 12:00 noon and from 5:00 P.M. to 11:00 P.M. Aarti is performed here twice a day, once in morning at 5:30 A.M. (Mangal Aarti) and second at 11:00 P.M (Shayan Aarti). Pandit Girija Shankar Pandey is the Poojari of the temple his Cell number (0)9236511267
2.2 Draupad Aditya temple
Draupad Aditya temple is located near Visheshwar temple, Akshay Vat. According to a story described in Kashi Khand when the Pandavas faced difficulties owing to the rivalry with their siblings and became forest dwellers, then their wife reached Kashi and started performing penance and prayed Suryadev. Suryadev got pleased by prolonged penance of Draupdi and handed over a bowl to her with a boon that until Draupdi wouldn’t take meals from that bowl; it can satisfy the hunger of innumerable people. Since then, Suryadev is residing here in form of Draupad Aditya. As per the beliefs, the devotees who worship Draupad Aditya located at the southern side of Vishweshwar, never have to face hurdle related to hunger and they never have to face the grief of separation from their loved ones.
When Pandavas went in exile, Draupadi was extremely sad to look at the plight of her husbands. (It is wellknown that Draupadi was married to the five pandavas and she also accompanied them to the forests andother places in exile).
She came to Kashi and started intensely praying to Lord Surya. Lord Surya was deeply moved by hersincerity and appeared before her. He gave her one vessel and told her that the vessel would be a “neveremptying vessel” inasmuch as she could go on feeding any number of guests and the vessel would never getempty. However, she should be the last one to eat. (Even now old timers say that Guests should be fed firstand household ladies should be the last to eat).
Lord Surya also told Draupadi about a divine wish that Lord Shiva had given to him. According to it, if a devotee who comes to pray to Vishveshwar in Kashi, prays to Lord Surya first, Lord Surya will have thepower to remove all the sorrows which are clinging to the devotee. Lord Surya also states here that a personwho sincerely prays to him at this place will never remain hungry. (Kashi Khand, Chapter 49). Temple remains open for worship throughout the day
2.3 Ganga Aditya Temple
Ganga Aditya Temple is located at , below Nepali temple at Lalita Ghat.Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh . Varanasi has been home to numerous Surya-related temples. Predominantly lord Surya is worshipped in following twelve forms in Varanasi Arun Aditya, Drupad Aditya, Ganga Aditya, Keshava Aditya, Kakholkh Aditya, Lolark Aditya, Mayukh Aditya, Sambha Aditya Uttarark Aditya, Vimal Aditya, Vriddh Aditya & Yama Aditya. Probably only city in India where one can find such 12 Aditya Temples.
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According to a story mentioned in Kashi Khand, when holy Ganga arrived in Varanasi, Suryadev reached there to praise Ganga. It is believed that since that day, he is established there and still praising Ganga. He is popularly known as Ganga Aditya here. According to beliefs, merely by darshan of Ganga Aditya, devotees can get rid of all their sins and diseases.
In ancient times, idol of Ganga Aditya was established at south of Agastya Kund along with idols of Ganga Keshav and Gangaji. But presently these three idols are established at Lalita Ghat.Temple remains open throughout the day for worshipping by devotees.
2.4 KESHAVADITYA MANDIR
KESHAVADITYA MANDIR is located at Aadi Keshav Temple, Raj Ghat Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh . According to a story mentioned in Kashi Khand, once Suryadev was travelling in the sky, he saw Lord Vishnu worshipping a Shiv Ling. In a curiosity to know that universally worshipped Lord Vishnu is worshipping whom, Lord Surya came down to the earth. Lord Surya asked when the entire world regards Lord Vishnu as Antaratma, why Lord Vishnu was worshipping Lord Shiva. To quell his anxiety, Lord Vishnu replied that in Kashi Kshetra Lord Shiva is the supreme Lord and he should be worshipped by every one and Shri Keshav has also got his splendor from Lord Shiva only. By worshipping Lord Shiva, sins of hundreds of births can be washed away. On hearing this from Shri Keshav, Suryadev started performing penance by worshipping Shivalinga by assuming Adikeshav as his Guru. Since then, Lord Aditya is established here and popularly known by the name of Keshav Aditya. It is believed that by worshipping Keshav Aditya, devotees can get rid of all their sins.
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Temple remains open for worshipping by devotees from 6:00 A.M. till 12:00 noon and 4:00 P.M. to 10 P.M.
2.5 KHAKOLA ADITYA MANDIR
KHAKOLA ADITYA MANDIR is located inside Kameshwar Mahadev Temple, Macchhodari , Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi has been home to numerous Surya-related temples. Predominantly lord Surya is worshipped in following twelve forms in Varanasi Arun Aditya, Drupad Aditya, Ganga Aditya, Keshava Aditya, Kakholkh Aditya, Lolark Aditya, Mayukh Aditya, Sambha Aditya Uttarark Aditya, Vimal Aditya, Vriddh Aditya & Yama Aditya. Probably only city in India where one can find such 12 Aditya Temples
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As per legend, in Kashi Khand, in ancient times, Dakshprajapati had two daughters namely Kadru and Vinta who were married to the son of Marichi Prajapati Kashyap. Once while playing they started conversing. Kadru asked Vinta that a horse who is part of the chariot of Suryadev is white or spotted? Kadru also put a bet that the loser will have to become the slave of the winner. Thus, Kadru said spotted and Vinta said white. Later Kadru ordered her snake sons to go to Ucchaishrava (the horse) and cover its tail while spitting poison so that the colour of the horse will appear spotted. Sons obeyed their mother. Thus, both Kadru and Vinta saw the Ucchaishrava as spotted while passing through the sky. As per the bet, Kadru won and Vinta has to become her slave. From that time onwards Vinta served Kadru and her sons which made her feel depressed all the time.
Garuda, the son of Vinta by seeing her mother sad asked her the reason. Then, he came to know that as Vinta is a slave of Kadru that is why she remains upset all the time. He told her mother to ask from Kadru’s son that at what cost, they will make her free from slavery. Vinta did so. Kadru’s snake sons replied that in the exchange of Nectar, they will free Vinta from slavery. So, Garuda went to heaven to approach gods for Nectar to get her mother free from slavery. Garuda displayed wisdom there and succeeded to get the Nectar. When Lord Vishnu came to know about this, he had a huge war with Garuda.
During battle, Lord Vishnu saw the valor of Garuda and asked him to seek a boon. In turn, Garuda asked Lord Vishnu to seek a boon. In reply Lord Vishnu asked for two boons from Garuda. First one was that Garuda should only show the nectar to snakes and make his mother free from slavery and ensure that snakes should not taste the nectar. Second one was that Garuda should return the nectar to gods safely after freeing her mother from slavery. Garuda reached to snakes, handed over the nectar to them and made her mother free from their slavery as mutually agreed earlier. Later when snakes tried to taste the nectar, Garuda told them that if anyone will touch the nectar without having a bath, it will be lost.
When snakes went for bath, Lord Vishnu took the nectar pot and left. When snakes returned they didn’t found the nectar there. Seeing this, with the wish to just taste a drop of the nectar snakes started licking Kushes, on which nectar pot was kept. In this process, they couldn’t get nectar but their tongues slitted into pieces.
When Vinta got freedom from slavery then she moved to Kashi for atonement of the sins that made her slave. She made an idol of Khakholak Aditya and was engrossed in a rigorous penance. Suryadev being pleased by her penance established himself there as a boon to her and became popular as Khakholak Aditya. As per beliefs, Khakholak Aditya removes the hurdles from the lives of his devotees. Those who worship Khakholak Aditya get rid of all kinds of sins.
Temple remains open for worship from 5:00 AM to 12.00 noon and from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Mangala Aarti is held here at 5:30 AM and Shayan Aarti at 9:30 PM . Contact : Shri Rajesh Giri, poojari, Mob: 9839703054 ;
2.6 LOLARK ADITYA MANDIR
LOLARK ADITYA MANDIR is situated in the southern part of Kashi near Assi-Ganga Sangam, near Lolark Kund , Tulsi Ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh..A person who religiously prays to Lolark Aditya on every Sunday is absolved of all his sins and all his skinailments will be healed. (Kashi Khand, Chapter 46).
LolarkKund has been given great importance in Kashi Khand. In ancient times, Lolark Kund was believed to be inconfluence with Ganga and Assi a rivulet but now this is in form of a Kund (Pond) only. Even now, duringrainy days, Ganges water enters the Kund through some underground source.
Great importance is attached to taking bath in this Pond in Magha Month when Shukla Shashti or Saptmi(sixth or seventh day after Amavasya) coincides with Sunday. Bathing on such a day in this kund andperforming puja etc. will grant the devotees all their desires. The devotee’s sins accumulated over sevenprevious births will be cleansed away by the above religious act. (Kashi Khand, Chapter 46).
Lolark Aditya is situated on Lolark Kund near Asi Ganga Sangam in Varanasi. Lolark Kund has been given great importance in Kashi. Lolark Aditya have been categorized as one of the most beautiful locations of Varanasi and it is believed that they take care of the welfare of natives of Kashi. Being on Asi Sangam where the water of Lolark Kund meets with the water of River Ganges and then reaches to other pilgrimages in Varanasi, it has been considered as one of the prominent pilgrimage in Varanasi.
As per legend in Kashi Khand, Lord Shiva ordered Suryadev to move to Kashi and cast some dents into the flawlessness of Divodas’ rule in order to reduce his powers and evict off the religious King Divodas. Suryadev obeyed Lord Shiva’s orders and proceeded to Kashi.
On reaching Kashi, Suryadev got excited to explore the city that gives salvation. Later, Suryadev carried out internal and external checks in the city but could not find any unrighteousness against the king. Finally, Suryadev decided not to return to Mandarachal and got himself established in Kashi in the form of his twelve idols. Because Lord Aditya got mesmerized with the beauty of Kashi, thus he was called as Lolark here.
It is believed that if someone go for annual visit to Lolark on Sunday of Agahan month then he can get rid off all his sins. The devotee who takes a dip at Asi Sangam, and offers Shradh of their forefathers, he is freed from Pitra-Rin. On Shukla Saptami of January-February, if a person takes holy dip in the confluence of River Ganges and Asi, in the Lolark Kund, he is freed from all his sins of his seven births.
This temple remains open throughout the day for worshipping. Darshan-Poojan in this temple on Sundays holds special significance. Presently, on a particular day every year (Lolark Chat) which falls in the Bhadrapad Month Shukla Paksha Shashti (6th day after Amavasya) devotees come in large numbers for taking bath inLolark Kund. Further, Margashirsha Month, Shukla Paksha Shashti (6th day after Amavasya), is also an important day.
2.7 Mayukh Aditya
Mangla Gauri Temple houses Mayukh Aditya temple near Panchganga ghat;
As per legend, Once Lord Surya installed a Shiv Ling known as Gabhasteeshwar and a devi idol known as Mangala Gauri at Panchanada Teerth (Panchganga Ghat) and started immensely praying to Lord Shiva. After 1 lakh years of his tough penance, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati appeared in front of him .The intensity of Lord Surya’s prayers started reflecting in the extreme heat generated thereby. Sun rays started getting warmer and warmer. Finally it became extremely unbearable for all living beings and all physical activities practically came to a standstill.
Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvaty appeared in front of Lord Surya. Lord Shiva gently touched Lord Surya, whereupon the latter’s extreme heat slowly subsided and he became more or less cool. Lord Surya opened his eyes and started singing praises of Goddess Parvaty and Lord Shiva whereupon both of them became extremely happy. Lord Shiva pleased with his penance asked him to seek a boon. They granted several divine wishes to Lord Surya and since then Suryadev is established here and is popularly known as Mayukh Aditya. As per beliefs, devotees are freed from all sorts of diseases if they worship Mayukh Aditya and if they worship on Sundays, they does not have to face poverty in their lives.
Lord Shiva told Lord Surya that when the latter was performing pooja of the former, only the sunrays were visible and the body of Lord Surya was not visible. Accordingly, Lord Surya will be called Mayukh Aditya. Mayukh means effulgence. Lord Shiva also stated that a devotee who worships Mayukh Aditya on Sundays will never fall ill. (Kashi Khand, Chapter 49).
The idol of Mayukh Aditya always remains moist and cool. If we physically remove the moisture and makeit dry, the idol will again become moist. The reason for this is Lord Shiva touched Lord Surya to reduce hisintense heat (as mentioned above). Old timers in and around the temple believe that the hidden river Dhootpapa is flowing beneath the surface, causing this moistness.
The temple also houses Gabhastheeshwar, Mangala Gauri and Mangal Vinayak. In the close vicinity aretemples of Brahmacharini and Brahmeshwar.
The temple is open from 05.00 a.m. to 01.00 p.m. and from 03.00 p.m. to 10 p.m. Aarties are performed in the evening. Shri Manoj Kumar Pandey is the chief priest and his cell number is (0)9305645502. Other priest is Shri Umesh Kumar Sharma whose cell number is (0)9450284728.
2.8 Samba Aditya Temple
Samba Aditya Temple is located at Surya Kund , Sidhgiribagh, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Varanasi has been home to numerous Surya-related temples. Predominantly lord Surya is worshipped in following twelve forms in Varanasi Arun Aditya, Drupad Aditya, Ganga Aditya, Keshava Aditya, Kakholkh Aditya, Lolark Aditya, Mayukh Aditya, Sambha Aditya Uttarark Aditya, Vimal Aditya, Vriddh Aditya & Yama Aditya. Probably only city in India where one can find such 12 Aditya Temples.
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As per legend, Once Sage Narada traveled to Dwaraka Puri and he was fondly welcomed by themind born sons of Lord Krishna. They exhibited hospitality of the highest order and Narad was pleased. But, Saamb who was egoistic about his looks, did not respected Narad Muni and ridiculed him Lord Krishna welcomed Sage Narad in the former’s palace with all humility. After exchanging allformalities/pleasantries, Sage Narad brought Saamba’s behaviour to the notice of Lord Krishna .
After departure of Narad Muni, Lord Krishna kept a deep day-night observation over Saamb but no faults could be revealed. However, the surveillance went on for quite some time.
After some days, Narad again visited Dwarka Puri and precisely at that time, Lord Krishna was in hispersonal chambers alongwith various ladies. Narad called Saamba, who was loitering outside, and told him to inform Lord Krishna about his arrival. Saamba hesitated for a while. It was a double whammy for him. On the one hand, if he barges in and disturbs Lord Krishna, the latter may get angry. On the other hand, if he disobeys Narad, he may get angry because on the earlier occasion he had not respected Narad. As soon as Saamb entered in the private suite of Lord Krishna, Narad Muni followed him to the room. Lord Krishna suddenly got up very embarrassed. All the girls surrounding him were also equally embarrassed. Saamba silently left the place.
Narad gave a wrong interpretation of the events to Lord Krishna that due to charm of Saamb, all women present there were attracted to him.
Hearing this, Lord Krishna became angry and cursed Saamb with leprosy. But when he came to know that Saamb was innocent, he suggested him to proceed to Kashi and perform penance while establishing an idol of Suryadev to get rid of the curse. Accordingly, Saamb proceeded to Kashi, made a Kund there and started penancing Suryadev and In due course, he was cured of this dreaded disease. Since then, Suryadev is residing here came to be called as Saamb Aditya. As per the beliefs, worshipping Saamb Aditya on Sundays is a key to get relief from all kinds of incurable diseases.
According to Kashi Khand Chapter 48, a person who takes bath in Saamba Kund religiously on Sundays atsunrise and prays to Saamba Aditya will get cured of any incurable disease, any married lady performingsuch prayers will always remain Sumangali (Suhagin-lady whose husband is alive) and childless couple willbe blessed with child. Saamba Kund is now known as Surya Kund / Suraj Kund. Temple remains open for worshipping from 6:30 AM till 01:00 PM and 07:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.
2.9 Uttarark Aditya, – Uttar Surya Narayan Temple
Uttar Surya Narayan Temple is located at Bakaria Kund, Jaitpura, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Varanasi has been home to numerous Surya-related temples. Predominantly lord Surya is worshipped in following twelve forms in Varanasi Arun Aditya, Drupad Aditya, Ganga Aditya, Keshava Aditya, Kakholkh Aditya, Lolark Aditya, Mayukh Aditya, Sambha Aditya Uttarark Aditya, Vimal Aditya, Vriddh Aditya & Yama Aditya. Probably only city in India where one can find such 12 Aditya Temples.
As per legend, in Kashi Khand, Suryadev is established as Uttarark Aditya at Ark Kund in the north of Kashi. Presently, this Kund is known as Bakaria Kund. According to Kashi Khand, Chapter 47, long time back, one Brahmin named Priyavrat was living in Kashialongwith his beautiful wife named Shubhavradha. Both were very religious and were blessed with abeautiful girl child, who was named as Sulakshana. The girl was born in Moola Star, 1st Charan (Padam)with Guru in fourth house. This combination is not supposed to be auspicious.
The child grew up to be a beautiful girl, well versed in all household activities. When she approached the ageof marriage, her father got worried because he had to find a suitable match for her, mainly because of herbirth in Moola star. Due to constant worries he fell sick and as there was no cure for worries, he died in duecourse. Overcome with grief, the girl’s mother also died, leaving the girl all alone in the world.
The girl dutifully performed the rites of her parents and she started praying to Lord Surya in his form ofUttarark Aditya. She underwent severe penance for a considerably long time and observed that a white goatused to come daily and constantly stare at her. The goat used to take bath in the Kund in the morning, wait for the whole day and in the evening, it used to eat dry grass, drink water from the Uttarark Kund and go back. This went on for several years.
Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvaty were deeply moved by the prayers ofSulakshana and Lord Shiva offered the girl a divine wish.Sulakshana thought for a moment and saw the Goat standing nearby. She requested Lord Shiva to grant a boon to the Goat instead of herself. Goddess Parvaty was moved by the philanthropy exhibited by Sulakshana and ordained that Sulakshana will always be with Goddess Parvaty as a companion. The goatwill take rebirth as daughter of Kashi Raja in consideration of its devotion to Uttarark Kund.
According to Kashi Khand, Goddess Parvaty stated that the Kund will be remembered for the sincerity of the Goat (because the Goat was regularly taking bath in the Kund even during severe winter months) and that alldevotees should take bath in the above Kund in Paushya Month (December-January) on Sundays and pray toUttarark Aditya. By performing the above ritual, they will be divinely blessed. The Kund is now known as Bakria Kund in local parlance.
As per beliefs, he resolves all the problems of his devotees, add supreme joy and always act as a saviour of Kashi. Any devotee who worships Uttarark Aditya, she/he is freed from all kinds of fears and inequality.
The temple remains open for worship from from 05:00 AM till 12:00 at noon and again from 05:00 PM till 10:00 PM at night. Aarti is performed here at 08:00 AM daily. Shri Ashok Tripathi is the poojari of the temple and he can be contacted in his Cell No.(0)9305041589
2.10 Vimala Aditya
Vimala Aditya temple is located at Jangambari, Ramapura Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh .According to Kashi Khand, a mere darshan of Vimal Aditya is capable enough to cure all kinds of diseases.
Varanasi has been home to numerous Surya-related temples. Predominantly lord Surya is worshipped in following twelve forms in Varanasi Arun Aditya, Drupad Aditya, Ganga Aditya, Keshava Aditya, Kakholkh Aditya, Lolark Aditya, Mayukh Aditya, Sambha Aditya Uttarark Aditya, Vimal Aditya, Vriddh Aditya & Yama Aditya. Probably only city in India where one can find such 12 Aditya Temples.
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As per legend, Long time back, one person named Vimal was residing in a hilly place. Due to some sins committed in his earlier life, he was afflicted with Leprosy. He had heard about Kashi and So, he left his home, family, wealth etc and came to Kashi and started worshipping Lord Surya with all fervour.
He performed all sorts of Poojas, Pushp Archana and other rituals as are prescribed for Lord Surya. His pious actions pleased Lord Surya who appeared before him and with his divine blessings, Vimal was cured of his ailment (Leprosy). Lord Surya also offered a divine wish to Vimal.
Vimal appealed to Lord Surya that all his devotees should never be afflicted by this dreaded disease. They should not face any sort of difficulties in their life. Lord Surya granted accordingly and stated that devotees will know him as Vimal Aditya at that place. Further, Lord Surya will always remain in the idol of Vimal Aditya and will continue to bless his devotees. The place of worship remains practially open throughout the day.
2.11 Vruddha Aditya Temple
Vruddha Aditya Temple is located at Meer ghat, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. As per legend, in Kashi Khand, once a staunch devotee called “Vriddhharit” who was very old in age, Once he established an idol of Suryadev at southern side of Vishalakshi Devi and started performing a severe penance devotionally. and intensely prayed to Lord Surya. Being pleased with his prayers Suryadev manifested before him and gave him a boon of Soundaryrapunj Taran ( youth)as wished by the Brahmin and established himself there
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The old man said “for performing Tap (Tapas – rigorous ascetic practices), a devotee needs sufficient strength. There is nothing in this world as good as Tapas which gives prosperity, enlightenment and all joys. However, one needs to be young and virile enough for carrying out Tapas.” Accordingly, the old manrequested Lord Surya that he should be made young. .Since then he is popularly known as Vriddh Aditya here. As per beliefs, by worshipping Vriddh Aditya, devotees can attain siddhi and get relieved from all sorts of diseases.
Lord Surya was deeply movedby the sincerity and devotion of the old man and he granted boon accordingly.Thus the old man became young. Since Lord Surya was eulogized by an old man at that place, the Lordc ame to be known as Vriddh Aditya at that place. According to Kashi Khand, a person who regularly praysto Vriddh Aditya will always remain energetic like a young man.
The temple is open for worship from 06.30 a.m. to 09.30 p.m. The timings may change. While the idol issituated inside the premises, there is a Surya Chakra in the outer wall of the premises. Devotees canpray/perform pooja on their own.
2.12 Yama Aditya Temple
Yama Aditya temple is located at CK-7/135, on the stairs going towards Sankatha Ghat. As per legend, in Kashi Khand, in ancient times Yamraj established Yameshwar “Shivlinga” and an idol of Suryadev namely “Yama Aditya” at Yamghat and started worshipping it. As per beliefs, if devotees worship Yama Aditya after having a dip in Yamteerth, they don’t have to face the Yam (death). Simultaneously, if a devotee performs Pind daan in Yamteerth on Tuesday and on Bharni Nakshatrayukta Chaturdashi, she/he can be freed from Pitra Rin. Temple remains open for worshipping by devotees all the day.
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3.0 Kashi Vishnu Yatra
According to a legend mentioned in Kashi Khand when during Padma Kalp there was a severe drought all across the world, then all creatures were severly afflicted by it. So, when Lord Brahma came to know about this he became worried as it was difficult for him to see his creation being on the verge of destruction. After a long search for a solution, Lord Brahma saw King Ripunjay who was dedicatedly engrossed in the penance. Being pleased by him, Lord Brahma renamed him to King Divodas and requested him to take the world under his throne and save the humanity. King agreed with this but he had one condition that he wanted to rule peacefully without intervention, so that he could reform the dharma without any disturbance. Therefore, he wished that all Gods and Godly entities should remain in the heaven only and should not return to land. Lord Brahma also kept a condition that King should be an excellent administrator and that every person staying in his kingdom or visiting his kingdom should be treated well with proper religious pursuits. King agreed.
On the command of Lord Brahma, all Gods left to the heaven. But, it was not easy for Lord Brahma to ask Lord Shiva to leave Kashi and go to heaven as Kashi is believed to be one of the favorite places of Lord Shiva. So, when Lord Shiva appeared in front of Madaranchal being pleased with his prayers and Mandaranchal asked Lord Shiva to reside upon him along with Goddess Parvati and his family as a boon, finding right time to aware Lord Shiva about King Divodas’ condition, Lord Brahma told how King Divodas can save humanity and about King’s condition that all gods should leave to heaven. As Lord Shiva could not deny the request of Lord Brahma, so he also left to Mandaranchal from Kashi. As per his condition, King Divodas took the throne and worked vigorously to bring order in the decaying world. With the favours obtained from Lord Brahma, king established a rule so flawless that was never seen before. Under his regime, his subjects prospered and justice flourished.
As the time passed, Lord Shiva desired to again come back to his own city Kashi. But due to Brahma’s boon to Divodas, he was unable to set feet in Kashi. Soon Lord Shiva came to know that other gods too are unable to stay in Kashi. Not happy with this kind of attitude of the Divodas, Lord Shiva decided first to cast some dents into the flawlessness of Divodas’ rule in order to reduce his powers and then to end his regime. For this purpose, Lord Shiva sent Yoginis and various gods to Kashi. But when Suryadev and Yoginis were failed to find out the loop holes in the kingdom of Raja Divodas and Lord Ganesha too got delayed in doing so, then Lord Shiva requested Lord Vishnu to go to Kashi and evict the King from his throne. Thereafter, Lord Vishnu left for Kashi and established himself as an idol on Ganga-Varuna Sangam near Padodak Teerth in the form of Adi-Keshav and left towards the North Direction of Kashi and reached Dharm Kshetra along with Goddess Laxmi and Garun. As they all reached there, Lord Vishnu transformed himself into fascinating Buddha saint,Goddess Laxmi into wanderer (Pravrajika) and Garud into a wise Buddha Pupil. After transforming themselves, they all started misleading and misguiding the citizens of Divodas’ Kingdom. As a result, they all succeeded in misleading the civilians of Kingdom. Pravrajika (transformed form of Goddess Laxmi) spread the profanity and misconduct across the city. In this way King Divodas got depressed and worried about his kingdom and citizens. Meanwhile, Lord Vishweshwar Dhundhiraj succeeded in controlling citizen of king’ kingdom with his Maaya Jaal. After getting downhearted, when king Divodas got to know that after 18 days a Audichya Brahmin is arriving in the city the King got excited. After 18 days Lord Vishnu himself arrived in the city of Divodas in the form of Brahmin. King Divodas welcomed the Brahmin with hospitality and asked him for the solution of his problem. In reply Lord Vishnu appreciated the qualities, good deeds etc. of King and his tenacity. Then Lord Vishnu told Divodas that he has committed a big mistake by dislodging Lord Vishweshwar from the Kashi, which has resulted the occurrence of such situation. He asked Divodas to establish a Shivalinga in Kashi if he wants a solution. Along with this, he also told the King that after seven days from establishing the Shivalinga, Viman of Lord Shiva will come and take him to the heaven (Swarglok). When all things got sorted Lord Vishnu established himself at Panchnad Teerth in Kashi to bless his devotees.
In Kashi, Lord Vishnu is established in eighteen forms. All these forms of Lord Vishnu are included in Kashi Vishnu Yatra. Following are the names of the forms of Vishnu in which he is established in Kashi:- Shri Bindu Madhav , Shri Adi Keshav, Shri Narad Keshav, Shri Prahlad Keshav, Shri Yagya Varah, Shri Vidar Narsimha, Shri Gopi Govind, Shri Hayagreeva Keshav, Shri Shwet Madhav, Shri Prayag Madhav,Shri Ganga Keshav, Shri Vaikunth Madhav, Shri Prachand Narsimha, Shri Atyugra Narsimha, Shri Kolahal Narsimha, Shri Vitank Narsimha, Shri Kokavarah, Shri Dharanivarah.
3.1 Sansthan Bindumadhav Devsthan
Sansthan Bindumadhav Devsthan is located at Panch Ganga Ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. As per legend, As per directions of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu travelled from Mandarachal to Kashi with a divine mission of making King Divodas leave Kashi. After having accomplished his mission, Lord Vishnu was enjoying the serene beauty of Kashi, Pancha NadaTeerth, Padodak Teerth and other places. At Pancha Nada Teerth, he came across one extremely lean looking Sage who was undergoing Tapas.
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Lord Vishnu in his divine form approached the Sage whose name was Agni Bindu . The Sage, on seeing the Lord in person, was ecstatic and he prostrated before the Lord. and started singing in praise of the Lord. The Sage addressed the Lord by various names like Mukunda, Madusudan, Madhav, Narayan, Rama Bhadran, Chatur Bhuj, Janardhan etc.
Pleased Lord Vishnu asked the Sage to seek any divine boon. The Sage, in reply, sought that Lord Vishnu should always be available in the vicinity of Pancha Nada Teerth in the name of the Sage. Lord Vishnu granted accordingly. Lord Vishnu further told that he would stay in Kashi as long as Kashi is present and there will be no destruction of Kashi, as this holy city is situated atop the Trishul(Trident) of Lord Shiva. Therefore, even Maha Pralay (great deluge) cannot destroy the city.
Further, a devotee who takes bath in Pancha Nada Teerth and even if he dies elsewhere, he should attain Moksha. The Sage also sought that a devotee who bathes in Pacha Nada Teerth and worships Lord Vishnu should be blessed with wealth and prosperity.
Lord Vishnu agreed to the request of the Sage. He stated that henceforth he (Lord) will be known as Bindu Madhav in Pancha Nada Teerth. By his presence, the Teerth will be extremely Sacred and devotees who bathe in this Teerth and honour learned persons, will be blessed with wealth and prosperity.
The Teerth, which is capable of cleansing all Sins, will be called as Bindu Teerth. A person may have committed various sins, knowingly or unknowingly. But if, during the Kartik Month, he religiously bathes in Pancha Nada Teerth and worships Bindu Madhav, he will attain Mukti
Kashi Khand, Chapter 60 has given in detail the importance of Kartik Month in respect to Pancha NadaTeerth. Lord Visweshwar himself regularly takes bath in this Teerth during Kartik Month. Lord Vishnu further stated that he (Lord) was called as Aadi Madhav in Sat Yug, he should be worshipped as Ananda Madhav in Tretha Yug, he would present himself in Dwapar Yug as Shree Madhav. In Kali Yug the Lord should be known by the name of Bindu Madhav.
The temple remains open from 04.00 a.m. to 08.00 p.m. Mangala Aarti is held at 04.00 a.m., Shringar Aartiat 08.00 a.m. and Shayan Aarti at 08.00 p.m..Shri Murlidhar Ganesh Patwardhan is the poojary of the temple – his Cell No.(0)9918936350
Bindu Madhav temple also houses 108 Shiv lingas.
3.2 Shree Laxmi Narayan Mandir
Shree Laxmi Narayan Mandir is located at Panch Ganga Ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
It is the rather inconspicuous-looking temple which nevertheless attracts devotees in large numbers. Established in 1475 CE and renovated in 1975, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his consort Goddess Laxmi. Offering visitors elevated views of the holy River Ganges and of the charming boats below, a visit is surely in order. The best way to reach here is by walking along the ghats and taking turn at Panchganga Ghat.
Shree Laxmi Narayan Mandir is located very near to the famous Bindumadhav Mandir. Must have darshan of both the temples.
3.3 Sri Adhi Kesava Perumal Temple
Sri Adhi Kesava Perumal Temple ( Also Hari Keshav Aditya, Gyan Keshav, Gnaneswar, & Chinta Haran Ganesh temples) Sri Adhi Kesava Perumal Temple is located at Adi Keshav Ghat. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The temple also houses Hari Keshav Aditya, Gyan Keshav, Gnaneswar, & Chinta Haran Ganesh temples. Sri Adhi Kesava Perumal Temple is an imporetant Vishnu temple to be visited in Varanasi. which is part of Kashi Vishnu Yatra covering 18 Vishnu temples.
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As per legend, in 61st Chapter of Kashi Khand, When Lord Vishnu evicted King Divodasa from his Kingdom he established himself in the form of Adi Keshav at Padodak teerth.
Adi means “Origin” and the word Keshav is a form of Lord Vishnu. This temple is one among the ancient temples of Kashi. It is considered as one of the oldest temples in Varanasi and is probably considered the first temple of Lord Vishnu in Kashi. The architecture of this temple is the most attractive one and is different from the temples constructed in Indian Style. In this temple Adi Keshav – Sangameshwar Linga is also established which is a four faced Linga which is believed to be established by Adi Keshav. According to the beliefs, devotees who worship the Adi Keshav form of Lord Vishnu gets rid of all their sorrows and flourishes success & happiness in life.
Varanasi has been home to numerous Surya-related temples. Predominantly lord Surya is worshipped in following twelve forms in Varanasi Arun Aditya, Drupad Aditya, Ganga Aditya, Keshava Aditya, Kakholkh Aditya, Lolark Aditya, Mayukh Aditya, Sambha Aditya Uttarark Aditya, Vimal Aditya, Vriddh Aditya & Yama Aditya. Probably only city in India where one can find such 12 Aditya Temples.
Lord Vishnu(Adikeshav) told Suryadev that in Varanasi, Lord Shiva is the only deity to be worshipped and Shri Keshav has also got his splendor from Lord Shiva only. By worshipping Lord Shiva, sins of hundreds of births can be washed away. On hearing this from Shri Keshav, Suryadev started performing penance by worshipping Shivalinga by assuming Adikeshav as his Guru. Since then, Lord Aditya is established here and popularly known by the name of Keshav Aditya.It is believed that by worshipping Keshav Aditya, devotees can get rid of all their sins. To Return to INDEX, Click Here. Otherwise Continue
4.0 Char Dham Yatra in Kashi
Char Dhams were established by Adi Shankracharya in four directions of India. These Char Dhams includes Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri and Rameswaram. It is believed that by visiting these Dhams and worshipping deities there, devotees can attain salvation. These Dhams are considered highly sacred and one must visit these Char Dhams once in a lifetime.
In Varanasi, replica of these Char Dhams has been established at different locations. It is believed that by worshipping these Dhams present in Varanasi, devotees can attain same benefits as that obtained by worshipping Char Dhams established across India.
4.1 Badri Narayan Mandir
Badri Narayan Mandir is one of the Char Dhams in Varanasi. Other temples in Char Dham are : Shri Jagannath Ji Temple, Rameshwaram temple & Dwarakadeesh temple.
Badrinarayan temple located at Badri Narayan Ghat of Varanasi is a replica of Badrinarayan Dham situated at Nar-Narayan mountain range in Uttarakhand. Nar-Narayan Teerth is believed to exist in River Ganga that lies near Badri Narayan Ghat. According to a belief, by worshipping Badrinarayan after taking bath in Nar-Narayan Teerth, devotees can obtain same benefits as that from Badrinarayan Dham located in Uttarakhand.
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Kashi Khand states one Narayan Teerth where Lord Vishnu is available in the form of Nar Narayan. Devotees who worship Nar Narayan will become equivalent to Lord Vishnu. Narayan Teerth is not inexistence now. Nar Narayan (popularly known as Badri Narayan) is located at A.1/72, Badri Narayan Ghat.
On the occasion of full-moon day of Paush (Paush Purnima (December-January), is celebrated here in the honor of Lord Vishnu. Also, on 3rd light-half of Vaishakha (April-May) sacred bath ceremony at this ghat is believed to hold utmost importance.
4.2 Shri Jagannath Ji Temple
Shri Jagannath Ji Temple is located Near Assi Ghat, , Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh . It is one of the Char Dham temples of Varanasi. Others are : Badri Narayan Temple, Rameshwaram temple & Dwarakadeesh temple.
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Jagannath Temple Varanasi overlooks the Asi Ghat and is a replica of Puri Jagannath Temple. The temple dates back to 1802 when two affluent citizens from Bhonsala estate, Visambhar Ram, and Beni Ram constructed it to honor Lord Jagannath. The temple has many resemblances to the original one including idols and architecture. It witnesses traditional worshipping of Lord Jagannath much like the Puri temple. The only difference is in the size of the temple, as it is much smaller in comparison to the Puri temple.
Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world, is a desired destination for Hindu pilgrims. The city is home to numerous temples that are frequented by visitors for spiritual luminescence. When in the city, visiting the two-hundred-year-old Jagannath Temple is a must. The Jagannath Temple witnesses a number of rituals on the occasion of Rath yatra festivity when the ‘lakha mela’ (fair that attracts lakhs of people) is organised in the city.
Three idols reside in this temple Lord Jagannath, elder brother Balaram and sister Subhadra. Rituals and procedure of worshipping the deity are similar to that of the Jagannath temple Puri. In four corners of this temples, there are idols of four Vaishnavite divinities namely Krishna, Rama Panchayatana, Kaliyamardan as a form of Hindu God Krishna and Lakshmi-Narayana.
Along with these idols, there is also an image of Prachanda Narasimha, measuring almost four meters high and his devotee Prahlada. The complex of this Jagannath Temple in Varanasi is divided into three sections that are linked through gates. The shape of this temple is rectangular, and height of the main spire is almost sixteen meters. In four corners of this temples, there are figurines of four Vaishnavite divinities namely Krishna, Rama Pancayatana, Kaliyamardan as a form of Krishna and Lakshminarayana.
It is believed that by darshan of this temple located in Varanasi, devotees can obtain same punyafal as that from Jagannath Dham situated in Odisha. Rath Yatra celebrated in this temple during June/ July or Hindi month of Ashadha is a miniature form of the one at organised in Puri. The temple is open from 06.00 A.M. to 12.00 noon and from 03.00 P.M. to 09.00 P.M. Aarties are held in the morning and evening.
4.3 Rameshwaram Temple
Shri Panch Dashnam Juna Akhara is located at Hanumaan Ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Rameshwaram Temple s located at B.4/16, in the courtyard of Sri Dashnam Juna Akhara Hanuman Ghat. . It is one of the Char Dham temples of Varanasi. Others are : Badri Narayan Temple, Shri Jagannath Ji Temple & Dwarakadeesh temple.
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Hanuman Ghat is situated near Juna Akhara, a famous religious sect in Varanasi. It was earlier known as Rameshwaram Ghat as it is believed that it was built by Lord Rama himself to honour his faithful devotee Lord Hanuman. Lord Hanuman is a god of physical strength; so, the ghat is a favourite destination for bodybuilders and wrestlers. Incidentally, the word akhara also means a court or a special ground, where the wrestlers and bodybuilders perform their exercises and hold competitions.
Hanuman Ghat was also the abode of the renowned saint of Vaishnava sect, Vallabhacharya, a great devotee of Lord Krishna. The ghat houses a temple founded by saint-poet Tulsidas, who wrote the world-famous epic of Ramayana. The ghat also boasts of Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam of Sri Shankaracharya Matha at Varanasi. The Sri Kamakoteeswar Mandir is a grand temple where devotional services are regularly held.
Rameshwaram temple is a replica of Rameshwaram Dham situated at sea shore in Tamil Nadu. It is believed that by darshan of this temple located in Varanasi, devotees can obtain same punyafal as that from Rameshwaram Dham situated in Tamil Nadu.
It is believed that Rameshwar Mahadev Teerthadham was established by Lord Shriram, Bharat, Shatrugan, Lakshman and Hanuman. Rameshwaram shivlinga along with Someshwar, Agneshwar, Rachabhishwar Nahuseshwar, Bharateshwar, Lakshmanoshwar, Shastrudheshwar, Dev Panchayat Ling (16 Shivalinga together) are established in the temple premises.
Rameshwaram is a place of religious importance in Kashi’s heritage series and it is the third level of Panchkoshi Parikrama of many devotees who visit here from the corners of the country in order to fulfill their wishes.
Temple remains open for worship from 06.00 a.m. to 12.00 Noon and from 05.00 p.m. to 09.00 p.m. Shivratri Mela, Lota-Bhanta Mela are prominent festivals held at the Rameshwaram Temple premises from time to time.
4.4 Sri Dwarikadish Mandir
Sri Dwarikadish Mandir is located at Shakul Dhara Pokhra Varanasi., Uttar Pradesh .It is one of the Char Dham temples of Varanasi. Others are : Badri Narayan Temple, Shri Jagannath Ji Temple & Rameshwaram Temple.
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is a replica of Dwarkadheesh Dham situated at sea shore in Dwarka of Gujarat.
It is believed that by darshan at this temple located in Varanasi, devotees can obtain same punyafal as that from Dwarkadheesh Dham situated in Gujarat.There is a big water pond in front of the temple and Shree Maa Lakshmi Ji Ka Mandir nearby. To Return to INDEX, Click Here. Otherwise Continue
5.0 Other Vishnu Temples
5.1 UDUPI SHRI KRISHNA MADHWA Temple
UDUPI SHRI KRISHNA MADHWA Temple is located near Assi ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh . It houses a small beautiful Udupi Krishna temple and a few rooms for Yatris to stay. Many Satsang pravachans are held in the temple and adjoining premises.
5.2 Shri Satynarayan Tulsi Manas Mandir
Shri Satynarayan Tulsi Manas Mandir is located at Anandbagh, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh . Tulsi Manas Mandir is one of the most famous temples in the holy city of Varanasi. This temple has great historical and cultural importance in Hinduism since the ancient Hindu epic Ramcharitmanas was originally written at this place by poet-saint, Goswami Tulsidas in the 16th century
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Great epic, Ramayan was written in Sanskrit language by Valmiki Rishi between 500 and 100 BC. Being in Sanskrit language, this epic was not understood by masses. In the 16th century, Goswami Tulsidas wrote the Ramayan in Awadhi dialect of Hindi language and the Awadhi version was called Ramcharitmanas (meaning Lake of the deeds of Rama.
The oldest city of religion, culture, education, faith, civilization, cultural nationalism, Kashi is also called the city of temples. Apart from Kashi Vishwanath, there are thousands of temples in the city. Any visitor who comes here is lost seeing the structure here.
Durgakund is located seven km away from Varanasi Cantt railway station and is situated near the picturesque Tulsi Manas Temple of Kashi. All the walls of this temple are adorned with the couplets and four-footers of Ramcharitmanas
Tulsi Manas Temple is one of the most beautiful temples in the modern temples of Kashi. This temple is a symbol of peace. Upon entering here, the mind gets peace. It is said that Tulsidas Ji composed Ramcharitmanas at this place. This is the reason why it is called Tulsi Manas Temple. Here the musical Ramcharitmanas Sankirtan resonates in a melodious voice.
According to local residents, there used to be a small temple here earlier. In 1964, Seth Ratanlal Sureka, a businessman from Calcutta, built a grand temple with white marble, which was inaugurated by the then President of India, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan.
In the midst of this temple, the beautiful idols of Lord Shri Ram, Mother Sita, Lakshmanji and Hanuman are decorated. These statues are movable. Also, there is a temple of Mata Annapurna and Shivji on one side and Lord Satyanarayana on the other side.
On the second floor of this temple automated Sriram and Krishnalila are displayed. The statue of Tulsidas is also situated on this floor. Unlike the other crowded temples of Kashi, the serene atmosphere of this temple makes a distinct impact.
5.3 Shree Sanatan Gaudiya Matt
Shree Sanatan Gaudiya Matt is located at Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
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Srila Prabhupad established “Sri Sanatan Gaudiya Math” in a rental house of Kashidham in the year 1925. On 3rd December, 1987 with divine grace of Sri Acharyapad the holy entrance ceremony of 82 feet long temple was celebrated on the occasion of Srimad Bhagabat Gita Jubilee celebration.
The Gaudiya Mutt also has several rooms where Yatris can stay on payment basis. Tel: 2275-952 STD 0542 Phone:-9450546283 Must have darshan of beautiful Radha Krishna
5.4 Shri Swami Narayan Mandir
Shri Swami Narayan Mandir, is located at Machodari, Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
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This Mandir comes under the NarNarayan Dev Gadi The Naranarāyan Dēv Gadī, named after NarNarayan Dev, is one of the two Gadis (seats) that together form the Swaminarayan Sampraday. Its headquarter is at the Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Ahmedabad and controls the Uttar Vibhag. The Acharya of the Gadi is Acharya Shree Koshalendraprasadji Maharaj.
Shri Swami Narayan Mandir has lot of accomadation for yatris at reasonable prices.
5.5 Madhusudan Temple
Madhusudan Temple is located near Kameshwar Mahadev Temple
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Madhusudan Temple is located near TRILOCHAN MAHADEV TEMPLE, , at Ghasi Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh The temple ios quite small and indiscreet a narrow path from the small road in which it is located. However it is very ancient Vishnu temple which one must visit and have darshan. To Return to INDEX, Click Here. Otherwise Continue
Interested in travelling and having Darshan of several Temples in India and abroad. Retired as President from Navayuga Spatial Technologies Ltd & previously as General Manager (AS&DM) , NRSC, Department of Space View all posts by kalyangeetha
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