Mahakaleshwar Temple is the main temple of Lord Shiva located in Ujjain city of India. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. It is also called Swayambhu Jyotirlinga because it has been on this earth since the beginning of the universe. The description of Mahakal is found in the works of Puranas and Kalidas and many Sanskrit poets, in which the temple has been depicted very beautifully. Mahakavi Kalidas has praised this temple while discussing Ujjayini in Meghdoot.
The idol of Mahakaleshwar is considered as Dakshinamurti due to its south-facing. This is a unique feature, which is found in Mahakaleshwar by Tantric tradition only among the 12 Jyotirlingas.
The idol of Omkareshwar Shiva is enshrined in the sanctum sanctorum above the Mahakal temple. Images of Ganesha, Parvati, and Kartikeya are installed in the west, north, and east of the sanctum. There is a statue of Nandi in the south. The idol of Nagchandreshwar on the third floor is open for darshan only on the day of Nag Panchami. On the day of Mahashivratri, a huge fair is held near the temple, and puja takes place at night.
Click here to know about the Bhedaghat waterfall of Jabalpur.
History of Temple
It is known from history that from 1107 to 1728, Ujjain was ruled by the Yavanas. During his reign, the ancient religious traditions of Hindus were damaged and also the Mahakal temple. But in 1690 AD, the Marathas invaded the Malwa region and on 29 November 1728, the Maratha rulers established their suzerainty in the Malwa region. After this, the lost glory of Ujjain returned and from 1731 to 1809 this city remained the capital of Malwa. During the reign of the Marathas, two important events took place here – first, the reconstruction of the Mahakaleshwar temple and the restoration of the Jyotirlinga, and the establishment of the Simhastha festival bath, which was a great achievement. Later on, Raja Bhoj expanded this temple.
Click here to know about Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga located in Khandwa, Indore.
Gallery
Google Map (Direction)
2
20
20
