Located in Sohagpur of Shahdol district in Madhya Pradesh, the Virateshwar Temple, also known as the Virat Temple, is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple, protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), is officially listed as the “Virat Temple and Ruins” with ASI monument number N-MP-255. During the holy month of Sawan (Shravan), this temple attracts thousands of devotees who come to worship Lord Shiva, especially on Mondays, making it a significant center of faith.
Sphatik Shila Chitrakoot Satna. Click here to read more
History of the Temple
The Virateshwar Temple was constructed between 950 and 1050 AD by Maharaja Yuvraj Dev II of the Kalachuri dynasty. The king dedicated this temple as a gift to a saint from the Golaki Matha. This 70-foot-tall temple is a fine example of Kalachuri-era architecture and reflects the pinnacle of the architectural style of that period. With a length of 46 feet and a height of 72 feet, the temple’s design closely resembles the temples of Khajuraho built by the Chandela rulers. A statue of Nandi, Lord Shiva’s bull, sits in front of the temple; however, it has slightly eroded over time due to natural elements. The temple’s outer walls are adorned with intricately carved statues and scenes from Hindu mythology, echoing the sculpture style of Khajuraho.
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Center of Faith During Sawan
With the onset of the Shravan month, the Virateshwar Temple becomes a central place of worship for Lord Shiva. Devotees gather in large numbers on the Mondays of this month, offering water and performing special rituals at the temple. Many devotees believe that worshipping Lord Shiva here during Shravan fulfills their wishes. The entire month sees a steady stream of pilgrims performing religious rites and paying homage to the sacred Shivling within the temple.
Madhavgarh Fort Satna. Click to read more
Ban Ganga Fair: A Tradition Since 1895
Every year, the Ban Ganga Fair is organized on the temple premises. This tradition, started in 1895 by Maharaja Gulab Singh of Rewa, continues today as a five-day festival. Thousands of devotees and tourists participate in this event, coming for religious purposes and to enjoy the vibrant social and cultural activities. The fair has become a symbol of the cultural heritage of Shahdol and holds significant importance in the district.
Kalinjar Fort Banda. Click to read more
Architectural Brilliance of the Temple
The Virateshwar Temple is renowned for its Nagara-style architecture. The temple’s walls are adorned with sculptures and intricate carvings reminiscent of the Khajuraho temples. Statues of deities and mythical scenes are artistically carved on stone, making the temple one of the prominent cultural monuments in Madhya Pradesh. The central Shivling holds immense significance, and the entire structure showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of the medieval period.
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Religious Significance
Virateshwar Temple is a cultural landmark in Shahdol, representing an ancient heritage. Residents and visitors both hold a deep reverence for the temple, and its significance is especially magnified during the holy month of Sawan. History students and researchers often study the temple’s architectural style and historical background, highlighting its importance as a subject of research. It is believed that those who offer prayers at this temple during Sawan receive blessings and fulfill their desires.
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Timing
8 PM to 9 PM (All day)
How to Reach Virateshwar Temple
Visitors can reach the temple through various modes of transport:
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Shahdol Railway Station, approximately 3-4 km from the temple. Local taxis or auto-rickshaws are available from the station to the temple.
- By Road: Shahdol is well-connected by road to other major cities. Private vehicles or state transportation buses can be used to reach Shahdol. The bus stand is about 4 km from the temple.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jabalpur, which is around 180 km from Shahdol. Taxis and buses are available from Jabalpur Airport to Shahdol.
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A visit to the Virateshwar Temple offers devotees not only the opportunity to seek blessings from Lord Shiva but also to experience the historical architecture and cultural significance of this ancient site.
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Address and Google of The Virateshwar temple, Shahdol
Address: 89C5+5G8, Sohagpur, Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh 484001
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Images of The Virateshwar temple, Shahdol
Other places to visit are near The Virateshwar Temple, Suhagpur.
- Banganga Park, Shahdol
- Bansagar Dam, Shahdol
- Tagore Park, Shahdol
- Rastogi Tower
- Sharda mata temple Maihar
- Alha Udal Akhada
- Neelkanth Temple and Ashram
- Bada Akhada Mandir Maihar
- Panni Koh Waterfall Maihar
- Badi Kher Mai temple Maihar
- Oila Temple Maihar
- Lalitamba Shakti Peeth Maihar
- Ikshapurti Temple Maihar
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