Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga dedicated to Lord Shiva is located in Ujjain in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. Where millions of devotees come to seek blessings of Lord Shiva.
Known for its ancient history and divine powers, Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga maintains special grace on its devotees.
In this blog we will tell you about the story behind Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga and how to reach there, which will help you during the journey.
Significance of Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga
Mahakaleshwar Temple is one of the most sacred places of Lord Shiva and it is the only south facing Jyotirlinga and is said to have great tantric powers.
According to Hindu legends, Lord Shiva had a favorite city named Avanti, there lived a devotee of Lord Shiva named Ved Priya who used to worship Lord Shiva daily and in the same city lived a demon who had received the boon of Brahma ji and he used to create havoc in the whole city every day.
With time the demon started troubling the Brahmins more and when the demon crossed the limits, the Brahmins prayed to Lord Shiva to protect them and even after the warning of Lord Shiva, the demon did not listen and Bholenath tore the earth and appeared in the form of Mahakal and burnt the demon and after that the Brahmins prayed to Mahadev to sit there and according to the legends, from then on Lord Shiva started living in the form of Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga.
History and Architecture
The history of Mahakaleshwar temple is very old, which has been mentioned in many Hindu scriptures. Special attention has been given to Hindu cultures in the construction of the temple, in which glimpses of Maratha and Chalukya styles are seen.
The temple has a sanctum sanctorum where there is a Jyotirlinga dedicated to Lord Shiva and many other small temples dedicated to other gods and goddesses have also been built in the temple complex.
From time to time, many Hindu kings have helped in the reconstruction of the temple, which increased the grandeur of the temple and kept the faith of the devotees intact.
Unique Rituals: The Bhasma Aarti
The most special is the Bhasma Aarti of Mahakaleshwar temple, which symbolizes the cycle of life and death. This Aarti is performed every morning in which holy ash is offered to the Jyotirlinga. According to beliefs, witnessing this Aarti is considered most auspicious.
A special dress code has to be followed to attend this Aarti in which men have to wear dhoti and women have to wear saree or traditional dress and devotees have to book in advance for the Bhasma Aarti.
How to Reach Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga
By Air
The first way to reach here is by air, the nearest airport is Ahilyabai Holkar Airport located in Indore which is about 55 km from the temple and from there onwards the journey has to be done by buses and private taxis.
By Rail
The second way to reach here is by rail, the nearest railway station of which is Ujjain Junction which is about 1-2 km from the temple.
By Road
The temple is well connected to the country and state by road, for which you will easily get regular buses and private taxis.
Best Time to Visit Mahakaleshwar Temple
The temple is open for devotees throughout the year.
Winter (October to March) – This season is the best to visit as the weather is pleasant and the whole city is perfect for a new travel experience.
The festival of Mahashivratri dedicated to Lord Shiva is celebrated with great enthusiasm. In this festival, devotees organize special pujas to get the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Shravan month (July to August) – This holy month dedicated to Lord Shiva attracts devotees and the temple is a palace of festivities.
Tips for Travelers
Devotees should come to the temple premises wearing decent clothes to maintain the sanctity of the temple.
Devotees should book in advance for rituals like Bhasma Aarti as you may face trouble due to heavy crowd at that time.
Respect local customs and follow the rules of the temple premises.
Devotees should make arrangements for accommodation and food in advance to avoid inconvenience.
Devotees are requested to take special care of cleanliness and environment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga
Can I visit Mahakaleshwar Temple without registration?
Yes, But if you want to see Bhasma Aarti then you will have to book in advance.
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