Sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple: 11th Jyotirling of Liberation

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the holy and famous Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to the Puranas, the Lord himself declared Kashi as his royal residence. It is located in Varanasi, on the western bank of the holy Ganga river, in Uttar Pradesh. Kashi is a sacred place for all Hindus; it is believed that every Hindu should visit the temple at least once in their life. Hindus believe that if we immerse the ashes of our ancestors in the Ganga, they attain moksha (liberation). The Ganga River flows in the shape of a bow, and according to available documentation, Varanasi is claimed to be the oldest surviving city, dating back 3500 years. There used to be a tribe called Kasha, which is how the city got its name, Kashi.

Varanasitu Bhuvanatrya sarabhoota

Ramya Nrinaam Sugatidakhil Sevyamana

Atragata Vividha dushkritkarinopi

Papakshaye virajasha sumanaprakashah

The above sloka is taken from Narada Puran.
 

History of Kashi Vishwanath Temple:

The history of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is long and complex, dating back thousands of years. The first temple on the site is said to have been built by King Vikramaditya, around 2500 years ago. The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt many times over the centuries, by both Hindu and Muslim rulers.

In 1194 AD, the temple was destroyed by the Muslim general Qutubuddin Aibak. It was rebuilt in 1230 AD, but was again destroyed in 1447 AD by the Muslim ruler Hussain Shah Sharqi. The temple was rebuilt once again in 1585 AD by the Hindu ruler Raja Todar Mal.

In 1669 AD, the temple was destroyed for the last time by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, who built a mosque in its place. The remains of the old temple can still be seen in the foundation and walls of the mosque.

The present Kashi Vishwanath Temple was built in 1780 AD by the Maratha queen Ahalya Bai Holkar. The temple is a magnificent structure, with a golden dome and towering spires. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, and attracts millions of devotees from all over the world each year.

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Significance of Kashi Vishwanath Temple:

Prakruti and Purusha (Nature and Man) (Shiva-Shakti) created a city called Panchakoshi. Lord Vishnu lived here and prayed to Lord Shiva for a long time. It is said that Lord Brahma originated with a lotus flower from the navel of Vishnu. It is said that Lord Shiva kept the city of Panchakoshi away from the universe in order to save lives that are bound by karma. It is the holy city that has the capability of destroying every conceivable sin.

It is believed that people who live in Varanasi are considered lucky, as they do not need to travel anywhere in the world to attain moksha (liberation). Regardless of one’s gender, be it a man, a woman, an animal, or any other being, if they die in Varanasi, they are said to attain moksha. It is also said that whatever a person does during their lifetime – eating, sleeping, or committing sins – they will attain moksha if they pass away in Varanasi. Even deities are believed to have chosen this city for their final journey.

The king named Banar developed the city and built 1,500 beautiful temples. The tower of Vishweshwara temple is 100 feet in height. It is believed that even if the universe gets destroyed, Kashi remains intact as Dandapani and Kalabhairav guard this city.

We find many Hindu devotees make an offering and perform rituals. We also find many foreign tourists visit this temple and consider that it is flooded with 3000 visitors every day and during the special occasion, it crosses over 10,000. You hear echoing the sound of chanting of the words Jaya Gange, Jaya Vishwanath, and Om Namah Shivaya.

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Myths and Legends: Here are a few of the most popular:

• The Jyotirlinga: The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples, which are said to be the most sacred Shiva temples in the world. According to legend, Brahma and Vishnu once argued about who was the supreme god. Shiva appeared to them as a pillar of light, and challenged them to find the top and bottom of the pillar. Brahma lied and said that he had reached the top, while Vishnu admitted that he could not find the bottom. Shiva was pleased with Vishnu’s honesty, and declared that he would manifest himself as a Jyotirlinga at the place where the pillar of light had appeared. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is said to be built on the spot where the Jyotirlinga appeared.
• The City of Shiva: Varanasi, where the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is located, is said to be the oldest living city in the world, and is considered to be the holiest city in Hinduism. It is believed that Lord Shiva himself resides in Varanasi, and that dying in the city leads to moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
• The Legend of King Harishchandra: King Harishchandra was a legendary king who was known for his unwavering commitment to truth and justice. According to legend, he was once cursed by the sage Vishwamitra to lose everything he had, including his kingdom, his wife, and his son. Harishchandra accepted the curse with grace, and continued to live a life of truth and virtue. He eventually regained everything he had lost, and is now worshipped as a saint. It is said that Harishchandra built the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
• The Legend of Annapurna Devi: Annapurna Devi is a goddess who is worshipped as the goddess of nourishment. According to legend, she once visited Varanasi in disguise, and fed Lord Shiva, who was then in the form of a beggar. Shiva was so pleased with Annapurna Devi’s generosity that he promised that poverty would never befall Varanasi. The Annapurna Temple, which is dedicated to Annapurna Devi, is located next to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

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Famous Ghats at Kashi Vishwanath Temple:

Manikarnika Ghat: This is one of the most sacred and famous ghats in Varanasi. It is believed that Lord Shiva’s consort, Goddess Parvati, dropped her earring (Manikarnika) here, and it is said to be the place where the eternal flame of the funeral pyre burns continuously.

Dashashwamedh Ghat: This is one of the most prominent and frequented ghats in Varanasi. It is known for the elaborate Ganga Aarti ceremony that takes place every evening, attracting a large number of devotees and tourists.

Panchganga Ghat: This ghat is named after the confluence of five sacred rivers (Ganges, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kirana, and Dhupapapa). It is believed that taking a dip in the waters of Panchganga Ghat washes away one’s sins.

Assi Ghat: Located at the confluence of the Ganges and the Assi River, this ghat is an important site for pilgrims and is associated with the legendary sage Agastya. It is a peaceful place for meditation and spiritual reflection.

Kedar Ghat: Named after Lord Kedareshwar, this ghat is known for its beautifully designed steps and the temple dedicated to Lord Kedareshwar.

Raj Ghat: This ghat is famous for its exquisite carvings and sculptures. It’s also associated with the performance of various rituals.

Scindia Ghat: This ghat was constructed by the Scindia family and is known for its grandeur and architectural beauty.

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Places to visit near Kashi Vishwanath Temple:

Ganga Ghats: Varanasi is famous for its numerous ghats along the Ganges River. You can take a boat ride and visit the ghats, including Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and Assi Ghat.

Sarnath: Sarnath is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site, located just a few kilometers from Varanasi. It is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. There are many stupas, temples, and the famous Dhamek Stupa to visit.

Tulsi Manas Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is known for its beautiful architecture and the walls inscribed with verses from the Ramcharitmanas, an epic poem about Lord Rama.

Annapurna Temple: Dedicated to the goddess of food, Annapurna, this temple is an important site for Hindus. It’s known for its religious and architectural significance.

Kaal Bhairav Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. It’s believed to be one of the fiercest temples in Varanasi.

Durga Temple: The Durga Temple is one of the most significant temples in Varanasi. It’s dedicated to the goddess Durga and is renowned for its red color and beautiful architecture.

Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: Located inside the Banaras Hindu University campus, this museum houses a vast collection of art, sculptures, and artifacts that provide insights into Indian history and culture.

Tulsi Ghat: Named after the great poet Tulsidas, this ghat is known for its cultural and religious significance. You can visit the nearby Sankat Mochan Temple as well.

Banaras Hindu University (BHU): Explore the BHU campus, visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, and experience the vibrant academic and cultural life of this renowned university.

Ramnagar Fort: Located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River, the Ramnagar Fort is a historical fort and palace known for its unique architecture and the museum showcasing the royal collection.

Kedar Ghat: Kedar Ghat is another beautiful ghat in Varanasi known for its spiritual ambiance and architectural beauty.

New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple): If you’re interested in visiting another Vishwanath Temple, the Birla Temple is a newer, grand temple made of white marble.

FAQ:

What is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in the holy city of Varanasi, India, and is believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples, where Lord Shiva is worshipped in his purest form.

When is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple open?

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is open from 3:00 AM to 11:00 PM every day.

How can I book aarti tickets?

You can book aarti tickets online on the official website of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple (https://shrikashivishwanath.org/) or through the official mobile app. You can also book tickets at the temple counter, but it is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.

What is the dress code for visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

Devotees are requested to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Men are advised to wear dhotis or kurtas, and women are advised to wear saris or salwar kameezes. Short skirts, tank tops, and other revealing clothing are not permitted.

What items are not allowed inside the Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

Electronic devices, such as mobile phones, cameras, and laptops, are not allowed inside the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Other items that are not allowed include leather goods, belts, and shoes. You can deposit these items in the lockers provided at the temple entrance.

What is the best time to visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

The best time to visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is early in the morning or late in the evening, when the crowds are smaller. However, the temple is open all day long, so you can visit at any time that is convenient for you.

How to reach Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is located in the heart of Varanasi, and is easily accessible by public and private transport. The nearest railway station is Varanasi Junction Railway Station, which is about 6 km from the temple. The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, which is about 26 km from the temple. You can also take a boat ride across the Ganges River to reach the temple.

Where can I stay near Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

There are many hotels and guesthouses located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. You can find accommodation to suit all budgets.

How to reach Kashi Vishwanath Temple:

By Air:

The nearest airport to Varanasi is the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport. You can take a domestic flight to this airport from major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation to reach the temple, which is around 20 kilometers away.

By Train:

Varanasi Junction (BSB) and Manduadih Railway Station (MUV) are the two major railway stations in Varanasi. Varanasi Junction is well connected to many major cities in India. Manduadih Railway Station is closer to the temple, just 2-3 kilometers away. Once you reach the station, you can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or walk to the temple.

By Road:

Varanasi is well-connected by road to various cities and towns in Uttar Pradesh and neighboring states. You can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Varanasi. The temple is located in the heart of the city, and you can easily reach it by local transportation or on foot.

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