Grishneshwar Temple: Wealth and Pleasure at Shiva’s Feet

Grishneshwar Temple is considered the last or 12th Jyotirlinga on the earth. It is located in a village known as Verul which is about 30 km. west side of Aurangabad. It was built in the 18th century.

History of Grishneshwar Temple:

Originally this place was a settlement of Naga tribes also known as “varul” in the local Marathi language. Gradually this was changed to “Verul”. It is located on the banks of yelaganga. Once there was a capital city named “Yelapur, or Yelur or Verul” which was ruled by a king named “Yela”.

Once he went hunting in the forest where he killed animals living with saints, angered by his killings saints cursed the king for getting infested with insects. With thirst King began wandering the forest, at last, he found water made with hooves of a horse. When he began to drink that water there was a miracle, his body got rid of insects. Then the king started severe penance (Tapa) by which Lord Brahma blessed him and installed Parastha teerth also called Brahma Sarovar or Shivalay.

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There is another story behind Shivalay:

Once Lord Shiva and Parvathi were playing chess on Mount Kailas, Parvathi checkmated lord, Shiva. Mahadev got angry and went to the Sahyadri range filled with cool breezes. Searching Lord, Parvathi came there in the form of a tribal girl who won the heart of the lord and spent some time happily. One day Parvathi was thirsty, Shankara pierced the earth with this trident and made patala (nether world) water ooze out.

Once Parvathi was about to fill her hair parting with vermillion and saffron in kamyavana. She kept them in her left palm and started mixing them with shivalay water with her right thumb. A miracle happened, Shiv Ling with great light appeared. When Parvathi got shocked, Lord Shiva explained that “This linga was hidden in pathala (nether world), it was removed when I stuck earth with my trident”, and it emerged out as a bubble along the water. Parvathi kept this light in the stone linga and installed it there. As this was made by Goddess Parvathi with the friction of her thumb, she gave the name Grishneshwara. (Grishna means friction)

Once Bhosale (chief of Verul), is an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. He found a treasure hidden in a snake pit by the grace of lord Grishneswar. He spent whole money to renovate the temple and also built a lake named “Shikharshinganapur”. It is believed that Bholenath himself was birth in the shosale family and made this place famous.

In the later period, Goutamibai and Ahilyadevi Holkar renovated this temple. It is built with 240×185 dimensions. The temple is built with red rocks and has a five-tier shikara. It is sculptured with many Indian gods and goddesses. It is beautiful and still stands strong which resembles our ancient architectural skills. A donor named Jayaram Bhatia got a copper tower with gold sheeting. The Garbhagriha measures 17 ft x 17 ft. A court hall is built on 24 pillars which are embedded with beautiful carvings. The Lingamurthy faces east where you find Nandikeshwara in the court hall.

If anyone wants to enter garbagriha they have to undress and go. During day time we find twelve drums are played and arati is performed. Of 21 Ganesha Peethas, one is famous by the name Lakshavinayaka. First, visit Laksha Vinayaka shrine where you find echoes of the chanting of Lord Shiva’s name.

“Visiting Grishneshwar Temple, you will be blessed with wealth and pleasure.”

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Significance of Grishneshwar Temple:

The temple is significant for a number of reasons. First, it is one of the few Jyotirlinga temples where the Shiva Linga faces the east. This is considered to be a very auspicious alignment. Second, the temple is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva manifested himself as a column of light to settle the dispute between Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu. Third, the temple is associated with the legend of Grishna, a devotee of Lord Shiva who was blessed with wealth and prosperity after worshipping at the temple.

The Grishneshwar Temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus from all over India. It is also a popular tourist destination, as it is located in close proximity to the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here are some of the specific benefits that devotees are said to receive by visiting the Grishneshwar Temple:

• Wealth and prosperity
• Good health and well-being
• Removal of obstacles and challenges
• Fulfillment of desires
• Spiritual enlightenment and liberation

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Places to visit near Grishneshwar Temple:

Ellora Caves: The Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are located very close to Grishneshwar Temple. These caves comprise a complex of rock-cut temples, monasteries, and beautiful sculptures, with a mix of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain architecture. The Kailash Temple at Ellora is a particularly renowned attraction.

Ajanta Caves: The Ajanta Caves, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a bit further from Grishneshwar but well worth the visit. These caves are famous for their exquisite Buddhist rock-cut cave paintings and sculptures, dating back to the 2nd century BCE.

Daulatabad Fort: Daulatabad Fort, also known as Devagiri Fort, is a historic fort located in Daulatabad, not far from Grishneshwar. It’s known for its impressive defense systems and the fascinating architecture of Chand Minar, an imposing tower.

Aurangabad: The city of Aurangabad, located about 30 kilometers from Grishneshwar, is known for its historical and cultural significance. You can explore Bibi Ka Maqbara, a tomb that resembles the Taj Mahal, and visit other historical sites like the Panchakki (water mill) and various museums.

Bhadra Maruti Temple: Located in Khuldabad, around 12 kilometers from Grishneshwar, this temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It’s a significant pilgrimage site and known for the image of Lord Hanuman in a reclining position.

Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple: Of course, the main attraction is the Grishneshwar Temple itself. It’s one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva and an important pilgrimage site for Hindu devotees.

Ghrishneshwar Lake: Right next to the temple, you can enjoy the serene and picturesque Ghrishneshwar Lake, which provides a tranquil environment for relaxation and photography.

Khuldabad: This town is known for its historical significance and is home to the dargah (tomb) of Moinuddin Chishti, a Sufi saint. It’s a place of religious importance and peaceful reflection.

FAQ:

Q: What is the Grishneshwar Temple?

A: The Grishneshwar Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples in India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in the Ellora Caves near Aurangabad, Maharashtra.

Q: What is the significance of the Grishneshwar Temple?

A: The Grishneshwar Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. It is believed that visiting the temple and worshipping the Jyotirlinga can bring good fortune, wealth, and prosperity.

Q: When is the best time to visit the Grishneshwar Temple?

A: The best time to visit the Grishneshwar Temple is during the winter months (October to March), when the weather is pleasant. However, the temple is open year-round.

Q: What are the timings of the Grishneshwar Temple?

A: The Grishneshwar Temple is open from 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM daily.

Q: Is there an entry fee for the Grishneshwar Temple?

A: No, there is no entry fee for the Grishneshwar Temple.

Q: What is the dress code for the Grishneshwar Temple?

A: Men are required to remove their shirts before entering the temple sanctum. Women are required to dress modestly and cover their shoulders and knees.

Q: What are some of the things to do at the Grishneshwar Temple?

A: In addition to worshipping the Jyotirlinga, visitors can also explore the temple complex, which includes a beautiful courtyard, a Nandi statue, and a number of other shrines. Visitors can also participate in the various rituals and ceremonies that are performed at the temple throughout the day.

Q: Are there any special events that are held at the Grishneshwar Temple?

A: Yes, the Grishneshwar Temple hosts a number of special events throughout the year, including Mahashivratri, which is one of the most important Hindu festivals.

Q: How to get to the Grishneshwar Temple?

A: The Grishneshwar Temple is located about 30 kilometers from Aurangabad Airport. Visitors can take a taxi or auto rickshaw from the airport to the temple.

How to reach Grishneshwar Temple:

By Air:

The nearest major airport is the Aurangabad Airport (Chikkalthana Airport), which is approximately 30 kilometers away from the temple. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other modes of local transportation to reach Grishneshwar Temple.

By Train:

Aurangabad Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Grishneshwar Temple. It is well connected to major cities in India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.

By Road:

You can also reach Grishneshwar Temple by road. Several state and private buses operate services to the temple. The temple is about 11 kilometers from Aurangabad, and you can hire a taxi or use a local auto-rickshaw to reach there. If you are driving, you can use a GPS or follow these general directions:

From Aurangabad, head towards Daulatabad Road.
Follow Daulatabad Road to reach Verul.
You will find signboards directing you to Grishneshwar Temple.

Local Transportation:

Once you reach the vicinity of the temple, you can use local auto-rickshaws or cycle rickshaws to reach the temple complex. The temple is a short distance from the parking area, and you can easily walk to it.

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