The Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple is an important place to pray to Lord Shiva. It’s in the Bhimashankar reserve, close to Pune, Maharashtra. The temple is one of Lord Shiva’s 12 Jyotirlingas, which are holy places. The River Bhima starts at the Bhimashankar Temple. People think taking a dip in this river will wash away their sins. Many people visit the temple yearly because of its past and spiritual importance. The Bhimashankar Temple is an essential spiritual site in Maharashtra that draws both religious people and people interested in history.
Table of Contents
Aarti Timings And Rituals
- Darshan: 4:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Morning Aarti: 4:30 AM – 5:00 AM
- Morning Darshan: 4:30 AM – 3:15 PM
- Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
- Nijarupa Darshan: 5:00 AM – 5:30 AM
- Shringar Darshan: 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM
- Evening Aarti: 7:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Significance Of Bhimashankar Temple
It is respected that one of the 12 Jyotirlingas is housed in the Bhimashankar Temple. People believe that Jyotirlingas are self-manifestations of Lord Shiva. Unlike lingas made by humans, these are thought to have formed spontaneously. The linga in Bhimashankar is different because it is set lower than the ground in the main shrine.
It has a groove that splits the Linga into two parts Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This Linga represents the Ardhanareeshwara form of Shiva. People have long thought that water flows continuously from the Linga. People think the River Bhima is holy because it is believed to be Lord Shiva’s sweat after a big fight. Mokshakund behind the temple is crucial because it is linked to the Maharishi Kaushik discipline.
Historical Background
The Bhimashankar Temple has been around since the 1300s. This is the time when the first shelter was built. The Jyotirlinga was found by chance by a woodcutter named Bhatirao Lakhadhara. When his axe hit a tree it cut the ground open. People in the village were worried so they gave the tree milk which stopped the bleeding.
At the spot, they built a small temple. The temple was fixed with help from famous people in history such as Chhatrapati Shivaji and Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath. Nana PhadnaviNana Phadnavis, a famous Diwan, made the temple Shikhar Story show the importance of the temple’s spiritual and cultural history.
Legend Of Tripurasura
A big part of the temple lore is the story of Tripurasura. The Matsya Puranam and the Shiva Puranam say that the Tripurasura comprised three demons Vidyunmali Tarakaksha and Viryavana. They got a good thing from Lord Brahma. They were given three towns of gold, iron, and silver as gifts. These towns which were called Tripura took a lot of work.
They could be killed with just one shot. Demons caused trouble in the world and fought against the Gods. Lord Shiva used a unique chariot that Vishwakarma had built for his victory. There were some fantastic things about the chariot and Lord Shiva destroyed the cities with just one shot. So Shiva decided to live in Bhimashankar and changed into a Linga.
Architectural Features
- Nagara and Hemadpanthi styles can be seen in the Bhimashankar Temple which has detailed carvings and a simple plan. It has a Garbhagriha, a Sabha mandap, and a Kurmamandap all of which are examples of traditional craftsmanship and have historical value.
- The main entry to the temple has a sturdy wooden door with god figures on it. This work of art showcases the complex art of the time and adds to the holy feel of the building.
- A big bell at the door, a gift from Chimaji Appa, adds to the temple’s traditional feel. It is both an important piece of art and a useful part of tradition.
- Within the temple building, there are two large images of Nandi. The older Nandi stands in front of the altar and the younger one makes the spiritual and physical unity of the temple even better.
- Shrines for Lord Shani Nandi, Lord Ram, and Dutta are inside the building providing extra mental space. These shrines increase the temple’s religious importance and artistic variety.
Festivals Celebrated
Mahashivaratri
Mahashivaratri takes place at the end of February or the beginning of March. It celebrates the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. There are potent poojas, bhajans, and abhishekams at the event. People worldwide came to this big event which included a five-day show with lots of religious activities and events.
Karthik Poornima
In 2019 Karthik Poornima will be held in December. This event marks the end of the Tripura demon kingdom and the victory of Lord Shiva. People celebrate and do special poojas for the holiday. People who worship Shiva go to the temple to remember his success and thank him for protecting and blessing them.
Ganesh Chaturthi
In August or September, people celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi Lord Ganesha’s birthday. Lord Ganesha is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. During the holiday there are many lively parties such as poojas processions and cultural shows. People who worship Ganesha do so with love and joy enjoying the arrangements and gifts made for the occasion.
Deepawali
During Deepavali which takes place in October or November, lamps decorate the building. This celebration marks the end of darkness and the beginning of light. During the day special poojas are done and diyas are used to light the building. People share happiness, dedication, and a sense of community during the event.
Sevas And Poojas
Rudrabhishek
Rudrabhishek is an essential pooja for Lord Shiva to eliminate sins and clean the air. It is best to do it on Mondays and Pradosham days by giving water and bilva leaves. People who follow this practice think it will clean them and bring them peace and wealth.
Laghurudra Pooja
Laghurudra Pooja deals with health and wealth problems and lessens the effects of evil planets. People give Lord Shiva water, milk, and other things as part of the pooja. It is a widespread practice for overcoming tough times in personal and business life.
Yearly Poojas
Some poojas that happen once a year are Prati Somvar Prati Pradosh Prati Shivaratri Prati Amavasya and Mahashivaratri. On certain days these practices are done which are essential for spiritual growth and cleaning. They include complicated rituals and gifts for Lord Shiva.
Shashvat Pooja
For twenty years the Shashvat Pooja has been performed once a year. It has many ceremonies such as Rudrabhishek Mahapuja and Laghurudra. People believe this long-term puja brings them spiritual benefits and keeps the gifts and divine favor coming.
Travel And Accommodation
Air Travel
Pune Airport is a very close airport to Bhimashankar Temple. It is easy to get to big towns. Regular planes make it easy for people to move. People can continue their trip to the temple by road from Pune Airport.
Train Travel
Pune Railway Station is about 120 km away and is the closest train station to Bhimashankar Temple. Trains from many places come to this stop. From the stop, people can take a cab or a bus to the temple.
Road Travel
From Pune regular buses run to Bhimashankar Temple from 530 AM to 4 PM. Buses also leave from Kalyan at 9 AM and from Ghatkopar or Kurla at 11 AM. These services make it easy to get to the temple.
Accommodation
There are few places near Bhimashankar Temple where you can stay. The temple management runs the Jeevan Guest House which has basic amenities. There are more options in nearby towns like Blue Mormon Jungle Holiday Resort Ecogreens Sankalp Farms and Holiday Maiyaan Karjat for people with different tastes and budgets.
Conclusion
The Bhimashankar Temple is an essential place of worship with a lot of historical and cultural worth. It is necessary because it is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and has a link to the River Bhima. The ceremonies, buildings, and events at the temple are very sacred. Visitors can visit nearby churches, eat at local restaurants, and stay in nearby hotels to make their journey more enjoyable. When you go to Bhimashankar Temple you can feel connected to God and see how ancient customs are still practiced.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: In Which City Is Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga?
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Is Near Pune, Maharashtra.
Q2: Who Should Visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple?
Devotees of Lord Shiva and those seeking spiritual experiences should visit.
Q3: What Is The Story Of Bhimashankar?
Bhimashankar is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas where Lord Shiva is worshiped. It is also the source of the River Bhima.
Q4: How To Travel To Bhimashankar From Pune?
You can journey by bus or taxi from Pune which is about 120 km away.