Varanasi is one among those few places where people would prefer to spend their last days of life. Hindus strongly believe that death in this city could bring them salvation. The Vishwanath temple of Varanasi is one of the most visited temples in India. This temple doesn’t only hold a great mythological significance; it also has a very vivid history. Being one of the most popular places in India, you have to book your accommodations at the earliest. Choosing Varanasi hotels near Ghats is one of the best options in this context. Here under, we detail you a few ‘must know’ facts of the temple.
History:
There are historical evidences that this temple was discovered in the year 1490. This city has witnessed the rule of several famous and infamous dynasties. This city and the temple have a great mythological significance. Apart from the Hindu and Mughal rules, this city was also ruled by Buddhists for a considerable period of time.
The temple was built and re-built
It was the Akbar who took up the mission of building the original temple. However, Aurangazeb ordered to destroy it. He took up the construction of a mosque in that place and even today, we can find the remains of destroyed temple on the western wall of the mosque. This story is similar for most of the temples across Varanasi. They were built and rebuilt over a period of time. The real glory of the temple was restored by Rani Ahilya Bai Holkar, the queen of Indore. It is said that Lord Shiva himself appeared in the queen’s dream and ordered her to rebuild the temple.
Well of wisdom:
The historical evidences state when people heard about Aurangazeb’s decision to collapse the temple, they protected the idol of Lord Shiva in a well. This well later became popular as well of wisdom. Next time when you visit this temple, make sure to see this well, which is just in between the temple and the mosque.
The temple’s architecture is a visual treat:
After rebuilding the temple by the Queen of Indore, another king from Indore Maharaja Ranjit Singh offered almost a ton of gold to ensure that the pillars of the temple are plated with gold. The floor of inner sanctum comprises of a black stone made linga. This temple is surrounded by a cluster of five lingas. Nilakantheshvar temple is the common name given for this cluster of lingas.
First ray of light:
Hindu mythology states that the first ray of light received by the earth after its creation fell on Varanasi. It is believed that Lord Shiva himself resided in this city for some time. People believe that Lord Shiva is the guardian of this city. Another noteworthy mythological story is that Shani made efforts to enter into the temple but his efforts were in vain. It is because of this reason; we can find the temple of Lord Shanidev outside the Vishwanth temple.
This temple remains crowded all the time and you can plan your visit at any point in a year. All that you have to do is book your travel tickets and a Varanasi resort near ghats to get to this city. When you visit this temple, never miss out to witness the aartis, which are performed 5 times in a day.
