History of Bhimashankar Temple

History of Bhimashankar Temple– In Tretayuga, there existed a demon named Tripurasur. He devoted himself to Lord Shankara, seeking the blessing of immortality from Him. In response, Lord Shankara granted him a boon that no male or female could slay him. Empowered by Shankara’s blessings, Tripurasur became a menace to all three realms (earth, heaven, and abyss), tormenting humanity for an extended period. In response, Lord Shankara, along with all the celestial beings, became enraged and resolved to eliminate Tripurasur. A chariot was constructed, incorporating the four Vedas, four pillars, the moon, the sun wheel, the Sant Naga bow, and Vishnu on the arrow. This is elaborated upon in the subsequent verse. Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh, along with the luminaries of Shri Adiya Adish Shakti Parvati, worshipped the Panchatatva (water, air, sky, abyss, and earth).

Parvati was invoked from the Kamal Pushpa. This Parvati is currently revered in the Bhimashankar region, known affectionately as “Kamalja Mata.” Lord Shankar and Adimaya Parvati united and assumed a half-form. In this combined form, they vanquished Tripurasur at Shri Kshetra Bhimashankar on the day of Kartik Purnima. The battle spanned from Kartik Pure Pratipada to Kartik Pure Purnima, culminating in the defeat of Tripurasur on Kartik Purnima. The Bhima river was formed from the sweat that flowed from the body of God as He rested. At that moment, the celestial beings implored Lord Shankar to remain there for the benefit of humanity. Heeding their request, Lord Shankarani established Himself there as the self-manifested Shivalinga. Following the defeat of Supura Suri, His two divine attendants, Bharatiya Shakini and Dakini, surrendered to Him. Shankara bestowed upon them a boon, stating that they would be named before Him. Thus, the verse refers to “Dakinayam Bhimshankaram.” The term Jyotirlinga signifies the self-manifested form of light where Lord Shankar resides. The grand divine celebration continues to be observed on Kartik Pournima in commemoration of the slaying of Tripurasura.

About Temple

The Shri Bhimashankar Temple is situated 5 kilometers from the bus terminal. To access the temple, one must descend three steps. Inside the Mandir, you can find the Kurm Avatar from the Dashavatara of Lord Vishnu. Nandi is positioned in front of the Shivlinga. Upon entering the temple, a statue of Ganapati greets you on the left, while on the right stands the statue of God’s protector, “Shri Kalbhairav.” Upon reaching the cavity, the sacred Shivling awaits. Notably, there is a vertical opening in the Shivalinga. On one side, there are two aspects representing Shiva’s power. Facing the cavity, there is a statue of Parvati Devi (History of Bhimashankar).

This temple underwent restoration in the year 1212. The architectural design of the temple features primarily two styles. The construction from the temple’s base to the roof employs lime and soil, whereas the decorative pinnacle is done in the Hemadpanti style. Moreover, the entrance to the cavity is also designed in the Hemadpanthi style. On the southern wall of the temple, there is a statue of Shri Krishna. To the west, you will find the idol of Hanuman, and to the north, the figure of Shri Mahishasur Mardini. Carvings of various deities adorn the temple walls. The summit and pinnacle showcase different idols. The apex of the temple is entirely hollow inside. The assembly work in front of the temple was completed in 1962. In front of the assembly, there is a temple dedicated to Saturn, and nearby, one can find the stone Deepmal close to the Saturn Temple. History of Bhimashankar Temple

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