The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most revered Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated on the western bank of the sacred Ganga River and is considered one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, the holiest shrines of Lord Shiva.
Historical Background:
The original Kashi Vishwanath Temple has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times due to invasions.
- The earliest mention of the temple dates back to the 8th century, when it was renovated by Adi Shankaracharya.
- The present structure was rebuilt in 1780 by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore.
- The golden spire (Shikhar) of the temple was donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab in 1835.
Mythological Significance:
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva himself resides in Kashi (Varanasi) as the supreme deity, Vishwanath, meaning “Ruler of the Universe.”
Legend of the Jyotirlinga
The story of Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga is mentioned in the Shiva Purana. It states that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati descended to earth and made Kashi their divine abode. The Jyotirlinga at Kashi is believed to bless devotees with moksha (liberation).
It is also said that a person who breathes their last in Kashi attains salvation (Moksha), as Lord Shiva himself whispers the “Taraka Mantra” (salvation mantra) into their ears.
Temple Architecture and Features:
1. The Jyotirlinga
The Shiva Lingam in the sanctum sanctorum is enshrined in a silver altar, and thousands of devotees offer prayers daily.
2. Golden Dome and Spire
The temple’s three domes are covered in 800 kg of pure gold, donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
3. Kashi Vishwanath Corridor
Recently, the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor was developed to connect the temple with the Ganga River, providing better facilities for pilgrims.
Religious Importance:
- It is believed that worshiping at Kashi Vishwanath removes sins and grants liberation (moksha).
- The temple is a key part of the Panch Tirtha Yatra in Varanasi, a sacred pilgrimage circuit.
- Devotees perform Rudrabhishek (ritual bathing of the Shivling with holy water, milk, and honey) to seek blessings.
Major Festivals Celebrated:
- Mahashivratri – The biggest festival, celebrated with night-long worship and processions.
- Shravan Maas (July-August) – The holy month dedicated to Shiva, with millions of devotees offering the sacred Ganga Jal.
- Makar Sankranti & Kartik Purnima – Special rituals and a holy dip in the Ganges.
How to Reach Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- By Air: Nearest airport – Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi (25 km away).
- By Train: Nearest railway station – Varanasi Junction (5 km away).
- By Road: The temple is well-connected by buses and taxis within Varanasi.
Temple Timings:
- Opening Time: 3:00 AM
- Mangala Aarti: 3:00 AM – 4:00 AM
- Darshan Timings: 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Shayan Aarti (Closing Ritual): 11:00 PM
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is not just a temple but the spiritual and cultural soul of India. Devotees believe that a visit to this temple grants liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The temple stands as a beacon of Hindu faith, devotion, and the eternal presence of Lord Shiva.