Somnath Temple, GujaratImage Credit source: https://www.instagram.com/kanganaranaut
Kangana Ranaut visited the Somnath Temple: Recently, famous Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut visited the world famous Somnath temple located on the Veraval coast of Devbhoomi Gujarat, visited Baba Somnath and participated in the holy aarti. Among the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in Hinduism, Somnath is called Adi Jyotirlinga, the glory of which is described in detail in the Puranas and scriptures. Let us know the ancient history of Somnath temple, interesting beliefs and the special reasons that make it the most special among all the 12 Jyotirlingas.
What is the importance of Somnath temple?
Somnath Temple meaning “Lord of the Moon”, this temple is known for its religious significance, glorious history and architecture.
Status of first Jyotirlinga: According to the scriptures and beliefs, wherever Lord Shiva himself appeared in the form of a luminous Linga (Jyotirlinga), those places were called Jyotirlinga. Of these, Somnath is considered the first. This temple is one of the most sacred pilgrimage places in Hinduism.
Blessings of the Trinity: It is believed that the Shivalinga of Somnath was established by the Moon (Soma) himself, while it was consecrated by Lord Vishnu and protected by Bholenath himself. Thus, it is considered to be the place of blessings of the Trinity.
Mythological story related to Somnath temple
The story of the origin of Somnath Jyotirlinga is told in Shiva Purana. According to the legend, Moon (Soma) married 27 daughters of Daksh Prajapati, but he loved his wife named Rohini the most and neglected all the others. Angered by this, Daksh Prajapati cursed the Moon to suffer from tuberculosis, due to which his shine and arts gradually started decreasing.
To get freedom from this curse, Moon performed severe penance to Lord Shiva at the confluence of river Saraswati and the sea (Somnath) and chanted ‘Mrityunjaya Mantra’. Pleased with Moon’s penance, Lord Shiva freed him from the curse and blessed him that his arts would decrease on one side and increase on the other. On the request of Moon, Lord Shiva was established forever in the form of Jyotirlinga at this place. Since the Moon attained this Nath (Lord), this place came to be known as Somnath.
Specialties of Somnath Dham
Somnath Jyotirlinga is not just a religious place but a historical and architectural marvel.
- Akhand Jyoti: An eternal flame keeps burning in the temple, which is considered a symbol of the permanent form of Shiva.
- Unique Architecture: The present temple is built in Chalukya style of architecture. Its grandeur and carvings are worth seeing.
- Baan Stambh (Baan Stambh): This is a pillar installed in the south direction of the temple. There is an inscription in Sanskrit on it, which says that there is no land on earth from this point to the South Pole.
- Kapil Kund: Near the temple is the Kapil Kund established by Kapil Muni, where bathing is considered sacred.
Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.