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Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga: A Holy Hindu Shrine

By Sneha

Omkareshwar temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most reverred of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The most interesting part about the strategic location of this Jyotirlinga is its location on an island called Mandhata or Shivapuri. Located on the banks of river Narmada in Indore, it derives its name from the holy Hindu symbol of 'Om' as the shape of the island on which it is located is the same. There are two temples here; one Omkareshwar and the other Amareshwar. The name Omkareshwar means Lord of Omkaara or the Om sound and Amareshwar means the Lord of the Immortals.

Legends

Omkareshwar Temple

There are three stories about omkareshwar Jyotirlinga. The most prominent one among them is about Vindhya Parvati's penance for his desire to grow big. Once Narada came to Vindhya and told him that Mount Meru is bigger than him. This roused jealousy in Vindhya and he started worshipping Shiva. Lord Shiva pleased with his worship gave him boons to grow big. But at the same time Vindhya was asked by Lord Shiva not to grow too big to be an obstruction to his devotees. Lord Shiva manifested himself in a Linga in two different halves over here. One is called the Omkareshwar and the other Amareshwar.

The other legend refers to the worship of King Mandhata and his sons. They performed such austerities and penance that a pleased Lord Shiva manifested himself in a Linga in this place. The island Mandhata gets its name from here.

The third and the last story is about a severe fight between the Demons and Devas. The devils won and upon the earnest request of the Devas Lord Shiva emerged as the Omkareshwar Linga and defeated the Demons.

Structure

Omkareshwar temple has a beautiful architectural pattern. The temple structure is of local soft stone and carvings are made on it. There are hypnotic paintings on the upper part of the Omkareshwar temple and the front chamber has a detailed carving. The works of artistry on this temple is simply mesmerizing and draws thousands of tourists.

Attractions

Situated on an island both the man made constructions and natural beauty demands a visit by people. This place has an amazing scenic beauty and the climate is also absolutely pleasing. The ancient carvings on the temple bodies give us an essence of the bygone days.

The popular pujas organized here are Parthiva Linga Puja, Panchaksari Mantra Japa and Mahashivratri.

Travel

By Road:

Omkareshwar is well connected by bus routes all over India. Buses ply from major cities like Ujjain (133kms), Indore (77kms) and Khandwa (60kms).

By Rail:

The railway station in Omkareshwar is just 12kms from the heart of the city. This railway station is well connected to all major railway stations in central India.

By Air:

The nearest airport to Omkareshwar is Indore (77kms). Indore airport is connected to all major airports in the country like Delhi, Mumbai and Calcutta.

From The Mainland To The Island- Boats and steamers are available from Omkareshwar mainland to the Mandhata island. You can avail any one of these to reach the temple on the island.

Attain serenity of soul by a visit to such places with both a religious significance and a natural beauty to admire.

Story first published: Wednesday, June 20, 2012, 13:29 [IST]
Read more about: shiva temples lord shiva