Credit: Manoj Kumbhar
About Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
One of the 12th jyotilingas in India, Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is a Hindu temple that is situated in Verul Village in Maharashtra’s Aurangabad district. One of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in the region is visited by a number of visitors for its divine significance and captivating architecture. Located just 1 km from Ellora Caves and 29 km from Aurangabad, the temple is a must-visit for those planning to visit Ellora.
Grishneshwar temple, being one of the 12 Jyotirlinga on earth, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. There are various names for Jyotirlings, including Ghrushmeswara, Ghusmeswara, Kusumeswarar, and Grishneshwar.
History
The history of the temple dates back centuries. The grandfather of Chhatrapati Shivaji, Malohi Raji Bhosale, undertook the reconfiguration of the temple in the 16th century. The princess Rani Ahiyabhai Holkar, who ruled Indore from 1765 CE to 1795 CE, was further recognized in the 18th century.
Legends That Illuminate
There is an interesting story that revolves around a Brahmin couple named Brahmaveeta Sudharm and Sudeha. They both live on the canvas of Devagiri Mountain. Struggling with childlessness, Brahmavetta married her sister, Ghusma, on the advice of Sudeha. Ghusma starts crafting 101 lingas and worshipping them before sunbathing in a nearby lake. Blessing bore fruit, and Sudeha gave birth to a son. However, due to jealousy, Sudhea killed her son and threw him in the same lake where Ghusma discharged lingas.
In the wake of darkness, devotion emerged as a guiding light. Ghushma’s unwavering worship led to a divine intervention, resurrecting her son through Lord Shiva’s benevolence. This poignant legend forms the essence of the temple’s worship, as Lord Shiva is venerated in the form of the Jyotirlinga Ghushmeshwar.
Architecture of Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
Adorned with intricate carvings and captivatin friezes, the Grishneshwar temple stands tall at 240 * 185 feet. Crated from red volcanic rock, Grishneshwar temple is a 5-tier Shikara ornate with pillar carvings and crowned by a golden kalasha. Within Antarla, garbhgriha and Sabha mandapa evoke a sense of sacredness and serenity.
Garbhagriha, antarala, and sabha mandapa evoke a sense of sacredness and serenity.
Embracing the Spiritual Calendar
Maha Shivrati is a famous religious festival when thousands of visitors from all over the world visit temples with virant hues of celebration and devotion. Its an ideal time to watch the flavours and colors of a spiritual journey to Grineshwar Jyotirlinga Temple.
Timing and Entry
The temple is open to visitors from 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Entry is free.