Harshnath Shiva Temple, Rajasthan

Address

Harshnath Shiva Temple, Harsh, Sikar, Rajasthan 332001

Diety

Bhavarakta (Shiva)

Introduction

Harshnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it is located in the Sikar district of Rajasthan. This Shiva temple was constructed during the 10th century or around 973 AD, and this was proved according to an inscription dated on the walls of the temple. This temple is built on the Aravalli Hills and was believed to be built by an ascetic of Lord Shiva named Bhavarakta. The temple is in ruins at present and there are many shrines and temples are surrounded by the main temple. It is also said that the temple was constructed during the reign of Chahamana King named Vigraharaja. The structure of the internal arena is made with kakshasana railings which are headed by a separate place of the Nandi or the Bull which is known as the carriage of Lord Shiva-Nandi mandapa is made in the same alignment.

Puranic Significance

As per the available inscription, the original temple dates back to 973 CE and is said to have been built by Bhavarakta during the reign of Chahamana king Vigraharaja II. The site was then demolished by the Mughal ruler ‘Aurangzeb’ in 1679. After a few years in 1718, a new temple was erected by Rao Shivsingh at the same spot using the ruins of the old temple. It is believed that the temple is more than 200 years old and the original temple was destroyed in 1679 AD by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.