Sabarkantha Sapteshwar Mahadev Temple, Gujarat

Address

Sabarkantha Sapteshwar Mahadev Temple, Himmatnagar Deshotar Highway, Sabarkantha, Aarsodiya, Gujarat 383225

Deity

Sapteshwar

Introduction

The Sapteshwar Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located in the Sabarkantha district of Gujarat, India, near the Sapteshwar River/Sabarmati River. This ancient temple is approximately 25 km from Vaktapur village and close to the city of Himmatnagar.

Renowned for its historical and spiritual significance, the temple attracts thousands of devotees, especially on auspicious occasions like Janmashtami. Nestled in a rural area, the temple serves as a major pilgrimage site and reflects the deep-rooted faith of its devotees.

Puranic Significance

The Sapteshwar Mahadev Temple is also known as Samnathnath (Saptanath) Mahadev. The temple derives its name from the seven great sages (Sapta Rishis) who are believed to have performed intense penance here.

The Sapta Rishis associated with the temple are:

Kashyapa
Vashistha
Vishvamitra
Bharadwaja
Atri
Jamadagni
Gautama

These sages are prominent figures in Indian epics such as the Mahabharata and other sacred texts. The temple, believed to be 3,400 years old, stands as a testimony to their devotion and penance. The sacred presence of the Shiva Linga at this site further enhances its spiritual aura.

Festivals

The Sapteshwar Mahadev Temple celebrates two major festivals with great fervor:

Janmashtami: Thousands of devotees gather annually to pay their respects to Lord Shiva on this occasion.
Mahashivratri: This festival is marked by special prayers and rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva, drawing even larger crowds.