Sultanganj Ajgaivinath Temple, Bihar

Address

Sultanganj Ajgaivinath Temple, Ghat Rd, Sultanganj, Bhagalpur district Bihar 813213

Deity

Shiva

Introduction

• Location: Ajgaivinath Temple, also known as Gaibinath Mahadeo, is situated in Sultanganj, a town in Bhagalpur district, Bihar, India.
• Deity: The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped in the form of a Swayambhu (self-manifested) idol.
• Unique Structure: Built on a rock that juts out from the sacred Ganges River, the temple is renowned for the sanctity of its idol.
• Access: Visitors can reach the temple via boat services from Murli Hills in Sultanganj.

Puranic Significance

• Legend: The temple’s origin is shrouded in mystery; it is said that Lord Shiva wielded a bow called Ajgav, leading to the name Ajgaivinath.
• Historical Events: The temple is associated with Kalapahar, who allegedly could not destroy it, but did manage to destroy a neighboring Parvati temple, converting its site into a mosque.
• Geographical Changes: The area has undergone significant geological changes due to high floods and strong currents of the Ganges, which have eroded the granite rocks of the hill.
• Historical Importance: The nearby village Jahangira is thought to be derived from Jahnugiri (the hill of Jahnu), which reflects the presence of the sage Jahnu Muni.
• Ancient Relics: The temple is believed to be over 1,000 years old, with findings from the Mauryan, Gupta, and Pala periods, including stupas, seals, coins, and terracotta artifacts.
• Excavations: Numerous carvings can be found in the Sultanganj hills, including a seven-foot copper image of Lord Buddha excavated from the site, with another Buddha image now housed in the Birmingham Museum.

Special Features

• Sculptural Art: The temple features a remarkable collection of rock sculptures and inscriptions, regarded as some of the finest examples of art from the later Pala period.
• Scenic Beauty: The site is visually appealing, particularly during the rainy season when the Ganges washes over the base of the temple.

Festivals

• Major Celebrations:
  • Mahashivratri
  • Ram Navami
  • Vasant Panchami
  • Bhadra Purnima
  • Ganga Dussehra

Century/Period/Age

1000 Years old

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Nearest Bus Station

Sultanganj.

Nearest Railway Station

Sultanganj

Nearest Airport

Purnea Airport, Patna

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