Mount Abu Shankar Math Shiva Temple, Rajasthan

Address

Mount Abu Shankar Math Shiva Temple, Rajasthan

Mount Abu,

Rajasthan 307501

Moolavar

Shiva

Introduction

• Location: Mount Abu, Rajasthan, in a scenic and serene hill setting.
• Dedication: Lord Shiva, featuring a prominent 9-foot tall Shiva Linga carved from black stone.
• Unique Feature: The Shiva Linga resembles Lord Shiva’s dreadlocks, and it is believed that his third eye is self-manifested on the Linga. During the monsoon, natural rainwater bathes the Linga, adding to its mystical aura.

Puranic Significance

• Consecration of Shiva Shrine:
  • In 1977, a massive Shiva shrine called Arbuda-Vishwanatha-Mahadeva was consecrated, housing one of the largest Shiva Lingas with its base (Pithika).
  • The temple’s spire (Shikhara) is uniquely designed in the form of a Shiva Linga, creating the visual impression of seeing Lord Shiva when looking at the temple’s dome.
• Swami Maheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj’s Vision:
  • Inspired by a Puranic vision of a Shiva Linga adorned with tiger skin, Swamiji set out to find a suitable stone for crafting the Linga.
  • A large stone was sourced from Phalna, Rajasthan, and crafted into a massive Linga-Jalahari (the essential base for a Shiva Linga).
  • The temple dome was envisioned in the shape of this Linga-Jalahari, enhancing the visual and spiritual connection to Lord Shiva.
• Pratishtha Ceremony:
  • After installing the Linga in the Garbhagraha (sanctum), the temple was constructed, and the consecration (Pratishtha) was conducted following Samaveda rituals.
  • The temple has since maintained daily prayers, special offerings during Shiva festivals, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Special Features

• Shiva Linga and Temple Dome:
  • The temple’s massive Shiva Linga is the focal point of worship, with the temple dome designed to resemble the Linga-Jalahari, symbolizing the divine presence of Lord Shiva.
  • The outer walls are adorned with Chheetar stone from Jodhpur, enhancing the temple’s aesthetic appeal.
  • A devotion hall for lectures and spiritual discussions has been built alongside the temple.
• Sacred Surroundings:
  • The temple is surrounded by Rudraksha trees, sacred in Shiva worship, and a serene lotus pond, adding to the temple’s tranquil and divine ambiance.
  • A well has been dug within the temple grounds to provide water for the sacred bathing ritual of the Shiva Linga.

Festivals and Rituals

• Shivaratri:
  • A major gathering of devotees takes place during Shivaratri, with special prayers and rituals held.
  • The temple also celebrates Shavan Shukla Trayo Dasi, a significant Shiva festival.
• Bhasm Aarti:
  • Every Monday, a special Bhasm Aarti is performed, drawing a large number of devotees for worship.
  • The daily Aarti is conducted three times a day, offering a regular opportunity for prayer.
• Sacred Recitations:
  • The temple hosts daily recitations of Vedas and Upanishads, making it a hub of devotion and spiritual learning.

Festivals

Mahashivratri

Century/Period

1977

Nearest Bus Station

Mount Abu 

Nearest Railway Station

Abu Road Railway Station (ABR)

Nearest Airport

Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR), Udaipur

Location on Map

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