Mount Abu Shankar Math Shiva Temple, Rajasthan

Address

Mount Abu,

Rajasthan 307501

Moolavar

Shiva

Introduction

Shankar Math is a renowned Lord Shiva temple located in the scenic hills of Mount Abu, Rajasthan. This temple is particularly famous for its striking 9-foot tall Shiva Linga carved from black stone, giving it the appearance of Lord Shiva’s dreadlocks. Devotees believe that the third eye of Lord Shiva is self-manifested on this Linga, making it a highly revered shrine. During the monsoon, the Shiva Linga is naturally bathed by rainwater, adding to its mystical allure.

Puranic Significance:

In 1977, the temple consecrated a massive Shiva shrine named Arbuda-Vishwanatha-Mahadeva. The installed Lingam, along with its proportionate Pithika (base), is one of the largest ever seen. Uniquely, the shikhara (spire) of the temple is also crafted in the form of a Lingam, complete with a Pithika, creating a visual impression that merely looking at the dome of the temple is akin to seeing Lord Shiva.

The temple’s construction is tied to Swami Maheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj, who had read in the Puranas about a special Shiva Linga that was visible from outside the temple and adorned with the skin of a tiger. Inspired by this vision, Swamiji set out to find a stone that could embody this divine image. A suitable stone was found in a mine near Phalna, Rajasthan, large enough to craft a gigantic Linga-Jalahari (an essential base for a Shiva Linga). Swamiji then envisioned a temple dome shaped like the Linga-Jalahari, so that gazing at the temple itself would invoke the image of Lord Shiva.

After the stone was installed in the Garbhagraha (sanctum), the temple was constructed, and the Pratishtha (consecration) of the Linga followed Samaveda rituals. Since then, daily prayers, festivals, and regulated worship have continued in the temple, with special offerings during significant Shiva festivals. The temple also features a lotus pond and is surrounded by Rudraksha trees, adding to its serene and spiritual ambiance.

Special Features:

The Shiva Linga in Shankar Math stands out for its massive size and the unique shape of the temple dome, which is built in the form of the Linga-Jalahari, symbolizing the presence of Lord Shiva. The temple’s outer walls are adorned with Chheetar stone from Jodhpur, enhancing its visual appeal. A devotion hall for lectures was also built alongside the temple. The temple grounds have a well, dug to provide water for the holy bath of Lord Shiva, further enhancing its spiritual significance.

The temple compound also houses a peaceful lotus pond and several Rudraksha trees, which are believed to be sacred in the worship of Lord Shiva. The daily Aarti is performed three times a day, with a special Bhasm Aarti held every Monday.

Festivals and Rituals:

The temple sees a large gathering of devotees during Shivaratri and the Shavan Shukla Trayo Dasi festivals. A Bhasm Aarti is conducted on Mondays, attracting many devotees. Additionally, Vedas and Upanishads are recited daily in the temple, and visitors can attend these sacred readings. The temple offers a place of profound devotion and learning for all who visit.