PITA MAHESHWAR – THE HIDDEN SHIVLING OF KASHI

Pita Maheshwar Shivling is one of the most secret and hidden temples in Varanasi. It is believed to be shwayambhu a Self-manifested form of Shivling. The mention of this Shivling can also be found in Skand Puran, one of the 18 most important scriptures.

As per the Kashi Khand of Skand Puran Lord Kartikey, the son of Lord Shiv has described this Shivling as one of the most prominent Shivlings of Kashi. Pita Maheshwar Shivling is situated 40 feet underground and it is believed to be very powerful that is why the darshans are only recommended by peeping through the hole made in the ground.

The temple opens up only on a few selective days such as Shivratri, Rang Bhari Ekadashi, and Mondays of monsoon season but one can see the Shivling from the hole throughout the year.

The temple is hidden, as odd it may sound such hidden temples are very common in the streets of Varanasi. Pita Maheshwar is one of such many temples that were saved by our ancestors. Its importance is such that as per the scriptures if someone worships Pita Maheswar he gives Mukti to his next 20 generations.

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