Mahashivratri 2024: How Many Jyotirlingas In India And Their Significance

Mahashivratri, ¡°The Great Night of Shiva¡± is the most significant event in India¡¯s spiritual calendar.

The fourteenth day of every lunar month or the day before the new moon is known as Shivratri. Among all the twelve Shivratris that occur in a calendar year, Mahashivratri, the one that occurs in February-March is of the most spiritual significance. On this night, the northern hemisphere of the planet is positioned in such a way that there is a natural upsurge of energy in a human being.

This is a day when nature is pushing one towards one¡¯s spiritual peak. It is to make use of this, that in this tradition, we established a certain festival which is nightlong. To allow this natural upsurge of energies to find their way, one of the fundamentals of this nightlong festival is to ensure that you remain awake with your spine vertical throughout the night.

Mahashivratri 2024 is around the corner, and it's a time when devotees of Lord Shiva delve deeper into their faith and understanding of their beloved deity.

In 2024, Mahashivratri will be celebrated on Friday, March 8. One aspect that often captivates Shiva devotees is the concept of Jyotirlingas in India and their profound significance.

History and Significance of Jyotirlingas

Each jyotirlinga is considered a manifestation of the Supreme God in the form of Lord Shiva. | Photo: Freepik

Lord Shiva, also known as Mahadev, is considered the Supreme Being in Hinduism and is often referred to as the Destroyer of Evil. One important concept in Hinduism is the Jyotirlinga, which represents Lord Shiva in the form of a radiant sign. The term "Jyotirlinga" comes from "Jyoti," meaning light, and "linga," meaning sign.

Legend has it that during a debate between Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva over supremacy, Lord Shiva created a pillar of light, challenging them to find its ends. Lord Brahma falsely claimed to have found its end, leading to a curse from Lord Shiva. The 12 Jyotirlingas in India are believed to have emerged from this pillar of light.

These Jyotirlingas hold special significance, as it is believed that Lord Shiva first appeared on Earth on the night of the Aridra Nakshatra. Though there is no distinct appearance to these lingas, some believe they can see them as columns of fire after reaching spiritual enlightenment.

Originally, there were 64 Jyotirlingas, but only 12 are considered highly sacred. Each of these temples takes the name of the presiding deity and represents a different manifestation of Lord Shiva. The lingam, symbolizing the infinite nature of Lord Shiva, is the primary image in these temples.

Here are the 12 Jyotirlingas in India:

1. Somnath Temple, Gujarat:

Somnath Temple, Gujarat | Photo: Wikipedia

The Somnath temple, located on the western edge of India, is a beautifully crafted structure believed to house the first of the twelve holy jyotirlingas, where Lord Shiva appeared as a fiery column of light. It sits at the meeting point of three rivers and the Arabian Sea, offering a serene backdrop. Its history dates back to 649 BC and underwent reconstruction in 1951. The temple showcases colourful dioramas depicting the stories of Lord Shiva. According to legend, it was rebuilt several times by different rulers, including Ravana, Krishna, and Bhimdev. However, it faced destruction by invaders like Mahmud of Ghazni and Aurangzeb, with the current structure standing as a symbol of resilience and devotion.

It symbolises the importance of marital bliss and harmony.

2. Mallikarjuna Temple, Andhra Pradesh:

Mallikarjuna Temple, Andhra Pradesh | Photo: Wikipedia

Located on the Srisailam hill, Mallikarjuna Temple represents the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It symbolises the importance of marital bliss and harmony. Lord Shiva, when asked by Goddess Parvati about his favorite place in the universe, besides Kailasa, chose the beautiful and serene Srisailam. Here, they take the form of Sri Mallikarjuna Bhramaramba to bless devotees. Srisailam holds immense ancient significance, being home to the Mallikarjuna Swamy Lingam, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, and the Sri Bhramaramba Devi temple, one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas. It's unique as both icons reside in one temple. Srisailam, also known as Srigiri or Sirigiri, has been visited by various gods, kings, and devotees across different ages, earning the blessings of the divine.

It signifies the eternal cycle of life and death.

3. Mahakaleshwar Temple, Madhya Pradesh:

Mahakaleshwar Temple, Madhya Pradesh | Photo: Wikipedia

The Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain is one of the twelve famous Jyotirlingas in India. It is praised in ancient texts and poetry for its grandeur and significance. Ujjain was once a vital hub for time calculation, with Mahakala revered as its guardian deity. The temple's towering structure commands respect and awe, symbolising the eternal presence of Lord Shiva. It is believed that the lingam at Mahakaleshwar Temple is self-manifested, unlike other ritually established lingams. The temple's unique feature is its south-facing idol of Lord Shiva, with other deities like Ganesh, Parvati, and Karttikeya also worshipped here. A grand fair is held near the temple during Mahashivaratri, with continuous worship throughout the night.

4. Omkareshwar Temple, Madhya Pradesh:

Omkareshwar Temple, Madhya Pradesh | Photo: Wikipedia

Omkareshwar is the fourth of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The word "Omkar" was first spoken by Brahma, the creator. It's a sacred sound found at the beginning of the Vedas. Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga represents Lord Shiva in the form of Omkar. Jyotirlingas are places where Lord Shiva appeared and are worshipped as a form of divine light. Seeing Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is believed to wash away all sins.

In the Puranas like Skanda Purana, Shivpurana, and Vayupurana, the greatness of Omkareshwar is mentioned. There are a total of 68 shrines and 108 impressive Shivlings at Omkareshwar. It's located 77 km away from Indore, Madhya Pradesh, and is the only Jyotirlinga situated on the north bank of the Narmada River. Lord Shiva is believed to rest here daily after visiting three other places. Special rituals, including aarti and darshan, are performed here every day.

5. Kedarnath Temple, Uttarakhand:

Kedarnath Temple, Uttarakhand | Photo: Wikipedia

In Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, there are over 200 shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, with Kedarnath being the most important one. Legend has it that after the Pandavas won the Kurukshetra war but felt remorse for killing their relatives, they sought Lord Shiva's forgiveness. Lord Shiva, in the form of a bull, hid in Kedarnath. When pursued, he disappeared into the ground, leaving parts of himself at other places: Tungnath, Rudranath, Madmaheshwar, and Kalpeshwar. These five shrines, including Kedarnath, are known as Panch Kedar. The Kedarnath temple, built by Adi Shankaracharya, is awe-inspiring with its grand architecture and is guarded by a large Nandi bull statue. Inside, there's a sanctum for worship and a hall for gatherings. A conical rock formation is worshipped as Lord Shiva's manifestation.

6. Bhimashankar Temple, Maharashtra:

Bhimashankar Temple, Maharashtra | Photo: Wikipedia

Situated in the village of Bhorgiri, about 50 km northwest of Khed near Pune, Bhimashankar Temple is known for its architectural beauty and serene surroundings. It represents the form of Lord Shiva as the source of positive energy and happiness. It's famous as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas across India. It was declared a wildlife sanctuary, adding to its importance due to its rich biodiversity. Legend has it that the temple got its name from the river Bhima, which is believed to have evaporated during a battle between Lord Shiva and the demon Tripurasura. The temple showcases ancient Nagara architecture and holds historical significance.

It represents the form of Lord Shiva as the source of positive energy and happiness.

7. Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Uttar Pradesh:

Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Uttar Pradesh | Photo: GuideVaranasi

Varanasi, situated on the banks of the Ganges River, is India's oldest city and its cultural hub. At its heart lies the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, home to the revered Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva, Vishweshwara or Vishwanath. Millions visit seeking spiritual peace, believing that a glimpse of the Jyotirlinga can liberate from worldly attachments. This temple holds great significance in India's spiritual history, with the merits of visiting other Jyotirlingas believed to accumulate through a single visit here. Over the years, it has been visited by renowned saints and spiritual leaders, symbolising universal brotherhood. Managed by the Uttar Pradesh government since 1983, the temple's grandeur reflects its rich history, with gold domes and ongoing efforts for further beautification.

It symbolises enlightenment and spiritual awakening.

8. Trimbakeshwar Temple, Maharashtra:

Trimbakeshwar Temple, Maharashtra | Photo: Wikipedia

Trimbakeshwar town is a very old Hindu holy place located where the Godavari River starts, which is the longest river in southern India. Trimbakeshwar has one of the twelve special Jyotirlingas. The special thing about the Jyotirlinga here is that it has three faces, representing Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva.

The current Trimbakeshwar temple was built by Balaji Bajirao, the third Peshwa (1740-1760), on the site of an old temple. There are gates on all four sides: East, West, South, and North. In spiritual beliefs, East means the beginning, West means maturity, South means fulfillment or completion, and North stands for revelation.

In 1954, the Sansthan was registered under the Public Trust Registration Act. The Shri Trimbakeshwar Sansthan takes care of daily prayers three times a day, all festivals, and events throughout the year.

It signifies the cosmic balance and harmony.

9. Baidyanath Temple, Jharkhand:

Baidyanath Temple, Jharkhand | Photo: Indiano

Baidyanath Dham, a renowned pilgrimage site in Deoghar, Jharkhand, is the fifth among the twelve Joytirlingas. Legend has it that it is where the heart of Sati fell, and Shiva and Shakti are believed to be present together. Known as Arogya Baidyanathitee, it is believed to heal incurable diseases. The temple's history dates back to the 8th century AD, with mentions during the Gupta dynasty and the Mughal period. According to mythology, Ravana tried to transport the Joytirlinga to Lanka but failed as he couldn't lift it after placing it on the ground. The temple's architecture includes a pyramidal tower and gold vessels atop it.

It symbolises devotion and determination.

10. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, Gujarat:

Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, Gujarat | Photo: GujaratTourism

Situated near Dwarka, Nageshwar Temple is believed to be one of the holiest places for Lord Shiva devotees. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas. Inside a large hall is the main sanctum with the Shiva linga. Nearby is Gopi Talav Tirth, a significant spiritual place linked to legends of Lord Krishna and the gopis. Legend tells of a demon named Daaruka who imprisoned a Shiva devotee named Supriya here. Supriya's chants summoned Lord Shiva, who defeated the demon. A self-manifested Shivalinga emerged, still worshipped today.

It represents Lord Shiva as the lord of serpents, symbolising control over fears and obstacles.

11. Rameshwaram Temple, Tamil Nadu:

Rameshwaram Temple, Tamil Nadu | Photo: Wikipedia

The Ramanathaswamy temple is famous for its grand structure, tall towers, and detailed sculptures, making it an impressive sight. The main deity worshipped here is a lingam, a symbol of Lord Shiva. There's also a huge statue of Nandi, the sacred bull, standing at 17.5 feet tall. Other gods and goddesses worshipped in the temple include Goddess Vishalakshi, Parvathavardhini, Lord Vinayaka, Lord Subrahmanya, and Perumal.

Legend has it that Lord Rama, from the epic Ramayana, wanted to worship Lord Shiva after defeating the demon king Ravana. He sent Hanuman to bring a lingam from Kashi. When Hanuman delayed, Goddess Sita crafted a lingam from sand for Rama to worship. This lingam, called Ramalingam, is now worshipped in the Ramanathaswamy temple. The lingam brought by Hanuman is known as Vishwalingam.

Inside the temple, there are 22 holy water bodies called Theerthams where devotees bathe to cleanse themselves of sins.

It signifies redemption and forgiveness.

12. Grishneshwar Temple, Maharashtra:

Grishneshwar Temple, Maharashtra | Photo: Wikipedia

Situated near Ellora caves, Grishneshwar Temple is believed to be the last of the twelve Jyotirlingas. One story tells of Kusuma, a devout woman whose son was killed by her jealous co-wife. Despite her grief, Kusuma's faith moved Lord Shiva, who revived her son and stayed on as a jyotirlinga.

Another tale involves Ghushma, who faced similar tragedies. She kept her faith and Lord Shiva appeared, revealing her sister's misdeeds. Pleased with her forgiveness, he stayed as the Ghushmeshwar jyotirlinga. It represents the significance of faith and devotion in overcoming challenges.

As Mahashivratri 2024 approaches, understanding the significance of these twelve Jyotirlingas can deepen one's spiritual connection with Lord Shiva and enrich the celebration of this auspicious festival.

Happy Mahashivratri to all!