Story Of Kashi Vishwanath Temple | Hoovu Fresh

Kashi Vishwanatha is one of the oldest temples of Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve jyotirlingas. The temple is located on the western bank of the river Ganga in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Kashi is one of the oldest cities that holds historical importance. It is also believed that the first Jyotirlinga manifested itself in the holy land. The Kashi Vishwanath temple is also known as Shri Vishweshwar temple and Golden Temple (golden chatra, gold plating on the 15.5m spire).

The famous Kashi Vishwanatha temple was built in 1490 and since then it has been rebuilt several times. It was destroyed by Qutb-ud-din Aibak in 1194 CE and rebuilt during the reign of Iltutmish. It was again destroyed in the time of Sikandar Lodhi and Aurangzeb. The current structure of the temple was built by Rani Ahilya Bai of Indore in 1780. According to a popular myth, Lord Shiva appeared in the dreams of Rani Ahilya Bai and she later built the temple.

The story behind Kashi Vishwanath Temple -

The legend says that, as per the Shiv Purana, once there was an argument between Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu on supremacy. For testing both of them, Lord Shiva pierced the three worlds as a big endless pillar of light, “Jyotirlinga” and asked them to find its bottom. Lord Brahma lied about his victory and Lord Vishnu accepted his defeat. After learning about the lie, infuriated Lord Shiva took the form of Bhairava, cut off Lord Brahma’s fifth head and cursed him that he would never be worshipped while Lord Vishnu will be worshipped till eternity. 

It is believed by many Hindus that the Kashi Vishwanath temple is where one can achieve salvation. The temple is an example of outstanding architecture and designs. You must visit the Kashi Vishwanath temple to learn more about the rich Indian history.