Varanasi, April 6: The city of Varanasi is revered as the abode of Lord Mahadev, with each temple exuding its own unique divinity and devotion. Among these sacred sites is the Kardameshwar Mahadev Temple, intricately linked to Lord Ram, the epitome of righteousness.
Situated in the southern part of Varanasi, the Kardameshwar Mahadev Temple is an ancient and remarkable shrine. It has withstood the destructive Mughal invasions of the 17th century, preserving its original grandeur. Legend has it that after defeating Ravana, Lord Ram visited this temple to seek forgiveness for the sin of Brahmahatya.
The Kardameshwar Temple is considered the oldest surviving Shiva temple in Varanasi. It is named after Sage Kardam, who established the Shiva Lingam here. This temple is the first major stop on the sacred Kashi Panchkoshi Parikrama, a 25-kilometer pilgrimage route. Pilgrims believe that merely seeing the temple’s spire frees them from divine debts.
According to folklore, after Ravana’s demise, Lord Ram was burdened with the sin of Brahmahatya. Following the advice of Guru Vashistha, Ram and Sita visited this temple to perform rituals, ultimately attaining liberation from their sins.
Architecturally, the temple showcases the Nagar style and is an excellent example of the Panchratha design. It features a platform that includes the sanctum, circumambulatory path, hall, main hall, and half hall. The temple faces east, adorned with exquisite carvings of celestial dancers, musicians, serpents, and mythical creatures, dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries. Nearby is the Kardam Kund, believed to have formed from the tears of Sage Kardam, later restored in the 18th century by Queen Bhavani of Bengal.
The temple holds significant historical importance. In the 11th century, Chandradev of the Gahadvala dynasty reinstated Varanasi after an invasion. This temple, dating back to the 12th century, is the only one in Varanasi that has preserved its original structure through the Mughal destruction until the 17th century. The Uttar Pradesh government has protected it under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1956.
Open daily from sunrise to sunset, the temple hosts rituals in the morning, evening, and night. Entry is free, with morning or evening being the best times for a visit.
Located in the Vaishno Nagar Colony, Kanchanpur, Kandwa area, the temple is easily accessible by auto, taxi, or private vehicle from Varanasi. It takes about 30-45 minutes to reach from Varanasi Junction or Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport by taxi.
Leave a Comment