Ujjain, August 5: The world-renowned Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, has specific entry regulations that prevent many devotees from touching and worshipping Lord Mahakal in the sanctum sanctorum. For these devotees, the historic Juna Mahakal Temple has become a significant place of faith. Here, visitors can personally offer water to Lord Shiva, perform Panchamrit Abhishekam, and touch the Shivling while conducting their worship rituals throughout the year.
Pandit Akash Rawal, the priest at Juna Mahakal Temple, shared with a news agency that this site holds immense religious importance and is ancient. He explained that “Juna” means old or ancient, symbolizing the long-standing tradition of worship associated with Lord Mahakal. Mahakaleshwar is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, referenced in the famous Jyotirlinga Stotra. Scriptures describe Mahakaleshwar as the deity presiding over the realm of death.
Akash Rawal noted that whenever Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav visits Ujjain for darshan of Mahakaleshwar, he also visits Juna Mahakal Temple. There, he and his family perform rituals and worship Lord Juna Mahakaleshwar with due reverence. During these occasions, Brahmins and temple priests conduct Panchamrit Abhishekam using milk, yogurt, ghee, honey, and sugar, concluding the worship with Vedic chants.
He emphasized that worship at Juna Mahakal Temple holds special spiritual significance. Referring to the Skanda Purana, he stated that vows and prayers made in the presence of Lord Mahakal are particularly fruitful. Devotees come here to fulfill their wishes related to health, longevity, prosperity, education, intelligence, employment, business, and more. The temple offers various religious rituals, including Panchamrit worship and Rudrabhishek, along with the chanting of Vedic mantras like Rudra Sukta and Namak-Chamak. Notably, visitors can personally offer water, milk, and Panchamrit to the Shivling and have the opportunity to touch it during their prayers.
Pandit Akash Rawal further explained that this temple is located on the exit route of the Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple complex. The first sight on this route is the Anadi Kalpeshwar Mahadev. Following this, devotees encounter the elderly Mahakal or Juna Mahakal Temple near the Saptarishi Temple. This area also houses the Bal Hanuman Temple, Anadi Kalpeshwar Mahadev, and the Saptarishi Temple, making it a significant religious complex for pilgrims.
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