Gorakhnath Temple

Introduction to the Gorakhnath Temple

The Gorakhnath Temple, or Gorakhnath Math, is in Gorakhpur, Eastern Uttar Pradesh. The district and the temple are named after Saint Gorakhnath, a Hindu yogi and ascetic who was the disciple of Matsyendranath, the founder of the Nath Sampradaya (a monastic sect). Shri Baba Yogi Adityanath is the present Mahant of Gorakhnath Temple.

History of the Gorakhnath Temple

During the 11th century, Saint Gorakhnath performed severe penance on the banks of the Rapti River. People accepted him as their guru because of his extraordinary yogic power and spiritual glory. Gorakhnath attained Samadhi here. His disciples established a small temple at this holy place in his remembrance. Later, the huge Gorakhnath Temple was established.

The Architecture of the Gorakhnath Temple

The Gorakhnath Temple features a blend of ancient and modern architectural styles. Its shape and structure have undergone many changes over the centuries. During the Mughals' rule, the temple was demolished twice.

Alauddin Khilji destroyed the Gorakhnath Temple in the 14th century and Aurangzeb in the 18th century.

However, Gorakhnath Temple was rebuilt in 1896 and retained its originality. Later, Mahant Aweiydya Nath and Mahant Digvijay Nath renovated and gave it a new look.

It was built in the twelfth century on 52 acres of land. The façade of the temple has elaborate motifs and sculptures depicting mythological figures and Hindu deities. Many hallways and rooms in the temple have various Hindu deities. The first chamber has the Samadhi of Guru Gorakhnath.

Previously, the room had his statue, which is now replaced by his foot impressions. Visitors can see his prayer seat in the room where Guru Gorakhnath used to sit after his travels.

Outside the chamber, a gallery houses the idols of Ganesha, Shiva, Bhairava, and Kali. There is also a room with nine Naths and their statues, as well as many other statues.

The main shrine is rectangular, and round pillars support the large hall. The sanctum enshrines the idol of Guru Gorakhnath on a white marble platform in a meditation posture. Visitors can see the verses of Guru Gorakhnath inscribed on the temple's walls. A sacred pond called Mansarovar is southeast of the temple. The Gorakhnath Temple maintains a Goshala inside the premises. The temple complex has an Ayurvedic dispensary, library, and yoga training center.

Festivals in the Gorakhnath Temple

The Gorakhnath Temple hosts a month-long, big fair named Khichdi Mela on the occasion of Makar Sankranti. Mahashivratri, Gorakhnath Jayanti, Holi, Naga Panchami, Guru Purnima, Janmashtami, Vijayadasami, and Makar Sankranti are grandly celebrated in the Gorakhnath Temple. The king of Nepal occasionally visits the temple during the festivals.

Benefits of Worshipping at the Gorakhnath Temple

Devotees believe that chanting the Gorakhnath Chalisa twelve times with complete dedication can bless them with the power of divine Jyoti.