Sri Nageshvarar Temple

Introduction to Sri Nageshwar Temple:

This is an iconic temple of Gujarat, which is powerful and highly mystical. Sri Nageshwar Temple is one of the Jyothirlingams, which is located in Darukavanam, near Dwarka, Gujarat. This temple is highly popular and has been mentioned in the Shiva Purana. This temple draws a lot of devotees. It is believed that while churning the Ocean of Milk or Parkadal for Amrit, a few drops of the divine nectar fell on the earth, and became the sites for the holy shrines.

History and Legend of Sri Nageshwar Temple:

The legend of this story is connected with the demon Daruka, who abducted Supriya, a follower of Lord Shiva. Along with Supriya, he also abducted several other people, sages, and Devas. They were kept as prisoners by the demon. The consort of the demon was called Daaruki, and she was an ardent devotee of Goddess Parvati. She was able to master the forest through the boon from the Goddess. The forest was then renamed as Darukavana. It is believed that wherever she went, the forest followed her. To save the demons from the wrath of the Gods, she summoned all her powers and hid the forest under the sea. To escape from the clutches of the demon, the Devas and other people started meditating on Lord Shiva. As Lord Shiva was highly moved by the prayers of the people, he came to their rescue and annihilated the demon. The Lingam installed by Sage Supriya is called Nageshwara Lingam.

This shrine is also believed to be the place where Lord Shiva’s Phallus was made to shed because of the curse of a sage, as Lord Shiva’s magnificent look and charisma were enchanting the wives of many sages living in the forest. The world trembled with fear, and it was only after revoking the curse, that normalcy was restored. However, Lord Shiva promised the sages that he would stay here in the form of a Jyothirlinga and bless the people. Several archaeological studies conducted in this confirm that the temple is one of the oldest shrines. However, a lot of modifications were added later.

The architecture of Sri Nageshwar Temple:

The original temple in this city of Dwaraka is believed to be a big temple complex. However, it is believed that the temple later submerged in the ocean. There is historical proof for the same. The current shrine has a lingam which is believed to be self-manifested or Suyambu. The animal mount or Vahana of Lord Shiva “Nandi” is installed before the sanctum sanctorum. The temple also has a temple tank, from where the water required for the shrine and other Poojas are drawn. The 25-meter statue of Lord Shiva is installed in this temple, which is an added attraction. There are several shrines inside the temple for Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Karthikeya.

Festivals Related to Sri Nageshwar Temple:

There are many festivals celebrated in this temple. Among them, Shiva Ratri and Navaratri are highly celebrated, where all the ten days are filled with a lot of celebrations. Deepavali and Holi are also important festivals in this shrine.

Benefits of Worshipping at Sri Nageshwar Temple:

Lord Shiva blesses his devotees. It is believed that visiting Sri NageshwarTemple will curb the birth-death cycle. He protects the lives of his devotees and helps them to have a safe and secure life. It is also believed that the wishes of the people are fulfilled by Lord Shiva.