About Ujjain and Mahakaleshwar Temple
Mahakaleshwar Temple: A Sacred Abode of Lord Shiva
The Mahakaleshwar Temple, located in the ancient city of Ujjain, is a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, revered as Mahakal or the Lord of Time. The temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India and holds immense spiritual significance.
- Situated on the banks of the sacred Shipra River, the temple is an architectural marvel.
- The sprawling courtyard features exquisite sculptures influenced by the Chalukya, Maratha, and Bhumija styles.
- A 250-meter-long underground tunnel is being constructed at the temple to enhance accessibility and manage the influx of devotees.
About the Ancient City of Ujjain
Ujjain, with a history spanning over 5,000 years, is described in the Adi Brahma Purana as one of the best cities. It is renowned for its cultural and spiritual legacy.
- Known as Avantika in ancient texts, Ujjain is one of the Sapta Moksha Puri (Seven Liberation Cities).
- It is geographically significant, located at the intersection of the Zero Meridian (Madhyarekha) and the Tropic of Cancer (Karkavrutta).
- The city hosts the sacred Kumbh Mela, a grand Hindu festival celebrated once every 12 years.
- It is home to two Shakti Peethas: Gadhkalika and Harsiddhi.
Sapta Moksha Puri: The Seven Sacred Cities
Ujjain is one of the seven cities considered gateways to salvation, as described in texts like the Agni Purana and Garuda Purana. These cities are:
- Ayodhya – Birthplace of Lord Rama.
- Mathura – Birthplace of Lord Krishna.
- Maya (Haridwar) – Gateway to the Himalayas.
- Kashi (Varanasi) – City of Lord Shiva.
- Kanchi (Kanchipuram) – City of temples in Tamil Nadu.
- Avantika (Ujjain) – City of salvation.
- Dwaravati (Dwarka) – Kingdom of Lord Krishna.
Renouncing the body in these cities is believed to grant liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, known as Moksha.