Maharashtra • 2 monuments
Great religious significance is associated with Ghrishneshwar Temple, it being one of the 12 extremely revered Jyotirlings dedicated to Lord Shiva. An interesting mythological legend states that an ardent devotee of Shiva named Kusuma would daily worship the lord by immersing Shiva Lingam in a water tank. She continued with the practice even after losing her son and this pleased Shiva who appeared in front of Kusuma. Not only did he turn her son alive, but also decided to exist at the place as a Jyotirling. The temple is therefore also known as Kusumeswarar. The most enthralling feature of the temple is its soaring 5-storey shikhara, carved majestically and decorated with impressive motifs. Originally the temple was built using pre-historic and other traditional construction styles. The present day temple was built in the 18th century by a local queen Ahilyabai Holkar. Apart from the sanctum sanctorum housing the divine Shiva Lingam, the temple has an antechamber and a pillared hall. The inner walls are embellished with inscriptions and paintings, promising beautiful sights. Monday being an auspicious day to worship Lord Shiva draws flocks of devotees to the temple. The fair organized on Mahashivaratri is worth attending.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ellora Caves in Aurangabad are renowned for 34 impressive caves that are carved out of volcanic rock. Locally famous as ‘Verul Leni,’ it is the pride of Maharashtra. Displaying the flawless and impeccable illustration of art and architecture, Ellora Caves define the concept of ‘Unity in Diversity’ in India. Out of the 34 caves in Ellora, 17 are dedicated to Hindus, 14 to Buddhists and remaining to Jains. Ellora is home to the huge 8th century Kailashnath Temple (located in Cave 16) that portrays the scenes from the holy books of Ramayana and Mahabharata. The temple is created out of a single solid block of stone. The caves depict the harmony that exists between Hindu, Buddhist, Jains and other religions. Some of the highlights of Ellora Caves, which visitors shouldn’t miss on their trip, are Cave 2, Cave 6, Cave 11 and 12, Vishwakarma Cave, Hindu Caves and Jain Caves.
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