Monday 31 October 2011

Nageshwar Temple, Ayodhya

Introduction to the Nageshwar Temple, Ayodhya:

The temple of Nageshwarnath is one of the most frequented temples in Ayodhya. The temple stands tall amidst numerous 'Matths' and 'Akhadaras' that exist in the city of Ayodhya. Nageshwarnath Temple is supposed to be established by Raja Kush, the younger son of Lord Rama. The festival of Shivaratri is celebrated here with great pomp and splendor.


There is a very interesting story behind the establishment of this temple. It is said that Raja Kush lost his armlet, while bathing in the Saryu. He tried to find it but in vain. He became much depressed thinking it to be a bad omen. The armlet was actually picked up by a Nag-Kanya (Snake-damsel), who fell in love with him. She promptly returned the armlet and won the admiration of Raja Kush.

It is claimed that as the Nag-Kanya was a devotee of Shiva, Kush erected this temple for her. The temple has historical essence as well. That is particularly because of the fact that Nageshwarnath has been the only temple to survive till the reign of Chandragupta Vikramaditya; the rest of city had fallen into ruins and was covered by dense forests. It is claimed that it was by means of this temple that Vikramaditya was able to locate Ayodhya and the sites of different shrines here. the numerous temples in Ayodhya, which are integrally related to the rich culture of the Indians, Nageshwar Temple, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh is an important one. Established by Raja Hush, the younger son of Lord Rama and an important character of the epic Ramayana Nageshwar Temple throw enough light on the culture of Kreta Yug. During the occasion of Shivaratri, which is celebrated with excessive pomp and gaiety, the place has a very joyful ambience.



History of the Nageshwar Temple, Ayodhya:

According to the legend, once Kusha, the younger son of Lord Rama lost his amulet while bathing in the Saryu River and tried to find the same but all his efforts were in vain. He thought that a bad omen had befallen him and this was why he could not find out the amulet. He became extremely depressed. But the amulet was actually picked up by a Nag Kanya who was in love with him. When she returned the amulet to King Kusha, she won his appreciation and admiration.

ince the Nag Kanya was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva, Kusha erected the Nageshwara Temple at Ayodhya for her. Another significant fact about the Nageshwara Temple is that it has survived in the test of time till the reign of Chandragupta II who assumed the title Vikramaditya. No other temple has been able to survive from that time, especially after the advent of the Muslims in India. While the rest of the city was covered with dense forest, this temple has been able to retain its original charm from time immemorial.



Description of the Nageshwar Temple, Ayodhya:

If you come to Ayodhya you shall see a number of mattha scattered here and there. You can also see the Akhadaras that dots the city of Ayodhya. Amidst these beautiful religious laces, is located the invigorating shrine of Nageshwara that constantly reminds us of the epic king Kusha and his admirer Nag Kanya. If you come to Ayodhya, then make sure to visit this beautiful temple. This would surely leave an indelible mark in your minds forever.

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