Story and importance of ancient Kardameshwar Mahadev temple of Kashi, Mughals have also attacked the temple

Mahadev Temple : Kashi, considered to be the abode of Devadhidev Mahadev, is famous for the unique divinity and devotion of each of its temples. One special temple among these is Shri Kardameshwar Mahadev Temple, which is associated with Mahadev as well as Maryada Purushottam Shri Ramchandra. This ancient pagoda located in the southern part of Kashi is special due to its historical and religious importance. It is believed that Lord Shri Ram had darshan of Mahadev here after conquering Lanka to get relief from the crime of Brahmahatya due to killing Ravana.

History and religious importance of the temple

Kardameshwar Mahadev Temple is considered to be the oldest surviving Shiva temple in Kashi. It is said that Sage Kardam had established Shivalinga here, hence it was called Kardameshwar. This is the first major stop during the Kashi Panchkoshi Parikrama, and pilgrims start their holy journey from here. Just by seeing the peak of the temple, a person gets freedom from debt to God. According to legends, after killing Ravana, Ram was accused of Brahmahatya, after which on the advice of Guru Vashishtha, Ram and Sita came to Kardameshwar Mahadev and got salvation from the sin.

architecture and art

The temple is built in Nagara style and is an excellent example of Pancharatha design. It houses the sanctum sanctorum, mahamandap, ardhamandap, pradakshina path and chabutara. The temple faces east and has carvings of dancers, musicians, snakes and mythological creatures on its walls, which are believed to be from the 6th-7th century. The Kardam Kund located near the temple is said to have been formed by the tears of Sage Kardam and was later renovated by Rani Bhavani in the 18th century.

historic preservation

The Kardameshwar Mahadev Temple is believed to be from the 12th century and survived the devastating attacks of the Mughals and retained its original structure till the 17th century. This is the only temple of Kashi which still stands with its historical dignity. The Uttar Pradesh government has protected it under the Ancient and Historical Monuments Protection Act, 1956.

Darshan and travel information

The temple is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Aarti is conducted in the morning, evening and night. admission is free. Morning or evening time is considered most suitable for darshan. The temple is situated in Vaishno Nagar Colony, Kanchanpur, Kandwa area. Varanasi can be easily reached by auto, taxi or private vehicle from the city. The temple can be reached in about 30-45 minutes by taxi from Varanasi Junction or Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport.