Kashi Vishwanath Temple

About

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most well-known Hindu shrines to Shiva. Its location in Vishwanath Gali, close to the holy city of Varanasi in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, gives it great religious and cultural significance. Located on the western bank of the Ganges River, this temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga, or “fire temples,” which are revered as the holiest shrines to Lord Shiva. Since ancient Varanasi was known as Kashi, which means “shining,” the temple also goes by the name Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Shri Vishwanath and Vishweshwara, meaning “Lord of the Universe,” refer to the supreme god. Since 1983, the government of Uttar Pradesh has appointed a board of trustees to oversee the temple, which plays an important role in Shaiva culture.

Did you know?

Over the centuries, many different kings and kingdoms have destroyed and rebuilt the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The Jyotirlinga of Shiva, the formless reality at the center of creation, resides at the temple. Visiting the city of Varanasi, where the temple is situated, is seen to put one on the path to Moksha (freedom) in Hinduism. With the launch of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor Project in 2019, pilgrims will have easier access to the temple and the Ganges River, as well as to other modern conveniences.

Deities

The Jyotirlinga, a sacred sign of heavenly energy, represents Lord Shiva, the principal deity at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Other smaller temples are dedicated to Vishnu, Ganesha, Shani, Shiva, Parvati, and the deities Kala Bhairava, Kartikeya, Avimukteshwara, and Shani.

Location

In Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple may be found in Vishwanath Gali, not far from the riverbanks of the Ganges. For Hindus, the city of Varanasi holds great religious and cultural significance.

Cultural & Economic Impact

The cultural and economic effects of the temple are enormous. The local economy benefits significantly from the yearly influx of millions of tourists and pilgrims. The temple serves as a focal point for cultural and religious events due to the many myths and stories surrounding it.

Festivals

Phalgun Shukla Ekadashi (Rangabhari Ekadashi), Shivaratri, and other festivals and rituals are celebrated at the temple throughout the year. Devotees travel from all around India to participate in these celebrations.

Facts

Throughout its long history, the temple has been repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt.
Those who pass away of natural causes are said to have the mantra of salvation blown into their ears by Lord Shiva himself at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
To facilitate travel to the temple and the Ganges River, the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor Project was launched that year.

Frequently Asked Questions { FAQs }

Why is the Jyotirlinga in Kashi's Vishwanath Temple so important?

The Jyotirlinga represents Lord Shiva's pure force and symbolizes the formless reality at the center of all creation.

When it comes to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, who is in charge?

The state government of Uttar Pradesh appointed a board of trustees in 1983 to oversee the temple's operations.

When it comes to Hinduism, why is Varanasi so important?

Because of its spiritual significance and it's link with Lord Shiva, Varanasi is considered one of the holiest towns in Hinduism.

When I say "Kashi Vishwanath Corridor Project," what do you think?

In 2019, work began on a plan to upgrade facilities for visitors to the temple and the Ganges River.

During which holidays does the Kashi Vishwanath Temple host celebrations?

Shivaratri and Phalgun Shukla Ekadashi (Rangabhari Ekadashi) are only two of the many celebrations at the temple throughout the year.