Information of Balkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Balkeshwar Mahadev Temple is devoted to lord Shiv and it is situated in Balkeshwar colony of Agra. The temple is poisoned at the bank of Yamuna River. It is one of the earliest temples of Agra and is the core of attraction for the local people as well as the tourist around the country who come to visit Agra. Balkeshwar Mahadev Temple holds the trust in the mind of every devotees that the desire offered at this temple is unswervingly heard by lord Shiv.

Balkeshwar Mahadev Temple Religious Significance

As stated above, Balkeshwar Mahadev Temple is devoted to lord Shiv. In Agra, there are about four most legendary temples of lord Shiv, situated in four places of the city and Balkeshwar Mahadev Temple is one among the four. In this temple, prayers and other forms of religious act such as 'aarti' is conducted every day. Nevertheless, the most decorative activities and celebration of this temple occur during the period of Shivratri. On that time, the Shiv Linga inside the temple is festooned by sacred material named 'Rudraksha'.

The other important religious festival of Balkeshwar Mahadev Temple is Bateshwar fair. The derivation of this fair is religious, having enormous significance for Hindu pilgrims. Apart from that. Balkeshwar Mahadev Temple also celebrates festivals like Kailash fair, Ram barat, Heetla fair, Taj mahotsav and Sheetia fair among others. On these occasions, the premises of the temple along with the open areas are transformed to fair grounds, decorated with various items and bustled with numerous activities. Considerable amount of crowd gathers on these festivals and various shops are set up during that time. Moreover, visual pleasure is also observed in these festivals through great contentment.

Balkeshwar Mahadev Temple Mythology & History

Balkeshwar Mahadev Temple is one of the most sacred places of Agra. It houses the temple of lord Shiv as well as Parvati. According to legend, the construction of the temple was initiated in the year 1994 on a promising day of Shivratri. It is the day when lord Shiv married to goddess Parvati. This particular day is also termed as the 'great night of lord shiv'. In accordance with Hindu calendar, Shivratri is observed on 14th day of 'Krishna Paksha'. It highlights the convergence of lord Shiv and his power.

According to Hindu mythology, this particular day is favourite for lord Shiv and it throws elegance on his enormity and sovereignty over other Hindu lords. On the other hand, it is also the day when lord Shiv performed the cosmic dance. The cosmic dance demonstrates the violent character of lord Shiv where he can destroy the universe itself. Due to this reason, Shivratri is celebrated in Balkeshwar Mahadev Temple with much grandeur. Legends depict that lord Shiv himself appeared in Balkeshwar Mahadev Temple in the form of a stone lingam. Thus, the devotees of lord Shiv remember his visit through organising a festival and by offering prayers to him. During this time, devotees involve in every kind of amusing and fun activities.

Balkeshwar Mahadev Temple Architectural Significance

Apart from a popular place for worship for Hindu visitors, Balkeshwar Mahadev Temple is also the portion of popular tourist location in Agra city. Balkeshwar Mahadev Temple covers large amount of area with various statues of lord Shiv. There is a primary entrance to the inner portion of the temple. While visiting Balkeshwar Mahadev Temple, one can also explore the huge Balkeshwar colony along with the nearby places. The place is characterised by several restaurants and hotels among others.