Information of Bhimashankar Temple, Pune, Maharashtra

The temple of Bhimashankar is one of the oldest located shrines of Jyotirlinga (Lord Shiva) in India. It was actually based 50 kilometres to the north-western region of Khed residing close to district Pune in Maharashtra. The Sahyadri mountain range is in the vicinity of this place so it can be suggested that the shrine is sited at a higher altitude from the sea-level. The ancient watercourse of Bhima has its source only from this temple. It flows directly to the direction of southwest where it meets the Krishna River at Raichur valley. Though, it can be eminent from ancient sources that the actual Jyotirlinga of Bhimashankar was established in the mountain of Brahmaputra in Assam.

Bhimashankar Temple Religious Significance

Out of the 12 shrines present in India, the Bhimashankar temple of Maharashtra was regarded as the most ancient one. People residing in the vicinity of this religious shrine termed this temple as the paradise for pilgrims. Devotees find this temple as one of the most sacred places of India situated over the top of Sahyadri mountain ranges. On the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivaratri followers and devotees from every corner of the world gathered here to witness a glimpse of this temple. The Shivaratri is celebrated like a grand festival by them with great joy.

Bhimashankar Temple Mythology & History

The temple of Bhimashankar had a very interesting incident relating to its creation. As depicted by the legends, this place was threatened by the disturbances created by a devil named Bhima. He along with his mother Kartaki resided in this region and tormented the local citizens. However, he was confused and unknown about his father Kumbhakarna. Kumbhakarna was the younger brother of the great demon king Ravana, who was killed in a war by Lord Vishnu in the form of Lord Ram. As soon as Bhima heard of this incident he got furious and planned to defeat Vishnu.

Through several disciplined meditation and sacrifice he impressed Lord Brahma and achieved great and undefeated power. Thus, he became a great threat for the entire three worlds and captured all of it. This act of Bhima scared all the gods and they helplessly went for help to Lord Shiva (also a form of Lord Vishnu). Lord Shiva understood their problem and promised to defeat Bhima.

The great conflict started which ended with the demise of the evil kingdom of Bhima. Hence, Bhima the demon was defeated and keeping the request of other gods Shiva himself took an abode there in the form of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga. That is how the temple of Bhimashankar was formed. It was also said that sweat coming out from Lord Shiva's body after the battle formed the River of Bhimarathi.

Bhimashankar Temple Architectural Significance

The Bhimashankar temple represents a unique style of architecture for its visitors. A fine blend of old and new style of architecture can be witnessed here. This attractive structural design is termed as the Nagara style of architecture. The excellence and intelligence of the Vishwakarma sculptors can be beautifully distinguished through the works of this temple. Some major adjustments regarding the temple were made way back in the 13th century but the beautification was actually made by Nana Phadnavis during the 18th century. Chimaji Appa presented a bell to the temple made of Roman style in the 18th century after defeating the Portuguese. It is presently situated at the entrance of the temple.

Other than that, several other religious cravings, wildlife sanctuaries, lakes, rivers and mountain ranges surrounding this massive historical structure makes it a natural paradise and a must watch for visitors.