Who is Worshiped in Kedarnath Temple – Explore the Kedarnath Temple, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Learn about its history, Pandava connection, unique architecture, and ancient worship traditions in the heart of the Himalayas.
Who is Worshiped in Kedarnath Temple – Kedarnath temple is a world famous Hindu pilgrimage site located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. This temple is situated in the lap of the Himalayas and is considered one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Shiva. Its spiritual significance is immense and every year thousands of pilgrims come here for darshan.
History and construction
The history of the construction of Kedarnath temple is unknown, but the belief of its construction by the Pandavas after the Mahabharata period is popular. An amazing display of architecture can be seen in this 80 feet high temple. The stones used in the temple are local and the form of the temple is quadrangular.
Main Deity in the Kedarnath Temple
Lord Shiva is worshipped as the main deity in the Kedarnath temple. The worship traditions of Shiva in this temple are very ancient and unique.
Garbha Griha and Idols
In the sanctum sanctorum, the self-manifested Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva is present in the form of a huge rock. The stone idol of Mother Parvati is also installed outside this sanctum sanctorum. In the Sabha Mandap, there are idols of Panch Pandavas, Shri Krishna and Maa Kunti. There are stone idols of Ganesh Ji and Shri Nandi Ji at the main entrance.
Temple Architecture
If we look at the architecture of Kedarnath temple, it is built with big stones and its design reflects the Himalayan style. Its historical significance is also very great, because it has been the center of religious faith for centuries.
Mythological Stories
There are many mythological stories related to Kedarnath which further increase its spiritual significance. According to a legend, after the Mahabharata war, the Pandavas came to meet Lord Shiva to atone for their sins. Lord Shiva took the form of a buffalo and disappeared into the earth to hide from the Pandavas. When the Pandavas tried to catch the buffalo, various parts of its body appeared at five different places, called ‘Panch Kedar‘. Kedarnath is one of them.
How to Reach Kedarnath Temple from Mumbai – Air, Rail, Road Complete Guide
Pilgrimage and Darshan
Kedarnath Yatra is an important pilgrimage of Hinduism. This journey usually starts from the month of April or May and continues till November. Travellers get the opportunity of special darshan during this time, in which they can participate in the special worship and aarti of Lord Shiva.
Kedarnath’s Protectors
About 200 meters east of the main temple, the stone idol of Lord Bhairav Ji, the protector of the Kedar region, is installed on a new stone.
Jyotirlinga and Puja
All the pilgrims can worship the Jyotirlinga of Lord in Shri Kedarnath temple by touching it with their own hands. Acharya Vedpathi is appointed to perform the puja to help the pilgrims. Priests of Veerashaiva Jangam sect are appointed for the daily worship of the Lord. Shri Kedarnath ji is worshipped according to the Shaivite method.
FAQs
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit is from May to June and September to November.
- Worship materials: Pilgrims should carry flowers, incense, and other worship materials with them.
Conclusion
Kedarnath temple is not only a religious place but it is also an important source of spiritual energy and peace. For pilgrims, coming here is an opportunity to strengthen their faith and devotion. The journey to Kedarnath paves the way not only for physical but also spiritual purification.
