Description
The SthaneshwarMahadev Shiv temple is situated in the town of Thanesar, as district in Kurukshetra in the state of Haryana. It is merely 3 kilometers away from the main station of Kurukshetra. The nearest airport is in Delhi. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple has been worshipped since the time of Mahabharata. The place is not just famous for the temple but also for the nearby pilgrimage areas. Just nearby is the temple of Kamal Nabhi where Lord Brahma is believed to be born in a lotus which flowered from the navel of Lord Vishnu. Truly described as heaven on earth, the temple stands as worthy place to be worshipped.
History
It is believed that this holy temple was constructed way before the existence of Pandavas. Hence, no one is sure about its builder or its origin. Legends suggest that the water of the tank near the temple is very pure and it was the spot where the ancestors of heroes of the Mahabharata was, Kuru performed yaga's in the banks of the river and got blessings and powers which helped him to defeat warriors in the forthcoming battles. Further, it is also believed that the ninth Guru of the Sikhs, Guru TeghBahadur, stayed and meditated at a spot close to this area where now a Gurdwara has been constructed.
Importance/Significance
The temple is considered of great importance. The holy waters in the tank are considered to have certain magical powers which are believed to cure people suffering from leprosy. All the more, it is earmarked as a place where the Pandavas received constant blessings which ultimately helped them to achieve success.
Facts/Mythology
Sthaneshwar means abode of God. Hence, this place is considered as the ultimate shelter of Lord Shiva. It is said that the Pandava's along with Lord Krishna worshipped Lord Shiva before plunging into the battle of Mahabharata. Further, Bhisma is said to have laid a bed of arrows on the spot which is today known as the bhismakund tank. One unique fact about the temple is that its roof is shaped in the form of Amla coupled with a very long pinnacle. This enhances the architectural beauty which is exemplified in the ancient structure. The Linga is worshipped here and once formed an important part of the Kingdom of King Harsha. In addition, there are many other smaller temples built in and around the main temple like those of Hanuman,ShaniDev,Ganesh, Saraswati,MaaDurga, Laxmi,SantoshiMata,Krishana and Lord Rama. Each temple with its structures is a masterpiece in itself.
Festivals/Events/Gatherings
SthaneshwarMahadev Shiv temple stands a home for it devotees. Many festivals are celebrated here like Deepavali, Navaratri and Ramnavmi. The temple also has a separate place allocated as community halls specially designed for events such as marriages, engagements and other ceremonies.
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