About Omkareshwar Jyotirling
- Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is located in Mandhata, Madhya Pradesh, the presidency of which is Shiva Temple, one of 12 Jyotirlingas. As the Omkareshwar Temple is home of one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and an ancient historic holy place in Madhya Pradesh, India, millions of devotees come to Madhya Pradesh, India, throughout the year. Omkareshwar Temple is one of Indias most prominent and venerated Hindu temples, one of the 12 sacred shrines of the Lord Shiva, the Jyotirlinga.
- Omkara The Narmada river of Madhya Pradesh is a sacred island, which is in shape like the sacred Hindu symbol of Om, which attracts hundreds of pilgrims to this temple city. The Omkareshwar Temple is decorated by two hills, amongst which Narmada River forms a serene basin, which appears as the Om — the most sacred Hindu symbol. Millions of devotees and tourists from across India come here to have darshan of Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga.
- Of all the jyotirlingas, the Omkareshwar is believed to have one jyotirlinga which is divided into two temples, Omkareshwar and Amareshwar. One of Omkareshwars 12 jyotirlingas, the Mamaleshwar, and Sidhdhawar Kut, are located at this location. There are two major temples of Lord Shiva here, one for Omkareshwar (whose name means Lord Omkara or Lord Om Sound) located in the island, and one for Mamleshwar (Amaleshwar) (whose name means Immortal Lord or Lord Immortal or Devas) located on the southern bank of the Narmada River in the mainland.
History of Omkareshwar Mahadev Jyotirlinga
According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that once upon a time, the demon king Vindhya, who was known for his arrogance, started challenging the gods and saints. His relentless ego and desire for power created chaos in the universe, and the gods sought the help of Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe, and Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe.
Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu devised a plan to humble the demon king Vindhya. They transformed themselves into a cow and a calf, respectively, and approached Vindhya while he was performing a penance. The cow and the calf appeared to be lost, and Vindhya, in his arrogance, offered to help them. However, as he carried the cow on his shoulder, the cow kept increasing in weight, and Vindhya was unable to bear the load. He realized that the cow and the calf were none other than Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu, and he sought their forgiveness.
Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu were pleased with Vindhya’s humility, and they granted him a boon. Vindhya humbly requested that Lord Shiva bless his kingdom by residing on the banks of the Narmada River, so that it becomes a place of pilgrimage and attains spiritual significance. Lord Shiva, known for his benevolence, granted Vindhya’s wish and manifested himself as Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga on the island of Mandhata.
Another popular legend associated with Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is the story of Mandhata, the king after whom the island is named. It is believed that King Mandhata, who was a devout follower of Lord Shiva, performed intense penance to please the lord. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Shiva appeared before him and granted him a boon. King Mandhata requested Lord Shiva to stay on the island and bless it with his divine presence. Lord Shiva granted his wish and manifested himself as Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, making the island a sacred place.
Devotees of Baba Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga
Lakhs of devotees of Lord Shiva travel from across India for darshan at both the temples. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva comes daily to the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, after spending rest of the evening traveling around Earth. The name Omkareshwar means the Lord of Omkara, and it is one of the Dwadasa Jyotirlingas, or the 12 temples dedicated to Lord Shiva as the form of Jyotirlingam. The temple of Omkareshwar is the fourth Jyotirlinga in Dwadasa Jyotirlingas in India, and Omkareshwar means Lord of the Omkar, or the Omkar sounds.
Some interesting facts of Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga
Moreover, the whole region of Omkareshwar is bordered by mountains, making an appealing sight for travellers. The temple of Omkareshwar is located in a small island called Mandhata or Shivpuri, located on Narmada river of Madhya Pradesh. The island is said to have a form similar to a Hindu symbol. The popular Jyoti Lingam of Lord Shiv is here, one among the twelve such in the country, Omkareshwar is said to be the fourth Jyoti Lingam among the twelve. Omkareshwar Temple is located on an island called Mandhata or Shivapuri in the Narmada River in Madhya Pradesh the shape of the island is said to be like the Hindu symbol. The temple is sanctified by the divine name. There are two temples of Lord Shiva located close to each other, both are popular pilgrimage sites of devotees, the Jyotirlinga Amareshwar on mainland and Omkareshwar on an island.
Things to Do at Omkareshwar Mahadev Jyotirlinga
Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga offers a unique spiritual experience to visitors, and there are several activities that one can indulge in to make the most of their pilgrimage journey. Here are some things to do at Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga:
Take a holy dip in the Narmada River: The Narmada River is considered one of the holiest rivers in Hindu mythology, and it flows around the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga temple complex. Taking a ritualistic bath in the sacred river is believed to purify the soul and wash away sins, making it a must-do activity for devotees.
Attend the evening aarti: The evening aarti (prayer ceremony) at Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is a mesmerizing experience. Devotees gather at the temple complex to witness the grand aarti performed with lamps, incense, and sacred chants, creating a divine ambiance. It is a spiritually uplifting experience that fills the heart with devotion and reverence.
Explore the temple complex: The Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga temple complex is a treasure trove of architectural marvels and sacred shrines. Take your time to explore the intricately carved temples, shrines, and sculptures that adorn the complex. Admire the Nagara and Dravidian styles of architecture, and learn about the rich history and mythology associated with each shrine.
Take a boat ride in the Narmada River: Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is located on an island in the Narmada River, and taking a boat ride in the serene river is a must-do activity. Enjoy the panoramic views of the temple complex, surrounding hills, and the glistening waters of the Narmada River. It is a tranquil experience that allows you to connect with nature and soak in the spiritual vibes of the place.
Participate in the Mahashivratri festival: If you happen to visit Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga during the festival of Mahashivratri, do not miss the opportunity to participate in the festivities. The grand celebrations, cultural programs, and devotional fervor during Mahashivratri make it a unique and memorable experience.
How to reach Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga
- By Air – The nearest airport to Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga is the Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport in Indore, which is approximately 77 kilometers away. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Omkareshwar Mahadev Jyotirlinga.
- By Train – The nearest railway station to the temple is Omkareshwar Road Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in Madhya Pradesh and neighboring states. From the railway station, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga.
- By Road– If you are going Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga in Khandwa by road, then you have to arrive at Khandawa. The temple is well-connected by road networks, and regular bus services are available from nearby towns and cities in Madhya Pradesh. One can also hire a taxi or drive their own vehicle to reach Omkareshwar Baba Jyotirlinga.
