Eklingji Temple Udaipur is one among the most famous temples of Rajasthan. The Temple is located in the town of Eklingji (Kailashpuri), so this place got its popular name from the temple. Eklingji Temple is positioned in Rajasthan at a distance of 22 km in the north of Udaipur, on the national highway no. 8. Eklingnath Temple is dedicated to deity Lord Shiva of the Hindu religion. Initially, the temple was built by Bappa Rawal in 734 A.D.
Since those times, Eklingji has been the ruling deity of Mewar rulers. Then during later years it was repaired and modified by various Kings, to clean the remnants of obliteration made by the attacks of Mohammedans. This auspicious place has 108 temples and the 1200 years old temple of Sri Eklingji Prabhu / Lord Shiva is the biggest, oldest and most famous temple. The Aravalli hills and the forests form the perfect abode for the Lord.
Eklingnath Temple's magnificent architecture is simply remarkable. The temple has double-storied building which looks awesome with its pyramidal style of roof and distinctly carved tower. The outer walls of this temple are stretched with steps that descend through touching the serene waters.
History of Eklingji Temple Udaipur
The history of Eklingji Temple is recorded in the Ekalinga Mahatmya, a historical text written in the 15th century. According to the text, the original temple was built in 734 A.D. by ruler Bappa Rawal. The temple has been a victim of loot and plunders during the rule of Delhi Sultanate. The original temple and its idols were physically damaged.
In the late years, the temple was renovated and modified by many kings to preserve the glory and faith of people in Shri Eklingji. The temple originally belonged to Pashupata sect, then Nath sect and post 16th century it is managed and controlled by Ramanandis.
Architecture of Eklingji Temple Udaipur
Eklingji Temple has a marvelous architecture. The temple is double storied with colossal pyramidal style roof and remarkably carved tower which adds to its beauty.
Exterior - The exterior walls of temples are stretched with stairs which directly descends in the water.
Entrance - On entering the temple, you will greet a silver image of Nandi (bull). According to mythology, Nandi is considered to be the gate-guardian deity of Mountain Kailasa. There are two other carvings of Nandi in brass and black stone in the temple.
Interior - The four-faced idol of Lord Shiva or Eklingji is placed in the main temple. The statue is placed in a towering pillared hall called a mandap.
Four-faced statue - The idol is about 50 feet in height and is made out of black stone. The four-faced figure depicts four different forms of Lord Shiva. The eastern side recognizes Surya (the sun), western side recognizes Lord Brahma (the ultimate creator), northern side recognizes Lord Vishu(the supreme being), and the southern side is Rudra (the mightiest of the mighty). The Eklinga statue is encircled with the figures of Goddess Parvati (Wife of Shiva), Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikay (sons of Shiva).
Things to do at Eklingji Temple Udaipur
The temples host special events during Navaratras. The events in Chaitra and Ashwin month of Hindu calendar fetch devotees from all around the world. People seek blessings of the God and relieve themselves from all the stress. It is believed that by taking the blessing of Ekilingji, people bring themselves one step closer to spiritual breakthroughs from all the worldly struggles and pains.
