Omkareshwar- A Brief Introduction

Omkareshwar, which is also tagged as “Shri Omkar Mandhata” is one of the best holy sites nestled in the state of Madhya Pradesh of Central India. The sacred temple is one of the respected Jyotirlinga place due to which it is visited by numerous pilgrims every year. Omkareshwar is a divine island of Lord Shiva, called Shivpuri or Mandhata. The island obtained the shape of “OM” that is considered as a holy sign for Hindus. Here at the union of the rivers Kaveri and Narmada, the pious meet to kneel before the Jyotirlinga at the shrine Shri Omkar Mandhata. It is believed that a dip in the sacred water of Narmada and Kaveri washes of all the sins and purifies the mind and soul of an individual.

History and myth

According to legends, Shiva Purana illustrates the importance of Mammaleshwar and Omkareshwar. Mucchkund and Ambarish were two sons of Sun dynasty Mandhata. Both practiced rigorous reparation at this place to make Lord Shiva pleased and happy. They also carried out great spiritual sacrifices in this place due to that the mountain is known as Mandhata.

Another famous myth says that Vidhya Parvat practiced strict penance and worshipped Lord Omkareshwar along with Parthivarchana for almost six months. As a result, Lord Shiva became happy and blessed him with desired boon. On the heartfelt request of all the deities, Lord Shiva created two parts of the lings. One half being Amareshwar and the other is Omkareshwar.

According to some scholars, King Mandhata of Ishvaku kinfolk worshipped Lord Shiva at this sacred place. Moreover this, Govinda Bhagavatpaada, who was the Guru of Shankaracharya is considered to have lived in a cave located at this place.

Framework and significance of Omkareshwar Temple

The Omkareshwar shrine is constructed in Nagara style and illustrated by a lofty Shikhara. There are also temples of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Annapurna here. The statue of Lord Shiva is places on the top of the temple. The place of pilgrimage is a huge impressive stone formation with the inner sanctum deep inside. The famous white shikhara that now goes above Shri Omkareshwar temple is a latest addition on the southern side of island.

The ornate pillars in mandapa or assembly portray an excellent example of antiquity’s architecture. The intricate carvings in the facade chamber of temple and mural paintings on the upper portions of the structure are wholly captivating. Omkareshwar temple depicts an outstanding amalgamation of human artistic skills and nature’s magnificence.

Omkareshwar Parikrama

According to Hindu legends, is a person walks around any positive source of energy, the individual would tender with same vibes of positive energy. The famous belief is that walking around sanctified shrine of Omkareshwar would bring fortunate things and washes off all the sins of those people who take holy Parikrama.

Besides Jyotirlinga, the presence of sacred rivers Narmada adds the Parikrama a laudable affair. It is said that Narmada was the daughter of Lord Shiva and deemed as the purest of all other rivers. Many people who prefer to take a Parikrama at this place would surely provide preference to its spiritual feature than the picturesque atmosphere through which they walk around.

24 Avatars :24 Avatars, situated at Shri Omkar Mandhata, is a grouping of Jain and Hindu temples that are famous for their unique and fascinating style of architectural skills. Many Jain and Hindu temples were demolished by Muslim invader Mahmud Ghazni in 11th century, including Omkareshwar. The cluster of 24 temples offers an amazing site because every shrine differs in architectural style from other. The captivating artistic art and natural beauty appeal majority of the visitors to witness the divine land of Omkareshwar.

Satmatrika Temples : The consecrated place is nestled at a distance of approximately 6 kms from Omkareshwar. At the union of river Kaveri and Narmada that lies in the sacred place at Omkareshwar island. This hallowed spot is packed with a group of 10th century temples that are preserved in modern era for the attraction of visitors. Satmatrika temple is the most prominent one that grabs attention of numerous tourists.

A sneak peek on some important facts

• State- Madhya Pradesh
• District- Khandwa
• Famous for/as- Pilgrim, Jyotirlinga
• Languages- Hindi, English
• Best season to visit- Sep to Mar
• Weather- Summer 23°C to 37°C, winter 17°C to 30°C

Reaching Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple

By Bus- Omkareshwar is linked to Khandwa, Ujjain and Indore. State transportation buses are available to Omkareshwar from key cities like Indore (77km), Ujjain (133km) and Khandwa (60km). Omkareshwar is located at a distance of 884 kms from Delhi.

By Air- The closest airport is located in Indore at a distance of approximately 76 kms. It provides flight services from Bhopal, Gwalior, Delhi and Mumbai.

By Train- Ratlam-khandwa section of western railway is located at a distance of 12 km which is not a main railhead.

 

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