Redevelopment plan for Ujjain’s Mahakaleshwar temple
- Category
History
- Published
29th Sep, 2022
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Context
The first phase of the Mahakaleshwar Corridor, which cost Rs 350 crore, is complete now and all set for inauguration.
What is the Mahakal corridor?
- Mahakal Maharaj Mandir Parisar Vistar Yojna is a plan for the expansion, beautification, and decongestion of the Mahakaleshwar temple and its adjoining area in Ujjain district.
- Under the plan, the Mahakaleshwar temple premises of around 2.82 hectares is being increased to 47 hectares, which will be developed in two phases by the Ujjain district administration.
- This will include the 17 hectares of Rudrasagar lake.
- The project is expected to increase annual footfall in the city from the current 1.50 crore to nearly three crore.
Mahakaleshwar Temple
- Mahakaleshwar, which means the ‘Lord of time’, refers to Lord Shiva. As per Hindu mythology, the temple was constructed by Lord Brahma and is presently located alongside the holy river Kshipra.
- Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga in Ujjain is one of the 12 jyotirlingas considered the most sacred abodes of Shiva.
- The temple’s Mahakal Lingam is believed to be Swayambhu (self-manifested) and unlike any other jyotirlingas in the country, the idol of Mahakaleshwar faces south.
- The shrine is revered as one the 18 Maha Shaktia Peeth in India.
- The temple in its present form was built by the Maratha general Ranoji Shinde in 1734 CE.
