Sultanganj has a historic past closely associated with the Mahabharata. Once it was the Anga rajya of Karna, the illegitimate son of Kunti and the 6th brother of the 5 Pandavas.

Though, the exact date of the temple formation is not decoded but per relics and history- the Ajgaivinath Temple was built during the rule of the Pala dynasty. References of Gupta, Maurya and the Pala era are found across the area through the excavated coins, stupas, seals, terracotta artwork, and Hindu as well as Buddha idols.

The ancient name of the place was Jahangira, which was derived from the name of Jahnu Muni. Jahangira is a modified form of Jahnu giri (the hill of Jahnu) or Jahnu griha (the abode of Jahnu)

Location Bihar, Bhagalpur, Patna

Legend

The temple of Ajgaivinath was so named because of the century-old legend. From the Puranas it has been known that once Lord Shiva left his bow Ajgav here at this place. From then onwards, this place became holy for the Hindus and later the temple was built.

Architecture

The castle like architecture of the Ajgaivinath temple entices visitors. It is believed that the Shiva Lingam that is worshipped inside the sanctum sanctorum is Swyambhu. This ancient temple is built up on a solid rock and is celebrated for its marvelous architecture. The style of artistry inside the temple let the pilgrims revisit the times of the Gupta, Maurya and Pala times. River Ganga by the site washes the foot of the temple.

Culture

Over the ages, Bihar has been the center of attraction regarding its involvement since the days of Ramanayana and the Mahabharata. The capital of the mighty Mauryan Empire was also at Pataliputra- which lies in the present day Bihar. Even today, many important relics of Emperor Chandra Gupta Maurya, Bindusara and the mightiest of them all, Emperor Ashoka are found.

Moreover, Bihar proudly houses the centers of learning like the famous Nalanda University and the prestigious Vikramshila University during the ancient times.

The state boasts on its flagship religious culture, the enriched heritage that grew up associating different popular shrines in Bihar. Alongside, Bihar's culture extends to the vibrant Madhubani art and Manjusha art.

Picture Courtesy: commons.wikimedia.org

Darsan Info

The ideal of the year to visit the temple is between July and September and also February to May. Devotees must visit the Shravani Mela in order to witness the real splendor of the temple.

Darsan Dresscode

No specific dresscode is to be followed.

Famous Festival

Shravani Mela, the most famous and important festival of Sultanganj is a 30 day long festival which starts in the end of July and ends in the middle of August every year.

Temple Rituals

Devotees can do abhishek on the Shiva Lingam with water from the near by Ganga river along with offering flowers, garlands, sweets, candles and incenses to Mahadev.

Special Rituals

The Month of Shravan is very special for Ajgaivinath Shiva Temple. During this time 30 day long Shravan Mela is arranged in the temple premises. Lord Shiva Lingam is also specially worshipped during such occasion as well as during the Maha Shivratri.