The temple of Pataleshwar at Hajipur in Bihar was established around the 8th century AD. The shrine came to existence with the discovery of the syambhu or self-manifested Shiva Lingam while digging a well. After giving birth to prince Siddharaj Solanki, who later on became a prolific ruler of the Solanki Dynasty- Queen Minaldevi ordered to dig a well for the passersby to quench their thirst. But while digging the well, the self-manifested Shiva Lingam was discovered 40 feet under the grounds and this is how the Pataleshwar, which means the Lord of the underground came to existence and gradually it became one of the holiest Shaivite temples in Bihar. Much later a stone roof is provided to the temple. The first temple was built underground, but the present temple has been errected upon it on the grounds.

Location Bihar, Vaishali, Patna

Legend

A beautiful story centers around the formation of the shrine of Lord Shiva. Maharani Minaldevi gave birth to King Siddharaj Solanki of the Solanki era at this place. To enshrine the happiness of her son's birth, the Queen ordered to dig a well to satisfy the thirst of the travelers by this place.

While digging the well, the labors found the self-manifested Shiva Lingam that laid 40 feet beneath the ground. Thus, the place became a shrine and, later on, a new Shiva lingam is placed on top of it to worship the "lord of the underground"- which means Pataleshwar.

Architecture

The first stone temple of the self-manifested Shiva lingam was built around 8th century AD, which is still laid 40 feet under the ground. The present edifice is built in the modern architecture upon it. Many stones of the ancient temple have been reused in decorating the present temple as all those stones showcase the century-old snake sculptures.

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 :  www.panoramio.com

Darsan Info

Temple timings:-  8.30 AM to 5.30 PM

Darsan Dresscode

No Specific dress-code.

Famous Festival

February -    Maha Shivaratri

Temple Rituals

Vedic mode of worshipping is offered at Pataleshwar. Per vidhi prescribed at the Atharva-Veda Samhita, the temple rituals are followed for praying Lord Shiva.

Special Rituals

On the pious day of Mahashivratri, the priests arrange special prayers and rituals for Mahadev. They start with the snana with Panchamrit containing milk, yoghurt, ghee, sweets, honey, camphor. The Shiva Lingam is then dressed with clothes (rajbesha) and fresh flowers. Since the worshipping of the Shiva Lingam has been originated and completely demonstrated through the hymns of the Atharva-Veda Samhita, the Vedic chants are sang during the yajna and further worshipping. The priests also sing the hymns to praise the Yupa-Stambha or the sacrificial post to pray the syambhu Shiva Lingam of Pataleshwar Mahadeva.

Additional Info

 

Bhagirathi Vihar

Payal Restaurant

The Lunch Box

KFC

Bollywood Treats

Tandoor Hut

 Supermarket : Available