Today, we are going to explore one of the most mysterious Shiva temples in Varanasi (Kashi), where devotees believe that the sacred Shiva Lingam grows every year by the size of a sesame seed (Til). This incredible belief has made Tilbhandeshwar Mahadev Temple one of the most fascinating and ancient temples in Kashi.
History of Tilbhandeshwar Mahadev:
According to tradition, the present structure of the temple was built during the 18th century, but the self-manifested (Swayambhu) Shiva Lingam installed inside the temple is believed to be nearly 2,500 years old. Since it is considered Swayambhu, devotees believe that God Shiva appeared here on His own without being established by any human.
One popular legend says that the area where the temple stands today was once covered with sesame (Til) fields. One day, a Shiva Lingam miraculously appeared from a heap of sesame seeds. Local people began worshipping it with great devotion, and since then, the deity became known as Til Bhandehwar Mahadev.
Another ancient belief connects this temple with Sage Vibhandak (Vibhandaka Rishi) from South India, who is said to have performed deep meditation and penance at this sacred place. Because of this association, the temple is also known as Vibhandeshwar Mahadev.
The importance of Tilbhandehwar Mahadev is also mentioned in the Shiva Purana and the Kashi Khand of the Skanda Purana, making it one of the oldest and most sacred Shiva temples in Varanasi.
Unique Structure of Shivling :
The biggest attraction of this temple is its unique Shiva Lingam. According to local belief, the Shiva Lingam increases in size every year by the size of a sesame seed. Today, it is believed to be approximately 3.5 feet tall with a diameter of around 3 feet.
An interesting legend says that ancient sages became worried after witnessing the Shiva Lingam continuously growing. Following divine guidance, they started gently rubbing the Shiva Lingam with coconut fibers to slow its growth. This traditional ritual is still remembered as an important part of the temple’s history.
Connection with South India :
Although the temple is located in Varanasi, its worship rituals clearly reflect the traditions of South India, especially those followed in Kerala. For more than 300 years, the temple has been managed by Kerala Brahmins, preserving its unique style of worship and religious customs.
Along with Lord Shiva, the temple also houses beautiful idols of Goddess Parvati, Lord Bhairava, Lord Ayyappa, and several other Hindu deities, making it an important spiritual destination for devotees.
The temple receives thousands of pilgrims during Maha Shivaratri, the holy month of Shravan (Sawan), and Nag Panchami, when special prayers and celebrations take place.
Timings of Til Bhandeshwar Mahadev Temple:
Til Bhandehwar Mahadev Temple opens every morning during Brahma Muhurta at around 4:30 AM, and devotees can have darshan until 9:00 PM.
Location :
B 17/82, Tilbhandeshwar Road, Malti Bagh, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010
LandMark : Bengali Tola Inter College & near the Madanpura weavers’ colony.
If you are planning a spiritual journey to Kashi (Varanasi), make sure to visit this ancient and miraculous temple. Witness the mysterious Shiva Lingam that is believed to grow every year and experience the divine atmosphere that has attracted devotees for centuries.
Har Har Mahadev!
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