A Saga of Divine Deceit and Architectural Grandeur
Murdeshwar Mandir
Renowned for the world’s second tallest Shiva Statue
Abstract :
Murdeshwar, a picturesque town on the coast of the Arabian Sea in Karnataka, India, is renowned for its awe-inspiring temple complex and the world’s second tallest Shiva statue. Steeped in mythological history, this article delves into the origins of the name “Murdeshwar,” unravels the chronicles of divine deceit from the Ramayana, and explores the architectural splendor of the Murudeshwara Temple.
Introduction :
Murdeshwar, a tranquil coastal town, has captivated the hearts of pilgrims and tourists alike. It is home to the famous Murudeshwara Temple, which stands as a testament to the rich religious and architectural heritage of Karnataka. Situated along the Mangalore–Mumbai Konkan railway route, this town boasts the second tallest statue of Lord Shiva in the world.
Etymology and Chronicles :
The name “Murdeshwar” traces its roots to the Ramayana, a sacred Hindu epic. The legend revolves around the Atma-Linga, a divine symbol of Lord Shiva, said to grant immortality and invincibility. Ravana, the King of Lanka, coveted this sacred relic and performed intense penance to obtain it. Lord Shiva, moved by his devotion, appeared before Ravana and granted his request on one condition – that the Atma-Linga should never touch the ground before reaching Lanka.
A cunning plot was hatched by Lord Vishnu to thwart Ravana’s quest for immortality. As Ravana approached Gokarna on his journey, Vishnu darkened the skies, tricking Ravana into thinking it was evening. Ravana, a devout worshiper who performed rituals without fail, was faced with a dilemma: he needed to complete his evening prayers, but with the Atma-Linga in his possession, this seemed impossible.
Enter Ganesha, who took the form of a Brahmin boy and approached Ravana. A deal was struck – Ganesha would hold the Atma-Linga until Ravana finished his rituals. However, Ganesha had a cunning plan. He agreed to hold the Atma-Linga for a limited time and warned Ravana that if he didn’t return promptly, he would place it on the ground.
As daylight broke, Ravana returned to find that the Atma-Linga had indeed been placed on the ground. Realizing he had been deceived, Ravana attempted to destroy the Linga, shattering it into several pieces. One fragment, the head of the Linga, is believed to have fallen in present-day Surathkal, leading to the construction of the renowned Sadashiva Temple. The case covering the Linga was flung to Sajjeshwar, while the lid landed in Guneshwar (now Gunavanthe) and Dhareshwar. The cloth that adorned the Atma-Linga ended up at Mrideshwar, later renamed as Murdeshwar.
Architectural Grandeur :
Murdeshwar Temple stands tall on Kanduka Hill, encompassed by the Arabian Sea on three sides. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple boasts a 20-storied Raja Gopura, constructed in 2008. A unique feature is the elevator installed within the Gopura, offering breathtaking views of the colossal 123-feet Sri Shiva idol. A Shaneswar temple stands next to the Sri Akshayaguna idol, and two life-size concrete elephants guard the temple entrance.
The temple complex is a harmonious blend of traditional and modern elements, with the exception of the sanctum sanctorum, which remains dimly lit, preserving its sacred ambiance. The main deity, Sri Mridesa Linga, is believed to be a fragment of the original Atma Linga and is housed about two feet below the ground. Devotees attending special sevas like Abhisheka, Rudrabhisheka, and Rathotsava can witness the deity, standing before the sanctum threshold, with the Linga illuminated by nearby oil lamps. Entry into the sanctum sanctorum is restricted.
An imposing statue of Shiva, the third tallest in the world, graces the temple complex. Standing at 123 feet, this stunning sculpture captures the essence of Lord Shiva and was crafted to catch the sunlight, casting a radiant aura.
Conclusion :
Murdeshwar Temple is not only a place of worship but also a repository of legends and architectural splendor. Its significance transcends religious boundaries, attracting pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and tourists from around the world. The divine deceit from the Ramayana echoes in its hallowed precincts, serving as a reminder of the enduring power of faith. With the magnificent Shiva statue and the spiritual ambiance of the temple, Murdeshwar continues to be a symbol of devotion, culture, and heritage in the heart of Karnataka.
Editor – Kaalchakra Team
[ Note – Before Concluding anything as a Finale, Please Go through Original Scriptures of Vaidik Literature Written in Sanskrit and Also with Meaning of That time of Language. Because English is a Limited language to Explaining the Deeper Knowledge of Vaidik Kaal. ]