Sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva
Mittheshwarnath Mandir
having been established in the 20th century, precisely in March 1949
Introduction :
The Mitheshwarnath Shiva Temple, located in Chunabhatti Near Mitthu Mistri Chowk, Darbhanga District, Bihar, India, is a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple, with its unique history and architectural significance, has been a place of worship for both local devotees and visitors. In this research article, we delve into the temple’s history, legend, architectural features, and its continued importance in the religious landscape.
Historical Background :
The Mitheshwarnath Shiva Temple stands as a symbol of devotion and dedication, having been established in the 20th century, precisely in March 1949, by Mitthu Mistri Thakur. Since its inception, the temple has been lovingly maintained and cared for by the Mitthu Mistri Thakur dynasty, with the next generation of Thakurs taking up the responsibility after Mitthu Mistri Thakur’s passing on October 21, 1982.
While the temple typically sees a modest number of daily visitors, it experiences an influx of devotees during important festivals like Maha Shivaratri, Shraavana, Naga Panchami, and Kartik Purnima.
Legend and History :
The origins of the Mitheshwarnath Shiva Temple are intertwined with a captivating legend shared by J. M. Thakur, the grandson of Mitthu Mistri Thakur. According to the legend, a sage visited Mitthu Thakur’s house and requested food as he was hungry. Mitthu Thakur promptly agreed to prepare a meal for the sage. In the courtyard, mangoes were in season, so Mitthu Thakur brought a plate of “curd,” “flattened rice,” and “mango” for the sage.
As Mitthu Thakur returned with the meal, the sage, who knew of Mitthu Thakur’s daily ritual of offering water to a “Black Stone,” made a unique request. He asked Mitthu Thakur to build a Shiva temple in a corner of the courtyard where he offered water daily. While Mitthu Thakur agreed to do so, he was surprised to find the sage had disappeared when he turned back. Unperturbed, Mitthu Thakur buried the meal under the ground where the sage had asked for the temple to be constructed.
As a result of this encounter, Mitthu Mistri Thakur built the Shiva temple and named it “Mitheshwarnath Shiv Temple.” This legend beautifully illustrates the intimate connection between devotees and their religious practices.
Architectural Beauty :
The Mitheshwarnath Shiva Temple showcases an impressive architectural style, primarily a Mandapa format, which is commonly seen in Hindu temple structures. Interestingly, the temple’s architecture was designed by a British architect, blending historical influences with contemporary aesthetics.
The temple, covering an area of 0.03 acres or 7.17 Dhur according to “Google Earth,” stands at a height of approximately 25–30 feet. It is supported by 12 pillars, providing both structural stability and visual charm. In 2016, the temple’s courtyard underwent renovation, ensuring that it remained a welcoming space for devotees.
Inside the temple, the main deities are Lord Shiva in the form of a “Shivling,” Nandi (the sacred bull), and Ganesha with his mother Parvati. An external “Tulsi Square” adds a touch of sanctity to the temple’s surroundings.
The temple premises also include two tombs: the taller one is dedicated to Mitthu Mistri Thakur, while the smaller one is in memory of Gangeswari Devi, Mitthu Mistri Thakur’s wife. Gangeswari Devi’s tomb was constructed before Mitthu Mistri Thakur’s demise, and after his passing, the Mitthu Mistri Thakur dynasty erected his tomb on October 21, 1982. To this day, the Thakur dynasty visits these tombs for daily prayers and worship.
In 2018, the compound wall surrounding the tombs was reconstructed, further honoring the legacy of Mitthu Mistri Thakur and Gangeswari Devi.
Conclusion :
The Mitheshwarnath Shiva Temple is a testament to the power of devotion, as exemplified by Mitthu Mistri Thakur’s story and his family’s continued care for the temple. With its unique architecture and rich history, this temple remains an important religious and cultural landmark in Darbhanga, Bihar, drawing both locals and pilgrims during significant festivals.
Main Findings :
• Mitheshwarnath Shiva Temple, established in 1949, is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• The temple was founded by Mitthu Mistri Thakur and has been maintained by the Mitthu Mistri Thakur dynasty.
• While it typically has a modest number of daily visitors, it experiences increased footfall during important festivals.
• The temple’s name is linked to a legend involving a sage’s request to build a Shiva temple.
• The temple features an architectural blend of Mandapa style and a British architect’s design.
• The temple compound includes tombs of Mitthu Mistri Thakur and Gangeswari Devi.
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. ]