Bihar state is located in the north-east of India. The history of this state dates back to 600 BC. The old name of Patna was Pataliputra. Then gradually with time Patna was named Patligram, Kusumpur, Azimabad. Maurya society and Buddhism developed in this state. Let us tell you that Emperor Ashoka was born in Patliputra (Patna) of Bihar. It is said that Bihar also has the world’s oldest functioning ancient Mundeshwari temple. Let’s know the history of this ancient temple
Ancient history of the temple
Mata Mundeshwari temple, height of 608 feet on Mundeshwari hill in Kaimur district of Bihar. Is located at. This temple is also called Shiva-Shakti temple, because apart from Mata Shakti, it has a unique Shivalinga of Lord Shiva. Mundeshwari Temple is included in the 51 Shaktipeeths and has been named the oldest functioning temple in the world by the Archaeological Survey of India.
History of 108 AD
An inscription found in the temple states that this temple existed even in the year 389 AD (Post Gupta period). Many inscriptions in this temple are written in Brahmi script. On the basis of some inscriptions, the Archaeological Survey of India has considered the construction period of this temple to be 108 AD. Let us tell you that the antiquity of the temple is also proved by the seal of Maharaja Duttagamani found in the temple. According to Buddhist literature, Maharaja Duttagamani belonged to the Anuradhapura dynasty and ruled Sri Lanka in 101-77 BC. This temple is also said to be of Shaka period, it has been mentioned in Markandeya Purana.
Architecture of the temple
It is made of stones throughout the temple. Has been used and this temple is built on the basis of rare octagonal architecture. Not only this, this temple is the first example of Nagar style in Bihar. There are doors or windows all around it and small statues of welcome are carved on the walls. The walls of the temple have been decorated with sculptures and artefacts. The figures of Dwarpal, Ganga and Yamuna are inscribed at the entrance.
Name of Mata Mundeshwari
It is said in ancient stories that Shumbha and Nishumbha The commanders of the demons were Chand and Mund. These two demons used to torture people in the area. After this, people prayed to Mata Shakti and hearing their call, Mata Bhavani came to earth and killed them. Mund hid on this hill while fighting with the goddess, but Mata reached that hill and killed him. That’s why she was named Mundeshwari Mata. Here Mata Mundeshwari is present in the form of Varahi in the form of ancient stones and her vehicle is Mahisha.
Panchmukhi Shivalinga in the sanctum sanctorum
In the sanctum sanctorum of the temple there is a There is a five faced Shivalinga. A very mysterious story is said about this. According to the information, this Shivalinga keeps changing its color according to the position of the Sun. This Shivalinga changes its color at least three times a day. It is believed that the color of Shivalinga appears different in the morning, afternoon and evening. However, no one even knows when the color of Shivalinga changes.
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