With the onset of the holy month of Sawan, a massive surge of devotees is being witnessed at Shiva temples across Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh. Prominently located in the Yogi Nawada area, the Shri Baba Vankhandi Nath Mahadev Temple is drawing thousands of pilgrims and Kanwariyas seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva. Recognized for its deep spiritual heritage, the shrine holds religious traditions that trace back to the era of the Mahabharata.
Historical Roots and Mahabharata Connection
Senior historian Dr. Rajesh Kumar Sharma notes that while Bareilly earned its identity as Nath Nagari after the arrival of Baba Alakhnath around one thousand years ago, the history of Vankhandi Nath Mahadev Temple is even more ancient. Local religious beliefs hold that the sacred Shivling at this temple is self-manifested (Swayambhu). According to ancient lore, Mata Draupadi, the daughter of Panchal King Drupad, used to visit this spot personally to perform Shiva worship and offer holy water. Furthermore, it is believed that the Pandavas also worshipped Lord Shiva at this location during their period of exile in disguise (Agyatvas).
Grand Traditions During the Holy Month of Sawan
The aura and spiritual significance of this ancient temple multiply significantly during the month of Shravan. Kanwariyas carrying holy Ganga water along with other devotees gather to perform Jalabhisheka and seek divine grace. Devotees firmly believe that sincere prayers offered at this shrine fulfill all wishes. Temple Acharya Shyam Mohan Shastri mentions that the tradition of grand Abhishek at this ancient Siddha Peeth has continued since time immemorial. He explains that Lord Shiva symbolizes universal well-being, and offering water and milk during Sawan yields immense spiritual merit.
Divine Marvel of the Self-Manifested Shivling
A unique aspect of this temple reported by local devotees is that the Swayambhu Shivling appears to alter its form at different times of the day, which worshippers perceive as a divine manifestation of Lord Shiva. Devotee Rajesh Pandey, who has been visiting the temple for nearly five decades, shares that he has witnessed numerous people having their prayers answered here over the years. Another pilgrim visiting from Chandpur expressed that multiple generations of his family have maintained faith in this shrine, always experiencing profound inner peace upon visiting.
