Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Overview of Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is in the city of Varanasi (Kashi), the western bank of the Holy River Ganges, Uttar Pradesh; it is one of the most worshipped in all of Hinduism and houses Lord Shiva. Being of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which symbolise the most sacred resting grounds of Shiva, Kashi Vishwanath draws millions of devotees visiting the holy place with great devotion seeking spiritual blessings or attainment of moksha or release from all bondages, be they worldly or internal.

Temple Features:

Primary Deity: Lord Vishwanath is the manifestation of Lord Shiva.
Jyotirlinga: The Vishwanath Jyotirlinga represents the infinite essence of Shiva.
Importance: Pilgrimage to Kashi Vishwanath is said to free one from the bondage of birth and death.
Location: The temple is located in Varanasi, and being close to the Ganges, it becomes more sacred.
Architecture: The temple’s spire and dome are covered with gold, which was donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the 19th century.
Cultural Importance: The temple is referred to in several scriptures, such as the Skanda Purana and Kashi Khanda.

General Information

Q: Where is Kashi Vishwanath Temple located?
A: Kashi Vishwanath Temple is situated in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, on the western bank of the Ganges River.
Q: To which deity is Kashi Vishwanath Temple dedicated?
A: Kashi Vishwanath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Vishwanath, meaning “Lord of the Universe.”
Q: What is the significance of Kashi Vishwanath Temple?
A: It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is believed to grant liberation (moksha) to devotees.
Q: Who constructed the current structure of the temple? ?
A: The present structure was built by Ahilyabai Holkar, the Queen of Indore, in 1780.
Q: What is a Jyotirlinga?
A Jyotirlinga is an embodiment of Lord Shiva, signifying his infinite nature.

History and Architecture

Q: How old is the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple?
A: The date of the original temple is not known, but it is mentioned in ancient texts dating back thousands of years.
Q: Who destroyed the original temple?
A: The temple was destroyed multiple times by Muslim rulers, including Qutb-ud-din Aibak and Aurangzeb.
Q: What is unique about the architecture of the temple?
A: The temple’s spire and dome are adorned with gold plating, a unique feature.
Q: Who donated gold for the temple’s spire?
A: Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the Sikh ruler, donated gold in 1835.
Q: How many gold domes does the temple have?
A: The temple has three golden domes.

Rituals and Worship

Q: What are the temple’s daily worship timings?
A: The temple opens at 3:00 AM and closes at 11:00 PM. Specific rituals like Mangala Aarti and Shringar Aarti are performed at designated times.
Q: What is Mangala Aarti?
A: It is the morning prayer at 3:00 AM to wake Lord Vishwanath.
Q: Can devotees perform Abhishekam or ritual bathing of the Shiva Lingam?
A: Yes, devotees can perform Abhishekam by purchasing a ticket.
Q: What are the offerings made to Lord Vishwanath?
A: Milk, honey, Ganga water, bilva leaves, and flowers are the offerings.
Q: What is the importance of Ganga Aarti in Varanasi?
A: The Ganga Aarti is a ritual performed every evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat, signifying the reverence for the holy river.

Festivals and Celebrations

Q: Which festivals are observed at Kashi Vishwanath Temple?
A: Major festivals are Mahashivaratri, Shravan Maas, Kartik Purnima, and Dev Deepawali.
Q: What is special about Mahashivaratri at Kashi Vishwanath?
A: On Mahashivaratri, devotees perform day-long fasting and special prayers to honor Lord Shiva.
Q: How is Dev Deepawali celebrated?
A: Devotees light millions of lamps along the ghats, creating a mesmerizing view.
Q: What is Shravan Maas?
A: This is the sacred month for Lord Shiva in Hindu calendar when special prayers and rituals are performed.
Q: Kartik Purnima Significance
A: This is the festival of Lord Shiva where he killed the demons with his strength and is still enjoyed with a lot of grandeur.
Q: How can one reach Kashi Vishwanath Temple?
A: The temple is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi.
Q: Are there accommodations near the temple?
A: Yes, there are several hotels, guest houses, and Dharamshalas near the temple.
Q: Is there dress code for visit to this temple?
A: Visitors must wear moderately modest and traditional attire
.
Q: Are pujas and special darshan available with online booking?
A: Yes.
Online booking is accepted at the temple for booking of pujas and special darshan.
Q: Are people who are non-Hindu allowed entry into temple?
A. The sanctum sanctorum is considered for the Hindus only whereas other areas of the temples can be visited by outsiders.

Here is the continuation of the list of questions and answers about Kashi Vishwanath Temple:

Spiritual Significance

Q: Why is Varanasi considered sacred in Hinduism? ?
A: Varanasi, also called Kashi, is believed to be founded by Lord Shiva and is considered the spiritual capital of India, where one can attain moksha.
Q: What is the connection between Kashi Vishwanath and moksha?
A: It is said that death in Kashi and visiting the Vishwanath Jyotirlinga frees the soul from the cycle of birth and death.
Q: Why is the mantra “Om Namah Shivaya” so important in Kashi?
A: The chanting of this mantra in front of the temple is believed to attract divine blessings and purify the soul.
Q: What is the significance of Ganga water at Kashi Vishwanath? What is the importance of Ganga water?
A: Ganga water is pure and holy water, used for Abhishekam of the Shiva Lingam.
Q: What is the “Moksha Dwara” in Kashi? What does Moksha Dwara signify?
A: Moksha Dwara means door to salvation, i.e., Kashi Vishwanath is the gate to heaven.

Near Attractions

Q: Some other temples to view in the vicinity of Kashi Vishwanath temple include
A: Other temples in the same locality include Annapurna Devi Temple, Kal Bhairav Temple and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple.
Q: Where does one find Dashashwamedh Ghat?
A: Dashashwamedh Ghat can be seen near the temple at Ganges.
Q: What is the significance of the Annapurna Devi Temple? ?
A: It is devoted to Goddess Annapurna who is the epitome of nourishment, and one is believed to get prospered by the blessings from her.
Q: What is the Kal Bhairav Temple’s significance with Kashi Vishwanath? ?
A: Kal Bhairav is the guard deity of Kashi and one believes in getting blessings before the visit to the Vishwanath Temple.
Q: Is Manikarnika Ghat near the temple?
A: Yes, it is one of the holy cremation ghats nearby the temple and is a site for moksha.

Rituals and Offerings

Q: What is Rudrabhishek?
A: The Rudrabhishek is that special puja where Holy items such as milk, curd, honey and Ganga water are offered and Vedic hymns chant.
Q: Are devotees allowed in Rudrabhishek ?
A: yes, devotees can book rudrabhishek puja for themselves in the temple.
Q: Who are Bilva leaves and are offered why?
A: Bilva leaves are sacred leaves associated with Lord Shiva and symbolize purification and devotion.
Q: What is the significance of performing Parikrama (circumambulation) around the temple?
A: Parikrama symbolizes reverence and devotion, believed to purify the soul.
Q: Can devotees offer food or prasad to Lord Vishwanath?
A: Yes, devotees can offer sweets, fruits, and other things as prasad.

Temple Management

Q: Who controls the Kashi Vishwanath Temple? ‘
A: It is governed by the Kashi Vishwanath Temple Trust under the Uttar Pradesh government.
Q: Can photography be done inside the temple? ‘
A: Photography is completely barred inside the temple campus.
Q: Are there lockers to keep personal belongings?
A: Yes, there are lockers near the temple to keep shoes, bags, and electronic items.
Q: Is there a separate queue for darshan?
A: Yes, there are different queues for general darshan, special darshan, and rituals.
Q: How is the security in the temple?
A: The temple has strict security checks, CCTV surveillance, and police personnel for safety.

Spiritual Texts and References

Q: In which scriptures is Kashi Vishwanath mentioned? .
A: The temple is mentioned in texts like the Skanda Purana, Shiva Purana, and Kashi Khanda.
Q: What does Kashi Khanda say about the temple?
A: Kashi Khanda highlights the spiritual significance of the temple and its role in granting moksha.
Q: Is Kashi Vishwanath related to the Mahabharata?
A: Yes, it is believed that the Pandavas visited the temple to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings.
Q: What is the connection between Adi Shankaracharya and Kashi?
A: Adi Shankaracharya is said to have revived the tradition of worship at Kashi Vishwanath.
Q: Are there any hymns dedicated to Kashi Vishwanath?
A: Yes, hymns like Vishwanath Ashtakam praise the glory of the temple and Lord Shiva.

Historical Events

Q: Was the temple ever reconstructed?
A: Yes, this was constructed several times, the latest being in 1780 during Ahilyabai Holkar.
Q.: Who is said to have attacked this temple in Aurangzeb period
A: The great Shivaji. The structure destroyed by Mughal Emperor during Aurangzeb reign in the 17th Century.
Q: Under Aurangzeb time what structures were developed as the main temple
Answer: Bhojongee.
A: The Gyanvapi Mosque was built over the temple.
Q: What is Gyanvapi Well? 55. A: The Gyanvapi Well is a sacred well found within the temple premises which was believed to contain some parts of the original Shiva Lingam.
Q: Who played a role in saving the temple?
A: Ahilyabai Holkar and Maharaja Ranjit Singh contributed much to the maintenance and beautification of the temple.

Mythology and Legends

Q: What is the legend behind the origin of Kashi? What does it say?
A: According to legend, Kashi was created by Lord Shiva as his eternal abode and is indestructible.
Q: What does “Vishwanath” mean?
A: Vishwanath means “Lord of the Universe.”
Q: Why is Kashi called the “City of Light”?
A: It is believed that Kashi is illuminated by the spiritual light of Lord Shiva.
Q: What is the significance of the Ganges in Kashi?
A: Ganges is considered to purify sins, and with its meeting point of Kashi Vishwanath, it elevates the sanctity of the city.
Q: Is there any story related to Vishwanath Jyotirlinga?
A: It is said that Lord Shiva in his grace appeared as a Jyotirlinga at Kashi to bless devotees.

Here are the rest of questions and answers about Kashi Vishwanath Temple:

Pilgrimage and Devotees

Q: Why is Kashi considered the holiest place for pilgrimage?
A: Kashi is said to be the holy city because it was originated by Lord Shiva who provided moksha for all devotees.
Q: In what number of devotees visits this temple every year?
A: Around 20-25 million devotees visit the temple every year.
Q: What is the best time to visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple?
A: The best time is during Mahashivaratri, Shravan Maas, or winter months (October to March).
Q: Are there special arrangements for senior citizens and differently-abled devotees?
A: Yes, priority queues and assistance services are available for senior citizens and people with disabilities.
Q: Is it possible for devotees to bathe in the Ganges before worshiping at the temple?
A: Bathe in the Ganges before visiting the temple; it is customary.

Architecture and Design

Q: What is the layout of the sanctum sanctorum?
A: The sanctum sanctorum has the main Shiva Lingam, which is covered by a silver altar.
Q: How tall is the temple spire?
A: The temple spire is about 15.5 meters tall.
Q: What materials were used to build the temple?
A: The temple is mainly made of stone, with gold plating on the domes.
Q: What do the gold domes represent?
A: The gold domes represent prosperity and divine radiance donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Q: How many shrines are there inside the temple complex?
A: There are various smaller shrines dedicated to different deities, like Goddess Annapurna.

Myths and Stories

Q : What is the story of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati in Kashi?
A : It is said Lord Shiva lives in Kashi with Goddess Parvati, watching over the town and safeguarding the bhakts.
Q : What is Gyanvapi Well?
A: According to legend, the priests hid the original Shiva Lingam in the well during an attack to protect it from destruction.
Q: Why is Kashi called “Avimukta Kshetra”?
A: It means “never forsaken,” as Lord Shiva promised to never leave Kashi, even during cosmic dissolution.
Q: What is the significance of “Vishalakshi Gauri”?
A: Vishalakshi Gauri is an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, which is being worshiped in a temple near it as part of the Shakti Peethas.
Q: How is Ravana connected with Kashi Vishwanath?
A: Myths state that Ravana worshipped Lord Shiva in Kashi and got the Atma Lingam as a blessing from the Lord.

Temple Timings and Darshan

Q: What are the temple opening hours?
A: The temple opens at 3:00 AM and closes at 11:00 PM.
Q: What is the best time to attend the Mangala Aarti?
A: The Mangala Aarti is performed at 3:00 AM, and devotees are advised to arrive early.
Q: Are tickets required for darshan?
A: General darshan is free, but tickets are a prerequisite for special darshan as well as for Aarti darshan and other rituals.
Q : Can devotees book the darshan tickets online for visit? A: Yes, it may be booked online at this site only.
Q: How long normally darshan takes?
A: It is crowd-dependent, but general darshan takes anywhere between 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Festivals and Events

Q: What makes Shravan Maas so special at the temple?
A: Devotees perform daily Abhishekam and offer prayers to Lord Shiva in the Shravan Maas. So, it’s a highly auspicious time.
Q: How do people celebrate Mahashivaratri at Kashi Vishwanath?
A: On Mahashivaratri, the temple celebrates with grand events like continuous chanting, special Aarti, and processions.
Q: What is the significance of Dev Deepawali?
A: Dev Deepawali is celebrated with millions of lamps lit along the ghats, symbolizing divine illumination.
Q: Are there any special events for Kartik Purnima?
On Kartik Purnima, pilgrims take a holy dip in the Ganges and visit the temple for blessings.
Q: What other festivals are observed in the temple?
A: Festivals such as Navratri, Holi, and Diwali are also observed with great fervour.

Cultural Significance

Q: What is Kashi Vishwanath importance to Indian culture?
A: The temple represents a part of India’s rich religious heritage, having been a sanctuary for centuries for saints and philosophers and devotees.
Q: Has the temple inspired literary works?
A: Yes. Many poems, hymns, and religious texts; even the works of Kabir and Tulsidas reference the temple.
Q: What role does the temple play in Hinduism?
A: The temple is a center for learning spirituality, rituals, and pilgrimage.
Q: Is there a connection between the temple and Buddhism?
A: Varanasi, though basically Hindu, has great significance in Buddhism also because it marks the site of Buddha’s first sermon.
Q: Does the temple influence music and arts?
A: Yes, the temple has motivated devotional music, like bhajans and classical performances to Lord Shiva.

Modern Amenities

Q: Are there modern facilities for devotees? A: Yes, drinking water, washrooms, and lockers are available.
Q: Are devotees allowed to collect prasad from the temple? A: Yes, prasad is given to devotees after darshan.
Q: Are there multilingual guides available?
A: Yes, guides and temple staff are available in multiple languages to assist devotees.
Q: Is there a mobile app for the temple?
A: Yes, the temple offers a mobile app for online darshan, bookings, and information.
Q: What is the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor project?
It is the latest effort to develop connectivity as well as amenities in this temple area, thus facilitating smother darshan experience.

Mysteries and Lesser-Known Facts

Q: Is the temple talked about in international books?
A: Even though it is not found in many international texts, still there is talk about it through the word of mouth on account of its sacred stature.
Q: What is the significance of the “Kaal Bhairav Ashtakam”?
A: It is a prayer to Kal Bhairav, the guardian deity of Kashi, to be offered for protection and blessings.
Q: What is special about the Shiva Lingam at Kashi Vishwanath?
A: The Lingam is Swayambhu, meaning it is self-manifested, indicating the eternal presence of Lord Shiva.
Q: Are there any cursed legends about the temple?
A: Legends say Lord Shiva cursed Brahma. Therefore, Brahma’s idols were not worshipped, but instead, the Shiva Lingams.
Q: What is the legend of the “Cosmic Pillar of Light”?
A: The Jyotirlingas, such as Vishwanath, are representations of the infinite cosmic pillar of light, which indicates the omnipresence of Lord Shiva.

Temple Corridor and Development

Q: What is the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor?
A: The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor is a major infrastructure project aimed at connecting the temple to the Ganga River, making access easier for devotees.
Q: Who inaugurated the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor?
A: The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December 2021.
Q: How big is the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor?
A: The corridor covers an area of about 5,000 hectares with enhanced facilities for devotees.
Q: What does the corridor have?
A: The corridor has widened pathways, seating areas, a museum, spiritual galleries, and multiple entry points.
Q: Has the corridor enhanced accessibility to the temple?
A: Yes, it has significantly improved the flow of devotees and provided direct access from the ghats to the temple.

Sacred Items and Offerings

Q: What are the most common offerings at the temple?
A: Commonly included in the list are milk, honey, bilva leaves, Ganga water, flowers, fruits, and sweets.
Q: Why is honey offered during Abhishekam?
A: Honey indicates sweetness in life and has been offered to invoke for prosperity.
Q: Can devotees bring their own offerings?
A: Yes, devotees can bring their own offerings, but some items have to adhere to the rules of the temple.
Q: What is the significance of the bilva leaves?
A: Bilva leaves are considered sacred to Lord Shiva and symbolize purification of sins.
Q: Is there a particular prasad that is being given out at the temple?
A: Yes, the temple gives out sanctified prasad, which is usually sweets or dry fruits.

Special Pujas and Aartis

Q: What is the Shringar Aarti? .
A: Shringar Aarti is the evening ritual where Lord Shiva is adorned with ornaments, flowers, and other offerings.
Q: What is the Bhog Aarti?
A: Bhog Aarti is performed in the afternoon, where food is offered to the deity.
Q: What is the Sandhya Aarti? ?
A: The Sandhya Aarti is the prayer performed at sunset.
Q: Are there specific pujas for health and prosperity? .
A: Yes, devotees can book special pujas like Mahamrityunjaya Jaap for health and Rudrabhishek for prosperity.
Q: Are group pujas permitted in the temple?
A: Yes, the temple does permit group puja but with advance reservation.

Temple Ambiance

Q: What is the Gyanvapi Mosque in relation to the temple?
A: The Gyanvapi Mosque lies close to the temple complex, which was built under the Mughal period and is closely related to it due to its historical and controversial origin.
Q: What’s the significance of Gyanvapi Well?
A: It is said that the original Shiva Lingam lies within it. Priests covered it to avoid getting it taken by invaders.
Q: Does it have any garden or rest area nearby?
A: Rest areas and garden are now included in Kashi Vishwanath Corridor project.
Q: Which of the following ghats is closest to the temple?
A: The closest significant ghats in relation to the temple would be Manikarnika Ghat and Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Q: What is the Annapurna Bhawan?
A: This is a small shrine dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, located just next to the temple.
Q: Are wheelchairs available for geriatric or disabled devotees?
A: Yes, wheelchairs are available for use on the temple premises.
Q: Is there a cloakroom facility to store belongings?
A: Yes. The temple has a cloakroom for storing personal articles, including electronic items
Q: Drinking water facilities available inside the temple?
A: Yes, clear drinking water is available for devotees.
Q : Are foreign tourists allowed into the temple?
A : Yes, foreign tourists are permitted to visit the temple but only Hindus are permitted within the sanctum sanctorum.
Q: Is first-aid service available close to the temple?
A : Yes, there is a provision of first-aid service and also basic medical support close to the temple.

Environmental Initiatives

Q: Is the temple eco-friendly?
A: Yes, such initiatives as waste management and green spaces have been part of the corridor project.
Q: Does the temple encourage biodegradable materials?
A: Yes, it encourages the use of biodegradable offerings.
Q: Is plastic banned inside the temple?
A: Single-use plastics are not allowed within the temple campus.
Q: How is Ganga River is being kept pure near temple?

A: Clean drives, Control Pollution, Organized awareness camp is conducted on an ongoing basis.
Q: Is any effort for installing solar energies near the temple?
A: Yes, solar panels have been installed as part of the modernization efforts.

Stories of Devotees

Q: Are there any famous devotees associated with the temple?
A: Many saints, including Tulsidas, Swami Vivekananda, and Adi Shankaracharya, have visited the temple.
Q: What is the story of Queen Ahilyabai Holkar and the temple?
A: After it was destroyed during the Mughal invasions, Queen Ahilyabai rebuilt the temple in 1780.
Q: Has any foreign dignitary visited the temple?
A: Yes several international dignitaries visit the temple as part of cultural and spiritual tours
Q: Does it have miraculous stories also?
A: Devotees often share personal stories of divine blessings and answered prayers after visiting the temple.
Q: Is there any legend about the temple granting wishes? ?
A: It is widely believed that sincere prayers at Kashi Vishwanath are always answered.

Safety and Rules

Q: Are there specific rules for entering the temple?
A: Yes, visitors have to follow dress codes, no carrying of electronics, and also temple guidelines.
Q: Is smoking permitted near the temple?
A: Smoking is strictly prohibited within the temple complex and surroundings.
Q: Are there any restrictions during festivals?
A: Access may be restricted at peak times to manage crowds.
Q: Are there any help desks for the devotees?
A: Yes, a help desk is available for assistance to the visitors with queries and guidance.
Q: Are emergency exits marked in the temple?
A: Yes, emergency exits are marked clearly for safety purposes.

Philosophy and Teachings

Q: Which of the teachings of Lord Shiva are associated with the temple?
A: Teachings like detachment, simplicity, and universal love are related to Lord Shiva and the temple.
Q: How does the temple promote spiritual growth?
A: The temple inspires devotion, meditation, and self-realization, thus leading to spiritual growth.
Q: What is the significance of chanting “Har Har Mahadev” in Kashi?
A: The hymn is a surrender to Lord Shiva and oneness of all creation.
Q: Are spiritual classes conducted near the temple?
A: Yes, there are some ashrams conducting spiritual and philosophical discourses near the temple.
Q: How does the temple promote unity?
A: The temple is a hub for people from different backgrounds, and this epitomizes oneness in Lord Shiva.

Legends and Folklore

Q: Is there a legend of Sage Vyasa related to Kashi?
A: There is a legend that says parts of the Mahabharata were composed by Sage Vyasa in Kashi.
Q: What is the story of the cosmic dance of Shiva in Kashi?
A: There is a belief that Lord Shiva does the Tandava dance in Kashi, depicting creation and destruction.
Q: Why is the crescent moon on Shiva’s head significant?
A: The crescent moon represents control over time and emotions.
Q: Is there a story about the river Ganga descending in Kashi?
A: The Ganga is believed to have descended from Lord Shiva’s matted locks, making Kashi her eternal abode.
Q: What is the relationship between Lord Vishnu and Kashi?
A: Lord Vishnu did penance in Kashi, which blessed the city with spiritual energy.

Here are the final 50 questions and answers on Kashi Vishwanath Temple:

Spiritual Practices and Rituals

Q: What is the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, and is it related to Kashi? .
A: The Mahamrityunjaya Mantra is a great Shiva mantra for health and triumph over death, and often the devotees chant this mantra in Kashi.
Q: Is Rudrabhishek performed daily at the temple?
A: Rudrabhishek is a daily worship wherein the Shiva Lingam is bathed with holy items like milk, honey, and Ganga water.
Q: Why is the temple litigated with the chant of “Om Namah Shivaya”?
A: Chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” invokes the blessings of Lord Shiva and gives one peace and spiritual awakening.
Q: Is there specific meditation done at Kashi?
A: Sitting in the temple or at the ghats, meditating on “Aum” is highly productive.
Q: Is there provision to allow the devotee to perform their Abhishekam to the Lingam?
A: During some hours of the day, the devotee can themselves perform the Abhishekam by the temple guidelines.

Historical Events

Q: How did Aurangzeb affect the history of the temple?
A: The original Kashi Vishwanath Temple was ordered to be destroyed by Aurangzeb, and the Gyanvapi Mosque was constructed on that site.
Q: In what year was the temple rebuilt by Ahilyabai Holkar?
A: The temple was rebuilt in 1780 by the Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar.
Q: What was Maharaja Ranjit Singh contribution towards its past?
A Maharaja Ranjit Singh had a great role in the history as Maharaja donated his gold to cover its dome as well as its spire in the year of 1835.
Q: Was it contributing the cause of India’s movement toward independence?
A The temple was used to address the leaders, that evoked nationalistic emotion as well.
Q: Are some kind of inscriptions or archaeological items in safe custody from ancient times?
A: Many of the items lost during the ages remain and various portions of texts including many inscriptions have reached today
Myths and Associations
Q: What is associated mythological significance between Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Dashavataras?
A: Lord Vishnu’s Dashavataras reportedly prayed to Lord Shiva at Kashi, expecting His blessings.
Q: Is there any relation between the Pandavas and the temple?
A: It is said that the Pandavas went to Kashi to get blessings from Lord Shiva when they returned from the Kurukshetra war.
Q: What is the story of Kashi creation by Lord Shiva?
A. It is said that Lord Shiva has made Kashi his permanent place to bless the devotees and to lead them on to Moksha.
Q: Why is there the Akash Bhairav image on the temple premises?
A: Akash Bhairav is a fierce form of Shiva. It is worshipped as the guardian of Kashi and its devotees.
Q: What is the significance of Lord Shiva in Manikarnika Ghat?
A: It is said that he whispered the Taraka Mantra into the ears of the devotees who died in Manikarnika Ghat, thus granting them moksha.

Temple Management

Q: Who is responsible for the management of Kashi Vishwanath Temple?
A: The Kashi Vishwanath Temple Trust runs the temple under the supervision of the Uttar Pradesh government.
Q: How is the daily routine of the temple maintained?
A: The daily routine of the temple is maintained by a team of priests and volunteers who manage the rituals and schedule of the temple.
Q: Are there facilities for donations at the temple?
A: Yes, devotees can give in cash or kind, at the temple or through online portals.
Q: How does the temple use its funds?
A: Funds are used for maintenance of the temple, development projects, and social initiatives like education and healthcare.
Q: Are there volunteer opportunities at the temple?
A: Of course, volunteers are also welcomed to be involved in crowd management, distribution of prasad, and other services.

Local Landmarks

Q: Which other temples are there that devotees can visit besides Kashi Vishwanath?
A: Other local temples include Annapurna Devi Temple, Kal Bhairav Temple, and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple.
Q: What is special about Dashashwamedh Ghat?
A: Dashashwamedh Ghat is the main ghat close to the temple, where the evening Ganga Aarti takes place and is spiritually charged.
Q: What is Bharat Mata Mandir and how far from the temple is it?
A: Bharat Mata Mandir is a unique temple dedicated to Mother India, with a marble map of the country, which is a few kilometers from the temple.
Q: Is Sarnath close to Kashi Vishwanath Temple?
A: Yes, Sarnath, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage centers, is around 10 km from the temple.
Q: Can devotees visit Ramnagar Fort after the temple?
A: Yes, Ramnagar Fort, situated on the other side of the Ganges, is a famous historical site and museum.

Pilgrim FAQs

Q: Is there a guided tour of the temple available for devotees?
A: Yes, guided tours are available, especially as part of spiritual and cultural packages.
Q: Is there accommodation near the temple?
A: Yes, numerous dharamshalas, guesthouses, and hotels are available near the temple.
Q: What should devotees wear while visiting the temple?
A: Devotees are advised to wear traditional, modest attire to respect the sanctity of the temple.
Q: Can children participate in the temple rituals?
A: Yes, children can participate, and special arrangements are made for family visits.
Q: Is photography allowed inside the temple?
A: No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple premises.

Philosophy and Liberation

Q: Why has it been called the city of liberation?
Answer : It is believed if some one dies in this Kashi and receives the Lord’s blessings, then person’s moksha is accepted and delivered.
Q : What is Taraka mantra?
Answer: Some believe that the prayer pronounced by Lord Shiva gives liberation to the souls against life cycle.
Q: In what way does the temple represent the cycle of birth and death?
A: The relationship of the temple with Ganga and Manikarnika Ghat is the reflection of the cycle of creation, preservation, and dissolution.
Q: What does moksha mean in Hinduism?
A: Moksha refers to the final emancipation from the cycle of birth and death through devotion, knowledge, and self-realization.
Q: In what way does worship at Kashi Vishwanath lead to moksha?
A: It is said that the power of Lord Shiva at Kashi Vishwanath cleanses the soul, leading to liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Miscellaneous Questions

Q: Does the temple have a museum?
A: Yes, the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor has a museum for the history and culture of the temple.
Q: What is the significance of Kashi Vishwanath in Hindu marriages? A: Many couples pray at the temple for a happy married life.
Q: Can devotees light diyas near the temple? A: Yes, lighting diyas is common, especially on festivals.
Q: Are there any holy texts associated with the temple?
A: The Shiva Purana and Kashi Khanda refer to the temple greatly.
Q: How do Jyotirlingas relate to the temple?
A: Kashi Vishwanath is one among twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.

Further Enhancements

Q: Is a greater extension of the complex under consideration?
A: Yes, future plans include more facilities for devotees and preservation of the temple’s heritage.
Q: Will the corridor project increase tourist footfall? **
A: Yes, the project has already made the temple more accessible, attracting more pilgrims and tourists.
Q: Are there plans for more eco-friendly initiatives?
A: Yes, sustainable practices will be implemented at temple trust.
Q: Are virtual tours of the temple in the near future?
A: Virtual tours may be introduced for devotees who could not visit in person.
Q: What will the temple do if this is the case?
A: Improved crowd management systems, digital queues, and additional entry points have been introduced.

Final Spiritual Insights

Q: Why is Lord Shiva called Vishwanath? What does the name signify?
A: Vishwanath means “Lord of the Universe,” signifying that Lord Shiva is the supreme deity.
Q: What does Kashi represent spiritually?
A: Kashi represents eternal light and knowledge, symbolizing the way to enlightenment.
Q: Why do people consider visiting Kashi a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage?
A: Visiting Kashi purifies the soul and provides an experience in spirituality that is unparalleled in any other place.
Q: What can one do spiritually prepare before visiting the temple?
A: Devotees can meditate, fast, and chant Shiva mantras to purify their thoughts before visiting.
Q: What is the ultimate message of Kashi Vishwanath Temple?
A: The temple depicts the immortal reality that God Shiva is the world power which gives liberation to souls.

Overview of Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Temple Features: