Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple: Know about the history and architecture of Shri Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga temple located in Maharashtra
Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple: Located like a priceless jewel amid the religious and historical heritage of Maharashtra’s Aurangabad region, the Shri Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is one of India’s largest and oldest temples. It is the sacred residence of Lord Shiva. However, are you aware of the location of the Shri Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple? Who constructed this temple, and when? What is this amazing temple’s history?

Where is Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple located?
In the Indian state of Maharashtra, the Shri Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is situated in the hamlet of Verul in the Aurangabad district. This temple is around 11 kilometers from Daulatabad and 30 km from Aurangabad city. Only half a kilometer separates it from the well-known Ellora Caves. It is also referred to as Ghushmeshwar and is one of Lord Shiva’s twelve Jyotirlingas. The temple’s serene setting and abundance of natural beauty draw pilgrims to the area. It is one of Maharashtra’s most important religious sites, and the surrounding tourism attractions add to its allure.
What is the Gushneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple’s history?
A talented ascetic Brahmin named Sudharma resided close to the Devgiri mountain with his wife, Sudeha, according to the Puranic narrative. The lack of a kid filled a hole in their hearts, even if there was no lack of anything in life. It was evident from astrological calculations that Sudeha would not be able to enjoy motherhood. She found it hard to believe this fact. She asked her husband to wed her younger sister Ghushma since she was desperate to have a child.
Initially perplexed, Sudharma was eventually forced to give in to his wife’s demands. Ghushma was a simple, modest Shiva devotee. She used to sincerely worship 101 clay Shivlingas every day. After some time, a lovely, intelligent kid was born in her courtyard as a result of her unwavering dedication to Shiva. The birth of a child brought Sudha and Ghushma much joy, but as time went on, envy started to eat away at Sudha’s mental health. She started to feel as if she was no longer welcome in this home. This idea continued to grow in her imagination until it eventually became a lethal conspiracy.
One night, the envious Sudha went beyond all bounds of cruelty when Ghushma’s son grew up and got married. She murdered the young guy who was asleep and disposed of his corpse in the same pond in which Ghushma always submerged her Shivlings. A wave of anguish swept through the home as this terrible occurrence was revealed in the morning. Ghushma remained composed and absorbed in her devotion to Shiva, as if nothing had occurred, while Sudharma and his daughter-in-law broke down in tears.
A miracle occurred as soon as she completed the pooja and submerged the Shivling in the pond. The deceased son landed at his mother’s feet after emerging from the water alive. Lord Shiva himself arrived at this very time. When he became enraged and raised his trident to punish Sudha, the kind-hearted Ghushma folded her hands and said, “Prabhu, please forgive my sister if you are happy with me.” Because of her ignorance, she committed a serious sin, yet I have my kid back thanks to your grace. For the sake of the people’s well-being, please pardon her and stay here permanently.
In a gesture of affection for his followers, Lord Shiva accepted both of Ghushma’s petitions. By taking the appearance of Jyotirlinga, he rose to fame as “Ghrishneshwar Mahadev,” and devotees began making pilgrimages to this sacred site.
How does the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple’s architecture look?
- South Indian style: One of the best examples of South Indian architecture is the Ghrishneshwar Temple. Its majesty is reflected in the red sandstone of its five-story tower.
- Intricate sculptures of Shiva, ten manifestations of Vishnu, and other deities adorn the temple’s walls, adding to its aesthetic and theological appeal.
- Sankragriha and Shivling: In the sanctum sanctorum, a large figure of Nandi stands in front of an east-facing Shivlinga. Here, devotees gather for unique devotion.
- Construction of the Sabhamandap: The Sabhamandap is beautiful from a historical and spiritual perspective since it is supported by 24 sturdy stone pillars and is adorned with mythological decorations.
- Use of red stone: Red sandstone is used throughout the temple, giving it an ethereal and historic appearance. As a result, it exemplifies South Indian architecture.
What role does the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple play?
- Religious and historical significance: According to the Puranas, Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is one of Lord Shiva’s twelve holy Jyotirlingas. This temple has become a destination of particular faith for the devotees because of its association with the tale of the remarkable devotion of a Shiva devotee called Ghushma and the favor of Shiva.
- Incredible craftsmanship and construction: This temple, which has a five-story top composed of red sandstone, is a superb example of South Indian architecture. Its religious and artistic grandeur is reflected in the exquisite sculptures of Shiva, Dashavatara of Vishnu, and other gods and goddesses on its walls.
- Geographical and spiritual significance: This temple is close to the Ellora caves in Maharashtra’s Aurangabad region, making it a popular pilgrimage and tourism site. This temple, which is surrounded by a serene and natural setting, is revered by Shiva Sadhna and offers its followers spiritual serenity.
How do I go to the Jyotirlinga of Grushneshwar?
- By Rail: Aurangabad, the closest train station, is 30 kilometers from the shrine. From there, it’s easy to take a local bus or cab to Verul village.
- By Air: The closest airport is Aurangabad Airport, which is around 35 kilometers away from the temple. It is simple to take a cab from there to the temple.
- By Road: From Aurangabad, there are state transportation buses and private taxis that go 30 kilometers to Verul village, where the temple is located.
The Grushneshwar Jyotirlinga Story
A Brahmin called Sudharma and his wife, Sudeha, used to reside close to Devgiri Mountain, but they were childless. Ghushma, Sudeha’s younger sister and a devoted follower of Lord Shiva, wed Sudharma. Sudeha was envious that her sister had a son, but Ghushma and Sudharma had a son.
How much does it cost to enter the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple?
All devotees are entitled to free general darshan at the temple. The temple committee determines the minimum price for special pujas like Abhishek or Mahabhishek. Although it is not required, the temple administration appreciates donations from devotees.
FAQs:
Q. What is the location of the Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple?
A. The Shri Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is situated close to the Ellora Caves in Verul village in Maharashtra’s Aurangabad district.
Q. What role does Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga play?
A. One of Lord Shiva’s twelve Jyotirlingas, it is regarded as the primary object of devotion for followers.
Q. What architectural style is the temple constructed in?
A. Red sandstone makes up the temple’s summit, which was constructed in the South Indian style.
Q. What is situated inside the temple’s sanctum sanctorum?
A. A large figure of Nandi stands in front of the east-facing Shivalinga that is housed in the temple’s sanctum sanctorum.
Q. How can I go to the temple?
A. The closest choices are the Aurangabad airport and railway station; a bus or taxi may take you to the temple from there.
Q. Which narrative is connected to the temple’s history?
A. This temple is linked to the tale of Ghushma, a Shiva devotee who worshipped Shiva and brought her dead son back to life.