Gangotri Dham

Bhagirathi River Mystery: Gangotri Dham of Uttarakhand is in the headlines these days. Recently, the decision of Gangotri Temple Committee to ban the entry of non-Hindus into the Dham has sparked a new debate. But apart from the controversies, this holy place is known for its mythological beliefs and a divine Shivalinga, whose darshan devotees get to see only a few times in a year. Let us know about this mysterious Shivling and those special things related to Gangotri Dham which make it unique.

submerged divine Shivalinga

Near the Gangotri temple, there is a natural stone Shivalinga situated amidst the waves of Bhagirathi river, which is called Submerged Shivalinga. For most of the year, the water level of Bhagirathi remains very high due to the melting of glaciers, due to which this Shivalinga remains completely submerged in water. In winter, there is heavy snowfall on the mountains and the water starts freezing. Due to this, the water level of the river falls considerably and this divine Shivalinga becomes clearly visible to the devotees. According to mythology, when Ganga descended from heaven, Lord Shiva sat at this place to stop its flow.

Unique mythological stories related to Gangotri Dham

Penance of King Bhagiratha: It is said that King Bhagiratha had performed rigorous penance for thousands of years at this place for the peace of the souls of his ancestors. Pleased by his penance, Ganga came to earth.

Ganga in Shiva's locks: The speed of Ganga was so intense that the earth could not bear it. Then Lord Shiva held him in his locks. Gangotri is the place where the river Ganga touched the earth for the first time.

Relation to Pashupatinath: According to a special tradition, Jalabhishek of Lord Shiva is performed in the famous Pashupatinath temple of Nepal with the holy water brought from Gangotri.

Winter stay and opening hours

Gangotri Dham is situated at an altitude of about 3,100 meters above sea level. Due to heavy cold and snowfall, the arrangements here do not work throughout the year.

Cupboard: The doors of the temple open every year on Akshaya Tritiya and are closed around Diwali or Bhai Dooj.

Mukhwa Village: During winters, when the temple remains closed, the idol of Mother Ganga is taken to Mukhwa village located below. He is worshiped there for the next six months.

Also read: Uttarakhand: Ban on entry of non-Hindus in Gangotri Dham, why did the temple committee take this decision?

Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.