The Grishneshwar Temple, located in Ellora, Maharashtra, is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas—the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is revered as the last (12th) Jyotirlinga in the traditional list and holds immense spiritual importance among Shaivites. The temple is just half a kilometer away from the world-famous Ellora Caves, making it a unique blend of spirituality, history, and architecture.

The Profound Legend of Grishneshwar:

The story behind Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga is a moving tale of unwavering devotion and the boundless compassion of Lord Shiva. The most widely narrated legend revolves around a devout Brahmin woman named Kusuma (also referred to as Ghushma or Grishna).

Kusuma was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. She had a ritual of creating 101 Shiva Lingas, worshipping them, and immersing them in a nearby lake daily. Blessed with a son through her devotion, Kusuma’s happiness was overshadowed by the jealousy of her husband’s other wife. Driven by envy, the co-wife tragically murdered Kusuma’s son and threw his body into the same lake where Kusuma performed her daily worship.

Devastated by the loss of her son, Kusuma’s faith in Lord Shiva remained unshaken. She continued her daily rituals with the same dedication and fervor. Pleased and moved by her unwavering devotion and profound grief, Lord Shiva appeared before her. He not only miraculously restored her son to life but also offered to punish the co-wife.

However, Kusuma, embodying immense forgiveness and compassion, pleaded with Lord Shiva to forgive her co-wife. Touched by Kusuma’s magnanimity, Lord Shiva was immensely pleased and Lord Shiva manifested himself as a Jyotirlinga. The name “Grishneshwar” itself is often interpreted as the “Lord of Compassion” or “Lord of Friction”. The Shivalaya lake, where Kusuma immersed the lingams, is considered sacred.

This story underscores themes of unwavering faith, selfless devotion, and divine compassion.

Significance and Importance:

Being the twelfth Jyotirlinga, Grishneshwar Temple holds immense spiritual importance in Shaivism.

  • Culmination of the Jyotirlinga Pilgrimage: It is often considered the final destination in the sacred pilgrimage circuit of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Devotees believe that a pilgrimage to all twelve Jyotirlingas helps in attaining salvation and spiritual enlightenment.
  • Symbol of Compassion: The presiding deity, Lord Grishneshwar, is revered as the embodiment of compassion and mercy, stemming from the legend of Kusuma.
  • Fulfillment of Desires: Devotees visit the temple with fervent prayers, believing that Lord Grishneshwar fulfills their righteous wishes and alleviates their sufferings.

Architectural Grandeur:

The Grishneshwar Temple is a fine example of South Indian temple architecture, though it also exhibits Maratha architectural influences.

  • Red Stone Structure: The temple is constructed primarily from red basalt rock, giving it a distinct and imposing appearance.
  • Five-Tiered Shikhara: It features a majestic five-tiered shikhara (spire) adorned with intricate carvings of various deities, mythological scenes, and floral patterns.
  • Carved Pillars and Walls: The temple walls and the 24 pillars in its main hall (sabha mandapa) are embellished with detailed sculptures depicting stories from Hindu scriptures, including the Dashavataras (ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu).
  • Sanctum Sanctorum (Garbhagriha): The east-facing sanctum houses the sacred Jyotirlinga. A unique tradition observed here is that men are required to enter the Garbhagriha bare-chested as a mark of respect and humility.
  • Nandi Mandapa: A beautifully sculpted Nandi (Lord Shiva’s divine bull mount) is situated in the temple courtyard, facing the sanctum.
  • Historical Reconstructions: The temple has faced destruction and undergone several reconstructions throughout history. The current structure was notably rebuilt in the 18th century by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, a renowned patron of Hindu temples. Earlier, in the 16th century, Maloji Bhosale, the grandfather of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, also contributed to its renovation.

Visiting Grishneshwar Temple:

  • Location: Verul village, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar district (formerly Aurangabad), Maharashtra, India.
  • Temple Timings: The temple is generally open from 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM. Timings might vary during special occasions, festivals like Mahashivratri, and the holy month of Shravan (when it often opens earlier, around 3:00 AM, and closes later, around 11:00 PM).
  • Darshan: Entry for darshan is generally free.
  • How to Reach:
    • By Air: The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport (Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar Airport), approximately 30-35 km away.
    • By Train: Aurangabad Railway Station is the closest major railhead, around 29-30 km from the temple.
    • By Road: Grishneshwar is well-connected by road to Aurangabad and other major cities in Maharashtra. State transport buses and private taxis are readily available.
  • Best Time to Visit: While the temple can be visited throughout the year, the months from June to March generally offer pleasant weather. The festivals of Mahashivratri and the month of Shravan witness a large influx of devotees.

Nearby Attractions

  • Ellora Caves – UNESCO World Heritage site featuring rock-cut temples and monasteries.
  • Daulatabad Fort
  • Bibi Ka Maqbara – Known as the “Mini Taj Mahal”
  • Ajanta Caves (Approx. 100 km away)

A visit to Grishneshwar Temple offers not just a spiritual experience but also a glimpse into India’s rich mythological and architectural heritage. The enduring tale of Kusuma and the compassionate aura of Lord Grishneshwar continue to inspire faith and devotion in the hearts of millions.