The Mamleshwar Temple, located in Omkareshwar, Madhya Pradesh, is experiencing a surge in devotees, with approximately 13,000 shivlings being worshipped daily. This has led to extended waiting times for darshan, sometimes stretching up to four hours. The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, holds immense significance as it is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, making it a vital pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Mamleshwar Temple is situated on the banks of the Narmada River in Omkareshwar. Lord Shiva is worshipped here as the 'Earthly Lord'. The temple complex houses several temples, all under the protection of the Central Archaeological Department. Mantras are inscribed on the north and south walls in the outer chamber of the sanctum sanctorum. The five-storied structure features a pagoda on each floor.
The increase in devotees is attributed to the growing recognition of the temple's spiritual importance and the desire to seek blessings from Lord Shiva. The act of worshipping shivlings is considered highly sacred, with devotees believing it brings them closer to the divine and fulfills their wishes. The long queues are a testament to the unwavering faith and devotion of the pilgrims.
The temple administration is taking measures to manage the crowd and ensure a smooth darshan experience for everyone. This includes streamlining the entry process, providing facilities for devotees to rest, and ensuring the availability of essential amenities. Security personnel are also present to maintain order and prevent any untoward incidents.
Devotees can also participate in the Chintaman Partheshwar Pujan, a specialized Shiva ritual performed at the Mamleshwar Jyotirlinga. This ritual focuses on Grah Shanti, relief from mental burdens, and planetary harmony. It involves crafting and worshipping 1,325 Parthiv Shivlings in seven sizes, each linked to the days of the week and their ruling planets. The puja includes daily-changing Mandala shapes, Panchamrit Abhishek of Shivlings, and special worship of Ganpati, Mata Gauri, and Lord Shiva, accompanied by Vedic mantras.
Parthiveshwar worship holds special significance at Mamleshwar Jyotirlinga, where Lord Shiva is worshipped as the Earthly Lord. It is believed that performing Parthiv Shivling puja yields the merits of countless prayers and worships. Even Shree Ram is said to have performed this puja before his war against Ravana. Shanidev also performed Parthiv Shivling puja to please Lord Shiv.
Despite the long waiting times, devotees are filled with enthusiasm and patience, chanting prayers and singing devotional songs while waiting for their turn to offer prayers to Lord Shiva. The atmosphere is filled with devotion and spirituality, creating a unique and memorable experience for the pilgrims. The Mamleshwar Temple stands as a symbol of unwavering faith and the enduring power of spirituality, attracting devotees from far and wide to seek blessings and experience divine grace.
