Spiritual Secrets of Kedarnath: Worship, Legends, and Divine Traditions

Who is worshiped in Kedarnath temple? Learn about the spiritual heritage of Lord Shiva

Who is worshiped in Kedarnath temple – this question comes to the mind of every devotee who visits this divine place nestled in the lap of the Himalayas. Kedarnath temple is a major Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, where devotees worship the spiritual power and infinite form of Shiva. In this article, we will know about the history, architecture, mythology and deep devotion of Kedarnath temple associated with the temple.

Where is Kedarnath temple?

Kedarnath temple is located in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand state of India. This temple is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters on the banks of the Mandakini river, among the high peaks of the Himalayas. This site is one of the four Dhamas and twelve Jyotirlingas.

Who is worshiped in Kedarnath temple?

Lord Shiva is worshiped in Kedarnath temple. Here Shiva is situated in the form of a huge self-manifested Jyotirlinga, which is worshipped in the form of a large rock. It is considered to be the 'Kedar' form of Shiva, which is a symbol of compassion, penance and salvation.

History of Kedarnath Temple

The construction period of Kedarnath temple is not clear, but it is believed that it was built by the Pandavas after the Mahabharata period. According to mythological beliefs, the Pandavas came to the refuge of Shiva to atone for the sins of the war. Shiva appeared to them in the form of a buffalo. This place later became famous as Kedarnath.

Architecture of the temple

The architecture of the Kedarnath temple is made of stones, which can especially endure the harsh climate of the Himalayas. The construction of the temple is quadrangular and its height is about 80 feet. This temple is a living example of carving and amazing construction style.

Sankrabhagruha and idols

The Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva is located in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. Here the Shivlinga is worshipped in the form of a huge rock of stone. There are idols of Mata Parvati outside the sanctum sanctorum, Panch Pandavas in the Sabha Mandap, Shri Krishna, Maa Kunti, and Shri Ganesha and Nandi Ji at the main entrance.

Mythology

According to a famous legend, after the Mahabharata war, the Pandavas went to meet Lord Shiva to get rid of their sins. Lord Shiva took the form of a buffalo to escape from them and disappeared into the earth. When the Pandavas held the back of the buffalo, the Shivlinga appeared at the same place. The other parts of the buffalo appeared at five different places, which are today called Panch Kedar – Kedarnath, Rudranath, Tungnath, Kalpeshwar and Madmaheshwar.

Pilgrimage and Darshan

The Kedarnath Yatra starts every year from Akshaya Tritiya in April or May and continues till November. During this time, lakhs of devotees come here to visit. During the Yatra, devotees participate in the worship, Abhishek and special Aarti of Lord Shiva. To reach the temple, one has to trek 16 km from Gaurikund.

Worship Method and Traditions

In Kedarnath temple, Shiva is worshipped according to Shaivite tradition.

• The priests here are from Veerashaiva Jangam sect, who come from Karnataka.

• Devotees can worship the Shivalinga here by touching it with their hands.

• Acharya Vedpathi is appointed in the temple to perform the worship.

Lord Bhairav – Protector of Kedarnath

The idol of Lord Bhairav is installed at a high place about 200 meters away from the Kedarnath temple. It is believed that when the doors of the temple are closed, Lord Bhairav protects the temple.

Useful Tips for the Trip

• Best time: May to June and September to November.

• Worship Material: Carry flowers, incense, sandalwood, water pot etc.

• Health and Preparation: There may be a lack of oxygen at high altitude, so a health check-up is necessary.

• Accommodation: There are many hotels, dharamshalas available in Gaurikund, Sonprayag and Kedarnath.

Conclusion

Who is worshipped in Kedarnath temple – the answer to this question is found in the deep devotion to Shiva and the mythological mysteries associated with him. This temple is not only a religious center but also a path to attain spiritual peace, faith and salvation. A visit to Kedarnath is not a one-time but a repeated experience in life, which purifies the mind, body and soul.