the Ultimate Web on Indian Gods & Temples

 by Padmani,

Abodes of Shiva (Kashi Temples)

According to Kashi Khand this Ling was installed by Chandra (Moon) for worshipping Lord Shiva.  Chandra also dug one Koop (Well) which is known as Chandra Koop.  Chandreshwar Ling is one of the Navgraha Shiv Lings and people who undertake Navagraha Yatras perform pooja of Chandreshwar Ling. After installing this Ling, Chandra undertook rigorous intense penance (Tapas) to propitiate Lord Shiva. This went on for several years after which Lord Shiva appeared in person and blessed Chandra. Lord Shiva stated that the place where the Ling was installed is a Shakti Peeth (seat of vital energy).  A person who performs pooja and archana at Chandreshwar Ling on Poornima days (Full Moon) will attain highest level of prosperity and happiness. Lord Shiva also attached special importance to Amavasya which falls on Mondays (Somvati Amavasya). Devotees should perform Pooja of Chandreshwar on Triodasi (two days before the Amavasya), observe  fast on Chaturdasi (one day before Amavasya).  Finally on Somvati Amavasya, the devotees should take bath in Chandra Koop, perform Shraaddh Karma for their forefathers. This will give them ultimate happiness and the blessings of their forefathers.  If for some reason, the rituals for forefathers cannot be performed, devotee should at least touch the water of Chandra Koop.  Again, if for some reason, the devotee is not able to touch the water of Chandra Koop, he should at least see it so as to get the benefits prescribed in the above paragraph. After performing the pooja etc. as mentioned above, devotees should perform Annadan (Offering of food) to Sanyasis (Saints) etc.  On poornima days in the month of Chaitra (March � April), if the Star Chitra coincides, they should undertake the above poojas etc. of Chandreshwar.  Even if a staunch devotee of Chandreshwar, dies in any place other than Kashi, he is certain to reach heaven. (Kashi Khand, Chapter 14).  Worshipping Chandreshwar Ling gives mental peace and clarity in thoughts.  Those who have afflictions in their horoscope on account of adverse planetary position of moon, perform special poojas at Chandreshwar temple for remedy.

The temple is located at House No. Ck.7/124, Siddheshwari, Chowk Varanasi.  One can travel upto Chowk by Cycle Rickshaw and walk to this place. Siddheshwari temple is an important landmark. Alternatively, devotees can approach the place by boat upto Scindia Ghat and climb up the steps. The temple is open from 06.00 a.m to 9.00 p.m.   Aarties are performed at 10.00 a.m. and 09.00 p.m.