the Ultimate Web on Indian Gods & Temples

 by Padmani,

Abodes of Shiva (Kashi Temples)

Once Lord Surya installed a Shiva Ling and a devi idol at Panchanada Teerth (Panchganga Ghat) and started immensely propitiating Lord Shiva.  (Importance of Panchganga Ghat is described elsewhere). The intensity of Lord Surya�s prayers started reflecting in the extreme heat generated thereby.  Sunrays started getting warmer and warmer. Finally it became extremely unbearable for all living beings and all physical activities practically came to a standstill. Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathy came to know about this and they appeared in person in front of Lord Surya.  Lord Surya opened his eyes and started singing praises of Goddess Parvathy and Lord Shiva whereupon both of them became extremely happy.  They granted several divine wishes to Lord Surya. Lord Shiva told Lord Surya that the Shiv Ling installed by Lord Surya will be known as Gabhasteeshwar.  A person who takes bath at Pancha Nada Teerth (Panchganga) and worships Gabhastheeswar will be free from all sins and will certainly attain Moksha. (Kashi Khand, Chapter 49).

Gabhastheeshwar is located at K-24/34, Mangala Gauri Temple.  Devotees can travel upto Bhaironath by auto or cycle rickshaw and walk upto this place.  Mangala Gauri temple is a famous landmark. Alternatively, they can take a boat ride upto Panchganga Ghat and reach this temple through Ghats. The temple is open from 05.00 a.m. to 01.00 p.m. and from 03.00 p.m. to 10 p.m.  Aarties are performed in the evening.  For doing any special pooja etc., it is advisable to contact the Poojari. Gabhasteeshwar has been given much importance with respect to  Sun.  Devotees who are having afflictions in their Horoscope on account of planet Sun�s adverse position, get relief by worshipping this temple since the temple houses Gabhasteeshwar (Shiva Ling installed by Lord Surya) and Mayukh Aditya (one of the places of worship of Lord Surya in Kashi).