The famous Tourist Places in Azamgarh , Uttar Pradesh include Bhawar Nath Temple.
About Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh
Azamgarh is a city located in the state of Uttar Pradesh in northern India. It serves as the administrative headquarters of the Azamgarh district. Here are some key points about Azamgarh:
- Location: Azamgarh is situated in the eastern part of Uttar Pradesh, approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) east of the state capital, Lucknow. It is bordered by the Ghaghara River on the north and the Tamsa River on the south.
- Historical Significance: Azamgarh has a rich historical and cultural heritage. It was founded in 1665 by Azam Khan, a Mughal governor. The city has been home to various rulers and empires, including the Mughals, the Nawabs of Awadh, and the British.
- Cultural Heritage: Azamgarh has contributed significantly to the fields of literature, poetry, and arts. It is known as the birthplace of many renowned poets and writers, including Kaifi Azmi, Majrooh Sultanpuri, and Sibt-e-Hassan.
- Educational Institutions: The city is also known for its educational institutions. It is home to several colleges and schools, including the famous Shibli National College, which was established in 1883 by the prominent scholar Maulana Shibli Nomani.
- Agriculture: Azamgarh’s economy is primarily based on agriculture. The region is known for its fertile soil and produces a variety of crops, including wheat, rice, sugarcane, and vegetables.
- Handicrafts: The city is famous for its handicrafts, particularly pottery and terracotta works. Local artisans create beautifully crafted pottery items, which are in demand both within the country and internationally.
- Tourism: Azamgarh has several historical and cultural attractions for visitors. Some notable places to visit include the Azamgarh Fort, Mehnagar Fort, Nizamabad Fort, and the renowned shrine of Baba Raghav Das.
- Connectivity: Azamgarh is well-connected by road and rail networks. The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi, located about 80 kilometers (50 miles) away.
Tourist Places in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh
Bhawar Nath Temple
The Bhawar Nath Temple holds significant importance for devotees of Lord Shiva in Azamgarh. It is believed that Baba Bhananthnath, the presiding deity of the temple, grants solace to his devotees through darshan (sacred viewing) and worship. The temple, located in the western part of the city, attracts people from Azamgarh and the surrounding areas, who faithfully observe various Shiva festivals.
Mahashivaratri and the month of Sawan (dedicated to Lord Shiva) witness a surge in visitors to the temple. Even those traveling to other famous Shiva temples, such as Baba Vishwanatha in Kashi and Devghar, also make it a point to perform Jalabhishek (ritual pouring of water) at Baba Bhawar Nath Temple before their departure. Many believe that their worship of Lord Shiva remains incomplete without visiting this temple and receiving Baba Bhananthnath’s blessings. The name of the temple itself signifies liberation and protection from crises, and devotees believe that the deity safeguards them throughout the year.
The temple holds a grand fair on the auspicious day of Mahashivaratri, and it is customary to organize a symbolic marriage ceremony of Lord Shiva. During the month of Sawan, devotees flock to the temple on a daily basis, but Mondays witness an overwhelming crowd. The devotees patiently wait for hours in long queues as all four entrances of the sanctum are filled to capacity. After seeking blessings, devotees offer Kadahi (a traditional vessel) to Baba Bhananthnath and pray for a year filled with happiness and prosperity.
Although there is limited historical information available about the ancient Shiva temple’s establishment, local legends suggest that it dates back several centuries. According to popular belief, a revered saint named Bhannathnath used to meditate on Lord Shiva while his cow grazed in the vicinity. It is said that a Shiva Linga was consecrated at the same spot where the cow grazed. The place was named Bhananthnath after the saint and his cow. The temple’s foundation was laid on October 4, 1951, and it was completed after seven years on December 13, 1958. Today, the temple provides all necessary amenities for devotees.
The glory of Baba Bhananthnath extends beyond the city limits, attracting devotees from the entire district who seek his blessings and divine grace.
Disclosure : Source of Information about the Tourist Places in Azamgarh is https://azamgarh.nic.in/
