This is one of the oldest temples in Varanasi, dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as Mahadev, the god of destruction. The temple was built in the 12th century and is very ancient. It is located next to a large water kund. The most eye-catching feature is that one of the Shivlingas is positioned beneath a very old and large Pipal and Bargad tree.
The temple is located in the southern part of Varanasi, near Kandwa Pokhra. It is devoted to Shiva, and many of the lord’s devotees come here to offer prayers and perform yagna. The temple was built by the Garhwal rulers and is constructed in the Nagar style of architecture. The water pond was built in the 18th century by Rani Bhawni Devi. Invaders tried to destroy this temple, but it could not be destroyed due to the power of Lord Shiva, and it stands as one of the most prominent temples in the city.
Kardameshwar Mahadev Mandir: Varanasi
I managed to walk around the pond. One has to be careful here as there are many monkeys around, and some of them can be ferocious, though most of the time, they are harmless. There is a huge white marble tablet affixed to the temple wall, which has the famous mantra, Rudrashtakam, inscribed in Sanskrit verses. Rudrashtakam is a powerful meditation mantra to evoke and please Shiva. It was written by the Bhakti poet Tulsi Das.
I was fascinated by the fabulous sculptures carved into the dark black stone walls of the temple. Some of the statues of gods and goddesses were etched out of stone, yet the images are sharp and detailed. The inner sanctum of the temple has a black stone Shiva Linga, and I was able to sit in one of the poojas as well. A family was performing a Maha Mrityunjaya Japa, and I offered my prayers to Lord Shiva. It was very peaceful at that moment, with the calm waters of the pond. The temple had a deep spiritual ambiance.
As I walked out of the temple, I was surprised to see another temple just opposite it, called the Virupakshagan Temple.
Rudrashtakam Mantra:
नमामीशमीशान निर्वाणरूपं
विभुं व्यापकं ब्रह्मवेदस्वरूपम् ।
निजं निर्गुणं निर्विकल्पं निरीहं
चिदाकाशमाकाशवासं भजेऽहम् ॥१॥
