Geparnath Mahadev Temple
History
Built in the 16th century, this temple is attributed to the wife of King Bhoj. It is nestled 400 feet deep in the hills, and one has to climb down around 350 steps to reach the temple.
Architectural Features
The temple is situated at a place on the banks of the Chambal river. A stream of water continuously falls on the Shiva lingam. Near this, there is a reservoir made in a natural form in which the devotees take bath.
Cultural Significance
The temple is renowned for its annual Maha Shivaratri fair, which attracts thousands of visitors from distant regions. This event highlights the temple's religious significance and its integral role in local traditions.
Conservation
Since 1961, the Archaeological Survey of India has protected the temple, preserving its historical and cultural heritage.
Tourism
The temple's natural beauty and spiritual significance make it a potential site for tourism development. Locals suggest that its infrastructure should be enhanced to promote local tourism.
Incidents
In 2008, a tragic incident occurred when the temple steps collapsed, trapping 135 visitors in which resulting in one fatality. This event brought national attention to the temple's condition and accessibility.
In another incident in 2022, two students drowned in the reservoir at the temple.One of the deceased was from Bihar and the other was from Madhya Pradesh.
See also
References
- ^ Bharat, E. T. V. (2020-02-20). "महाशिवरात्रि विशेष: कोटा का गेपरनाथ महादेव मंदिर जहां प्रकृति खुद करती है भोलेनाथ का जलाभिषेक". ETV Bharat News (in Hindi). Retrieved 2024-05-30.
- ^ "Savan 2020 : जानिए कोटा के अद्भुत शिव मंदिरों की महिमा जिसे जानकर आप भी इसे कहेंगे शिवनगरी…देखिए तस्वीरें". Patrika News (in Hindi). 2020-07-10. Retrieved 2024-05-30.
- ^ "सावन में करिए श्री गेपरनाथ महादेव के दर्शन, पूरी होगी हर मनोकामना". News18 हिंदी (in Hindi). Retrieved 2024-05-30.
- ^ "गेपरनाथ में 135 लोग फंसे, एक की मौत". One India.
- ^ "Rajasthan: कोटा के गेपरनाथ महादेव कुंड में दो छात्र डूबे, एक मृतक बिहार और दूसरा मध्यप्रदेश का रहने वाला". Amar Ujala (in Hindi). Retrieved 2024-05-30.