Auliyeshwar Mahadev Temple, Karchulipur, Uttar Pradesh

Auliyeshwar Mahadev Temple, Karchulipur, Uttar Pradesh

Auliyeshwar Mahadev Temple is a Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Karchulipur village in Ghatampur Tehsil in  Kanpur Nagar District in Uttar Pradesh, India. The temple is situated on the banks of Rind river. The temple is one of the state protected monuments in Uttar Pradesh declared by Archaeological Survey of India.

Legends

Auliyeshwar Mahadev:

As per legend, a cowherd used to bring his cow to this place for grazing. He noticed that his cow was emptying its udder on a particular Karauli plant every day. He was curious to know what lies beneath the plant. He dug the ground under the plant and found an ancient Shiva Linga. This Shiva was consecrated in this temple and had been named as Auliyeshwar Mahadev

Ashwathama:

As per legend, the temple is believed to be built by Chiranjeevi Ashwathama, son of Guru Dronacharya. It is believed that Ashwathama offers his worship first every day in this temple. It is common to find fresh flowers and offerings on the Shiva Linga when the doors are opened in the morning.

History

The temple is believed to have been built over the original brick structure built by the Guptas in 10^th century CE. The temple was also renovated during 12^th century CE.

The Temple

This temple is similar in plan to the Bhitargaon Brick Temple. This temple is facing towards east and stands over a raised platform. The temple consists of sanctum, antrala and mandapa. The mandapa can be accessed from eastern, southern and northern side. The sanctum enshrines the presiding deity, Auliyeshwar Mahadev in the form of Shiva Linga within circular yonipitha. There is a well situated inside the temple premises.

Connectivity

The temple is located at about 3 Kms from Birhar, 4 Kms from Birhar Bus Stop, 7 Kms from Sarh, 11 Kms from Jahanabad, 14 Kms from Bhitargaon, 30 Kms from Ghatampur, 33 Kms from Kanpur, 35 Kms from Kanpur Central, Central Station and 106 Kms from Lucknow Airport. The temple is situated on Kanpur to Jahanabad route.

Location