Bijli Mahadev Temple, Kashawri – Legends

Bijli Mahadev Temple, Kashawri – Legends

Bijli Mahadev:

As per legend, Sage Vasishta prayed to Lord Shiva at this place where the temple stands today and requested him to absorb the energy of the lightening in order to save the world. His prayers were answered by the Lord Shiva. In gratitude, a temple was constructed here, and Lord Shiva was named as Bijli Mahadev (Lord of Lightening). Every year, either the Shiva Lingam or the dwaja sthambam (wooden flag staff) of the temple gets mysteriously hit by the lightning bolts.

As a result of the lightning strike, Lingam breaks up into pieces, but the priest customarily puts it all together by using cereal and pulse flour along with unsalted butter. It is said that the Lingam takes a solid shape similar to the previous Lingam after few months.  It is also said that while the Linga breaks down a lot of energy is emitted from it. This energy is absorbed by Lord Shiva, thus, preventing the universe from destruction.

Kullu Valley:

As per legend, a demon named Kulanta used to live in the Kullu valley.  He took the form of a giant snake and reached Mathan village of Lahaul-Spiti. Driven by evil intentions, Kulanta wanted to flood the whole village. Therefore, the demon snake stationed himself in a way that he obstructed the flow of the Beas river. Lord Shiva took note this, and immediately set out to deal with him. After engaging in a fierce battle with Kulanta, Lord Shiva slayed the demon. After the death of the snake demon, his entire body turned into a huge mountain. Thus, the valley came to be called as Kullu valley after the death of the demon, Kulanta.

Annihilation of Jalandhar by Lord Shiva here:

It is believed that this is the place where Lord Shiva killed the invincible demon Jalandhar.