Maha Shivratri is just around the corner, and if you’re a devotee of Lord Shiva, then this temple in Uttar Pradesh deserves all your attention. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Nageshwar Nath Temple in Prayagraj is a 500-year-old temple renowned not only for its spiritual significance but also for its unique rituals. Here, devotees don’t just offer prayers to Mahadev but also lock padlocks while making a wish! Here’s everything you need to know about this temple and its unique tradition.
500-YO Nageshwar Nath Mahadev In Prayagraj
Long before Paris’ Pont des Arts and South Korea’s N Seoul Tower, a small temple in Prayagraj had the tradition of locking padlocks! We’re talking about Nageshwar Nath Mahadev in the city. Like every temple has its own beliefs, at this famous Shiva temple, devotees lock padlocks while making a wish, returning to unlock them once their prayers are fulfilled.
Many believe that as soon as you tie the lock, your destiny becomes imprisoned by Lord Shiva himself! In the temple courtyard, there is a special section dedicated to devotees to lock the padlock. Once their wish is fulfilled, people return to unlock it. They then offer prayers to show gratitude and mark the completion of their prayer. Over time, thousands of locks have accumulated, giving the temple a distinctive visual identity.
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Why You Should Visit The Temple
Prayagraj is renowned for its deep religious roots and for hosting the Kumbh Mela. In the heart of the city stands the Nageshwar Nath Temple, a modest yet spiritually significant shrine. The small temple is built about five feet below ground level and features traditional North Indian temple architecture. It was constructed during the Mughal era, and there are still Arabic words written in some corners of the temple.
Devotees light agarbatti and sit in quiet meditation, as the serene aura of the temple makes the entire experience feel even more sacred and immersive. On Maha Shivratri, the temple is set to witness a significant surge in footfall, with devotees lining up to offer prayers and participate in rituals.
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During Maha Shivratri, the temple comes alive with chants, offerings, and long queues of worshippers seeking blessings, as well as the locking of padlocks.
Cover Image Courtesy: Instagram/streets.of.prayagraj