A Temple with a Mysterious Belief
India is a land full of wonders, stories, and temples. One such unique temple is Nagchandreshwar Mandir, located in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. This temple is different because it opens only once a year, and that too for just 24 hours. People can visit it only on Nag Panchami, a day dedicated to worshipping snakes and Lord Shiva.
Where Is Nagchandreshwar Temple?
Nagchandreshwar Mandir is situated on the third floor of the famous Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain. This temple is not open like other temples all year round. It remains closed for 364 days and opens only on Nag Panchami, a holy day that comes during the monsoon month of Sawan, on the Shukla Panchami tithi.
Why Does Nagchandreshwar Temple Open Only for One Day?
There is a powerful mythological story behind this tradition.
According to legends, Takshak Nag, the king of snakes, once performed strong meditation (tapasya) to please Lord Shiva. Pleased by his devotion, Shiva gave him the boon of immortality. But Takshak had one more wish-he wanted to stay forever near Lord Shiva. Shiva agreed and allowed him to stay in the Mahakal Forest, where the temple stands today. However, Lord Shiva also gave him a condition: he will live in peace and silence, disturbed by no one. So, the temple would open only once a year, on Nag Panchami.
This story adds a magical and mysterious feeling to the temple and attracts thousands of devotees.
The Special Idol of Nagchandreshwar
The idol of Nagchandreshwar is very rare and beautiful. It shows Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati seated on a throne made of coiled snakes, with Takshak Nag above them. This form is not found anywhere else and is considered very sacred. People believe that darshan (sight) of this form can remove all snake-related fears and problems, especially Kaal Sarp Dosh.
Rituals and Trikal Puja at the Nagchandreshwar Temple
On Nag Panchami, the temple follows a unique Trikal Puja system-three special prayers performed at different times of the day:
- First Puja at midnight (12:00 AM) by the monks of Mahanirvani Akhara.
- Second Puja at noon (12:00 PM) performed by local government officials.
- Third Puja at 7:30 PM after the evening aarti of Lord Mahakal, conducted by temple priests.
After the final puja and midnight aarti, the temple doors are closed again for a full year.
A Day Full of Faith and Devotion
From midnight, thousands of devotees line up to get a glimpse of Nagchandreshwar. They chant mantras, offer milk, flowers, and perform pooja with full devotion. Many believe that visiting the temple on this day brings blessings, removes evil, and gives peace from any snake-related problems.
The monks of Mahanirvani Akhara have followed the tradition of opening the temple for years. They start the day with a ritual of breaking a coconut and chanting prayers before allowing public entry.
Why Is Nag Panchami Important?
Nag Panchami is a day to worship snakes, who are considered close to Lord Shiva. In Hindu beliefs, snakes are not just reptiles but divine beings. Women also pray to snake gods on this day for their family’s safety and happiness, especially for their brothers.
Worshipping Lord Shiva along with snakes on this day is believed to be highly auspicious. It helps in removing negative energies and especially helps those who are facing Kaal Sarp Dosh in their horoscope.
Conclusion
Nagchandreshwar Mandir is not just a temple-it is a symbol of deep faith, discipline, and divine mystery. The one-day darshan makes the moment even more special. People wait the entire year to get this rare blessing.
If you ever visit Ujjain during Nag Panchami, make sure you don’t miss the magical and divine experience of Nagchandreshwar Temple. It is a once-in-a-year opportunity that touches the soul.
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