Lord Shiva, also known as ‘Mahadeva’, ‘Maheśvara’, ‘Shambhu’, and ‘Shankara’, is the revered deity in Hinduism.
In Shaivism, one of the major traditions of Hinduism, Lord Shiva is the supreme being. His many revered shrines across the country attract lots of devotees.
Among these, let’s have a look at five of such most revered Lord Shiva temples that signify the five elements of nature or Pancha Bhoota.
Jambukeswarar Temple, Tamil Nadu | Water Elements: Lord Shiva is worshipped as ‘Akhilandeswari’ and the lingam of the temple known as the Appu Lingam or Water Lingam is said to be partially submerged in water.
Arunachaleswarar Temple, Tamil Nadu | Fire Elements: Renowned for its grand architecture with spiritual significance, the temple is a major pilgrimage site for Hinduism, representing the element of fire or agni.
Srikalahasti Temple, Andhra Pradesh | Air Element: Considered to be the Kailash of the South, the temple pays homage to Lord Shiva in the form of a Swayambhu, or self-manifested Vayu Lingam which represents the wind.
Ekambareswarar Temple, Tamil Nadu | Earth Element: Located at Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, this temple boasts an impressive architectural grandeur with a massive gateway and a thousand-pillared hall. Lord Shiva is worshipped as Prithvi Lingam, representing the element of Earth.
Thillai Nataraja Temple, Tamil Nadu | Sky Element: One of the holiest Lord Shiva temples in India where Lord Shiva is worshipped in his Nataraja form, the cosmic dancer.
These 5 temples of India represent the five elements of nature, collectively known as ‘Pancha Bhoota Sthalam’ temples.