Importance of Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple

The Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain holds unique significance in the Hindu tradition, especially in the Tantric tradition. The idol of Mahakaleshwar is known to be dakshinamurti, facing the south. It is the only Jyotirlinga with this specific orientation. In Tantric practices, the south is considered a significant direction, and Mahakaleshwar’s south-facing position has special importance in this context.

Within the sanctum sanctorum, the icon of Omkareshwar Shiva is consecrated above the Mahakal shrine. The placement of images further includes Ganesh, Parvati, and Karttikeya in the west, north, and east, respectively, while the image of Nandi is to the south. The icon of Nagchandreshwar on the third storey is open for darshan only on the day of Nagpanchmi. The Mahashivaratri, a significant festival, is celebrated with a huge fair near the temple.

Ujjain, historically known as Avanti, has been revered as a holy city with various names. Described in the Adi Purana as the most sacred city on earth, Ujjain has been a seat of learning where diverse disciplines of knowledge have flourished over time.

Ujjain is well-connected by rail, air, and road. It is situated on the Western Railway with direct train connections to major Indian cities. The city has an airstrip, and the nearest airport is Indore Airport. Ujjain’s road network connects it to other parts of Madhya Pradesh, with SH-27 and SH-18 Dewas-Badnawar passing through it. The city’s spiritual and cultural heritage, along with its connectivity, makes it a significant destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.