This temple in Meerut is where Ravana's wife worshiped Lord Shiva

Did you know there’s a small temple in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, that dates back to the era of the Ramayana, and traces of the legendary epic can be traced back to the temple Shri Bilveshwar Nath Main Temple? Here’s all you need to know about this sacred Shiva temple and why every year it is frequented by millions of devotees. Read on to find out…

Traces of the past

The history of this temple can be traced back to one of the greatest epics of Indian mythology Ramayana, and it is associated with Ravana’s wife, Mandodari. The Bilveshwar Nath Main Temple is located amidst the hustle-bustle of the busy bylanes of Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, and every year during Shravan maas (sawan maas) millions of devotees carry water to offer to this Shivalinga. Here’s the mystical story of this temple and why it was believed that this temple is where dreams turn into reality.




The divine association

As per ancient scriptures and books of Hindu mythology, the ancient Lord Shiva shrine is revered as one of the city's oldest, featuring a self-manifested Shivalinga. The traces of its history goes back to the Treta Yug, wherein it was established and was frequented by Mandodari, the daughter of demon king Mayasura, who was the ruler of Meerut, and the place was known as Mayarashtra. As per the legends, Mandodari worshipped Shiva in this temple daily, seeking a blessing to marry the most powerful husband; pleased by her devotion, Lord Shiva granted her the boon and she became the consort of mighty Asura Ravana.

The mention of this temple is there in the holy books as the home to Ravana's in-laws, and there are several tales of their first meeting. It is also believed that sincere prayers are answered in this temple, especially during Maha Shivratri or Sawan, fulfilling wishes like hers, with rituals including Jalabhishek from an ancient well. Even today, as per age-old beliefs, people follow a special tradition here. If you light a lamp and pray at this temple for 40 days, your wishes will come true like Mandodari's did a long time ago.


The tale of mourning

As per local beliefs and age-old rituals, Meerut was believed to be the kingdom of Mandodari's father, Mayasura. Because of this, many people in Meerut think of Ravana as their son-in-law. While the rest of India celebrates the victory of good over evil by burning Ravana's effigies during Dusshera, some people in Meerut mourn his death instead.