The Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Uttarkashi is an ancient, revered Shiva shrine, considered the “North Kashi,” where gods supposedly fled from demons, with legends linking its founding to Sage Parshuram and later reconstruction to Maharani Kanedi in 1857; it’s famous for its unique, south-tilted Shiva Linga and the massive, immovable Trishul from the Shakti Temple, symbolizing divine power and spiritual refuge in the Himalayas.
Key Historical & Mythological Aspects:
- Origin as a Refuge: When demons (Ashuras) drove gods from Varanasi (Kashi), they sought refuge in the Himalayas, establishing Uttarkashi as a new Kashi, or “Northern Kashi”.
- Parshuram’s Penance: Sage Parshuram performed penance here to atone for killing Kshatriya clans, establishing the tilted Shivling as a spiritual anchor.
- Skanda Purana Mentions: Ancient texts call this region “Sakashi,” and the Bhagirathi River was known as Gongi.
- Reconstruction: The temple, built by Parshuram, was rebuilt in 1857 by Maharani Kanedi.
- Unique Shivling: The central Shivling is distinctively tilted towards the south, adding to its mystery and spiritual significance.
- The Trishul: Opposite the temple stands a massive brass Trishul (trident) stuck into the ground, believed to be an immovable manifestation of Goddess Durga, vibrating with power.
- Future Kashi: Local belief holds that when Varanasi’s Kashi is submerged, Lord Vishwanath’s deity will move here, making Uttarkashi the future Kashi (Vavishakashi).
Significance:
Cultural Importance: The town itself is rich in heritage, known as “Barahat” (big market) in ancient times, and is seen as a sacred counterpoint to Varanasi.
Spiritual Hub: It’s a crucial stop on the Char Dham Yatra and believed to absorb divine energy, offering spiritual solace.