Kapal Mochan Mahadev Temple is an important Hindu temple located in Puri, Odisha, India. This temple is located on the left side of Gandua Chaura Chowk in Manikarnika Road. This temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva and holds great religious significance for the devotees, especially in connection with the
Jagannath Dham Puri. It is also considered auspicious to visit this temple as part of a pilgrimage to Puri, especially after visiting the Jagannath Temple.
History and Architecture of Kapal Mochan Mahadev Temple
The Kapal Mochan Temple is historically associated with the legend of Lord Shiva atoning for the sin of brahmahatya (killing of a Brahmin). According to mythology, after Shiva beheaded Brahma, Brahma's skull (kapala) got attached to Shiva's hand. They wandered for a long time until they reached Puri, where the skull finally got separated at this place, thus achieving \"mochan\" (liberation) from the \"kapala\".
The temple complex houses the Manikarnika Teerth, a sacred tank believed to have the power to wash away sins and grant moksha (liberation). Legend says that a jewel of Shiva or an earring of Parvati fell here - hence the name \"Manikarnika\".
The temple exhibits traditional Kalinga architecture, although it is relatively smaller than other major temples in Puri. It has a sanctum sanctorum where Shiva Linga is installed. Built in the 10th century AD (Somavanshi period), it was built. The Shivalinga in the temple sanctum is situated in a circular yonipitha 6.6 m below the street level. The jagamohana houses a Dashabhuja Shyama Kali (ten-armed Kali) image. There are sandstone carvings of Ganesha (without rat) and Narasimha. There is a small nat mandapam with octagonal pillars and pyramidal roof, as well as other shrines including Ganga, Santoshi Maa, Hanuman and Narasimha.
Kapal Mochan Mahadev Temple Darshan Timings
The temple is open throughout the week and the darshan timings are from 5 am to 8 pm.
Major Festivals at Kapal Mochan Mahadev Temple
Maha Shivratri is the major festival at Kapal Mochan Mahadev Temple. Sheetal Shashthi (Skanda Shashthi) - It features rituals including the marriage of Shiva-Parvati, as well as processions of Shiva-Parvati in the city. Dol Purnima, Rudravaishekha celebrations also take place here.
How to reach Kapal Mochan Temple Puri
Kapal Mochan Temple is located at a distance of 100 meters from the south gate of Puri Jagannath Temple. By road, Puri city is very well connected and Puri Railway Station is the nearest one.
Popular Name: Prabhu Kapal Mochan