A Town in Himachal Pradesh That Never Pushes The Boat Out on Dussehra
A sleepy little town that sits on the foothills of Dhauladhars, Baijnath in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh is known for the famous Baijnath Temple, a temple of Lord Shiva. It is believed that this Temple of Lord Shiva was built by the Pandavas in one day on their way to heaven. Believe us, the temple still gives those ancient vibes.
Baijnath was given its name after the shepherd, Baiju. During the 13th century, the Baijnath temple was built around the Ancient Ling which is today one of the most significant pilgrimages for Hindus. The town is situated in the Middle of Mandi and Palampur, which is at a distance of 60 Km from Dharamshala in Kangra District.
Baijnath was given its name after the shepherd, Baiju. During the 13th century, the Baijnath temple was built around the Ancient Ling which is today one of the most significant pilgrimages for Hindus. The town is situated in the Middle of Mandi and Palampur, which is at a distance of 60 Km from Dharamshala in Kangra District.
Delighted by his sacrificing act and earnestness, Lord Shiva granted demon king Ravana his wishes and recreated his heads. But, King Ravana desired for more. In order to get more from Shiva, Ravana graciously requested him to accompany him to his kingdom in Lanka.
Lord Shiva was heartened by this endeavour and agreed. He took the shape of a Linga and told Ravana not to place it on the ground on his way. If he did, he would not be able to lift it again.
However, when King Ravana reached Baijnath, he felt the need to answer nature’s call. Before he could decide what to do he saw the Shepherd Baiju and handed over the ling to him, but forgot to tell him not to place it on the ground.
The shepherd without knowing did the exact opposite. He found the Linga too heavy and put it on the ground and as Lord Shiva mentioned, the Linga resides where it sits. Thereafter Baijnath became a dwelling of Lord Shiva.
So, to mark the respect of a devotee towards Lord Shiva the residents of Baijnath do not celebrate Dussehra. You’ll be surprised to know that there is no goldsmith shop in Baijnath as the fear of upsetting Lord Shiva is so high.