The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, also known as the Golden Temple, is one of the most renowned and sacred Hindu temples in India. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, sacred shrines that are believed to be manifestations of Lord Shiva. The temple is located in the ancient city of Varanasi (also known as Kashi or Banaras) in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in the Hindu pantheon.
History of the Kashi Vishwanath temple
Ancient Origins: The origins of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple can be traced back to ancient times, but the exact date of its construction is not well-documented. It is believed that the original temple was constructed on the banks of the Ganges River in Varanasi around 1490 by Raja Mann Singh of Amber (now Jaipur) under the patronage of Kashi Naresh, the ruler of Varanasi.
Architecture: The temple showcases a blend of traditional Hindu and Maratha architectural styles. It has a shikhara (spire) adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The main deity, Lord Vishwanath (another name for Lord Shiva), is enshrined in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.
Destruction and Reconstruction: The temple faced a series of challenges and invasions throughout its history. It was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt by various rulers and dynasties. The Mughal emperor Aurangzeb ordered the demolition of the temple in the late 17th century and erected a mosque, Gyanvapi Mosque, in its place. The current temple complex was later reconstructed near the mosque during the 18th century by the Maratha ruler Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore.
Contributions by Maharaja Ranjit Singh: Maharaja Ranjit Singh of the Sikh Empire, known for his religious tolerance, played a significant role in the history of the temple. In the early 19th century, he donated gold plating to the temple’s spire, which led to the temple being commonly referred to as the “Golden Temple.”
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple continues to be a beacon of Hindu spirituality, drawing countless devotees and curious visitors to its sacred premises. It serves as a symbol of the deep-rooted cultural and religious heritage of India.
The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor project
The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor is a mega-redevelopment project that aims to transform the area around the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. The project’s primary objective is to improve the overall pilgrimage experience for devotees visiting the temple while also enhancing the cultural and aesthetic appeal of the surroundings. The corridor project is one of the flagship initiatives of the Indian government’s efforts to promote tourism and cultural preservation.
Government Initiatives: The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor project is led by the Indian government and is a part of the broader development and heritage preservation initiatives for cultural and religious sites across the country.
Infrastructure Development: The project involves the redevelopment and expansion of the temple complex, along with the construction of a spacious corridor connecting the temple with various other important sites in Varanasi, such as the Ganges River ghats and other cultural landmarks.
Community Involvement: The project involves local artisans and craftsmen, ensuring that their skills and expertise are utilized in the restoration and construction work, thus supporting local livelihoods and promoting traditional craftsmanship.
Improved Pilgrim Facilities: The corridor project focuses on enhancing facilities for pilgrims, including wider pathways, better lighting, waiting areas, and restroom facilities. This ensures a more comfortable and convenient experience for the large number of devotees who visit the temple.
Restoration and Preservation: The project emphasizes the restoration and preservation of historical structures and sites in the area. Many structures that had fallen into disrepair have been renovated to their former glory, ensuring that the city’s rich heritage is maintained.
Riverfront Development: The corridor extends to the Ganges River ghats, where significant beautification and restoration work has been undertaken. This includes the improvement of the ghats’ infrastructure, the creation of open spaces, and the installation of cultural and historical displays.
The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor project represents a harmonious blend of modern development and heritage conservation. It aims to create a vibrant cultural and spiritual hub that not only enhances the pilgrimage experience but also showcases India’s rich cultural heritage to the world.
Aarti/Darshan Timing
| Catagery | Timings |
|---|---|
| Opened at an early time | 2:30 am |
| Mangala Aarti | 3:00 am to 4:00 am |
| Bhog Aarti | 11:15 am to 12:20 pm |
| Saptirishi Aarti/Sandhya Aarti | 7:00 pm to 8:15 pm |
| Shringar/Bhog Aarti | 9:00 pm to 10:15 pm |
| Shayana Aarti | 10:30 pm to 11:00 pm |
| General Darshan Timing | |
| General Darshan | 4:00 am to 11:00 am |
| Free Darshan | 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm |
| Darshan is then closed for Sapta Rishi Aarati | 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm |
| Darshan is reopened | 9:00 pm [after which Darshan is possible only from outside.] |
| Temple is Closed | 11:00 pm |
Contact Information
Address :
Chief Executive Officer
Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Help Desk
CK-37/40,41,42 Bansphatak,
Varanasi-221001
Phone :
+91-7080292930, +91-6393131608,
+91-542-2400049