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Pilgrims throng Mahadev temple in Maharashtra on Shravan

     Akola (Maharashtra): On the occasion of the auspicious Shravan (monsoon) month rituals, thousands of Hindu devotees thronged the Mahadev temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the forest area of Satpura mountain range at Dhargad near Akola district of Maharashtra. Devotees from all across India came in large numbers to mark the auspicious third Monday of Shravan month as per the regional Marathi calendar. Though the Mahadev Temple is located in dense jungles, there is no end to the stream of devotees particularly during the Shravan season. "This shrine is situated in dense forest area and there are animals also. But, due to the blessings of Lord Shiva, no untoward incidents have ever been reported so far. That is why people come here in large numbers every year," said Suresh Agarwal, a devotee. The pilgrims approach from several entry points before trekking up the mountainous terrain to reach the cave shrine. "The idols were placed by an Eklavya (forest tribal) ruler...a war broke out that time and the king was unable to attend the annual prayer ceremony as he was busy in the war...the king was upset then Lord Shiva himself appeared in front of him. So, he founded the temple in this cave," said Bhushan Gavande, another pilgrim. Shravan month begins on July 22 and ends on August 20 and it is a common sight during this period to see devotees clad in saffron attires, visiting various shrines amid the chants of 'Bam bam bhole', the traditional hymn dedicated to Shiva. Hindus worship Shravan as one of the holiest months. It is also the first of the four holy months known as the Chatur Mas during which those who have become monks and given up social bondage perform special prayers and rituals.
-Aug 10, 2009