Unraveling the Mystery of Rishiyan Ashram: Village of Mysterious Temples
Introduction:
Join us on a captivating journey to uncover the secrets of the ancient Shiva temples in Rishiyan and Ramnagar, delving into the spiritual, historical, and protective aspects that shroud these enigmatic structures and on a soul-enriching journey to Rishiyan Ashram in Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh, where healing water and ancient idols beckon visitors from far and wide.
About Rishiyan Ashram
While going from Prayagraj to Chitrakoot, it is 65 kilometers away from prayagraj. Rishiyan Ashram is located in Mau Tehsil, Chitrakoot district. It is considered to be the place of worship of eighty-four thousand gods. There is a village named Barha Kotra, named after Banasur’s mother, Barha. The ruins of the famous Shiva temple are scattered here. Archaeologists consider the ruins of the dam built near the fort of Banasur to be contemporary with the Indus Valley civilization. Along with man-made rock paintings of ancient times, the ruins of Buddhist sculptures are also worth seeing on the hill of the ashram.
There are two natural caves in this mythological place even today, in one cave, five unique Shivlingas are present. In this cave, a continuous stream of water flows, touching the Shivalinga. While the second cave has been closed,. It is said that apart from the underworld king Vanasura, many sages had performed penance in Rishiyan. That is why Lord Ram, while going to Chitrakoot for exile, stayed here and took the blessings of the sages. Even today, there are remains of seven temples in Rishiyan, reiterating their old glory.
There are Shiv Mandir, Ganesh Temples, Durga Temples, Sun Temples, etc. here. A chariot of seven horses is also built in the Sun Temple. There are statues of Yakshini outside the cave. It is famous that Yaksha Yakshini also used to come in Rishiyan. Similarly, there are strange shapes carved on the Peepal tree which the villagers consider to be the shapes of Gods and Goddesses.
For more details about Rishiyan, you can watch by clicking on the given link:
https://youtu.be/8uu0Ocr0joQ?si=7ApWcjvayPjqf9rR
The Mysterious Disappearance of Shivalingas
We explore the intriguing phenomenon of missing Shivalingas in the ancient Shiva temples, investigating the spiritual and protective reasons behind their disappearance. The intricate paintings on Chandela period temples hold clues to this mysterious occurrence.
Journey Across Prayagraj and Chitrakoot
Embark with us as we traverse through the sacred lands of Prayagraj and Chitrakoot, piecing together the puzzle of the missing original Shivalinga at Rishiyan and Ramnagar. Discover the ancient stone temple at Ramnagar, resembling the Shiva temples of Barah Kotra.
The Enigmatic Caves of Rishiyan Ashram
While exploring the Rishiyan Ashram, we have been encountered with the enigmatic caves of Rishiyan Ashram, exploring the mystery of multiple Shivalingas and unearthing the historical background that lends a deeper understanding to the spiritual significance of this sacred site.
Mythology and Historical Significance of Rishiyan
Delve into the mythical connections and historical significance of Rishiyan, previously known as Raksha Van, with ties to the Ramcharit Manas, where Shri Ram traveled to Chitrakoot. Uncover its association with the demon Banasur and the Chandelas, who constructed Shivlingas using black stones.The hallowed grounds of Rishiyan Ashram have witnessed the historic crossing of Lord Shyam over the Yamuna, marking his first stop at the borders of Chitrakoot. The ashram shelters precious Swayambhu Shiva and Ma Ganga Sanyam waterfalls, serving as sites for sacred rituals and healing steeped in mythological legends.
Location on the map:https://maps.app.goo.gl/rtJWV6GB1SnLwCp46
Unveiling the Healing Waters and Ancient Idols
Rishiyan Ashram, nestled in the picturesque Mau Tehsil and District Chitrakoot, is renowned for its pure healing water with supposed medicinal properties and ancient idols that captivate the spiritually seeking souls. People from distant places flock to drink from these revered waters, believed to possess the power to cure various ailments.
Multifaceted Role of Shiva Temples in Chandela Kingdom
Uncover the multifaceted role played by the Shiva temples in the Chandela kingdom, serving as training grounds for young boys in warfare and as a base for the village’s small army to protect themselves and the temple. Explore how these temples showcased the authority of the Chandelas and collected taxes in the form of voluntary donations.
Ancient Temples as Community Centers
Discover how the ancient temples served as multi-functional community centers, providing free lodging and food to the king’s soldiers and offering low-cost services to outsiders. They also functioned as meeting places, post offices, water supply centers, and treatment shelters for diseases, reflecting their integral role in the community.
Justice and Faith at Shiva Temples
Unveil the power of the Shiva temples to dispense justice and punishment, with priests serving as judges. Explore the unique punishment provisions and the role of faith and occupation in the dispensation of justice within the temple premises.
Protectors of Shiva Temples
Delve into the training and sacrifices of the temple protectors, skilled warriors known as Shiv Sainiks, recruited in the king’s army. Discover the special training they received and their unwavering commitment to sacrificing their lives to protect the temples.
Preserving the Sanctity of Rishiyan Ashram
Rishiyan Ashram, a sanctified abode dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a revered pilgrimage site where visitors are implored to uphold cleanliness and sanctity rather than treating it as a mere picnic spot. The spiritual aura of the ashram beckons for reverence and respect.
Appealing for Administrative Support
Despite its spiritual allure, Rishiyan Ashram grapples with challenges related to cleanliness, coordination of religious ceremonies, and the aftermath of hosting large gatherings. The positive impact stemming from Baba Ji’s Hey Sarkar underscores the urgent need for administrative assistance in enhancing the facilities and infrastructure at the ashram.
Facilitating Devotees at Rishiyan Ashram
A continuous cycle of sacred Rudrabhishek rituals reverberates throughout the month of Shravan, commencing in the early hours and lasting till dusk. Additionally, the ashram extends its support to visitors by providing shelter during inclement weather and ensuring security through collaboration with the nearby Mau police station.
Enriching Spiritual Experience at Rishiyan Ashram
The revered waters of the ashram are not only imbued with supposed medicinal properties but are also complemented by the presence of a miraculous stone, offering a sacred venue for darshan and introspection, enriching the spiritual experience of the visitors.
Evolution of Thoughts and Principles
Uncover the transformation of thoughts and principles in society, from the integration of enjoyment and yoga as separate concepts to a unified concept by Osho. Explore the impact of changing circumstances on individual thoughts and principles, providing insight into the evolution of societal beliefs.
Conclusion:
The journey through the mysterious villages of Rishiyan Ashram and Ramnagar has offered profound insights into the spiritual, protective, and historical dimensions of the ancient Shiva temples. Unraveling the mysteries that enshroud these sites has provided a deeper understanding of their significance and the evolution of societal beliefs.Embrace the tranquility and spiritual resonance of Rishiyan Ashram in Chitrakoot, UP, as you revel in the aura of ancient idols and healing waters. Plan a visit to this sanctified haven to rejuvenate your body, mind, and soul.
If you like this blog post about the mysterious Rishiyan Ashram, you may also like the given post about Kundaura Mahadev Mandir, whose link is: https://prayagpedia.com/kundaura-mahadev-mandir/