​Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple, Daman And Diu

The Gangeshwar Temple is dedicated to the transformer of the Hindu trinity, Lord Shiva. This ancient Hindu Temple which is situated amidst serenity and scenic beauty is at a distance of 3 km away from Diu in the Fudam Village of Gujarat. Believed to have been built by the Pandavas, this temple is famous for its five Shiva Lingas, i.e. rocks in the shape of Lord Shiva which are present in the middle of the sea. Only the tip of these rocks can be seen whenever there is a high tide because the seawater submerges them.

Gangeshwar refers to Lord Shiva who is considered to be the Lord of River Ganga since it descended to earth starting from the tresses of Lord Shiva who is also the presiding deity of the Gangeshwar Mahadev Mandir.

History

Legend has it that while the Pandavas were serving their exile when they were banished from the kingdom of Hastinapur for 12 years, they worshipped Lord Shiva who was present in this temple. This temple is also known as 'Seashore Temple' since it is situated near the seashore. During their exile period, when the Pandavas visited this place in search of a place to worship before having their food, they installed five Shivalingas along the edge of the water and considered it to be the true form of Lord Shiva.
On the rock above the Shiva Linga is a Seshanag which was carved to look out for the Shiva Linga. Lord Ganesha, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Lakshmi can be found at the entrance of the Gangeshwar temple. At the time of high tide rise, the crystal clear water of the tidal waves cleans the whole temple along with the Lingas. It appears as though the waves of the sea are paying respect to the deity residing in this place. It has become one of the major pilgrimage sites for worshipping Lord Shiva due to its serenity and beauty.

Architecture

The shrine has five Shivalingas of different sizes which are believed to have been installed by the Pandava brothers during their exile period. These Shivlingas are constantly washed by the lapping waves of the Arabian Sea and one has to touch the Lord when the waves are returning. The mystical scene of the waves of the ocean offering obeisance to Lord Shiva inspires deep feelings of spiritual reverence and devotion among the visitors. Lord Ganesha, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Lakshmi can be found at the entrance of the Gangeshwar temple. There was no priest and whatever you offer to God is washed away by the sea within seconds.