New Vishwanath Temple

The New Vishwanath Temple is every pious man's go-to destination to feel overwhelmed by the presence and power of the great Lord Shiva. Not only is it located in the heart of the cultural capital of India - Varanasi, but its divinity is multiplied by the holy river Ganga that flows by its side. Banaras Hindu University is hence home to one of the biggest tourist attractions in the city of Varanasi, the grand New Vishwanath Temple. Visiting this temple gives the worshipper the space to put himself in the hands of God, at his disposition, and listen to the voice in his heart.

The peace and calm of the temple help you forget the distractions of daily life. The positive aura in the air compels one to surrender himself to the gentle caress of the Almighty. The very famous Jyotirlinga of Shiva, Vishweshwara, is believed to have immense and unending power. A single glance of this Jyotirlinga can cleanse our soul and set us on the true path of knowledge and devotion.

Although primarily a Lord Shiva temple, this beautiful temple consists of nine other temples within one and invites people of every faith to bask in its grandeur; using symbolism to express the ideas and beliefs of Hinduism. The New Vishwanath Temple incorporates every element of the Hindu cosmos- the good, the evil, and the human; thus implying the major role that Dharma, Kama, Artha, Moksha, and Karma play in our life.

History of New Vishwanath Temple

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Mandir was repeatedly destroyed (and subsequently reconstructed) by several, then reigning Mughal emperors. Hence, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya decided to replicate this Mandir on the campus of Banaras Hindu University. The Birla family graciously undertook the mammoth task of replicating the enormous temple and laid down the foundation in 1931. It took 35 long but fruitful years to finally declare its completion in 1966.

Architecture of New Vishwanath Temple

The path leading to the New Vishwanath temple is lined with dense trees creating a picturesque view. The walk to the temple offers uninterrupted views of the marvelous ancient architecture. Each part of the magnificent temple is designed intricately including the balconies, pavilions, and spires. Several sculptures of various animals like the bull, crocodile, lion and are dotted in the area of the temple.
The spectacular and beautifully decorated hall greets the devotees as the tall and mighty pillars invite them in. This breathtaking temple is made mostly of lambent marble and stands 77 meters high. Its tower, Shikhara, is the tallest in the whole world and is truly a sight to sore eyes. The entire Holy Bhagavad Gita, as well as other scriptures, are carefully engraved on the marble walls. Illustrations of the Holy Scriptures are inscribed on the walls and leave everyone in awe of the beauty of ancient art.
The idol of Lord Shiva rests on the upper floor and glistens in a marble room. Since the temple is situated amongst lush green gardens and perfectly manicured lawns, the verandah on the upper floor offers a beautiful view of these open spaces.