"या शिव कैलाश में, या शिव नलास में: A journey of devotion and cultural heritage to Nalas Shiv Mandir, Rajpura.....by KBS Sidhu
Today, in the sacred month of Shravan (or Sawan), I embarked on a journey to the famous Nalas Shiv Mandir, an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. As a Sikh by faith, this spiritual pilgrimage evoked intense devotion within me and filled me with pride for Punjab's rich cultural heritage.
Located in the village of Nalas, in the tehsil of Rajpura, district Patiala, Punjab, the temple stands near the national highway (GT Road, formerly NH 1), just a short distance away.
The imposing statue of Lord Shiva, gazing down benevolently upon his devotees as they enter the temple complex, creates an atmosphere of divine presence and reverence.
The intricate beauty of the red sandstone and marble carvings adorning the premises captivated me, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship and setting the tone for the spiritual journey ahead.
The temple's renowned slogan, "या शिव कैलाश में, या शिव नलास में।" meaning "Either Shiva resides in Kailash or Shiva resides in Nalas," further intrigued me, emphasizing the temple's significance and inspiring devotion among its followers.
As I delved into the temple's history, the legend narrated within its walls transported me back over 550 years, to a time before Mughal rule in India. The area, once covered by dense forests, was the abode of an ascetic named Karam Giri, supported by the local "gwalas" who tended to their cows. One day, a concerned "gwala" noticed a decline in the milk production of his prized cow, Nandini.
Determined to find the cause, he followed the cow into the forest and discovered it spontaneously yielding milk near a thorny bush. Clearing the bushes with his axe, he struck a heavy stone, which immediately seemed to trigger intense lightning and thunder in the heavens above.
This thunder that accompanied the clang of metal against stone also broke the meditation of the ascetic, Karam Giri, who proclaimed, "I have had प्रत्यक्ष darshan of Bhagwan Shankar!" The news of this extraordinary event spread throughout the village, and eventually the entire local area, leading to the discovery of a massive "shivling" beneath the bush. The entire village sought forgiveness from Lord Shiva, being filled with both remorse and devotion.
Simultaneously, the local Raja received a telepathic message (आकाशवाणी) instructing him to construct an impressive temple in the vicinity.
Accompanied by his entourage, the Raja embarked on an elephant and was astonished when the majestic animal halted precisely at the spot where the "shivling" was discovered, refusing to move further. This divine signal confirmed the exact location for the shrine's construction.
With the patronage of the royal family and contributions from the people of Nalas and surrounding areas, an awe-inspiring temple dedicated to Lord Shiva was soon erected.
The consecrated "shivling," still bearing the distinct mark made by the axe that struck and uncovered it, remains steadfast in its original spot. The temple compound now showcases a towering statue of Lord Shiva, standing over a hundred feet tall, complementing the beautifully carved stone architecture that adds to its grandeur.
Under the guidance of Mahant Lal Giri ji, the chief priest, and supported by a dedicated staff, the temple's day-to-day rituals and sacred ceremonies are performed with utmost reverence and devotion. While I visited the temple in the forenoon and could not attend the evening "aarti," it is said to be resplendent and radiant, creating an atmosphere of serenity and divinity.
Among the many festivals celebrated at Nalas Shiv Mandir, Maha Shivaratri stands out for its unparalleled fervor, attracting pilgrims and devotees from all corners of the country.
Additionally, Mondays, dedicated to Lord Shiva, draw a steady stream of visitors seeking solace and blessings. The temple complex offers ample parking and shops with items for ritualistic worship, while a spacious langar hall provides an opportunity for communal meals. The temple compound is meticulously maintained, and the cleanliness is truly commendable.
Having heard of the Nalas Shiv Mandir during my tenure as the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Patiala in 1988-89, I felt incredibly fortunate to finally have the opportunity for a complete darshan today. Immersing myself in the sacred atmosphere, I experienced an overwhelming sense of divine energy and devotion. Truly: "या शिव कैलाश में, या शिव नलास में।"
Reflecting on the peaceful coexistence of all faiths in Punjab, Nalas Shiv Mandir stands as a symbol of unity and respect for diverse beliefs. Regardless of one's religious affiliation, I highly recommend visiting² this sacred temple, which not only evokes devotion but also celebrates Punjab's rich cultural heritage.
Om Namo Shiva!
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KBS Sidhu , Former Special Chief Secretary, Punjab
kbssidhu@substack.com
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