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 in 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 marvellous 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 in the marble walls. Illustrations of the Holy Scriptures are inscribed on the walls and leave everyone in awe of the beauty in 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.
New Vishwanath Temple Timings
The Vishwanath temple is opened at an early time of 2:30 AM every day for Mangala Aarti and is then opened to ticket holders between 3:00 AM and 4:00 AM and the timing for general Darshan is 4:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
The midday Bhog Aarti commences at 11:30 AM and goes on until 12:30 PM. General devotees are free to avail Darshan between 12:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
Darshan is then closed for Sapta Rishi Aarati which starts at 7:00 PM and ends at 8:30 PM post which Darshan is reopened at 9:00 PM.
The Shringar/Bhog Aarati starts at 9:00 PM sharp, after which Darshan is possible only from outside.
Shayana Aarti starts at 10:30 PM and the temple is then closed at the strike of 11:00 PM.
How to Reach New Vishwanath Temple, BHU
Located amidst the spacious campus of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), the 77-meter tower is hard to miss. The BHU is approximately 15 km north of the Varanasi City Railway Station and is a 45-minute commute. Buses run very frequently between different parts of the city to the BHU Bus Stop, which is closest to the university. Several motor rickshaws and taxis also go to the Benaras Hindu University.
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Tips
1. The festival of Mahashivratri is actively celebrated in the temple with gleaming lights and diyas that line up the banks of the river Ganga. However, since this is a very popular time for the devotees to offer their prayers to Lord Shiva, the lines to enter the temple are unusually long and may take one several hours to get in.2. The temple requires you to remove your footwear at the entrance, and the floor can get very cold once you get in. Wearing a pair of socks can make your experience a lot more comfortable.3. There is a cold coffee shop right outside the entrance of the temple that serves cold coffee with a big dollop of vanilla ice cream for just INR 25. It is very famous in the region and is a must try! The bhel puri stall outside the main entrance is also a treat.4. Every eatery in and around the BHU campus closes down latest by 11:00 PM. Be sure to grab a bite before that!
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