Baba Dham

Abode of Gods-Deoghar

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Deoghar is an ancient town situated in the Santhal Parganas of Jharkhand. Deogharis also the headquarters city of Deoghar district in the state of Jharkhand. Deoghar or ‘Abode of Gods’ is also known as Vaidyanath Dham. Deoghar is a Hindi word and the literal meaning of 'Deoghar' is abode ('ghar') of the Gods and Goddesses('dev'). The famous Muslim invader Bhaktiyar Khilji made Deoghar his capital in 1201 after the take-over of Bihar.

Deoghar is a famous health resort and a major Hindu pilgrimage center. Baidyanath Temple in Deoghar holds one of the twelve 'Shiva Jyothirlingams' and is also one of the 51 saktipeeths in India. The ‘Purans’ refer to this temple as fit place for funeral obsequies. It is also famous for the mela of Shrawan (5th month according to the Hindu calendar system). It is the only place in India where the jyotirlinga and the saktipeeth are together. They lay side by side. Each year between July and August(On the eve of shravan month) about 7 to 8 million devotees come from various part of India to offer holy water from the Ganges at Sultangunj—almost 108 km from Deoghar—to present it to Shiva. Baidyanath Dham is one of the most secret destinations in Indian tourism. Many parts are untouched till recently. There are ruins of many Buddhist monasteries around.

Deoghar has a picturesque location. Deoghar is located at 24°29′N 86°42′E / 24.48°N 86.7°E. The nearest railway station is Baidyanathdham. Jasidih junction is about 7 km from Baidyanathdham railway station, which is on the main line of Howrah-Delhi route of Indian railway. It is about 229 km from Patna (capital of Bihar) and 322 km from Ranchi (capital of Jharkhand) and about 315 km from Kolkata (capital of West Bengal). Deoghar has an average elevation of 254 metres (833 feet). The climate of Deoghar is dry and congenial and Deoghar is still considered a health resort in spite of the great congestion particularly due to the temple of Vaidyanath (also spelled Baidyanath), as well as having the criminal and civil courts and a large number of Government establishments.

Deoghar had a population of 98,372. Males constitute 55% of the population and females 45%. Deoghar has an average literacy rate of 76%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 82% and, female literacy is 69%. In Deoghar, 12% of the population is under 6 years of age. The most important seasonal fairs held at Deoghar are on the occasion of Shivratri, Shravana Sombari and Shri Panchami. Among other important fairs and meals are-Gopastmi mela, Dussehra mela, Makar Sankranti mela, Newan mela and Durga Puja.

Deoghar district is spread over an area of 2479 sq km (2,45,156 Hectare). The landscape of Deoghar is high, low, hilly and damp. 28% of the land is very fertile and cultivable. Cultivation in and around Deoghar is primarily rain-fed. The crop harvest is generally quite good.

The Former Foreign Secretary of India, Mr. Muchkund Dubey and Veteran TV Journalist Kishore Kumar Malviya and print journalist Nilkamal Sundram come from Deoghar.

Places of interest in/around Deoghar include The Chandrakoopa Well, Nandan Pahar, Basukinath, Mandar Hills (69 km from Deoghar, believed to have been used by the Gods to churn Oceans), Satsanga Ashram, Naulakha Mandir (The beautiful temple on the outskirts of Deogarh), Tapovan (10km from Deoghar), Rikhia Ashram, Shivganga, Harila Jori, Trikuth Parvat (16 km from Deogarh on Dumka Road), Koiridih, Deoghar Archaeological Museum etc.

Histrory of Deoghar

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The district of Deoghar, a part of Jharkhand state, was created on 01.06.1983. Before this, Deoghar was a sub-division of Santhal Pargana district. The district head quarter is located in Deoghar town. Early History

Santhal Pargana District was created in 1885 after partition of Bhagalpur and Birbhum. An important reason behind the creation of Santhal Pargana was Santhal Mutiny in 1854-55.

According to Allahabad Treaty signed with Sah Alam II in A.D. 1765, the Area of Santhal Pargana, Hazaribag District, Munger District and Bhagalpur District were known as Tarai Jungle. After excavation in this area, stone weapons and the statue of Soldier with helmet made of celt were found. This clearly indicates human beings had started living here since stone age. This Celt has been found in Malay Peninsula and Chhotanagpur Area.

Man and Munda were among the primitives of this area. These people might have come from Burma via Assam and had started living in Santhal Pargana. A little information about this area has been obtained from the seventh Century A.D. Chinese Traveller Huen Tsang, who had a mention about this district. Huen Tsang visited India in A.D. 645. He has mentioned about Tailiyagarhi Fort in his Travellogue. He has written that Lofty Brick and Stone Tower were built beside Ganges.

Cuningham, in his Ancient Indian Geography (1871) has stated that this might have been the House of Buddhists and this was beside the river Ganges. This is not at all surprising that the area of Santhal Pargana has remained a very important place from Religious point of view. Bhavishyat Puran which was written in 15th to 16th Century AD, has a mention of the Temple of Lord Baidyanath in Deoghar. Medieval Period

The History of the Santhal Pargana is found from 13th Century A.D. From that time Tailiyagarhi had become an entrance door for muslim soldiers. They used to travel to & fro from Bengal to Taliyagarhi.

During the rule of Slave Dynasty in Delhi, Ityarudeen Bin Bukhtiar Khiljee had visited Assam and Bengal enroute Tailiyagarhi, Son of Laxman, the King of Cooch Bihar fled from Cooch Bihar and came to Deoghar in the year 1201 A.D. and established his capital here. British Period

After the defeat of Nawab Sirajudaula of Bengal in Battle of Palssy in the year 1757, the British rule came into existence.

After this battle, the British reigned over Bengal. Deoghar (Santhal Pargana) was under Bengal at that time. Thus the rule of British started in this area.

Tribal people of this area were freedom minded. They were not tolerant to any aggressor of their Motherland. The British were against any restrictions upon these tribal people. But these tribals were too much against British.

In 1819, the British wanted to announce Santhal Pargana as its Territory. This hilly area belonged to these tribal. They wanted to take welfare measures for these tribal people so that the Tribals would not go against them. For this, the British demarcated the area and gave it a Persian name Daminico (Area between Bhagalpur and Rajmahal) .The meaning of Daminico is Hilly Skirt. Mr. Potent was made Deputy Collector of this area is the year A.D. 1837. Santhal Mutiny

The root cause of the Santhal Mutiny was to get rid of deteriorating economical condition. The first fire was ignited in Littipara.

Kinaram Bhagat was a prime Businessman of Amarpada and he was a bad moneylender. When Vijay Manjhi was arrested and sent to Bhagalpur jail, the dispute increased since he died in Jail without a hearing of his case. His son Singram led the protest and he was hanged in Barhait Bazaar after a simple hearing. The Santhals were very sad and angry over this incident and the rebellion started, whose main victims were money lenders and landlords.

The British took this mutiny as a challenge. To crush the Santhals, the British engaged its soldiers. But the Santhals courageously defended against them.

The first battle against the British was held at Payalpur in Bhagalpur on 16th July 1855. The Santhals bravely faced the guns of the British. But instead of suppression, the rebellion spread to other areas like Deoghar, Dumka, Godda, Sahibganj, Hazaribag, Birbhum and Bankura Districts of Bengal. The British tried to arrest the Santhals to save the Dikus (meaning outsiders), because the Santhals considered the Dikus as their enemies. The British deployed large numbers of soldiers in these areas. Lots of cruelties were meted upon the Santhals. Marshal Law was declared in 1855. The British were able to suppress this mutiny.

The Santhals showed exemplary courage in fighting against the British, despite being beaten and harassed . The British knew it well that if they want to rule in the area they have to agree to the main demands of the Santhals and accord them the dignity due to them. Therefore, in the year 1855 A.D., according to act 37, the District of Santhal Pargana was created after the name of the tribals. Efforts were made to fulfill their demands. They were given their motherland so that they feel secured. First war of Independence 1857

The effects of the first war of Independence fell in Santhal Pargana. There was a rebellion in the 5th Irregular Cavallary of Army in Rohini. Adjutant Sir Sermon Lesslie of the Regiment was murdered in June 1857. In this mutiny Commandant Major McDonald and Dr. Grant were injured.

On 16th July at Joradih Rohini, Amanat Ali, Salamat Ali and Seikh Haroon were hanged from a tree for taking part in the Mutiny. It spread to the 5th Battalion of Bhagalpur. They came to Rohini and joined the Mutiny.

They marched to Bounsi where 32 Motive infantry was existing. But from some source their movement was disclosed to the British Officers. This was a big jolt to the efforts of the mutineers. Thereafter there was no further escalation of the trouble in Santhal Pargana. The Freedom Struggle

Deoghar District did not remain untouched in anyway from the wave of patriotism. It contributed significantly to the freedom struggle. The Indian National Congress announced protest against Simon Commission and called for its boycott. Its effect was felt all over India. Even the Jungles and Hills of Deoghar did not remain untouched. People of Deoghar participated in the Salt Satyagraha and the Civil Disobedience Movement. There was a boycott of foreign liquor and cloths.

The Quit India movement of 1942 brought color to the struggle in Deoghar. On 11th August 1942, a procession was taken out and a strike was observed in Deoghar.

Shiva-Kanwar Bhajan

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Kanwar Bhajan

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Album-Naacha kanwaria

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Bol Bum Bol Bum Bol -Baba Ke Dham

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Baba Dham Ganesh Ke Mammi

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BABA DHAM SONG

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Chalu Re Chalu Baba Dham

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Jaa Tu Baba Dham Balamua

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SultanGanj

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Ashrams

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An Ashram can be defined as a 'religious hermitage' which directs you to choose a path where you can empower and explore your heart and soul from the deep inside. Thus, Ashrams in India play an important part in spiritual rejuvenation and self transformation with the means of various practices such as yoga, meditation and music etc. in the lap of Mother Nature. Here you will get an insight to some of the famous ashrams of India working for the spiritual and moral upliftment of the people.

Ananda Ashram- Nestled amidst the panoramic landscapes and lush green atmosphere, Anand Ashram is an ideal place in the Sals of Rishikesh. Overlooking river Ganga, the ashram serves as a great center for yoga, meditation and ayurveda. Founded by Swami Kriyananda, the main objective of the ashram is "universal love and service based upon a vision of divinity in all beings and creatures of the world". The Ananda Ashram basically emphasizes on imparting good health and self-realization.
Amritapuri Ashram - Situated in the serene atmosphere across the backwaters of Kerala, it is a mystical place where people from all the corners of the world come to seek blessings of the divine soul-Mata Amritanandamayi Devi or Amma. Her spiritual appeal and selfless service inspires and draws millions of devotees to some in the ashram to obtain peace of body and mind.
Sri Aurbindo Ashram- Established in 1955 by the Mother Mirra and Sri Aurbindo, the ashram works upon the ideology of developing healthy body and mind by the power of yoga and meditation. The ashram is situated in Pondicherry.
Ramakrishna Ashram- It was founded by Swami Vivekanand in 1897 to preach the philosophy of Sri Ramakrishna of seeking God in man by offering selfless service to the needy.

Besides the above mentioned, there are also some other beautiful ashrams in India which are equally praiseworthy in their services and practices to serve humanity and to help mankind. Some of them are Gandhrav Ashram in Ahmadabad, Sai Baba Ashram in Andhra Pradesh, Radhaswami Ashram in Punjab, Iskon in Vrindavan, Osho Dham in Pune and many more.

Famous religious and pilgrimage place in India

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Panchavati is a famous religious and pilgrimage place in India. The name is derived from the Sanskrit pañca five vata Banyan Tree, is situated on the banks of River Godavari in Nasik, Maharashtra, India.
Panchavati is one of the coolest and cleanest area of Nasik. It has got many temples like Kalaram Madir, Goraram Mandir, Sita Gupha. There are many temples in Tapovan which is very close to Panchavati and can be considered to be in Panchavati.

Trikut Pahar is famous for a temple of Shiva at this place known as Trikutachal Mahadeva Temple. It is the mouth of river Mayurakshi. Trikut is one of the few religious places in India that still retains it's peacefulness, simplicity, serenity, natural beauty.

Puri is also known to many as Jagannath Puri after the Jagannath Temple, which was built in the late eleventh century. Puri is one of the oldest cities in the eastern part of the country. It is situated on the coast of the Bay of Bengal and is a popular beach resort, positioned in a unique place so that both sunset and sunrise can be viewed from the beach.

Amarnath Yatra is Indian pilgrims pay homage to Bhole Nath shiv shankar ice lingam at amarnath cave. Amarnath yatra is held every year to pay homage to Lord Shiva and Maa Parvati.

Tirupathi The temple town of Tirupathi is located to the extreme south of Andhra Pradesh in Chittoor district, 740 kms away from Hyderabad. Tirumala has seven hills, representing the seven heads of a huge serpent called Sesha Saye on which Lord Vishnu rests resides.

Tirupathi Balaji is believed to be the richest temple in the country with picturesque surroundings.

Famous religious destinations

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Char Dham Yatra: It is one of the most important pilgrimages of the Hindus. Located in the breathtaking regions of Uttarakhand, the Char Dham consists of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. Centuries old, these pilgrimage sites have sheer mythological significance. They also offer sheer natural beauty.

Amarnath: It is located in the most beautiful state of India, Kashmir. The shrine cave houses an ice Shiv Linga which changes its size with the change in seasons. On the full moon day (July/August) the linga becomes 6 feet in height (its maximum height) and on this day a festival in honor of Lord Shiva is celebrated. It is believed that Lord Shiva first appeared on this day.

Tirupati: It is the most famous Hindu temple in the world. Located in Andhra Pradesh, this temple is the riches temple in the world. Here Lord Vishnu is worshipped in the form of Lord Venkateswara.

Vrindavan: It is the place where Lord Krishna spent his childhood. It is a major center for the devotees of Lord Krishna.

Haridwar: This destination with numerous ghats is the gateway to the four pilgrimages in Uttrakhand. It is the place where the holy river Ganga leaves the mountains and enters the plains. The evening aarti in Haridwar is very famous among the devotees. It is believed in Hinduism that a dip in the holy waters of Ganga River washes away one's sins and purifies the soul.

Bodhgaya: This place is synonymous to Lord Buddha and is visited by many a people in search of enlightenment. It is the sacred place where the Lord attained enlightenment. It is located in the Gaya district of Bihar. One can see wonderful Buddhist temples, monuments and monasteries here.

Shirdi: It is the sacred village in Maharashtra where once lived the saint Sai Baba. It is a known spiritual center attracting devotees from all religious backgrounds.

Baidhnathdham (Deoghar)

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Baidyanathdham is a very famous Hindu pilgrimage. It is also called DEOGHAR or the house of Gods and Godesses. Situated on the eastern side of Bihar (now Jharkhand), this township is very close to the Bengal border. Visitors from all over visit this important temple where the Kamana Linga of Lord Shiva is placed. In the month of `shrawan' devotees come in lacs, particularly on 'Mondays'. Many of these devotees come walking after traversing a distance of some 100 kms on foot to pour the holy Ganga water on Kamana Linga brought from Sultanganj. Baidyanathdham can be reached by train or road. Jaisidih station, on the Howrah-Patna rail line of Eastern Railway is just 7 kms away. Regular bus services from Ranchi and Patna are available. From Bhagalpur this pilgrimage site is about 80 kms. The Ravneshwar Shiva Temple of Deoghar is known as a Siddha Peeth. Amongst the twelvth Shiva Lingams in the country, the one at Deoghar is also known as Kamna Lingam. It is believed that if a devotee prays from the core of his heart in front of this Lingam, his prayer is easily granted.

Destination Dev Ghar

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Dev Ghar or Baba Dham or Baidyanath Dham is a holy city located in the Indian state of Jharkhand.Millions of people visit this city to offer their prayer to the almighty Lord Shiva.Most of them reach the city by foot after traversing the hilly terrain which takes them three days.They have to travel bare foot but non of these devotees complain a bit and repeat their journey year after year.They submit themselves to the Lord Shiva and as they believe they reach the destination without much difficulty.

Geographical location of Dwadash Jyotirlingam

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Lord Somnath is in the country Saurashtra, Mallikarjuna is on the Shree Shailam,

Mahakala is in Ujjayani, Parameshwar belongs to Onkar,

Kedar in the mountain of Himalaya, Bhimashankar is in the country of Dakini,

Viswesh belongs to Varanasi

, the Lord Trayam bakam resides on the shore of Gautami river,

Baidyanath lies on the land of ashes and the Lord of snake lives in the wooden forest.

Lord Rama stays near the sea where it was bridged by him and Lord of Ghushma resides in the abode of Shiva.

If one recites the twelve names in the early morning,

he will get rid of all sins and will get all fruits of his efforts.

Google Sidewiki entry by Ashok Kumar

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Lord Somnath is in the country Saurashtra, Mallikarjuna is on the Shree Shailam,

Mahakala is in Ujjayani, Parameshwar belongs to Onkar,

Kedar in the mountain of Himalaya, Bhimashankar is in the country of Dakini,

Viswesh belongs to Varanasi, the Lord Trayam bakam resides on the shore of Gautami river,

Baidyanath lies on the land of ashes and the Lord of snake lives in the wooden forest.

Lord Rama stays near the sea where it was bridged by him and Lord of Ghushma resides in the abode of Shiva.

If one recites the twelve names in the early morning,

he will get rid of all sins and will get all fruits of his efforts.

in reference to: Baba Baidyanath Dham (view on Google Sidewiki)

Dwadash Jyothirlingas

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Bhima Shankar Bhimashankar, Maharashtra
Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh
Grishneshwar, Ellora Caves
Nageshwar, Dwarka, Gujrat
Kedarnath, Uttranchal
Omkareshwar Indore, Madhya Pradesh
Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu
Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh
Vaidhyanath Dham, Deoghar, Jharkhand
Somnath, Gujrat
Triambakeshwar, Maharashtra
Varanashi, UP

Religious tours of Deoghar

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Religious tours of Deoghar offer a nice opportunity to explore the pilgrimages and sacred temples in and around Deoghar. Deoghar is known as the hometown of gods and goddesses. Numerous shrines and temples are located in the beautiful town. Deoghar is one of the best tourist places in Jharkhand. Dense forests and timber hills surround the tiny town. The antique temple of Baba Baidyanath is a major attraction during the religious tours of Deoghar. Tourists and pilgrims frequently visit Deoghar. Various rituals and festivals are celebrated here with great devotion and enthusiasm.

Deoghar is famous for the Baba Baidyanath temple, which is considered as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. The temple has great holy significance and one can read about the temple in the Hindu legends.

History of the temple takes you back in the 16th century. As mentioned in the historical records, a huntsman named Baiju found the lost lingam of Shiva at Deoghar. Since then, the place is known as Baidyanath, and the temple had been constructed around in 1596. Baidyanath temple is renowned for satisfying the wishes of the pilgrims. Shivaganga Lake is a sacred lake, located near the main temple of Baidyanath. A dip in the waters of the lake is sanctifying as the water is believed to have some pious properties. There is a well named Chandrakoopa close to the main entrance of the temple. Water of the well is considered holy and it is said that Ravana has poured water of some sacred rivers in the well.

Deoghar is home to the group of 22 temples devoted to various incarnations of lord Shiva. Religious tours of Deoghar also include a trip to other temples and shrines, which are located in the town. Naulakha temple is another attractive temple in the town, which is sited on the borders of Deoghar. The temple is renowned for its structural marvels and splendours. It is believed that one of the pupils of Balanand Brahmachari constructed the holy temple. Tapoban is another sacred place near the Naulakha temple, where Balanand Brahmachari used to meditate. There is a hill near Tapoban, which houses some hilltop caves and temples.

Nandan Pahar is one of the major pilgrimages during your religious tours of Deoghar. The glory of the place lies in the profusion of temples, which are devoted to various goddesses and gods.

Pilgrims visit the hill to worship gods. Some of the temples are famous for fulfilling the desires of the pilgrims.

Basukinath temple is another of the famous place which should be visited during the religious tours of Deoghar. Main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva. Basukinath temple is around 43 km from Deoghar. Scenery of the temple attracts tourists and pilgrims from all over India. Satsang Ashram is also one of the holy places near Deoghar. Thousands of followers of Sri Anukul Chandra Thakur gather here in the month of Kartik to celebrate a festival. Thus, religious tours of Deoghar are infused with holiness.

Deoghar : the home of Gods.

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Deoghar is one of the major tourist destinations in Jharkhand. Previously, Deoghar was situated in north-western Bihar, but now it is one of the important tourist destinations of Jharkhand state. There are numerous Hindu temples and holy places in Deoghar. The Shiva-Baidyanath temple is a major tourist attraction at Deoghar. A group of around 22 temples devoted to Lord Shiva is located in the town. Besides, various Buddhist remains are also sited close to Deoghar. Most Deoghar tours give you a chance to explore the fascinating monuments and sights of the area.

Deoghar is known as the home of Gods. Lord Baidyanath temple is the prime tourist attraction of Deoghar. There are several references of the city in Hindu legends. The Shiva-Baidyanath temple is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas in India. According to history, Baiju, a seer, constructed the temple in 1596.

He revealed a lost lingam of Shiva. Since then the place is famous as Baidyanath. Devotes also call it the Kamna Lingam. The lingam is said to fulfill the devotees' desires. The main shrine of Baidyanath is surrounded by other shrines dedicated to other gods. The shrine of Parvati is joined to the main temple of Shiva. In the months of July and August, pilgrims gather in the city to celebrate the Shravan festival. During the rainy season, the land surrounding Deoghar is covered by greenery due to the monsoon spray. Before going to the Baidyanath temple, many of the pilgrims fill their jars with the sacred water of the river Ganga at Sultanganj. Generally, Monday is considered as the most favourable day to worship Shiva. On Mondays, pilgrims worship the lord wearing saffron clothes.

Trikut is an important place, which is covered in almost all Deoghar tours. Trikut is a picturesque hill spotted with numerous waterfalls, streams and caves. People take a stop at Trikut, on their return journey of Baidyanath. The place is adorned with several shrines and beautiful flowers.

Deoghar tours offer a nice opportunity to the tourists to visit various temples and pilgrimages. Naulakha temple is one of the sacred shrines located on the border of Deoghar town. The temple is renowned for its architectural marvels. Travellers should visit the Naulakha temple to explore the glory of the site, and observe some historical monuments nearby the place.

Nandan Pahar is another charming hill located near Deoghar. The hill is a home to the temples devoted to numerous gods and goddesses. Nandan Pahar is a nice place to savour a short picnic. There is a water tank at the top of the hill, which is a popular picnic destination among the natives.

Period between September to February is considered as the ideal time to organize Deoghar tours. Deoghar is easily accessible by both roadways and railways. Baidyanath Dham railhead is located in the Deoghar town, which is connected to the Jasidih junction. Buses from Ranchi, Bhagalpur, Tatanagar and Hazaribagh go to Deoghar. Besides, taxis and cycle rickshaws are also available, which facilitate local transportation.

The Holy Mother -Sri Sarada Devi

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Endearingly known as ‘Holy Mother’, Sri Sarada Devi, the spiritual consort of Sri Ramakrishna, was born on 22 December 1853 in a poor Brahmin family in Jayrambati, a village adjoining Kamarpukur in West Bengal. Her father, Ramachandra Mukhopadhyay, was a pious and kind-hearted person, and her mother, Shyama Sundari Devi, was a loving and hard-working woman.

Marriage

As a child Sarada was devoted to God, and spent most of her time helping her mother in various household chores like caring for younger children, looking after cattle and carrying food to her father and others engaged in work in the field. She had no formal schooling, but managed to learn the Bengali alphabet. When she was about six years old, she was married to Sri Ramakrishna, according to the custom prevalent in India in those days. However, after the event, she continued to live with her parents, while Sri Ramakrishna lived a God-intoxicated life at Dakshineshwar.

Visit to Dakshineshwar

At the age of eighteen she walked all the way to Dakshineshwar to meet her husband. Sri Ramakrishna, who had immersed himself in the intense practice of several spiritual disciplines for more than twelve years, had reached the highest state of realization in which he saw God in all beings. He received Sarada Devi with great affection, and allowed her to stay with him. He taught her how to lead a spiritual life while discharging her household uties. They led absolutely pure lives, and Sarada Devi served Sri Ramakrishna as his devoted wife and disciple, while remaining a virgin nun and following the spiritual path.

Life at Dakshineshwar

Sri Ramakrishna looked upon Sarada Devi as a special manifestation of Divine Mother of the universe. In 1872, on the night of the Phala-harini-Kali-puja, he ritualistically worshipped Sarada Devi as the Divine Mother, thereby awakening universal Motherhood latent in her. When disciples began to gather around Sri Ramakrishna, Sarada Devi learned to look upon them as her own children. The room in which she stayed at Dakshineshwar was too small to live in and had hardly any amenities; and on many days she did not get the opportunity of meeting Sri Ramakrishna. But she bore all difficulties silently and lived in contentment and peace, serving the increasing number of devotees who came to see Sri Ramakrishna.

Leading the Sangha after the Master’s Passing

After Sri Ramakrishna’s passing away in 1886, Sarada Devi spent some months in pilgrimage, and then went to Kamarpukur where she lived in great privation. Coming to know of this, the disciples of Sri Ramakrishna brought her to Kolkata. This marked a turning point in her life. She now began to accept spiritual seekers as her disciples, and became the open portal to immortality for hundreds of people. Her great universal mother-heart, endowed with boundless love and compassion, embraced all people without any distinction, including many who had lived sinful lives.

When the Western women disciples of Swami Vivekananda came to Kolkata, the Holy Mother accepted them with open arms as her daughters, ignoring the restrictions of the orthodox society of those days. Although she had grown up in a conservative rural society without any access to modern education, she held progressive views, and whole-heartedly supported Swami Vivekananda in his plans for rejuvenation of India and the uplift of the masses and women. She was closely associated with the school for girls started by Sister Nivedita.

She spent her life partly in Kolkata and partly in her native village Jayrambati. During the early years of her stay in Kolkata, her needs were looked after by Swami Yogananda, a disciple of Sri Ramakrishna. In later years her needs were looked after by another disciple of Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Saradananda, who built a new house for her in Kolkata.

Simplicity and Forbearance

Although she was highly venerated for her spiritual status, and literally worshipped as the Divine Mother, she continued to live like a simple village mother, washing clothes, sweeping the floor, bringing water from the pond, dressing vegetables, cooking and serving food. At Jayrambati she lived with her brothers and their families. They gave her endless troubles but, established as she was in the awareness of God and in Divine Motherhood, she always remained calm and self-possessed, showering love and blessings on all who came into contact with her. As Sister Nivedita stated, “Her life was one long stillness of prayer.”

Mother of All

In the history of humanity there has never been another woman who looked upon herself as the Mother of all beings, including animals and birds, and spent her whole life in serving them as her children, undergoing unending sacrifice and self-denial. About her role in the mission of Sri Ramakrishna on earth, she stated: “My son, you know the Master had a maternal attitude (matri-bhava) towards every one. He has left me behind to manifest that Divine Motherhood in the world.”

Ideal Woman

On account of her immaculate purity, extraordinary forbearance, selfless service, unconditional love, wisdom and spiritual illumination, Swami Vivekananda regarded Sri Sarada Devi as the ideal for women in the modern age. He believed that with the advent of Holy Mother, the spiritual awakening of women in modern times had begun.

Last Days

Under the strain of constant physical work and self-denial and repeated attacks of malaria, her health deteriorated in the closing years of her life, and she left the mortal world on 21 July 1920.

Places of interest in/around Deoghar

2009-12-18T00:49:00.000-08:00

Places of interest in/around Deoghar

Nandan Pahar - This is a small hill edging the town which hosts a famous Nandi Temple. It has been beautifully maintained by the local administration and speaks volume about the beauty of this place. This hill faces the famous Shiv temple.The Nandan pahar has a huge park for children.It also has a ghost house,a boot house,a mirror house and a restaurant.

Basukinath - It is famous for its Shiva Temple, and the pilgrimage to Babadham is considered incomplete without paying homage at Basukinath. It is situated 43 km from Deoghar near the village of Jarmundi and connected by road. It is an indigenous temple bearing local art.

Satsanga Ashram - a holy place for devotees of Shri Shri Thakur Anukulchandra. In the south-west of Deoghar there is a big Ashram established by Sri Sri Anukul Chandra which is called Satsang Ashram. It is related with the sect of Radhaswami. It is a universal reforming Ashram and working for the betterment of humanity. People from India and abroad visit this Ashram every year.

Naulakha Mandir - It is situated 1.5 km away from Baba Baidyanath Temple. It is a nice visiting spot. This temple looks like the temple of Ramakrishna in Belur. Inside it there are idols of Radha - Krishna. Its height is 146 feet. The amount spent in construction of the temple was about Rs. 900,000 (9 lakhs). Hence it became known as Naulakha Temple.

Rama Krishna Mission (RK Mission) - a boarding school run by monks of RK Mission. The campus is full of greenery and has 12 football fields. The Ramkrishna Mission Vidyapith, a branch of Ramkrishna Mission, Belur Math, Howrah district, was established in 1922 with the objective of imparting modern education combined with the values of our ancient culture in the lines of the ancient Gurukula.

Tapovan - Situated 10 km from Deoghar. There is a temple of Shiva which is the centre of attraction for pilgrims. The temple of Shiva is called Taponath Mahadeva. A number of caves are found in this hill. In one of the caves, a Shiva lingam is installed. It is said that Sage Valmiki came here for penance. Sri Sri Balananda Brahmachari obtained Siddhi (success through penance) here.

Rikhia Ashram - This Bihar School of Yoga (Sri Sri Panch Dashanam Paramhansa Alakhbarah) was established by Swami Satyananda Saraswati. Thousand of devotees from different corners of the world participate in an fair an annual festival and ceremony which is held in late November to early December. Foreigners are seen often in the town, especially between November and February. This ashram is indeed a sacred place and its charitable deeds greatly benefits the welfare of the local villages.

Shivganga - Situated just 200 meters away from Baidyanath Temple. When Ravana was taking the lingam to Lanka, he felt the urge for urination. He handed over the lingam to a brahmin and went for urintation. After urination, he needed to wash his hands and be purified before holding the lingam. When he did not find any water source nearby, he made a blow with his fist on the earth and water came out and formed a pond. This pond is now known as Shivaganga.

Harila Jori - Harila Jori is situated in the northern side of Deoghar, 8 km away from Baidyanath temple and 5 km away from Tower chowk. During ancient times, the area was full of Haritaki (Myrobalan) trees. This was the place where Ravana handed over the lingam to lord Visnu disguised as a brahmin, and went for urination. A stream flows here and is known as Ravana Jori.

Trikuth Parvat - It is situated 13 km away from Deoghar on the way to Dumka. There are three main peaks on the hill which is why it is called Trikutachal. The height of this hill is 2,470 feet (750 m). There is also a temple of Shiva at this place known as Trikutachal Mahadeva Temple. It is the mouth of river Mayurakshi. Here we also find an altar of the goddess of Trishuli. It is an attractive place with a cool stream flowing. Now this is going to have Jharkhand's first ropeway.

Koiridih- A historical place near river side has a English time rest house with thousands of teak wood forest beautiful mountain view which is surrounded by Dighariya forest and a nice dam is coming. This village had a famous Ghandian freedom fighter name Late Ayodhya Prasad Singh.

Mayurakshi

2009-12-09T19:51:00.000-08:00

Mandar Hills(69 km) believed to have been used by the Gods to churn Oceans, and Sultanganj (100 km), situated between the two banks of the river Ganges.Basukinath in Dumka district, 43 km from Deoghar and is the culminating point of pilgrimages to Deoghar.The district town of Dumka is a hilly, scenic center of tribal culture in Jharkhand.

Masanjore is 31 km from Dumka. The picturesque "Canada Dam" on the river Mayurakshi is the prime attraction here.

Baba Baidyanath Dham

2009-12-03T22:19:00.000-08:00

Baba Baidyanath Dham or Devghar is the most visited holy city of Bihar,Jharkhand,Eastern Uttar Pradesh,West Bengal and Nepal.Thousands of people from world over also visit this city regularly.Jharkhand government has not been able to provide amenities to the visitors despite promising for the same for the years.The numbers of visitors are growing steadily but the corresponding modern amenities are not upgraded suitably.This holy city can change the fortune of Jharkhand state if proper attention is given to all aspects.Now there is so much rush sometimes that the sea of humanity present there feel bewildered and condemn the lackadaisical organisation and cleanliness around the city.

Traditional song sung by kalpana for lord shiva usually sung in the month of july which is also the month of sawaan.

2009-11-28T01:25:00.000-08:00

Jaa Tu BabaDham Balamua

2009-11-28T01:23:00.000-08:00

KANWARRIA: SULTANGANJ TO DEOGHAR

2009-11-18T20:13:00.000-08:00

Baba Ajgaibinath (Sultanganj) to Kamrai 6 km
Kamrai to Masumganj 2 km
Masumganj to Asarganj 5 km
Asarganj to Rangaon 5 km
Rangaon to Tarapur 3 km
Tarapur to Madhodih 2 km
Madhodih to Rampur 5 km
Rampur to Kumarsar 8 km
Kumarsar to Vishwakarma Tola 4 km
Vishwakarma Tola to Mahadev Nagar 3 km
Mahadev Nagar to Chandan Nagar 3 km
Chandan Nagar to Jilebia More 8 km
Jilebia More to Tageshwar Nath 5 km
Tageshwar Nath to Suiya 3 km
Suiya to Shivalok 2 km
Shivalok to Abrakhia 6 km
Abrakhia to Katoria 8 km
Katoria to Lakshman Jhula 8 km
Lakshman Jhula to Inaravaran 8 km
Inaravaran to Bhulbhulaiya River 3 km
Bhulbhulaiya River to Goryari Inn 5 km
Goryari Inn to Patania Inn 5 km
Patania to Kalakatia Inn 3 km
Kalakatia to Bhutbangla 5 km
Bhutbangla to Darshaniya 1 km
Darshaniya to Baba Baidyanath Temple 1 km

Ramakrishna Mission Vidyapith, Deoghar

2009-10-09T02:21:00.000-07:00

Ramakrishna Mission Vidyapith was established in 1922. It is the oldest educational institution of Ramakrishna Mission, and was visited by some of the brother disciples of Swami Vivekananda. Therefore, it bears the blessings as well as inspirations of many spiritual personalities behind its growth over the years. Now it has a residential Senior Secondary School, a well equipped charitable medical unit with modern diagnostic facilities, a centre for academic coachings to school going children from the surrounding poor families, vocational training courses for local school drop-outs under the auspices of National Open School, and occasional activities of relief and rehabilitation work.

The school is known all over the country for its persistent remarkable academic achievements. It has a cosmopolitan complexion in the composition of its inmates, having students from various states and communities of the nation. It is meant exclusively for boys and permanently affiliated to the Central Board of Secondary Education. Admission to its Secondary Section is restricted to standard VI alone. However, a few students from other schools are also admitted in class XI, in case the seats are available for them after giving entry to its own students who do well in class X Board examination. The school offers education in science stream only in its Senior Secondary Section. The boys are taken in it entirely on merit ascertained by dint of written, oral and other necessary tests.

Deoghar, being the holy abode of Lord Shiva affectionately addressed by all as Baba Baidyanath, is one of the most significant places of pilgrimage in the country. It is an ancient city, which harbours in its bosom a body part (heart) of Sati the Divine Mother, for which it is being identified as one of the Puranic fifty two Sakti pithas. Hence it has been perpetually drawing devotees from different corners of India for centuries. Sri Ramakrishna, his spiritual consort Sri Sarada Devi and his principal disciple Swami Vivekananda too came here on pilgrimage. Accordingly, Deoghar with Vidyapith occupies an important special position in the history of Ramakrishna Movement.

Baidyanathdham,

2009-10-09T02:18:00.000-07:00

Deoghar, popularly known as house of gods and goddesses or Baidyanathdham, is an ancient town situated in the Santhal Parganas of Jharkhand. It is the headquarters of Deoghar District and is 345 km northeast of Ranchi.

Deoghar is a prominent center of Hindu Pilgrimage, and the ancient temple of Baba Baidyanath, which is one among the twelve jyotirlingas in the country is the prime attraction. The renowned Kamana Linga of Lord Shiva is situated here. The devotees, after picking up the holy Ganga water from Sultanganj, travel a distance of about 100 km on foot to pour the holy water on Kamana Linga. A grand festival held here during the month of Shravan is a major draw.

Places of tourist interest also include Deoghar Archaeological Museum, Chandrakoopa Well, Harila Joria and Sivaganga Lake. Another attraction is Satsang Ashram, which is a significant site for the followers of Sri Sri Thakur Anukul Chandra.

The airports at Patna and Ranchi serve Deoghar. The nearest railway station is Baidyanathdham Railway Station, a terminal station off a 7 km branch line, originating from the Jasidih Junction Railway Station. Deoghar Bus Station is a few minutes walk from the railway station and has bus services to Ranchi and Patna. Baidyanathdham can also be reached from Sultanganj, which is 100 km away.

How To Reach Deoghar

2009-10-09T02:05:00.000-07:00

Deogar in Jharkhand is a famous health resort and a major Hindu pilgrimage center. It’s a nice place and has the temples of Baba Baidyanath- one of the twelve 'jyotirlingas' in India. Baidyanath Dham of Santhal Parganas in Jharkhand is a key pilgrim centre. It is celebrated for the temple of Shiva-Baidyanath. The locale is a well-liked holiday centre. However, the place is also famous for the group of its 22 temples consecrated to Shiva of Hindu God. There are ruins of many Buddhist monasteries around. There are colleges, hospitals under Bhagalpur University. The famous Muslim invader Bhaktiyar Khilji made Deoghar his capital in 1201 after the take-over of Bihar.

Yatra.com offers you online booking of hotels in Deoghar at the best possible rates. Whether you book luxury hotels in Deoghar , Heritage hotels, 5 five star hotels in Deoghar , and 4 five star hotels in Deoghar or 3 star hotels in Deoghar , 2 star hotels in Deoghar and Budget Hotels in Deoghar , Yatra promises to offer you amazing offers and deals for all classes of hotels and resorts. Yatra also offers discounted hotels packages in Deoghar .
Prime Attractions:The Chandrakoopa Well The well was built and hallowed with water from several 'tirthams' by Ravana. It is located near the main entrance, Nandan hills, Naulakha Mandir and Tapovan are visit worthy places.
Basukinath Temple (42 kms) A pilgrimage tour to Deogar is incomplete without a get into this temple. It is famous for Shiva temple. Harila Joria is around eight kms much known for Shiva temple. Trikut is about 16 kms which is the source of river Mayurakshi, a major aattraction of the place.

Deoghar is one of the most important districts in the state of Jharkhand in the eastern part of India. The district of Deoghar was born following the reorganization of the Santhal Parganas. The district headquarters of Deoghar is Deoghar. The total area covered by Deoghar of Jharkhand is 2479 square kms.

This district of Jharkhand is easily accessible from the rest of the state as well as the rest of India. The railway station that is closest to this district is housed at Deoghar only at Baidyanath Dham. You can easily communicate with Deoghar by road.

The airport closest to Deoghar is located at Patna at a distance of 281 kms. This airport links up Deoghar with the important places in the remaining part of India. The various road distances from Deoghar are as follows: Patna - 281 kms, Kolkata- 373 kms and Madhupur-57 kms.

The economy of Deoghar at Jharkhand is mainly dependent on its industries and agriculture. The major industrial developments in this district of India include the growth of a factory at Jasidih producing the wagons used in railways and another factory located at Madhupur, which is putting silicate to industrial use.

The district has also shown a lot of progress in pharmacy. The district of Deoghar in Jharkhand also produces coal, which has a good market value. In agricultural field, the major crop produced in the district is paddy.

There are quite a few important tourist spots in Deoghar. Some of them are Burhai, Bakulia, Domohani, Baidhyanath Temple and Karo. Therefore, if you travel to Jharkhand, then do not miss these fascinating places of Deoghar.

By Rail: The nearest Railway Station is deoghar , Jaseedih.

By Road: Buses connect Baidyanath Dham with Bhagalpur, Hazaribagh, Ranchi, Tatanagar, and Gaya etc.

By Air:Cacutta,Ranchi,Gaya,Patna

Hotels in Deoghar

2009-10-09T01:56:00.000-07:00

Hotel Baidyanath Deoghar
by indiamike.com on Apr 02, 2008. Last updated Oct 01, 2008
Near Jain Mandir
phone: 06432 - 233112, 225975
e-mail: hotelbaidyanath@gmail.com
Hotel Baidyanath Deoghar does not have a star-rating. Hotel Baidyanath Deoghar is located 6 kms from Jasidih Railway Station, and 1/2 km from Private Bus Stand. Hotel Baidyanath Deoghar has a total of 31 rooms. Hotel Baidyanath Deoghar has 2 restaurants serving Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. Amenities for Hotel Baidyanath Deoghar include 24 hours, valet parking, travel desk, internet access in all public area, and spl. puja arrangements.
Hotel Baidyanath Deoghar Rates and Room Information
European Plan (INR):

A/C Dbl: 1000 to 1500
Non A/C Dbl: 550
A/C Suites: 2000 to 3000
A/C Triple: 1200 to 1800
Non A/C Sgl: 350 Hotel Baidyanath Deoghar has a total of 31 rooms, including 2 non air-conditioned single rooms, 10 air-conditioned double rooms, 5 non air-conditioned double rooms, 11 air-conditioned deluxe rooms, and 3 air-conditioned suites. Hotel room amenities for Hotel Baidyanath Deoghar include tea/coffee maker, mini bar, room safe, hair dryer, and wi-fi.
Credit cards accepted: All major credit cards accepted
Checkout time: 8.00 a.m.

Mahadev Palace Deoghar
by indiamike.com on Apr 02, 2008. Last updated Oct 01, 2008
Bihari Lal Chakraborty Road
Castairs' Town
phone: 06432 - 238741, 09234605435, 09234600433
e-mail: mahadevpalace@rediffmail.com
Mahadev Palace Deoghar does not have a star-rating. Mahadev Palace Deoghar is located 300 kms from Ranchi Airport, 4 kms from Jasidih Railway Station, and 1/2 km from Deoghar Bus Stand. Mahadev Palace Deoghar is partially airconditioned, with a total of 51 rooms. Mahadev Palace Deoghar has 1 restaurant serving Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines.
Mahadev Palace Deoghar Rates and Room Information
European Plan (INR):
A/C Dbl: 695
Triple A/C: 975
A/C Suites: 1395
4 Bed A/C: 1255
Non A/C Dbl: 395 European Plan (INR):
A/C Double Dlx: 975 Mahadev Palace Deoghar has a total of 51 rooms.
Latest Reviews for Mahadev Palace Deoghar

Dak Bam

2009-08-30T23:07:00.000-07:00

A Dak Bam is different from the ordinary kawaria, for whom time is no limit. A kawaria can take as many days as he likes. Commonly, it takes three to four days to cross the 105km. But a Dak Bamis time-bound. Usually, only a man becomes a Dak Bam.He has to complete the entire distance within 24 hours. If he fails to reach the temple within this time, he fails to be a Dak Bam.The Dak Bam carries gangajal on his back. He is non- stop. He cannot sit. He cannot sleep. He cannot eat. If he takes anything at all, he takes water, but that too while running. On the way, there are hosts who make hot water to pour on the bodies of Dak Bamsto soothe them. Some Dak Bams become so hopeless that the other Bams give him support. It is difficult to believe how these Bams manage to reach the temple. It would not be possible to become a Dak Bam without the grace of Baba Himself.

kawaris , kawaria,Bam

2009-08-30T23:00:00.000-07:00

The person carrying the kawaris called kawaria.There are certain norms that the kawarias have to follow during the pilgrimage. Self-restraint is a basic characteristic. All the kawarias,male or female, are expected to put on simple clothes of orange color as a mark or reflection of sannyasa.A sannyasiis a person who relinquishes all worldly possessions and cultivates spirituality. While on pilgrimage, the kawariasare to develop a sense of wordly detachment and renunciation.

On the way to Baba Dham, each kawariacalls the other "Bam"which stands for Siva, or Shankar. It's an ancient name of Siva. All through the pilgrimage, the kawariaswalk barefooted. They hear about Siva, tell about Siva, write about Siva. Whatever they do, they do for Siva. The skies resound with slogans like "Bol Bam,"meaning, "Speak Siva;" "Age Bam, Pichhe Bam, Daye Bam, Baye Bam,""Siva is ahead, Siva is behind, Siva is on the right and Siva is on the left." Another common slogan is, "Baba Nagaria Dur Hai, Jana Jarur Hai,""Baba's place is far ahead, but we need to reach there." It is very pleasant to call out these slogans loudly or chant them as mantras.

The Bamshave to take strictly vegetarian, sattvicfood during the pilgrimage. Even garlic or onion is avoided. One has to bathe each time one goes to toilet. At the time one goes to toilet, he has to put the kawarat some sacred place. Before carrying the kawaragain, he has to worship it.

People visit Baba Dham all through the year. But most kawarias come during Magha (February) or Sravana (July-August). The kawariaswalk round the clock, though the intensity declines through the night, when the kawariasmust walk with the help of a torch. The pilgrim's route, with Sultangunj on the one side and Baba's temple on the other, is filled with the kawariasin orange-colored attire.

Baba Dham , Deoghar,Baidyanatha Dham

2009-08-30T22:53:00.000-07:00

Baba Dham is a small town in the Deoghar district of Jharkhand state in northeastern India. It is also called Baidyanatha Dham, or Deoghar. It is well connected by road and rail from various parts of India. Baba stands for Lord Siva and Dham indicates His abode. Therefore, the place where Lord Siva lives is called Baba Dham. Siva is worshiped at the temple as the Linga. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas noted for fulfilling all the wishes of devotees. Legend tells that whosoever worships Siva here, with water from the Ganga, will get all wishes fulfilled.

Pilgrimage to Baba Dham can be easy, or difficult. It is easy if a devotee travels by train or bus to pour water on Him. But it is difficult when he or she walks the 105-kilometer distance between the Ganga and Baba Dham on foot, carrying Gangajal, water from the Ganga, on a balance pole called a kawar

Baidyanath at Deoghar

2008-05-28T05:20:00.000-07:00

The religious importance of Baidyanath Jyotirlingam should be based upon the facts of the Puranas and Tantras. Puranas might have fallen a pray to their religious lust, as they did. But they would have been spared the glory of Baidyanath Jyotirlingam of a great importance and surely of great cultural heritage.
Adi Shankaracharya declared it in the east and in the north geographical boundary of India as:

The architecture of this temple is indigenous. We can place it under Nagar style. It is Shringvat temple. It contains Kati, Mekhala, and Shring which support the style of Nagara. According to religious belief this temple has been built by Vishwakarma, the architect of gods. There are three parts of this temple; i.e., the main temple, the middle part of the main temple, and the entrance part of the main temple. The main temple is beyond historical dates. It has been visited since the age of Rama, the king of Ayodhya. From the available sources we can say that the presence of Chandrakant Mani is also its glory.
In the popular 'Lingaashtalkam' we get the reference to Asthdal Kamal i.e., Chandrakant Mani which is as such:
Meaning:
The lingam is surrounded by the eight petals. It is the origin of the all creations. It destroys the poverty of eight kinds. I, therefore, pay reverential salutation to Sadashiva Lingam. We can ascertain that the Manjhla Khand was built during the reign of Guptas. Inscription certifies it:
Meaning:
The sage desired to erect on the Haridra Peetha a magnificent edifice, splendent as moon light. O wise king of Cholas, such an edifice could not be the work of man, but no doubts it will be accomplished some time in the Kali age.

There is no place greater or more sacred than this, said Sambhu; it is two mile square and four cubits high. As often as, O Lord of mortals, distress obtains in this place, so often does Rama, the lotus-eyed, descend in incarnation. Verily is this haughty goddess beneficent to him like a mother. He verily should be known to be Rama who will cause this temple to be made.
The entrance of this main temple was created later on. Perhaps, this portion was built during the Mughal period. Puranmal, the Raja of Gidhour added this but he took the credit for the building of the main temple. We find an inscription in which the name of Purana has been referred to this temple. This whole area of Deoghar was under the rule of the Raja of Gidhour and the Raja of Gidhour are very much attached with this temple. It is believed that this part of the temple was built by Maharaja of Gidhour.
Thus the abode of Baidyanath Jyotirlingam is a very ancient sacred place of India importance and international fame. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga kshetra in India. Baidyanath Jyotirlinagam is as old as the Ramayana and it is associated with the story of Ravana, in religious literatures. As its very name implies, Baidyanathdham Deoghar, is the holy place where Shri Vishnu is said to have installed Shiva in this form. Hence, the presiding deity here is revered as Baidyanath Jyotirlingam. The holy place is famous for its cultural history where people from every corner of India throng all the year round.
A number of tantras also appreciate this place. It is also one of 52 peethas. The question of Pithas is associated with Devi Bhagwat, Kubjika Tantra, Kalika Rahasyam, Mundmal Tantra and Rudrayamalam etc. These Tantras mention this holy shrine as a popular Tantrik seat for Sadhakas. Famous scholar and Tantric Gopinath Kaviraj have mentioned Baidyanathdaham as a seat of Tantric Sadhana. This holy shrine is famous a Chitabhumi. Here we get the worship of Sri Chakra which is still lying in the inner apartment of Bhitarakhanda, administrative office of the high-priest. Now it is administrative office of the temple. There is also one ever flaming Kund where tantrik rituals are being performed for Shakti Sadhana. Baglamukhi and Jai Durga are supposed to be the chief deities of this pitha. Baidyanath is himself Bhairav and he guards this region against auspicious acts. Tanric Sadhana is the crux to worship Lord Shiva and Shakti. During the time of Durga Puja, the decoration of Gahbara was initiated in the temples of Jagadjanani and Kal Bhairava which is more or less Tantric rituals. The presence of Panchshoola is also a matter of Tantric cult.
The temple of Baidyanath Jyotirlingam has patronage of several sects, castes and communities in the past and even today. The Islam and Christianity is influenced by the spiritual and religious envirornment of the temple. Baidyanath is a centre and symbol of Sarva Dharma Sambhava (respect for all religions). We cannot forget the name of Data Saheb. In the religious and cultural history of Deoghar, there is a place on the north-east of Shivganga which was famous as 'Data Ka Jungle'. In the past there was dence forest here. Data Saheb was a muslim Fakir. He was Bhakta to Baidyanath. Every day he used to offer flowers and Vilva in the hands of priest to please Lord Baidyanath. He used to come in the campus of Deoghar temple and offer flowers to priests and Priests offer them to the lingam. There is still lying Mazar of Data Saheb. Once in a year Urs was offered on the Mazar of Data Saheb.
Baidyanath Jyotirlingam is a great power, gracing great effects. Bhaktas receive it from God for God shows it to the entire world in a way that can not be hid or concealed. He must fulfil desires of devotees. The result of His greatness is the page of Deoghar Jail's history. In British India a jailor was posted at Deoghar. As ill luck would have it he was facing against his misfortune. His son was missing in a sea together with his ship. Jailor was upset and he did not pay proper attention to his work. He was advised by his staff to meditate and worship Baidyanath as God is famous for fulfilling one's desires. He began to meditate upon Baidyanath Jyotirlingam. Miracles took place. Suddenly news come, he is alive and ship is alright. Since then he started a tradition in the Deoghar Jail and 'Phool Kaman' was created to gather flowers and Vilva Patras for worshipping Lord Baidyanath. He was influenced by the great power of Baidyanath Jyotirlingam. This is unique tradition and we can not find such in other temples of Jyotirlingam in India. The temple of Baidyanath is undeniably a famous holy shrine for developing the religious sense in the people which enable them to think and feel that India is not a mere coteric of geographical fragments, but a single, though immense organism, fitted with the tide of one strong pulsating life from end to end. The visit to holy place as an imperative religious duty has made wide travelling a nation habit in India in all ages of life, with young and old alike.
This is one of the twelve Jyotirlingam temples which link India with a remote past by a living chain and it is very satisfactory that the temple without losing its time honoured sanctity benefits by the methods of modern organisation. To those who have travelled so far to Baidyanath Jyotirlingam will remain an impressive picture of the religious life of Hindus. We can quote here Dr. Radha Krishnan - "It is clear that Hinduism is a process not a result; a growing tradition, not a fixed revelation. It never shut off by force wisdom any where, for there are no distinctions of mine and thine in the kingdom of spirit."
In this way we can say that the shrine of Baidyanath Jyotirlingam is the symbol of the unity of spiritual, social, cultural and even temporal of our great India. When people from all parts of country congregate here, they exchange mutual information and feel that they are one and indivisible. We of the great India should be proud of our ancestor's wisdom and foresight.
We conclude this by Shiva Vandana of late High priest Bhavaprita Nand Ojha which is as such:
Prayer of ShivaDevotee-person-hell-destroyer heart success.Silver colour five mouth unequal eyes destroyer of sex.Pressing destroying force Skin cloth, poison-meal always gracing immovable.Many snakes over body, glittering ashes on body.Knott of hair full of water,Sitting on the bull, traveling cities,gods be humble before him.Being and becoming is the voice of life and death and thus pains disappear, worship immovable feet.Then only one will get destination and thus makes his path easy.

Shri Mahadeva

2008-05-28T05:19:00.000-07:00

Shri Mahadeva said ...
Whoever meditates for a minute, even he is rogue, and he will be graced for all time to come.
One should worship Baidyanath forever. What to speak of his fruits! Even Brahma, the god of creation, fails to appreciate Him.

The Puranas speak of the Baidyanath Jyortiligam. According to the Shiva Purana, it was in the Treta yuga that the demon Ravana, king of Lanka, felt that his capital would not be perfect and free from enemies unless Mahadeva stays there forever, he paid continuous meditation to Mahadeva. Ultimately Shiva got pleased and permitted him to carry his lingam with him to Lanka. Mahadeva advised him not to place or transfer this lingam to anyone. There should not be a break in his journey to Lanka. If he deposits the lingam anywhere on the earth, in the course of his journey, it would remain fixed at that place forever. Ravana was happy as he was taking his return journey to Lanka.
His fate willed otherwise. The gods took it ill. They never liked to see Mahadeva as his protector. They devised a plan for outwitting Ravana. They requested Varuna to enter into the belly of Ravana. So, on his way Ravana felt a severe urge to release water. He began looking for a man to whom he could temporarily entrust the lingam. Vishnu appeared before Ravana in the guise of a Brahmin. Unaware of the mystery, Ravana handed over the lingam to the Brahmin. Unfortunately, Ravana could not ease himself soon. In the meanwhile the Brahmin placed the lingam at this place which was and which is now Baidyanathdham.
Ravana tried hard to remove the lingam from the spot where it had been placed. He could not turn out the lingam even an inch. This made him frustrated. He used violence but he only succeeded in pushing the lingam by thumb. Later on he felt guilty of his doings and begged for pardon.
He returned to Lanka but visitied daily to worship the lingam. This continued forever. The place where Ravana descended on the earth is identified with the present Harilajori about four miles north of Baidyanathdham and the place where the lingam was kept, is now Deoghar and the lingam itself is known to all as Baidyanath Jyotirlingam.
The very name of Baidyanath bears the history of Ravana as mentioned in the Shiva Purana which is as such:

Patal Khand of Padama Purana

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The importance of Baidyanath Jyotirligam has been eulogised in the Patal Khand of Padama Purana, where Shiva praises the religious
significance of this place:

Holy place for pilgrims

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It is a rare holy place for pilgrims as the Patal Khand of Padamapurana mentions :-
As Mahadeva rules over the region of heart so it is a place of Shambhu and the holiest place of all and it makes all to succeed in the world.
The heart of Sati, the Daughter of Daksha, fell here in the past. It is, therefore, the holiest place of all.
Whoever dies here with the grace of Shiva, he does not come again in this world even though one is a great sinner.
Being a man one worships Baidyanath and if one does not worship Baidyanath, his birth is meaningless in the world.
If one commits sin in the other place, he gets rid of sins if he worships Baidyanath. It is said, people get rid of sins if he worships the Viswanath of Kashi but sins collected at Kashi, will fly away if he worships Baidyanath. If one commits sins at this holy place, it can never be kicked off. It is, therefore, necessary that one should worship Lord Baidyanath to wash away sins.
In order to wash away sins one should travel Baidyanathdham. Even sins gathered at kashi will be removed soon if he worships Lord Baidyanath.

Jyotirlingam

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The importance of Jyotirlingam is well known to all. Its renowned sanctity is attached to the Hindu view of the socio-religious life of India. Jyotirlingam means the linga of light, i.e. a symbolic form of a stone tinctured with the cycle of light. It is a very surprising acknowledgment to us that the twelve lingas spray the rays of the light in the panorama of our life. It may be assumed that Jyotirlinga expels the proceeds of light which is generating with spiritual and cosmos consciousness for all. The light of Jyotirlingam is the light of cosmos which is realized by the power of soul as a whole.
Being one out of the twelve Jyotirlingas, Baidyanath is famous for all. Deoghar, the home of gods, is modern name. In Puranas we find in its place names like Haridrapeetha, Ketaki van, Haritalik van, Chitabhoomi and Vaidyanath. In Bengal and upper provinces the place is generally known as Baidyanathdham.
The sanctity of Baidyanath is mentioned in several Puranas which refer to it and as they are unquestionably the golden treasure of Hindu religion and culture, Baidyanath Jyotirlingam has attained great importance.
Baidyanath Mahatmya speaks of its importance :

Baidyanath Dhyanam :

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Shankara is bearing a snake over his head
and he has also the moon over his forehead,
his light is electrifying in golden colour and he is invisible with his shool, that is, trident
and he graces all by his hands, I pray for him.

A Brief History of Baidyanath Jyotirlingam and its Importance

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The Shiva Purana describes the geographical location of Dwadash Jyotirlingam :
Lord Somnath is in the country Saurashtra, Mallikarjuna is on the Shree Shailam,
Mahakala is in Ujjayani, Parameshwar belongs to Onkar,
Kedar in the mountain of Himalaya, Bhimashankar is in the country of Dakini,
Viswesh belongs to Varanasi, the Lord Trayam bakam resides on the shore of Gautami river,
Baidyanath lies on the land of ashes and the Lord of snake lives in the wooden forest.
Lord Rama stays near the sea where it was bridged by him and Lord of Ghushma resides in the abode of Shiva.
If one recites the twelve names in the early morning,
he will get rid of all sins and will get all fruits of his efforts.

Baba Baidyanath Dham

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The temple of Baba Baidyanathdham is situated in a spacious courtyard bounded by stone walls. In the temple complex are 22 other temples. The Baidyanath temple faces east. The top of the original Shiva Lingam was slightly broken, keeping with the legend that it chipped away when Ravana tried to uproot it (Click here to know more about the legend). The Lingam has since been rebuilt. Near the temple is the Shivaganga Lake. The Chandrakoopa well, near the main entrance is said to have been built and consecrated with water from several pilgrimages by Ravana.
The Touch of ShivaAs soon as I touched the Lingam, unique feeling overpowered me and forced me to promise Baba Baidyanath to do his 'abhishekam' every day of my stay in Deoghar. Consequently, I ended up doing the 'abhishekam' every morning at 7 am. My daily Abhishekam continued for five weeks culminating on January 14, Makar Sankranti day.
Invoking the Lord: Shakti AbhishekamAlthough I had originally planned to do the Abhishekam of only the Jyotirlingam, I was convinced by the priests in the shrine to do the Abhishekam of Lord Ganesh and Ma Kali also on a daily basis. Instructions to worship Lord Ganesh (also my 'Ishta Devta' - household god) were in line with the Hindu tradition but why the Abhishekam of Ma Kali. That was because of the Tantrik links of the temple.
A Power Center: Shakti Peetha I was told by one of the old priests that Baidyanath is also considered as one of the 52 Shakti Peetha shrines of Sati. It is believed that the heart of Sati fell here, when her half burnt body being carried by Shiva at the end her sacrifice at Daksha's Yagna, was chopped to pieces by Vishnu's discus.
Tantrik LinksBaidyanathdham is a popular Tantrik seat for Sadhakas. Famous scholar and Tantric Gopinath Kaviraj has mentioned Baidyanathdaham as a seat of Tantric Sadhana. There is also one ever flaming Kund where tantrik rituals are being performed for Shakti Sadhana. Tanric Sadhana is the crux to worship Lord Shiva and Shakti.
My Unique Spiritual ExperienceEvery day after touching the Baidyanath Jyotirlingam I felt the kind of bliss and tranquility I had never felt before in my 64 year old life. The unique and blissful experience I had during this trip is beyond description. I felt truly blessed. It was so intoxicating that I could not wait to go to the temple every morning. Nothing seemed to bother me; bare feet, cold wave, the massive crowd, the mud in the courtyard, long lineup and the persistence of the Pandas.
Experiencing True BlissI have never been happier in my life. I kept asking myself: Is this the "true bliss" the scriptures and saints have talked about? Why else, I am not complaining about the unruly crowd, and lack of amenities that I used to during my previous visits. My relatives and friends tried their best to persuade me to visit them but I would not go. I got to have Baba's darshan every day. Mentally I was in a totally different world. Everything and anything I wished for in those five weeks appeared before me without any effort on my part.
As much I want to describe to you how I felt, I can't. All I can say "Experiencing is believing." I had heard in the past that Baba Baidyanath fulfils desires of devotees and hence the number of pilgrims is increasing exponentially every year, especially during the Shravan month. However, I must admit Baidyanath Jyotirlingam is a great power, gracing great effects.

The Ravana Legend
The Puranas speak of the Baidyanath Jyotirlingam. According to the Shiva Purana, it was in the Treta Yuga that the demon Ravana, king of Lanka, felt that his capital would not be perfect and free from enemies unless Lord Shiva stays there forever, he paid continuous meditation to Lord Shiva.
Finally, Shiva was pleased and permitted him to carry his lingam with him to Lanka. Lord Shiva advised him not to place or transfer this lingam to anyone. There should not be a break in his journey to Lanka. If he deposits the lingam anywhere on the earth, in the course of his journey, it would remain fixed at that place forever. Ravana was happy as he was taking his return journey to Lanka.
His fate willed otherwise. The gods took it ill. They never liked to see Lord Shiva as his protector.

They devised a plan for outwitting Ravana. They requested Varuna (the god of water) to enter into the belly of Ravana. So, on his way Ravana felt a severe urge to release water. He began looking for a man to whom he could temporarily entrust the lingam.
Lord Vishnu appeared before Ravana in the guise of a Brahmin. Unaware of the mystery, Ravana handed over the lingam to the Brahmin. Unfortunately, Ravana could not ease himself soon.
Meanwhile, the Brahmin placed the lingam at this place which was and which is now Baidyanathdham.
Ravana tried hard to remove the lingam from the spot where it had been placed. He could not turn out the lingam even an inch. This made him frustrated. He used violence but he only succeeded in pushing the lingam by thumb. Later on he felt guilty of his doings and begged for forgiveness.
He returned to Lanka but visited daily to worship the lingam. This continued forever. The place where Ravana descended on the earth is identified with the present Harilajori about four miles north of Baidyanathdham. The place where the lingam was kept is now Deoghar and the lingam itself is known to all as Baidyanath Jyotirlingam.

Trikuta Parvata

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It is situated 10 km away from Deoghar on the way to Dumka. There are three main peaks on the hill which is why it is called Trikutachal. The height of this hill is 2470 feet.
Sage Bam Bam Baba used to come here for penance. In the month of Shravan, the devotees come here to collect wood apple leaves. There are numerous trees of wood apple. Hence this place is also called the Garden of Shiva
There is also a temple of Shiva at this place known as Trikutachal Mahadeva Temple. It is the mouth of river Mayurakshi. Here we also find an altar of the goddess of Trishuli. It is an attractive place with a cool stream flowing.
On the hill there is a cottage of sage Dayananda
It is a popular picnic spot as well. Both pilgrims and tourists visit this place.

Tarapeeth

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There is a famous shakti peeth near Deoghar. A yogi Bamakhepa worshipped the goddess Kali. It stands on the bank of Dwaraka. A rare image of Tara is visible in the inner apartment of the temple.
Pilgrims and tourists, who visit Baidyanath, come to worship Tarapeeth. One can go to Tarapeeth by bus and car.

Tapovan

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It is situated 10 km away from Babadham.
There is a temple of Shiva which is the centre of attraction for pilgrims. The temple of Shiva is called Taponath Mahadeva.
A number of caves are found in this hill. In one of the caves, a Shiva lingam is installed. It is said that Sage Valmiki came here for penance. Sri Sri Balananda Brahmachari obtained Siddhi (success through penance) here.
Sri Sri Mohananada Brahmachari, disciple of Sri Sri Balananda Brahmachari also used to come here. In the olden days it was a meditation spot (Tapobhumi) for the Nagas.
In the ancient time Tapovan was the military camp of the palas. Here we find an inscription Shri Deo Narayan Pal.
Legends say that devotees visiting Tapovana, get the fruits of Baidyanath Darshan. It is also a good spot for picnic. People come here to enjoy its beauty.
There is a cracked rock at Tapovan. In the inner surface of the crack, one can see a portrait of Hanuman. This is an amazing feat as it is practically impossible to insert a paint brush in the crack and draw anything.
Below the hill there is a small cemented Kund (water - body) which is called Shukta Kund (Sita Kund) by the local people. It is a holy water body. It is said that Sita used to take bath here.

Shivaganga

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When Ravana was taking the lingam to Lanka, he felt the urge for urination. He handed over the lingam to a brahmin and went for urintation. After urination, he needed to wash his hands and be purified before holding the lingam. When he did not find any water source nearby, he made a blow with his fist on the earth and water came out and formed a pond. This pond is now known as Shivaganga.
The old name of Shivaganga is Varvoghar kund. It is situated just 200 metres away from the Baidyanath temple.
In ancient India Ashwini Kumaras, doctors of gods, bathed in this tank and cured themselves from diseases. Formerly it was a small tank. Later, the Zamindar of Lakshmipur estate shaped it to the present size.
Taking bath into the Shivaganga is the same as taking bath into the Ganges. Shiva devotees, who come to Deoghar, take a dip into the Shivaganga to purify themselves before offering water to the Jyotirlingam. It is said that this pond has never dried up.
On the western side, a small temple has been constructed by Raja Jai Singh. It is a Shiva temple. It stands near Ganesh Kala Mandir.

Maa Shitala Temple

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It is situated in the main market near Tower Chowk. Devotees come here and sit for hours in its premises. The temple has less height but idols are ancient. It is believed that incurable diseases are cured if one worships here with heart. Every year in the month of Chaita, Shitala Puja celebration takes place with great pomp and show.

Satsang Nagar Ashram

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In the south - west of Deoghar there is a big Ashram established by Sri Sri Anukul Chandra which is called Satsang Ashram. It is related with the sect of Radhaswami. It is a universal reforming Ashram and working for the betterment of humanity. People from India and abroad visit this Ashram every year.
The Life story of Sri Anukul Chandra Thakur: It was 14th September, 1888 at 7:05 the light in the room was brightened with a divine light. This was the advent of Sri Thakur Anukul Chandra who took birth at that instant. His father Shiva Chandra Chakraborty was a man of prominence in virtue. Manomohini Debi was his mother.
Even as a child Anukul Chandra showed signs of super human greatness. While playing when he got dusty, this small boy was still the embodiment of Vedanta.
At an auspicious time Anukul Chandra's father enrolled him as a student in the school of Kesto Bairag. If anyone was in pain it would make his kind heart overflow with sympathy. If someone seemed without proper clothing, he would give him his own clothing and return home naked.
Anukul Chandra once visited the place of Sri Ramakrishna. He went to the side of the house where Ramakrishna used to stay. He felt asleep in shade of the Panchabati and he saw the Goddess Mother Kali coming to him. On 13th August, 1906 he was married to Sorashi Bala Debi, daughter of Ram Gopal Bhattachraya, a teacher of Pabna Institute.
After marriage he studied for a time at Raipura High school near Amirabad. But within a short while he had to take admission in Naihati High School in the 24 Parganas district. The members of his family wanted him to become a doctor. So young Anukul Chandra started for the city of Kolkata. Despite many difficulties and inconveniences, he finished study at the Medical college and returned home. He practised as a physician for only three years and earned a wonderful reputation. Very serious kinds of diseases were cured under his treatment. Though he was trained in allopathic medicine, he sometimes used other systems such as homeopathic and Ayurvedic medicine, too.
The man who first experienced Sri Sri Thakur's unconditional mercy was Ananta Maharaj. It was he who first addressed Anukul Chandra as Sri Sri Thakur.
Among the hundreds of people who became devotees and adorers of Sri Sri Thakur, was Satish Goswami. When he heard the sound of the Kirton, Sri Sri Thakur would feel restless. Leading the Kirton, he created an atmosphere of such exaltment that even the most terrible kinds of human minds where able to ascend to the sphere of consciousness in a moment. During the Kirton Sri Sri Thakur absorbed in the Supreme Idea. Sometimes fell on the ground in an unconscious state.
In the midst of Pabna's jungles and thickets at the village of Himaitpur a radical change was going on. As more people arrived, the village was transformed into Satsang Ashram. Dharma, education, industry, commerce art and music all found expression in the activities of Satsang Ashram.
He built up an institution, Tapovan School, which became reputed throughout the country.
On 13th Aug, 1946 some of his devotees rented a big house Boral Bungalow (Now it is known as Thakur Bungalow).
The moment of greatest misfortune came at 4:55 a.m. on the 27th January 1969, when Sri Sri Anukul Chandra quietly departed from this terrestrial world.

Ramkrishna Mission Vidyapeeth

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The Ramkrishna Mission Vidyapith, a branch of Ramkrishna Mission, Belur Math, Howrah district, was established in 1922 with the objective of imparting modern education combined with the values of our ancient culture in the lines of the ancient Gurukula. The institution has grown into a famous residential secondary school with about 450 students at present. It is managed by the monks of the Ramkrishna Mission.
The school, with classes VI to XII, is affiliated to the Central Board of Secondary Education, New Delhi. It is equipped with modern laboratories and computers to give the students a good learning experience. There is also a library, with numerous books and journals. Academic performance of the boys has been uniformly good over the years.
Co-curricular activities get equal emphasis. Students are encouraged to participate in debates, elocution, recitation, group discussions, seminars, sports activities etc. They also learn art and music. An educational exhibition is organised annually by the boys. The emphasis is on nurturing the inherent talents of the students and developing a balanced character.
Spiritual and Moral Training of the boys gets special attention. Daily prayer sessions are held in the prayer hall. The Ashram's atmosphere is generated by the teachers who help the students to imbibe the moral values set forth by Swami Vivekananda. Religious festivals are celebrated with solemnity with an idea to root the boys in traditional Indian culture.
The Vidyapeeth is alive to the problems and needs of the local community. The institute runs a charitable dispensary which provides medical care (including ECG, X-ray, Pathology, Homeopathy and Allopathy facilities) to the poor folks of nearby areas. The Vivekananda Balakendra (a free primary coaching centre) run by the Vidyapeeth provides free education and other necessities to more than 400 deprived children of the locality. Inter school competitions, Teacher's seminars and Youth Festivals for schools and colleges of Jharkhand are held regularly.
The Ramkrishna Mission Vidyapeeth is thus a living and vibrant effort to manifest the ideal of education as envisaged by Swami Vivekananda: We want the education by which character is formed, strength of mind is increased, the intellect is expanded and by which one is able to stand on one's own feet.

Rikhia Yogashram

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This Yogashram (Sri Sri Panch Dashanam Paramhansa Alakhbarah) was established by Swami Satyananda Saraswati. Swami Satyananda Saraswati was born on 26th July 1923 in Almora (in the Himalayan Tarai). Since his childhood he was brilliant and spiritual - minded. At the age of six he was touched with spiritual feelings. At the age of 19 he left his home and started wandering in search of a Guru. He reached Rishikesh where he met Swami Shivananda Saraswati. He became his disciple on 12th September, 1947. He stayed there for 12 years to serve Guru Maharaj. There he worked hard and was taught a lesson - Work hard and hard work will make you sacred. You do not have to try for Atmagyan (the knowledge of spirit), it itself will appear in you.
After Sanyas - Training he started his life as an ascetic. As a religious wanders he travelled not only in India but Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal etc. During this period he has started living in religious touch and its uses were to develop and clear Yoga - System.
In 1956 he established the International Yoga Mandal to show the right path through spiritual knowledge. He established Bihar Yoga Vidyalaya in 1964 in Monghyr.
In 1968 he left India to tour the world. The aim of the tour was to establish World - Friendship and to make the people apply Yoga in practical and scientific form. He became world famous. He was the first sage in the world - history who tried to use the Yoga - Mystery in the scientific base. Between 1968 and 1982 he travelled abroad for 26 times. He went to England, Spain, Ireland, Italy, Austria, USA, Canada, Colombia, Peru, Brazil, Chile, Panama, Argentina, Mexico, South Africa, Japan, Malaysia, El-Salvador, Hongkong, Australia, etc. to establish the seeds of Yoga.
In 1983 he announced the name of his heir and appointed him as the president of Bihar Yoga VIdyalaya and its related centres. That lucky person is Swami Niranjananandaji.
In 1984 he established Shivananda Math where people are undertaken physical treatment and given medicines free of cost.
In 1988, he left Monghyr and travelled many pilgrimage in India as a religious wanderer and at last he reached at Baidyanath Dham. Here he started penance wearing a Kopin (a piece of cloth tucked to the waist). During the penance he got a command - The facilities which I have given you, give to your neighbours.
These days he is worshipping to serve the people in the surrounding area. The offerings he gets, such as vehicles, cattle, medicine, clothes, sewing machines etc. he donates to the needy. Every year in the month of November/ December a grand fair is held here with great pomp and show. Sita-Vivah is arranged here. Thousand of devotees from different corners of the world participate in this fair. Foreigners are seen in every corner of the town. This Ashram is indeed a sacred place in Deoghar.

Pagla Baba Ashram

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It is situated 8 km. away from Tower Chowk on the Jasidih - Rohini road. It was established by Pagla Baba (Late Lilananda Thakur) who belonged to Bangladesh.
Here idols of Radha - Krishna are installed. The idols weigh about 6 quintals and are made of eight metals.
The Ashram conducts continuous Sankirtan. This ashram is worth visiting.

Naulakha Temple

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It is situated 1.5 k.m. away from Baba Baidyanath Temple. It is a nice visiting spot. This temple looks like the temple of Ramakrishna in Belur. Inside it there are idols of Radha - Krishna. Its height is 146 feet.
The amount spent in construction of the temple was about Rupees Nine lakhs (9 lakhs). Hence it became known as Naulakha Temple. This amount was donated entirely by Rani Charushila who belonged to Pathuria Ghat King's family, Kolkata.
At the early age she lost her husband Akshay Ghosh and son Jatindra Ghosh. Grieved by the deaths, she left her home and met the saint Balananda Brahmachari who asked her to construct this temple.

Nandan Pahar

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It is 3 km away from Baba Baidyanath station. It attracts a lot of people.
There are few temples on the hill and inside them the idols of Shiva, Parvati, Ganesh and Kartik have been installed. There is a water tank from where filtered water is supplied to each corner of Deoghar through pipes. The sunrise and sunset from here is a charming scene.
It is said that once King Ravana tried to enter Shivadham forcibly. Nandi was the door keeper at that time. Nandi obstructed him. Ravana became angry and threw him who fell here and in this way this hill became to known by this name.
Here a park named Nandan Hill Entertainment Park has been constructed. It is a favourite spot of tiny - tots. Facilities of swinging, boating etc. are available here.
It is situated in the western side of the Deoghar town. It has got importance in the religious history of Babadham.
One can view the beauty of Deoghar from here.

Mansarovar

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It was constructed by Raja Man Singh, who was Akbar's General and the then ruler of Bengal. It is situated in the west of Shivaganga.
There is also an altar of Khatri Baba whom people worship to fulfil their needs.

Lila Temple

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It is situated three miles away from Deoghar in the east. It is also famous as Arunachal Mission. Thakur Jayanand Deo founded it. The goddess Kali is the main deity of this Ashram.
Propagation of universal brotherhood is the motto and objective of this Ashram.

Kundeshwari

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It is situated about a kilometre away from Chandi Hill, Navagraha Temples are also situated here.
Idols of Lord Shiva & Mother Parvati, Ganesh & Lakshmi - Narayan have been installed here. It was constructed by Late Ramapada Bandopadhyay (Hoogly, W.B.) in 1911 A.D.
On the way to this temple a Kali Temple was established by Late Fakir Chandra Chatterjee.

Kathikund

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There is a Dhaninath temple at Kathikund which is on the road. In the month of February - March, a fair is organised here. People from all areas of Santhal pargana visit the fair.

Hathi Pahar or Mahadevatari

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There is a small hillock in the east of Deoghar which is popularly known as Hathipahar or Mahadevatari. The name of Mahadevatari defines that this hillock is beneath the temple of Shiva. From a distance this hillock looks like an elephant, that is why, it is called Hathipahar.
There is a small stream of water which flows continuously. People visit this place and drink the river water. The belief is that its water can cure all stomach related diseases.

Harila Jori

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Harila Jori is situated in the northern side of Deoghar, 8 km away from Baidyanath temple and 5 km away from Tower chowk. During ancient times, the area was full of Haritaki (Myrobalan) trees. This was the place where Ravana handed over the lingam to lord Visnu disguised as a brahmin, and went for urination. A stream flows here and is known as Ravana Jori
Legends say that both Shiva and Vishnu met here. Hence the name, Harila - Jori.
The Shiva temple was constructed by Achintan Das. There is also a tank at this place which is famous as Shool Harini tank. It is a famous tourist place.

Dolmanch

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It is situated in the main market. It is on the first floor of Rasraj Sweet House. A strong swing made of stone is here.
On the Full Moon Day idols of Radha - Krishna are swung here. A big crowd is gathered and every one enjoy Holi with abir etc.

Devasangha Math

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Dev Sangha Math/ Ashram at Deoghar, a divine Association, was founded by Narendra Nath Brahmachary. It has a number of disciples.
It is situated 3 km away from Baidyanath temple and 2 km from Deoghar railway station.
The Nava Durga Temple at Devsangha Math has an idol of Goddess Durga in the Bengali style. There are also images of Krishna, Annapurna and Maheshwara. The temple was constructed in 1955. Beside the temple, a statue of its founder Narendra Nath Brahmachary is also installed.
Durga Puja celebration at Devsangha is an important event at Deoghar. Thousands of devotees come every year during this celebration.

Basukinath Temple

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It is famous for its Shiva Temple, and the pilgrimage to Babadham is considered incomplete, without paying homage at Basukinath.
It is situated 42 km from Deoghar near the village of Jarmundi and connected by road. It is an indigenous temple bearing local art.
The temple’s history is connected with Ghatwals of Nonihat. There are other small temples also in the campus of the Basukinath temple.

Baiju Temple

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There are three temples to the west of the Baba Baidyanath Temple complex in the main market of Deoghar. These are known as Baiju Temples.
The Baiju temples were constructed by the heir of main priests of Baba Baidyanath Temple. A Shiva Lingam has been installed in each temple.
As per the Hindu mythology a Bhil boy named Baiju was taught by Lord Vishnu about the worshipping. He was told to pour water on Shiva Lingam. He had no water pot. He filled his mouth with water and poured it upon the Shiva Lingam. Lord Shiva was so pleased with his simplicity that he appeared to him. The temple has been known by this boys name since that event.

Ajgaibinath at Sultanganj

2008-05-28T02:02:00.000-07:00

Sultanganj is a village in Bhagalpur district of Bihar, 109 km away from Babadham. It is situated close to the Ganges, near a railway station by the same name. Sultanganj is conspicuous for two great rocks of granite, one of which on the river bank is crowned by Musalman mosque. The second and larger one is occupied by a temple of Ghaibinath Siva, and is a place of great holiness in the eyes of Hindus. The river here impinges on a stone cliff and this is believed to be the scene of the love of River Nymph and Lord Shiva.
Close to Sultanganj railway station are extensive remains of Buddhist monasteries, where a number of figures have been exhumed, and nearby is a fine old Stupa.
The tradition runs that a devotee or sanyasi named Harinath, who had forsaken the pleasures of the world, dwelt here at one time. He used to make pilgrimages to the shrine of Baidyanath at Babadham until, at last, God informed him in a dream that he would have no further occasion to go so far, as on his return to this island rock he would find an image there to which he may address his prayers. He found the promised idol awaiting him at Sultanganj and founding a convent of devotees. He became its first mahant. Almost everyone who comes to bathe at Sultanganj visits the place, and carries up a vessel of water to pour over the image.
It is said that in ancient times Sultanganj being the abode of the sage Jahnu, was a very famous place. Being the Ashram of a sage, it must have been a popular seat of learning and students must have received learning and erudition under the guidance of the learned sage.
The hill that contained the Ashram of Jahnu Muni is still existing in the mid stream of the Ganga and at present the famous Shiva temple of Ajgaivinath is situated at its summit. The origin of the temple is shrouded in mystery. According to the legend lord Shiva took here a bow known as Ajgav and so the place came to be known as Ajgaivinath. It is commonly said that Kalapahar failed to demolish Ajgaivinath temple but he could destroy the Parvati temple on the neighbouring hill and built a mosque there. Formerly, this hill must have been bigger and spacious. The high floods and the constant strong currents of the Ganga must have worn away the decaying granite rocks of the hill. he present village Jahangira to the west of Sultangang still keeps alive the memory of the Ashram of Jahnu Muni. The name of Jahangira appears to be the distorted form of Jahnugiri (the hill of Jahnu) or Jahnu griha (the abode of Jahnu).
During the rule of the Mauryas, Guptas and Palas many works of art and architecture were raised at Sultanganj. The area has yielded ancient relicks like stupas, seals, coins, terracotta and Hindu and Buddha images. Many carvings can still be seen in the Sultanganj hills. A number of small images along with a copper image of Lord Buddha about seven feet high were excavated here. A Buddha image found in Sultanganj is now in Birmingham Museum.
A large number of antiquities covered from krishnagarh at Sultanganj have been preserved in Patna Museum. They indicate a very high standard of Hindu religiosity and culture. The fact that some of the images and other antiquities are Buddhistic reiterates that the area was very important from Buddhistic point of view as well. Most of the antiquities have been identified with the medieval period.
Through various vicissitudes Sultanganj continued in importance in the later centuries. It is peculiar that a place which has the famous Shiva temple known as Ajgaivinath, which is quite old, should have a name which has a clear muslim impress. It is all the more so when it is remembered that Ajgaivinath temple is one of the three famous Shiva temples in Bihar & Jharkhand, the two other being Basukinath and Baidyanath temples.

The Healing and spiritual power of Mantra

2008-02-10T21:08:00.000-08:00

Mananaat traayate iti mantrah, i.e. That which uplifts by constant repetition is a Mantra. In chanting of the Mantra, the sound itself lifts the believer towards the higher self. These sound elements of Sanskrit language are permanent entities and are of everlasting significance. In the recitation of Sanskrit Mantras the sound is very important. Sound can bring transformation in man while leading him/her to power and strength. In fact it wouldn't be wrong to state that the sound is power. Different sounds have different effects on human psyche. If a soft sound of wind rustling through leaves soothes our nerves, the musical note of running stream enchants our heart, thunders may cause awe or fear, and so on. The sacred utterances or chanting of Sanskrit Mantras provide us with the power to attain our goals and lift ourselves from the ordinary to the higher level of consciousness. They give us the power to cure diseases; ward off evils; gain wealth; acquire supernatural powers; worship a deity for exalted communion and for attaining blissful state and attain liberation.
It is important that one must have faith in the recitation of Mantras. It is primarily through faith aided by strong will that one achieves one's objectives. A sound body and calm mind are essential for the chanter of Mantras. Once he/she is free from all worries and has achieved stability in his/her mind and body, he/she will derive maximum benefit through the recitation of Mantras. He/She must have a definite object in view and strong will power to obtain the desired thing, and then direct that will to achieve the goal.
The Vedas are Mantric teachings. They consist of various Mantric chants or hymns cognized by different seers or Rishis from the Cosmic Mind. Since the Vedas are impersonal and eternal, the exact historical date of Mantra chanting cannot be given. For example, every Mantra in the Vedas, Upanishads and various religious traditions (sampradayas) within Hindu religion begin with OM or AUM, which is the primordial sound. What is the primordial sound? It is the sound which took place at the time of the creation of the Universe- also refer to the modern "Big Bang' theory of creation of Sir James Jeans. In the Bible (John 1:1) it is said, " In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God ". The modern Vedic philosophers have interpreted this teaching of the Bible, as OM is God, the Word, unmanifested. OM is the most important of all mantras. All mantras generally begin and often also end with OM. However, there is much confusion about OM. OM is the mantra of assent. It means yes and affirms and energizes whatever we say after it. That is why all mantras begin with OM. OM is also the mantra of ascent and causes our energy to rise upward into the infinite. OM is expansive and increases the fire, air and ether elements, particularly ether. It also gives strength, protection and grace. It connects us with the guidance power of the inner Guru.
The chanting of OM (or AUM) in Transcendental Meditation has now got a special type of honor and in future, treatment can be possible for tension and many other difficult diseases and it is also possible for prevention of the diseases that are possible to come. The Brahmvarchas Shodh Sansthan (A research center for integration of science & spirituality) in Shantikunj, Haridwar, India is the only place I know of which carries out extensive experiments on mantra shakti,. The result of these experiments is used to testify that Mantropathy can be reasoned scientifically for healing and environment cleansing. I have had several opportunities to interview the Director of the Sansthan, Dr. Pranav Pandya in my weekly Vedic religion broadcast, Bhajanawali that has been in existence for the last 21 years (visit www.bhajanawali.com). According to him also, there is no other place where extensive researches on Mantra chanting are being done. I am also aware that the American Institute of Vedic Studies has a rich library of the published materials on the benefits of Mantra Chanting including OM and Gayatri Mantra.
As far as my personal experience is concerned, over the last 21 years of my Vedic religion broadcast, several listeners have told me how they have benefited physically and spiritually from chanting Maha-Mrtyunjay mantra for 15 minutes every morning. Although there are many schools of thought on the methods of chanting, it is however universally agreed that sounds are vibrations. A Mantra chanted correctly or incorrectly, knowingly or unknowingly, carefully, is sure to give the desired result for physical and mental well-being. It is also believed by many that the glory of Mantra chanting cannot be established through reasoning and intellect. It can be experienced or realized only through devotion, faith and constant repetition of the Mantra.
Yet, there is another interpretation of the power inherent in the chanting of Mantras. According to these scholars Mantra chanting is Mantra Yoga, which is an exact science. The simple yet powerful Mantra, Om or Aum harmonizes the physical forces with the emotional forces with the intellectual forces. When this happens, you begin to feel like a complete being. The World Health organization (WHO) defines health as, " complete physical and mental well-being ". The sound healing obtained by Mantra chanting has this capability of complete cure but the healing process is very slow and requires a lot of patience and unfailing faith. In my opinion the healing can be expedited if a mantra is obtained from a Guru. The Guru adds a divine potency to that mantra. It becomes more effective and thus helps the chanter in his/her healing faster. However, since the healing process by Mantra chanting is extremely slow and depends on the capacity of continuous practice and unfailing faith of the chanter, it will not totally remove the need for allopathic treatment in this computer age when people desire instant cure for their physical ailments.
Now, let me give you my concerted opinion based on 21 years of chanting OM GAM GANAPATAYAE NAMAH, the Mantra given by my Guru. It has warded off all evil and blessed me with abundance, prudence and success in every walk of life. Moreover, when I chanted this Manta before beginning a journey, a new job, or before entering into any new contract or business, all impediments were removed and my endeavor was crowned with success. The credit of all my worldly and spiritual successes goes to my Guru-Mantra Sadhana.

SHIVRATRI

2008-02-10T21:04:00.000-08:00

The absolute formless God, Sadashiv appeared in the form of “Lingodbhav Moorti” exactly at midnight on Shivratri. That is why all Shiv devotees keep vigil during the night of Shivratri and do Shivlingam abhishekham at midnight. Also remember God in his manifestation as Vishnu made his appearance as Krishna at Gokul at Midnight, exactly 180 days after Shivratri, commonly known as Janmashtami. Thus, the circle of one year (360 days) is divided into two by these two auspicious days.
Lord Shiva was married to Devi Parvati on Shivratri (different kalpa). Remember Shiva minus Parvati is pure Nirgun Brahman. With his illusive power (Maya, Parvati) He becomes the Sagun Brahman for the purpose of the pious devotion of his devotees.
It is also believed that on Shivratri (different kalpa) Lord Shiva became Neelkantham by swallowing the deadly poison that came up from the ocean during the churning of Kshir Sagar. The poison was so deadly that even a drop in His stomach, which represents the universe, would have annihilated the entire world. Hence, He held it in His neck, which turned blue due to the effect of poison. Shivratri is therefore also a day of thanksgiving to the Lord for protecting us from annihilation. The 14th Shlok of Shivmahimna Stotra says:

Baba Vaidyanath Dham

2008-02-07T05:45:00.000-08:00

Baba Dham is considered the most sacred place by millions of Indian and Nepalies.