Aundha Nagnath Jyotirlinga

Overview

Aundha Nagnath Temple in Hingoli, Maharashtra, is considered the 8th Jyotirlinga by many devotees. Believed to be from Mahabharata era, the original temple was built by Yudhishthira and later rebuilt by Yadavas in the 13th century. The present Hemadpanthi structure was renovated by Ahilyabai Holkar after Mughal damage. The legend says Pandavas installed this lingam during their exile. Architecture is unique — the temple is below ground level, and the first floor has no roof. The sanctum is narrow and allows only a few devotees at once. Unlike other Shiva temples, Nandi is not in front but in a separate shrine at the back. Mahashivratri and Shravan Somwar are major festivals with state-wide pilgrims. The temple survived multiple invasions and stands as a symbol of resilience. Aundha Nagnath is closely linked to saint Namdev, who sang abhangas here.