As India gears up for the grand celebration of Maha Shivratri on February 15, preparations are in full swing across Shiva temples nationwide. Amid the fervor, one extraordinary shrine stands out in Deoria district’s Rudrapur town, Uttar Pradesh – the Dugdhश्वर Mahadev Temple. This ancient site, believed to be thousands of years old, traces its origins to a mystical event involving a cow’s milk, and its unique Shivling is said to have roots extending into the Patal Lok, the netherworld.
Devotees flock here with unwavering faith, convinced that a mere touch or offering of milk to Baba Dugdhश्वर Mahadev eradicates life’s miseries and cures physical ailments. What sets this temple apart is its Shivling, resembling a fragmented rock rather than the typical smooth form. Revered as the Chandalingsh avatar, it is considered a subordinate manifestation of Ujjain’s revered Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga. Pilgrims unable to visit Ujjain find equivalent spiritual merit in its darshan.
Spanning 18 acres, the temple’s sanctum lies 15 feet below ground level, accessible via stairs, earning Baba the title ‘King of Patal.’ Legends claim the Shivling’s base connects directly to the underworld. The temple’s lore is captivating: A cowherd noticed his cow daily spilling milk at this spot. Upon investigation, a divine presence revealed itself, manifesting as the self-emerged Dugdhश्वर Mahadev. Since then, the tradition of offering pure cow milk persists.
Maha Shivratri transforms the temple into a vibrant fairground, with special adornments for Baba and throngs of devotees seeking wish fulfillment. During Sawan and regular Shivratris, similar festivities draw massive crowds. Beyond spirituality, the site holds political significance, often hosting dignitaries. This Maha Shivratri, immerse in the divine aura of Dugdhश्वर Mahadev for blessings that transcend the ordinary.