Bhuteshwar Shivling, the world’s largest-growing natural lingam | Fusion - WeRIndia

India is home to countless ancient temples and sacred sites, each holding deep spiritual significance.

Among these, natural formations resembling Shivalingas are considered divine.

One of the most fascinating is the Bhuteshwar Shivling in Maroda Village, Chhattisgarh.

This naturally occurring rock lingam is believed to be the largest in the world and continues to grow over time, making it a site of wonder and devotion.

Nestled in the Gariaband district, about 3 km from Gariaband town, this massive Shivalinga stands tall amid dense forests and rolling hills. It holds a unique distinction as a self-manifested (Swayambhu) lingam.

Unlike traditional man-made temples, this sacred site has formed naturally, attracting thousands of devotees every year, especially during Mahashivratri and the Shravan month.

What makes Bhuteshwar Shivling even more mysterious is its continuous growth. Historical records state that in 1952, its height was around 35 feet with a circumference of 150 feet.

However, by 1994, modern measurements showed a height of 62 feet and a circumference of 290 feet. Today, the Shivling is nearly 80 feet tall, with government officials measuring its height annually on Mahashivratri.

Bhuteshwar Shivling is revered as “Ardhanarishvara”, symbolizing the union of Shiva and Parvati.

A small fissure on its surface represents the balance of masculine and feminine energies in the universe. This unique aspect makes it an important site for devotees who seek divine blessings for harmony and prosperity.

Pilgrims from across Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh visit this site, especially during the Sawan month.

The Kanwar Yatra, where devotees carry holy water from the Mahanadi River in Rajim, is a major ritual here. It is believed that offering a jug of water to the Shivling can bring peace and fulfilment.

Local officials confirm that the Shivling grows by 6-8 inches every year, making it a geological and spiritual marvel. The State Revenue Department maintains official records of its growth, adding to its mystical aura.

Bhuteshwar Shivling, also known as Bhuteshwarnath Dham, continues to intrigue both scientists and devotees.

Whether viewed as a geological phenomenon or a divine manifestation, it remains a site of deep faith and wonder.

Image Credit: Ksh85, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Image Reference: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bhuteshwarnath.jpg