Nageshwar Jyotirlinga
నాగేశ్వర్
Lord Shiva as Nageshwara (lord of serpents) · Dwarka, Gujarat
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the 12 sacred manifestations of Lord Shiva as a self-manifest pillar of light (jyoti-linga). Located in Dwarka, Gujarat. Near Dwarka (Krishna's capital). Features a massive 25-metre statue of Shiva. Specifically venerated for protection from snake-related Kala Sarpa Dosha.
Significance
Near Dwarka (Krishna's capital). Features a massive 25-metre statue of Shiva. Specifically venerated for protection from snake-related Kala Sarpa Dosha.
Mythological Origin
Shiva slew the demon Daruka (a Naga or serpent demon) here to protect his devotee Supriya. Hence "Nageshwar" — lord of the Nagas.
About the 12 Jyotirlingas
The 12 Jyotirlingas are the holiest Shiva pilgrimage sites in India. Per the Shiva Mahapurana, when devotees compete to claim Lord Shiva's primacy, he manifested as an infinite pillar of light (jyoti-stambha) at 12 sacred locations. Devotees visiting all 12 in a single lifetime is one of the highest pilgrimages (Dwadasha Jyotirlinga Yatra). Reciting the 12-line Jyotirlinga Stotra ("Saurashtre Somanatham...") daily is said to grant the merit of physical pilgrimage to all 12.