Navnath Mahadev

The Navnath Temples in Baroda (now Vadodara) are a remarkable collection of nine shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to local legend, these temples were established by the Rishi Vishwamitra during his penance in the region. Although much of their early history remains shrouded in mystery, the temples were significantly developed and renovated during the mid-19th century.

The Gaekwads, rulers of Baroda at the time, undertook the development of these temples between 1850 and 1875, with the support and blessings of a revered Sadhu from the Nath community. Maharaja Sayajirao II played a key role in the major renovation work that revitalized these sacred sites.

Below is the list of the Navnath Temples, each with its unique location, information and significance:

1. Siddhnath Mahadev

Located near Khanderao Market, this temple is beside a large lake known famously as Siddhnath Talav, which is considered very sacred. It is said that sages, saints, and even Shankaracharya would bathe in this lake at least once in their lifetime. There is a well next to the lake, and because the wishes of devotees are believed to be fulfilled here, it earned the name Siddhnath.

2. Ramnath Mahadev

Situated in the Gajrawadi area of the city, this temple is also located near a lake and a cremation ground (smashan). Legend has it that Lord Ram himself came here to perform the abhishek (ritual bathing) of Ramnath Mahadev, hence the temple is named Ramnath Mahadev.

3. Thekarnath Mahadev

In the Fatehpura area of the city, Thekarnath Mahadev features two Shivlings and two domes. As a revered deity of the Khedavala, the temple underwent renovation by the deity’s devotees. It is believed that worshipping Thekarnath Mahadev brings spiritual elevation.

4. Motnath Mahadev

Located in the Harni area of the city, local folklore suggests that the Pandavas worshipped here. It is believed that worship and rituals at this temple help in attaining a pure mind and fulfilling desires.

5. Kamnath Mahadev

This temple is situated behind Sayajibaug (Kamati Baug) on the banks of the Vishwamitri River. To enter the sanctum, one must descend seven feet. Local legends connect this temple with the sage Vishwamitra, and it is named Kamnath Mahadev because it is believed that the sage’s wishes were fulfilled here.

6. Bhimnath Mahadev

Located in the Sayajigunj area, this temple is also near the Vishwamitri River and a cremation ground. Ancient legends speak of a demon named Hidimb and his sister Hidimba’s marriage to Bhima, with the Shiva Lingam installed here as a result, leading to the name Bhimnath Mahadev.

7. Kashi Vishweshwar Mahadev

Situated near Jetalpur Crossroads, this temple was renovated by Gopalrao Mairal. Visiting this temple is said to bring a sense of peace and tranquility.

8. Jagnath Mahadev

Located near the Kalali Village on the banks of the Vishwamitri River, this temple is also close to a cremation ground. It is said that Prince Trishanku performed a yajna (yagya) here and attained heaven in his physical form. The temple, originally known as Yagnath, is now called Jagnath Mahadev.

9. Kotnath Mahadev

In the village of Vadsar, this temple is also near a cremation ground. Inside the sanctum, there are two Shivlings. It is believed that visiting this temple leads one on the path to prosperity and ultimately liberation.

A distinctive feature of the Navnath temples is the presence of the deity Parvati behind the Shivling. The idol of Parvati in these temples is depicted with four arms. In one of her hands, she holds Lord Ganesha, who is known as the remover of obstacles and a symbol of prosperity. In another hand, she holds the Shivling, representing both compassion and destruction.

This unique representation is consistent across all nine temples. According to saints, scholars, and the heads of various akhadas, this idol symbolizes the true essence of the cosmic power that sustains the universe. The presence of Ganesha signifies the power to remove obstacles and bring blessings, while the Shivling represents the dual aspects of mercy and destruction.

Here is the custom map with locations of all the 9 temples mentioned above: