Aapeshwar Mahadev Temple

The Aapeshwar Mahadev Temple is a significant Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the town of Ramseen within the Jalore District of Rajasthan, India. Its fame stems from the discovery of a life-sized, Swayambhu (self-manifested) murti of Shiva, unearthed during agricultural work in Vikram Samvat 1318 (circa 1261 CE). Local tradition recounts that a farmer's ploughshare halted at the site, and an Akashvani (divine voice) guided villagers to excavate the sacred image and consecrate it as 'Aapeshwar,' meaning 'Lord who manifested Himself.'

History and Discovery

According to local lore, the temple's origins are tied to a miraculous discovery in the 13th century. A farmer's ploughshare struck something solid while tilling the land, revealing a natural, life-sized murti of Shiva. The divine voice heard at the time, an Akashvani, instructed the villagers on its consecration. The village itself is said to derive its name, Ramseen, from Lord Rama's sojourn in the area during his exile, originally being known as Ramasayana.

Architecture and Features

The sanctum of the Aapeshwar Mahadev Temple houses the Swayambhu murti of Shiva, which remains uncarved and is set directly upon the bedrock with minimal alteration. Adjacent to the shrine is a stepped kund (tank), a water reservoir whose waters are reverently compared by devotees to those found in Dwarka, a pilgrimage site of great importance.

Festivals and Worship

The temple is an active center of worship, with prominent celebrations including Mahashivaratri and Shravan Mondays. During these times, devotees observe fasts, offer milk and Bel leaves, and participate in night-long vigils and aratis. A notable annual event is the Aapeshwar Mahadev Mela, a seven-day fair that commences on Mahashivaratri, featuring devotional singing and folk performances. An annual ritual bathing of the murti, known as Rudrābhishek, also marks its long heritage.

Administration and Access

The temple complex is managed by the Shri Apeshwar Mahadev Sewa Trust, which oversees its maintenance and provides visitor amenities. Daily darshan is available to devotees from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Access to the temple is facilitated via the district road network from Jalore and Bhinmal, with the nearest railway station being Marwar Bhinmal.