Ukhimath
Ukhimath is a significant pilgrimage town located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India, situated at an elevation of approximately 1311 meters. It holds religious importance as the winter abode for the idols of Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar temples, where they are worshipped for six months annually.
Key Facts
- ›Ukhimath serves as the winter seat for the idols of Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar temples.
- ›The town is believed to be named after Usha, who married Aniruddha, the grandson of Lord Krishna.
- ›The Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath houses the festival idol of Lord Kedarnath during winter.
- ›Lord Omkareshwar is worshipped in Ukhimath throughout the year.
- ›Ukhimath is located at an elevation of about 1311 meters above sea level.
- ›It was established as a Nagar Panchayat (municipal board) in 2012.
Lord Kedarnath, Lord Omkareshwar, Usha, Aniruddha
- Winter Abode For Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar Idols
- Mythological Association With the Marriage of Usha and Aniruddha
- Important Pilgrimage Site
About Ukhimath
Ukhimath is a significant town and pilgrimage site nestled in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1311 meters above sea level, it holds profound religious importance, particularly during the winter months.
Religious Significance
The primary religious role of Ukhimath is serving as the winter seat for the idols of two prominent Himalayan temples: Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar. For six months of the year, the deities' idols (known as 'dolis') are brought to Ukhimath, where devotees can continue their worship. The Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath is central to this practice, housing the 'Utsava Murti' (festival idol) of Lord Kedarnath during the winter season. Lord Omkareshwar himself is also worshipped at this temple throughout the year.
Mythology and Naming
According to local Hindu mythology, Ukhimath is associated with the divine marriage of Usha, the daughter of the demon king Banasura, and Aniruddha, the grandson of Lord Krishna. It is believed that the town's earlier name, 'Ushamath', and its current name, Ukhimath, are derived from Usha's name, underscoring its mythological connection.
Administration
In terms of administrative status, Ukhimath was established as a Nagar Panchayat (municipal board) on July 7, 2012, when the two revenue villages of Dangwari and Bhatwari were merged to form the new municipal entity.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the religious significance of Ukhimath?
Ukhimath is a vital pilgrimage site where the idols of Kedarnath and Madhyamaheshwar temples are brought during the winter months for worship. The Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath specifically houses the festival idol of Lord Kedarnath during this period.
What is the origin of the name Ukhimath?
According to Hindu mythology, the name Ukhimath is derived from 'Ushamath', believed to be named after Usha, the daughter of Banasura. Usha was married to Aniruddha, the grandson of Lord Krishna, and the location is associated with their union.
Which deities are worshipped in Ukhimath?
The primary deity worshipped in Ukhimath throughout the year is Lord Omkareshwar. Additionally, during the winter months, the festival idol of Lord Kedarnath is worshipped here.
Where is Ukhimath located and what is its altitude?
Ukhimath is situated in the Rudraprayag district of the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It lies at an elevation of approximately 1311 meters above sea level.
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