Eklingji ji Temple
Kailashpuri, the modern name for the town of Eklingji, 22 km. north of Udaipur is
famous for its one hundred and eight temples enclosed by a high, fortified wall.
Shri Parmeshwaraji Maharaj Shri Eklingji
Shri Parmeshwaraji Maharaj, the principal deity of Shri Eklingji Temple is the personal
family deity of the Maharanas of Mewar. Founded by Bapa Rawal, the shrine itself
is as old and ancient as the State of Mewar.
Eklingji is a manifestation of the Hindu god, Lord SHIVA. 'Ek' means 'one', 'ling'
refers to lingam (penis), the life-giving phallic symbol of Shiva, and 'ji' is a
widespread suffix of respect in India. Eklingji has been the deity of Mewar's rulers
since the reign of BAPA RAWAL (734-753). Though crowned and invested with the insignia
of royalty, they have acted as DIWAN (Prime Minister or, more appropriately, Trustee)
for the god of his State of Mewar.
Traditionally, BAPA RAWAL (734-753), founder of the Mewar Dynasty, built the original
shrine.
Shri Eklingji Temple Complex
On this site it is said he received religious education from the sage, HARIT RASHI
who meditated in a nearby cave that houses a Shiva Lingam, and where Bapa received
the guru's blessing and code of conduct, which has always been the main guideline
of the Mewar Dynasty. The temple has been rebuilt and refurbished by several Maharanas,
including Maharana RAIMAL (1473-1509). However, architecturally, the present day
structure is of a later date and bears no sign of the 8th century.
It is made entirely of white marble. The walled boundary of the temple has 108 shrines
as well as the main shrine, which consists of a double-storeyed porch and sanctuary,
an elaborately pillared hall, and a flat, pyramidal roof that is adorned with hundreds
of circular knobs and crowned by a tall tower. A four-faced idol of Lord Eklingji,
made of black marble, is in the inner sanctuary. Outside the temple is a small silver
statue of Shiva's sacred bull, NANDI.
Facing the Nandi is a statue of Bapa Rawal, standing with clasped hands.
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