Varanasi, the eternal city of Lord Shiva, holds within its ancient ghats and lanes a profound astrological secret: nine specific Shivlings, each intimately connected to one of the Navagrahas, or nine celestial planets. These sacred shrines are believed to have been installed by the planets themselves through intense penance, offering devotees a unique spiritual remedy for planetary afflictions.
The Divine Legends of Planetary Shivlings
According to ancient texts and local belief, each of these nine Shivlings has a distinct origin story where a planet or deity performed severe austerities to invoke Lord Shiva's presence.
The Shukreshwar Linga is associated with Shukra (Venus). Legend states that Shukracharya, the guru of demons, dug a well in Kashi and performed puja for 1000 years to appease Shiva. Pleased, the Lord appeared as a linga, now known as Shukreshwar.
The Gabhastishwara Linga at Panchganga Ghat is linked to Surya (Sun). It is said Lord Surya installed this linga and requested Shiva and Parvati to reside here after the sun's rays became unbearable for living beings.
The Chandreshwara Linga was installed by Chandra (Moon). It is believed that worshipping this linga on Purnima and Amavasya can relieve mental illnesses.
Shrines for Wisdom, Communication, and Dosha Relief
Other planetary Shivlings offer specific boons to devotees, addressing both spiritual and worldly challenges.
The Budheswar Linga, installed by Budh (Mercury), is sought for intelligence and enhanced communication skills.
The Mangaleshwar Linga was installed by Mangal (Mars), considered a son of Shiva. Devotees worship here for relief from Manglik dosha.
The Shanishwar Linga, dedicated to Shani (Saturn), and the Kambaleshwara or Rahueshwar Linga, linked to Rahu, are worshipped to mitigate the negative effects of these planets.
The Ashvatareshvara Linga is associated with Ketu, and the Brihaspateeshwar Linga is dedicated to Guru Brihaspati (Jupiter), who was blessed with the name Vachaspati here.
A Living Tapestry of Faith and Astrology
These nine shrines represent a unique synthesis of Shaivism and Jyotish (Vedic astrology) in one of Hinduism's holiest cities. They form a spiritual circuit where faith transcends ritual, offering a tangible connection between cosmic influences and divine grace. For countless pilgrims, a visit to Kashi is incomplete without seeking the blessings of these planetary manifestations of Mahadev, turning the city into not just a abode of Shiva, but a sanctuary for cosmic harmony.
