Mahakaleshwara Temple, built in Shikara style, is one of the majestic shrines in
Ujjain of
Madhya Pradesh.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it enshrines a Shivling, which is believed to have been self-manifested. This Shivling is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in the country. Also found here are the images of Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesh, Lord Kartikeya and Nandi - Lord Shiva’s divine bull.
The legend of this shrine is related to a demon Dushana who tormented the residents of Avanti. As a result, Lord Shiva appeared from the ground and vanquished the demon.
Uniqueness of this shrine is the idol that faces the south, a positioning upheld by tantric traditions. Spacious courtyard surrounded by huge walls adds to splendor of the temple. A grand fair is held during Mahashivaratri.
