Shri Siddhanatha Mahadeva Temple is an ancient shrine situated at Saras village, of
Olpad Taluk, in
Surat District of
Gujarat. The temple is dedicated to
Lord Shiva, popularly known here as Sri Siddhanatha Mahadev. The temple is found mentioned in
Skanda Purana. There is also a big tank near the temple.
Legend has it that after killing the demon king Ravana, Lord Ram was returning to Ayodhya through an area near the Tapti River. He had to perform atonement for the sin incurred in slaying Ravana. Lord Ram wanted to worship Lord Mahadev (Shiva) to be free from sin. No priests were available there at that time. Lord Ram asked Hanuman, the monkey-god, to fetch Brahmins from the forests near the river. Hanuman brought a group of Brahmins and with their help, Ram installed the Shivling there and performed the sacrifice. Lord Shiva was addressed as Siddhanatha Mahadev. The Brahmins who helped Ram to perform the sacrifice were called Mauktika Brahmins. It is said that it was the same spot where the temple now stands.
