Bollywood actress Ananya Panday recently sought blessings at the sacred Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple in Maharashtra on the occasion of Sawan Shivratri. Dressed in a simple yellow ethnic outfit with a red tika on her forehead, she offered prayers to the Shivling and shared serene photos on Instagram with the caption: ॐ नमः पार्वती पतये, हर हर महादेव! Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga.
Bhimashankar is the sixth of the twelve revered Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Nestled in the Sahyadri hills of Pune district, about 110 km from Pune, the temple lies within the lush Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary. This scenic location also marks the origin of the Bhima River, adding to its spiritual and natural significance.
According to Hindu tradition, a Jyotirlinga represents Lord Shiva as a pillar of divine light. The Bhimashankar shrine is believed to house a self-manifested (Swayambhu) lingam. Legend holds that Lord Shiva appeared in a fierce form here to defeat the demon Bhima (or Tripurasura in some accounts). The sweat from Shiva’s body during the intense battle is said to have given rise to the Bhima River.
ALSO READ : ‘ Never Dated A Bollywood Actress’: Brett Lee Clears Air On Preity Zinta Link
The temple, built in the Nagara architectural style with later additions by Maratha patrons like Nana Phadnavis, features intricate carvings and a peaceful atmosphere amid dense forests. Devotees visit seeking protection from negative forces, purification, and spiritual growth. The month of Shravan and festivals like Maha Shivaratri draw large numbers of pilgrims to this powerful abode of Mahadev.
Ananya’s visit highlights the enduring appeal of this ancient shrine, where faith, mythology, and nature converge. For countless devotees, Bhimashankar remains a place of profound devotion and divine energy.