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Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple

Uttar Pradesh · India

8 story sections

Ratneshwar Mahadev Mandir is one of the most photographed temples in the holy city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. The temple, while apparently well-preserved, leans significantly towards the back side, and its garbhagriha is generally below the water much of the year, except for a few months during the summer.

History & cultureBY TELLBY

Contents

8 sections · tap a section for its opening lines
  1. 1Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple

    Welcome to one of the most intriguing and visually stunning sites in all of Varanasi: the Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, frequently referred to as the 'Leaning Temple of Kashi'. As you approach this structure, located near the…

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  2. 2The Mystery of the Lean

    As we examine the tilt of the Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, we must consider the factors that have led to its unique orientation. From a geological and engineering perspective, the lean is likely the result of the soft, silty soil…

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  3. 3The Legend of the Mother's Debt

    No scholarly investigation of a Varanasi landmark is complete without exploring its mythological and legendary origins. The most popular local story regarding the Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple involves a high-ranking official or…

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  4. 4Architecture of the Nagara Style

    Let us take a closer look at the physical attributes of the temple. Ratneshwar Mahadev is a classic example of the Nagara style of temple architecture, which flourished in North India between the 5th and 13th centuries. …

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  5. 5The Impact of Nature and the 2015 Strike

    The resilience of the Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple is not just about its ability to withstand the water, but also its survival against the elements. In 2015, the temple was struck by a powerful bolt of lightning during a severe…

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  6. 6Manikarnika: The Backdrop of Mortality

    It is impossible to discuss the Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple without acknowledging its immediate surroundings: the Manikarnika Ghat. This is the primary cremation site of Varanasi, where the 'Antyesti' or final rites are performed…

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  7. 7The Hidden Sanctum: The Underwater Experience

    For those visiting during the dry season, the ability to approach the temple's base offers a unique perspective. When the Ganges recedes, it leaves behind a thick layer of fertile silt that often covers the temple's platform. …

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  8. 8Closing

    As we conclude our visit to the Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, take one last look at this leaning marvel. It is a structure that teaches us that perfection is not a requirement for divinity or endurance. …

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What is Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple?

Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple is a place in Uttar Pradesh · India with 8 story sections on Tellby. You can read the opening of each section on this page; the sound plays in the app.

Key facts
LocationUttar Pradesh · India
TypeHeritage
Story sections8
Text languageEnglish
Coordinates25.3200, 83.0166
Last updated

Nearby places

within a 5-minute walk
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