Collecting the ancient links at Bithoor

Peaceful ambience of a riverside settlement appeals to everyone; 

Why not? The river ghats have been the sole witness for civilization transitions since times immemorial and have always celebrated the traditions while continuing journey with changing times. As I always say, take life as it comes and try to make the best of whatever comes your way. It was one of those moments, when I got some free time for myself in Kanpur. So managed to reach Bithoor, a small town located 27 km away from Kanpur, on the banks of River Ganga. 

Though I was aware about the name Bithoor and its location alongside river Ganga, however was totally unaware of its ancient roots. What could have been more ancient, the place which is considered as birth place of Lav-Kush, you got it right sons of Lord Ram. Also Bithoor was the centre for Revolt of 1857 as Nana Sahib, then Peshwa of Maratha Empire led the freedom struggle revolt from here.

So got to know that the small town of Bithoor has both historical and religious importance. It is also believed that Lord Brahma selected Bithoor as his abode and performed Ashwmedh Yajna at this place. Because of which Bithoor came to be known as Brahmavart and the place where I was standing is known as Brahmvart Ghat. There is a small temple, “Brahma Khoonti” dedicated to Lord Brahma at the Brahmvart Ghat. It is so small that prayers are done from the outside only. As per Brahmvart Puran, this point is the centre point of the earth. Close your eyes to feel the divine vibes.

Pilgrims from far off places come here to pray at Brahmvart Ghat and see the Valmiki Ashram. My country has been blessed with such a heritage, which makes us proud on our civilization.

Adjacent to Brahmvart Ghat is a very old structure, looked like ruins of some prestigious monument. Got to know it was Mahakaleshwar Pathar Ghat, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Little I knew about the architectural masterpiece I was about to witness. Mahakaleshwar temple was constructed in 17^th century and outer structure designed as Rose Petals.

A giant Trishul, the largest one in India and perhaps in the World guarding the beautiful Mahakaleshwar Temple. Towering presence of this weapon of Lord Shiva overpowers everything, this weapon of Lord Shiva  

The Shivlinga here is all of a special black stone and this ghat has a rare statue of Lord Brahma.

Forgot to mention that boat rides are available in Ganga from the Ghats and waters are very clear. Majority of the devotees visiting here take a dip in holy waters prior to offering prayers.  Regret I did not carry a spare clothing to take a dip in the holy waters. No issues, there is always a second round.

Bithoor is also famous for an annual fair held in November on Kartik Poornima. The day turned out to be a well-deserved break, I was looking for. Now while writing this blog, felt that the place deserves better attention and government should take up developing Bithoor as a sacred pilgrimage site. 

Tourism is the only way to take the benefits to last person of the country, as industries cannot be set up at every corner. 
In between Kanpur and Bithoor, you may spend some time at Siddhi Dham Ashram of noted preacher SudhanshuJi. The place is full of spiritual vibes and natural ambience created by beautiful statues of various Gods. And also a small hill, resembling Kailash, abode of Lord Shiva.

Strange Fact about Kanpur – On my train ticket I noticed Kanpur is coded as CNB. CN stands for Cawnpore North, the pre-independence name. What is B meant for? After some research found out B is for Barrack. So CNB – Cawnpore North Barrack. Why still, Barrack?

Keep exploring Guys.