LORD MAHABALESWAR OF GOKARNAM

ANTIQUITY

The origin of this mokshapuri dates back to the Tretayuga and begins with Kaikasi episode. Kaikasi was the mother of Ravana; she was very devout and used to offer prayers to Lord Siva on the sea shore, making the linga with sand in the early hours. One day while she was meditating after the ritualistic prayers, turbulent waves rose up violently and washed away the Sivalinga. Dispirited Kaikasi lamenting over it informed her son the havoc wrought by the waves. Perturbed over it, he promised her to bring the Atmalingam of Lord Maheswar itself from Kailas which would excell any other lingam enshrined anywhere, at any time. She blessed him. And awaited that auspicious moment.

Ravana, the personification of perseverance and perversity at once left for Kailas and started doing penance there itself. Given to egoistic adamancy and supererogation, he thought he could win over Lord Maheswar by mere penance, but the Lord was found hard to be pleased with such staff. 

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