BANARAS - VISWANATH MANDIR  

It happened in the reign of Sikandar Lodi. This religious bigot, not only razed the much-hallowed temple, but also banned further construction of any shrine on the old site, or am-where in the city. Strict adherence and forceful implementation of this barbarity was meticulously supervised. It continued for 17 years. For lifting the ban, and to renewing the regular worship, every ardent theist, Peethadipathi and subdued king tried, but in vain. The rigidity of the law and severity of fanaticism together with sadistic delight were mounting high only. The struggle between life and death ended only with publishing of the mysterious might of the omnipotent Lord Maheswar. Man in his finite might cannot successfully defy bigotry but God can. Lord sent drought as first measure, followed by severe epidemics which swept off unprecedented numbers. 

Among the dead, Muslims constituted the majority, since their houses and environs are the haunts of infection. The Lodi had tremors - ghastliness of death when danced naked, he condescended to implementing the suggestion of Narayana Bhat - a spiritual leader to great reputation. He was advised by many humanists to approach and advise the king. He did. Naravana Bhat attributing the calamity to the damage done to mandir and stopping of rituals, assured normally, if prayers were offered. Lodi agreed.

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