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Ishaneshwar Mahadev in Ujjain – Story of Ishaneshwar Form of Shiva – 16th Shiva Temple in Ujjain

Ishaneshwar Mahadev is worshiped in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the 84 forms of Shiva worshiped in Ujjain. Those offering prayers to Ishaneshwar Mahadev will be blessed with fame, wealth and siddhi.

The temple dedicated to Ishaneshwar Mahadev is located at the bade darwaza at Modi ki gali in Ujjain.

This form of Shiva is associated with Devas, or demigods, getting back heaven from Demon Tuhund.
Ishaneshwar Mahadev is counted among the 84 Shiva Temples in Ujjain and it is the 16th temple visited during the parikarama of Shivalayas here.

Story of Ishaneshwar Mahadev form of Shiva in Ujjain
Legend has it that once demon Tuhund defeated the Devas and threw them out of heaven. He captured Airavat, the white elephant of Indra, and tied him in front of his palace.

The Devas could not enter heaven and therefore they roamed on earth.

On earth, they met Sage Narada who advised them to offer prayers to a Shivling located north of Indradhumneshwar in Mahakaal Vana, present day Ujjain.

This Shivling was known as Ishaneshwar as King Ishan got back his kingdom after offering prayers to the Shivling.

Devas reached Mahakaal Vana and offered prayers to the Shivling. The intense austerities continued for days. One day, smoke appeared from the Shivling. Then a huge fireball appeared from the Shivling. It moved in a great speed and headed towards the palace of demon Tuhund. Here it killed all the demons including Tuhund.

Thus Ishaneshwar Mahadev ended the rule of the demons and helped the Devas in getting back heaven.