The story of Bindusaras as described in the Brahma Purana is a fascinating narrative, especially regarding its connection to the Ekamra Kshetra, a sacred place in Odisha (modern-day Bhubaneswar). The Bindusaras, or Bindusagar lake, holds immense historical, religious, and symbolic importance, deeply rooted in the Shaivite tradition and local culture. Below is an expanded version of the story, along with additional details on its significance, related facts, and modern-day relevance.
The Story of Bindusaras in Brahma Purana
In the Brahma Purana (41.52-54), the story goes that Lord Shiva, in his Rudra form, created a sacred water body called the Bindusaras (now Bindusagar Lake) by gathering drops of water (bindus) from all the holy rivers, lakes, and tirthas (pilgrimage sites) of India. He then filled the lake with these sacred waters. This was done to sanctify the Ekamra Kshetra, an area that is considered to be home to one of the most important Shaivite shrines, the Lingaraja Temple.
The legend also indicates that by bathing in the Bindusaras, one could attain the same spiritual benefits as visiting all the holy tirthas of India. This emphasizes the spiritual power of the site, as it condenses the purity of all the waters of India into one lake.
Ekamra Kshetra: A Sacred Shaivite Pilgrimage Site
Ekamra Kshetra is an ancient name for Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, known for its rich heritage of temples. The word "Ekamra" is associated with the presence of a lone mango tree (Ek-amra) under which the deity of Shiva was once worshiped, even before the construction of the Lingaraja Temple. This area is also referred to as the Kshetra (holy field or area) due to its sacred nature.
Bindusaras is situated in the heart of this temple city and is located next to the famous Lingaraja Temple, which is the largest and most important Shiva temple in Bhubaneswar.
Spiritual and Symbolic Significance
The symbolic importance of the Bindusaras and its water collection process is profound. In Hinduism, water symbolizes purity, and holy rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, and others are believed to have purifying powers. The Bindusaras lake represents the unity of all these sacred waters, signifying the unification of divine forces.
Furthermore, Shiva's creation of the lake demonstrates his role as a purifier and protector of the earth. By collecting these holy drops, Rudra (Shiva) condensed the spiritual energy of all these waters into one place, making it a potent center of spirituality.
Historical Importance
Bindusaras and Ekamra Kshetra have been places of pilgrimage for centuries. The Lingaraja Temple, which stands close to the lake, is a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture and attracts thousands of devotees each year. The lake was central to many religious rituals, and historically, kings and devotees used to perform ritual baths in Bindusaras before offering prayers at the Lingaraja Temple.
Lesser-Known Facts
- Bindu Madhava Shrine: There is a small shrine dedicated to Bindu Madhava (an aspect of Lord Vishnu) near the lake, signifying the syncretic nature of religious worship in the area, where Shaivism and Vaishnavism intersect.
- Medicinal Belief: It is believed that the water of Bindusaras has medicinal properties and can cure certain ailments due to its spiritual sanctity.
- Chandan Yatra: A significant festival known as the Chandan Yatra is celebrated here annually, during which idols of deities are taken on ceremonial boat rides in the lake.
Pilgrimage Importance
Visiting Bindusaras and the surrounding Ekamra Kshetra holds great religious merit. For Shaivites, bathing in the lake is believed to cleanse all sins and bring blessings equivalent to visiting all sacred rivers. Pilgrims often combine a visit to the lake with darshan (holy sight) of the Lingaraja Temple.
Modern-Day Relevance
Despite urbanization, Bindusaras retains its cultural and religious relevance. Bhubaneswar, often called the "Temple City of India," is still one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Eastern India. Bindusaras is a crucial part of the heritage trail in Bhubaneswar and continues to draw devotees, scholars, and tourists alike.
In the context of environmental consciousness, the story of Bindusaras underscores the ancient awareness of the importance of preserving water bodies. Modern-day efforts to clean and maintain the lake are aligned with the same values that ancient texts like the Brahma Purana imbued in their narratives.
Symbolism in Modern Times
In today’s world, Bindusaras can be seen as a symbol of unity in diversity. Just as the lake combines waters from various rivers across India, it symbolizes the interconnectedness of people, faiths, and practices in India. It serves as a reminder that despite differences, there is unity in the spiritual and cultural fabric of the country.
When to Visit
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Bindusaras and Ekamra Kshetra is during the cooler months from October to March, when the weather is pleasant. Major festivals like Shivaratri (in February-March) and Chandan Yatra (April-May) also attract many pilgrims.
- Festivals: Apart from Shivaratri and Chandan Yatra, the lake becomes a hub of activity during Kartik Purnima (November), when devotees perform rituals around the lake.
Care to Be Taken While Visiting
- Respect Religious Sentiments: Bindusaras is a sacred site for Hindus, so visitors should dress modestly and respect the rituals taking place around the lake.
- Environmental Care: Visitors should avoid littering and contribute to keeping the lake clean, as it is not only a religious site but also an important natural resource.
- Temple Etiquette: When visiting the nearby Lingaraja Temple, it’s important to follow the rules set by temple authorities, including restrictions on photography and access for non-Hindus.
Accessibility
Bindusaras and the Ekamra Kshetra area are easily accessible from Bhubaneswar's city center. Bhubaneswar is well-connected by rail, air, and road networks. The Bindusaras lake is centrally located in the old city, near the Lingaraja Temple, making it convenient for pilgrims and tourists to visit both sites.
Bindusaras is not just a physical lake but a repository of ancient Indian spiritual wisdom, symbolizing unity, purity, and the sanctity of water. Its association with Ekamra Kshetra and the presence of one of India’s most important Shaivite temples make it a site of profound pilgrimage. In modern times, it remains a key location for both religious rituals and cultural tourism, continuing to inspire reverence and reflection among those who visit it.