Story of Mamleshwar – Omkareshwar - Shiva Temple and Jyotirlinga

Omkareshwar is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga Temples dedicated to Shiva at Mandhata or Shivapuri Island on Narmada River in Madhya Pradesh. There is an equally important temple near Omkareshwar. The two temples are together known as Omkaram Malleswaram in the famous Jyotirlinga Stotram. Two Jyotirlingas are worshipped here – Omkareshwara Linga and Mamaleswara (also known as Amaleswara) Linga.

Legend has it that Shiva agreed to stay on Mandhata Island as he gave a boon to king Mandhata. Shiva decided to be present there as Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga.

It is believed that Shiva, who is present in past, present and future, realized that devotees who will come to Omkareshwar will be polluted due to desires and fear. They will not be able to attain moksha. So he decided to reside as Amaleswara on the southern bank of Narmada River. Amaleswara means remover of blemish and impurity.

Devotees should first visit Amaleswara and then proceed to Omkareshwar. As Amaleshwara Shiva removes the ignorance and prepares them to take the blessing of Omkareshwar.

It is believed that the term Amaleswara got distorted and is currently known as Mamaleswara.