Prithukeshwar Mahadev in Ujjain – Story of Prithukeshwar Form of Shiva – 49th Shiva Temple in Ujjain

Prithukeshwar Mahadev is worshiped in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the 84 forms of Shiva worshiped in Ujjain. It is believed that worshipping Prithukeshwar Form of Shiva will help in redemption of sins resulting from the killing of cow.

The temple dedicated to Prithukeshwar Mahadev is located on the banks of Shipra River near Kedareshwar Temple on the Chhota Pool.

This form of Shiva is associated with Shani Bhagavan who is also known as Sthavar.

Prithukeshwar Mahadev is counted among the 84 Shiva Temples in Ujjain and it is the 49th temple visited during the parikrama of Shivalayas here.

Story of Prithukeshwar Form

When Prithu ruled his kingdom, it became impossible to conduct yajnas and havan as Mother Earth did not allow it. There was no food in his kingdom and living beings were suffering.During this time, Sage Narada arrived in the kingdom and told the king that the only solution was to attack Mother Earth.

The king then dispatched Agniastra on Earth. The earth started burning.

Mother Earth then appeared before the king in the form of cow and asked for forgiveness. The king then churned the cow to get food and valuables for his subjects.

However, King Prithu was unhappy, as he had hurt the cow in the process. For the sin committed, he decided to end his life.

Sage Narada counseled the king to go to Mahakal forest (Ujjain) and offer prayers to a Shivling located west of Abhyeshwar Mahadev.

The king performed austerities as told by Sage Narada and escaped from the sin. As King Prithu performed pujas, the Shivling came to be known as Prithukeshwar Mahadev.