Pandeshwar Mahadev Dham, also known as Padila Mahadev Temple, is located in the Padila (Pandila) area near Phaphamau in Prayagraj district, Uttar Pradesh. The temple is situated in a spiritually significant region and is included in the sacred Prayagraj Panchkosi Parikrama route.
According to tradition, the temple dates back to the Dwapar Yuga and is believed to be several thousand years old. Its origin is closely associated with the Pandavas of the Mahabharata, giving it great mythological and spiritual importance.
The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Pandeshwar Nath Mahadev, fondly called Lord Bholenath.Devotees believe that Lord Shiva in this form is very compassionate, easily pleased by sincere devotion and remover of sins and obstacles.
The sacred Shivalinga is worshipped daily with water, milk, Bilva leaves, and mantras.
The temple is constructed entirely of stone, reflecting ancient North Indian temple architecture. Strong and simple stone structure with
Sanctum housing the Shivalinga.A calm prayer hall for devotees. The architecture gives a feeling of strength, timelessness, and spiritual purity, creating a deeply devotional atmosphere.
According to legend, during the Dwapar Yuga, the five Pandavas, while living in exile, reached this sacred region near Prayagraj. With the guidance of the great sage Maharshi Bharadwaj, they decided to establish a Shivalinga at a spiritually powerful spot.
The Pandavas installed the Shivalinga and built a temple around it. Since Lord Shiva was worshipped here by the Pandavas, he came to be known as Pandeshwar Nath Mahadev. Over time, the name evolved locally into Padila Mahadev.
The temple later underwent renovation in 1798 CE by Raja Nain Singh of Bahishuma Fort, Parikshitgarh, which helped preserve the ancient stone structure.
After the Kurukshetra War, the Pandavas were deeply disturbed by the loss of many lives. Though the war was fought for dharma, they felt the burden of sin and sought forgiveness from Lord Shiva, the supreme remover of sins.
During their pilgrimage, they reached the forested region of Prayagraj and met Sage Bharadwaj. The sage guided them to a sacred spot and advised them to install a Shivalinga and worship Lord Shiva with full devotion.
The Pandavas performed intense penance by offering water, Bilva leaves, and continuous prayers. Pleased with their devotion, Lord Shiva manifested his divine presence in the Shivalinga, forgave their sins, and blessed them with peace and strength to rule with righteousness.
It is believed that Lord Shiva continues to reside here eternally, making this place highly sacred for devotees.
During the holy month of Shravan, devotees offer intense devotion to Lord Bholenath from morning till evening. The Shivalinga is worshipped with Jalabhishek, Bilva leaves, and daily decorations in different forms. Thousands of devotees and Kavariyas visit, chanting “Har Har Mahadev”. It is believed that those who perform daily Jalabhishek throughout Shravan have their sincere wishes fulfilled, and they offer trishuls and symbolic offerings in gratitude.
The temple is especially vibrant during Mahashivaratri, when devotees fast, perform night-long prayers, and participate in special poojas. Pradosham and Monthly Shivaratri are also observed with devotion. During these occasions, the temple becomes a center of spiritual energy, attracting devotees from far and wid
