Bodheswar Mahadev Temple is located near Bangarmau town in Unnao district, Uttar Pradesh. The temple is believed to be several hundred years old, with its construction estimated around the 15th century. The ancient stone work and traditional design reflect the craftsmanship of its time and have been preserved through generations by local worshippers.
The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Bodheswar Mahadev. The temple’s most special feature is its rare Panchmukhi Shivling—a Shiva lingam with five faces. This form of Shivling is uncommon and is believed to represent different aspects of Lord Shiva in one sacred form. Devotees consider the Panchmukhi lingam especially powerful and auspicious.
The temple’s architecture reflects the old Indian temple design from medieval times. The Panchmukhi Shivling itself is carved from a rare type of stone that is said not to be found naturally anymore. Near the lingam are beautifully carved figures such as Nandi (Shiva’s bull) and a Navagraha panel (nine planetary deities), highlighting the skill and artistic tradition of ancient sculptors.
Long ago a king of a region called Naval (Nawal/Newal) had a deep spiritual longing to install a unique and powerful form of Lord Shiva at a sacred place. One night, the king had a divine dream in which Lord Shiva himself appeared and instructed the king to consecrate a five-faced (Panchmukhi) Shivling, along with the sacred figures of Nandi (Shiva’s bull) and the Navagraha’s (nine planetary deities). The king, filled with devotion, prepared the holy idols from rare stone, worshipping and arranging them according to the god’s divine instruction.
Once the idols were ready, the king placed them on a chariot to transport them to the selected holy site near what is now Bangarmau in Unnao district. As the chariot moved, something unusual happened — one wheel of the chariot suddenly sank deep into the ground. Despite repeated efforts by many helpers, the wheel could not be pulled out, and the chariot could not move forward. Observing this, the king realized that this was not an ordinary obstacle but a divine sign — Lord Shiva wanted to reside at that exact spot. So, the king surrendered to divine will and decided to build the temple right there.
It is said that Lord Shiva’s instruction to the king was a message of Bodh — spiritual awakening or revelation — and because of this the deity came to be worshipped as “Bodheswar Mahadev” (Bodheswar meaning Lord of Revelation).
Many villagers and devotees share stories of snakes visiting the temple at night. According to these beliefs, the snakes come, touch the Shiva lingam, and return peacefully to the forest, which local people consider sacred and auspicious. There is also a widespread belief that touching the Panchmukhi Shivling with devotion can cure long-lasting or incurable diseases, bringing peace and healing to those who worship with faith.
The temple is especially crowded during the month of Shravan, when devotees observe special rituals and offer water, milk, and Bel leaves to Shiva. The festival of Mahashivratri is celebrated with great devotion, including night-long prayers and Jalabhishek ceremonies. Mondays, considered auspicious for Lord Shiva, also attract large numbers of worshippers throughout the year. Prasad distribution and community gatherings are common during these festive times.
