Prachin Daridra Bhanjan Mahadev Mandir is in Kankhal, a sacred area in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. Devotees come to this temple with a deep devotion to worship Lord Daridra Bhanjan Mahadev (the remover of poverty). The temple is revered as a place where faith and worship relieve poverty and suffering.
Shiva lingam of Daridra Bhanjan Mahadev was established in 1717 at the edge of the cremation ground and the far end of the city. The Shiva Lingam at the temple is believed to have mystical powers. It is said to emit a divine aura that uplifts the spirit and removes negative energies, allowing devotees to overcome their struggles.
The history of Dakshnagari Kanakhala is centuries old. The area once began to fall into desolation due to the poverty of the people living there. The residents’ businesses had completely collapsed, and the wealthy patrons who had constructed Dharamshalas (pilgrim rest houses) in the area faced significant losses, leading to great distress.
According to the legend, there once lived a poor but devout Brahmin who worshipped Lord Shiva with unwavering faith. Despite his dedication, he faced severe poverty and was unable to perform even the basic rituals due to a lack of resources. One night, he had a divine vision where Lord Shiva appeared and instructed him to visit a specific location. Shiva assured the Brahmin that he would find a self-manifested (Swayambhu) Shiva Lingam there, and upon worshiping it, his hardships would end.
The Brahmin followed the divine guidance and discovered the Shiva Lingam at the location, which later became the site of the Daridra Bhanjan Shiva Temple. It is believed that Lord Shiva, pleased with the Brahmin’s devotion, blessed him with prosperity and removed all his hardships. The temple thus came to be known as Daridra Bhanjan, symbolizing Lord Shiva’s grace in eradicating poverty and bestowing blessings of wealth and well-being.
Devotees at the Daridra Bhanjan Shiva Temple often offer rice, milk, and coins as a symbol of their prayers for wealth and abundance. Special pujas and abhishekas (ritual baths) are performed regularly, with Mondays and the holy month of Shravan being particularly auspicious for worship. The temple also witnesses a significant influx of devotees during Mahashivaratri, when night-long prayers and festivities are held to honour Lord Shiva.
