Khidkali temple, or the Khidkaleshwar Mandir, is a Hindu temple located in Dombivli, a suburb of Mumbai, in the state of Maharashtra. The swayambhu Shivalinga, or Khidkaleshwar temple, is situated on the banks of the River Khadkali.
The present temple structure was probably rebuilt in the 17th century. Inside the main temple there are other ancient idols of Lord Ganesha and Lord Hanuman which are covered in Sindoor.
The significance of this temple is that the Pandavas built it with their own hands. The temple has a very simple but divine architecture, which is proof of the skill of the Pandavas, who had divine powers.
According to Hindu Mythology and the Mahabharata, the Pandavas built this Khidkaleshwar Temple. They were undergoing their Vanvaas in the forests and wanted to perform Shiv Puja. That is when they found the Swayambu Shiv Ling in Khidkaleshwar and built the temple for Mahadev.
With devotion in their hearts and determination in their souls, the Pandavas began worshiping Lord Shiva to seek his blessings. Their unshakable faith and dedication caught Lord Shiva’s attention, who decided to test their devotion.
Lord Shiva appeared before the Pandavas disguised as an old Brahmin. Yudhishthira, known for his righteousness, stepped forward to offer his service. The Brahmin asked for five flowers, each symbolizing the devotion of one Pandava.
The task seemed simple, but the Pandavas soon realized the flowers were nowhere to be found. As the sun began to set and their hopes dimmed, Arjuna, the skilled archer, heard a voice calling him to a nearby lake. Following the voice, he discovered beautiful lotuses blooming there.
While Arjuna was plucking the flowers, a massive boulder fell from a nearby hill, threatening his life. Bhima, the strong and fearless warrior, used his immense strength to stop the boulder, saving Arjuna from harm.
Nakula, known for his agility, rushed to help Arjuna gather the flowers, while Sahadeva, the wise Pandava, recited sacred mantras to remove obstacles. Together, the Pandavas overcame the challenges, showing their unity and determination.
When they presented the flowers to the Brahmin, Lord Shiva revealed his true form, radiating divine light. Pleased with their devotion and teamwork, Lord Shiva blessed them with victory in the upcoming Kurukshetra war, recognizing their righteousness and selflessness.
During the war, the Pandavas fought with unmatched courage and unwavering faith in Lord Shiva. Guided by Lord Krishna, they overcame the Kaurava forces and restored justice and righteousness to Bharat. Their victory was a testament to their devotion, unity, and the divine blessings they received.
Ever since they built it, this temple has been standing strong.
The temple is particularly bustling during festivals and special occasions, when locals and devotees gather to celebrate with fervor.
