Sudh Mahadev Temple is situated in the town of Chanhani, Udhampur district in the western part of Jammu. This holy temple near Patnitop, it is situated at an elevation of 1225m above sea level and is about 120 kms from Jammu. Pilgrims visit the shrine on full moon night of the monsoon period to worship the famous Trident (trishul) and a mace, which is believed to belong to Lord Shiva. The temple is one the oldest Shiva Temples of Jammu and Kashmir.
History of Sudh Mahadev Temple
Believed to be 2800 years old, the temple of Sudh Mahadev houses a natural black marble "Lingam", the "Trident" (Trishul) of Lord Shiva and a "Mace" which is believed to be that of Bhima, one of the five legendary Pandava brothers. The blessed temple of Sudh Mahadev was built by Chaudhauri Ramdas of Chanhani and his son Chaudhauri Parag Mahajan about 80 years ago. Sri Masu Shahane of Sudh Mahadev is said to have constructed the entrance door to the temple.
Sudh Mahadev has a spring by the name "Pap Nashni Bowli". It is believed that taking bath in it relieves a devotee of all sins. After bath one proceeds towards the holy temple of Lord Shiva. The Devak stream originating at this place disappears enchantingly among the rocks a few kilometers downstream. The "Dhooni" (sacred fire) immortalises the spiritual accomplishments of Baba Roop Nath who is said to have attained Samadhi here. People are of the faith that the fire is burning since time immemorial, ever since Baba Roop Nath resided here.
Legend of Sudh Mahadev Temple
Legends speak of Lord Shiva engrossed in deep meditation, when he suddenly heard the shriek of Parvati, his consort. Shiva instantaneously charged his trident (trishul) in Parvati"s direction to protect her from any misfortunes. However, in reality it was Sudheet, Shiva"s disciple who had approached Parvati to pay his deferential obeisance, and since he was a demon in his previous birth, his fiendish looks frightened her and she screamed out loud. The trident though, killed Sudheet. Shiva realized his gross mistake and offered to revivify him, but Sudheet preferred to lay down his life in the hands of Lord Shiva himself. Affected by his devotion, Shiva prefixed his name to the place forever and the broken trident in three pieces can still be seen installed in the temple. Since then it is called "Sudh Mahadev Temple".
Festivals at Sudh Mahadev Temple
Pilgrims visit the shrine on a 3 day festival on the full moon night of "Sawan" (June -July) to worship the Trident (Trishul) and the mace. Cultural programs are organized during the 3 day festival; in which the local performers entertain the visitors by showcasing various local dances and singing folk songs.
How to Reach Sudh Mahadev Temple
The Sudh Mahadev Temple is nearby Patnitop and 120 km far away from Jammu. One can reach to the temple by bus or hire car.
