12. Vishweshwar Jyotirlinga

The original temple at Varanasi was destroyed by Qutb-ud-din-Aibak in 1194 AD and then by other invaders. It was rebuilt during the reign of Akbar but Aurangazeb, destroyed it in 1669 and built a mosque on the site.

The current Temple was built on an adjacent site by Maratha ruler, Rani Ahilya Bai Holkar, of Indore, in 1777.

The spire or shikhara of the Temple was plated with gold donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1835.

Legend of Vishweshwar Jyotirlinga?

It is believed that Lord Shiva lived here but his mother-in-law was unhappy with his abode. To please his consort, Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva requested the demon, Nikumbha to make the place suitable for his family at Kashi. Parvati was so pleased with the residence that she offered food to everyone and that is why she is worshipped as Annapoorani or Annapurna. Even Lord Shiva is believed to hold a begging bowl in front of her, seeking food.