Mahashivratri 2025: Why Is The Panchkroshi Parikrama Performed That Was Initiated By Lord Ram? Know Here

Panchkroshi Yatra holds great significance on Mahashivratri. Let’s explore what Panchkroshi Yatra is and how Lord Shri Ram initiated this tradition.

Mahashivratri 2025: Maha Shivratri, one of the most significant festivals for devotees of Lord Shiva, will be celebrated on February 26, 2025. Devotees eagerly wait for this auspicious occasion, as it is believed to be the day when Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married. Worshipping Lord Shiva on this day is said to bring divine blessings and fulfill wishes quickly.

The Sacred Panchkroshi Yatra:

On Maha Shivratri, Shiva devotees undertake the Panchkroshi Yatra, a spiritual pilgrimage with deep religious significance. But what is the history of this yatra, and how is it connected to Lord Ram?

According to ancient beliefs, the tradition of the Panchkroshi Yatra dates back to the Treta Yuga, initiated by Lord Ram himself. The reason behind this yatra is linked to an unfortunate event in Ramayana — when King Dasharatha, unknowingly, caused the death of Shravan Kumar, a devoted son carrying his blind parents on pilgrimage. In their grief, Shravan Kumar's parents cursed King Dasharatha, foretelling that he, too, would suffer the unbearable pain of losing his son.

To free his father from this curse, Lord Ram undertook the Panchkroshi Yatra, which is now believed to bless devotees with spiritual fulfillment and divine grace. Those who complete this sacred journey are said to attain their desired wishes and rid themselves of past sins.

Panchkroshi Yatra In Ujjain And Varanasi:

The Panchkroshi Yatra is undertaken in two prominent Shiva cities — Ujjain and Varanasi.

• In Ujjain, the yatra is performed during the Vaishakh month, covering five important Shiva temples — Pingleshwar, Kayavarohaneshwar, Bilweshwar, Durdhreshwar, and Neelkantheshwar. Devotees visit these temples to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings.
• In Kashi (Varanasi), the sacred journey begins at the Manikarnika Ghat, one of the holiest sites on the banks of the Ganges. On the night of Maha Shivratri, pilgrims start the yatra at midnight and visit Kardameshwar, Bheem Chandi, Rameshwar, Shivpur, and Kapildhara, before returning to Manikarnika Ghat, completing the spiritual circuit.

[Disclaimer: The content of this article is based solely on beliefs, and should be taken as general guidance. Individual experiences may vary. ABPLive.com does not assert the accuracy or validity of any claims or information presented. It is strongly recommended to consult a qualified expert before considering or implementing any information or belief discussed herein.]