Nestled amidst the rugged beauty of Harishchandragad situated in Malshej Ghat in the Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra, the Kedareshwar Cave Temple is a testament to architectural splendour and also holds spiritual significance. This ancient temple holds, within its precincts, a mysterious pillar, shrouded in legends and mysteries that have intrigued generations. The place has been a beacon for trekkers, history enthusiasts and devotees seeking a divine connection. The sanctum sanctorum of the Kedareshwar Temple houses a shivling of Lord Shiva.
Reaching the temple requires a trekking expedition from ascending trench to a rocky path and also adds to the allure of the experience. The temple is perched atop Harishchandragad and gives a panoramic view of the valley.
According to locals, the temple was built by the Kalachuri dynasty inside the Harishchandragad fort back in the 6th century, but the fort caverns were found in the 11th century. The great sage Changdev stayed at the fort and spent his time in meditation at the temple and also wrote the famous scripture Tatvasaar in the 14th century.
According to Hindu cosmology, each pillar represents four Yugs or cosmic ages- Satya Yuga, Treta Yuga, Dvapara Yuga and Kali Yuga. The cave stands on one of these pillars as three of them have fallen. It is believed that if the last pillar breaks, then the world will come to an end.
According to the local legends, the Four Pillars are said to be a symbol of the devotion of Lord Brahma. It is believed that Brahma performed penance here and offered prayers to Lord Shiva. The pillars serve as a reminder of the divine connection and eternal cycle of creation, preservation and dissolution.
Apart from this, these pillars are said to be changing their heights in response to the changing Yugas. As each cosmic age progresses. Along with this the water surrounding the shivling also changes its temperature during the summer, the water is icy cold while in the winter, it turns to lukewarm water.
