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Somnath Temple: Situated on Gujarat's western coast, the Somnath Temple is one of the most well-known pilgrimage destinations. Since this temple is regarded as one of India's twelve Jyotirlingas, Shiva worshippers hold it in the highest regard. 

Let us check out 5 unknown facts you must know about this magnificent jyotirlinga. 

Somnath Temple: 5 Unknown Facts About This Temple 

1. The Chalukya king Maharaja Mularaja is said to have built the first temple at Somnath before 997 CE. But no reliable historical account exists to support this. According to a different school of historians, Mularaja only expanded the size, dimensions, and reach of a modest temple that had previously been there. 

2. Legend has it that the Syamantaka mani, a miraculous stone found within the Somnath temple, has the power to turn everything into gold upon touch. The mani was concealed inside Lord Shiva's Jyotirlingam's hollow.

3. There is an intriguing folklore connected to the temple of Somnath. Lord Shiva, who is revered here, is referred to as "Somnath," which means "Lord of the Moon." Legend has it that Moon was the son-in-law of Daksha Prajapati, to whom Moon had married 27 of his daughters. However, Moon neglected all of his wives but for Rohini, whom he held in high regard. Daksha found Moon's behaviour annoying. He cursed the moon, which made it less brilliant.

Somnath Temple in Gujrat is one of the most significant 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. (Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Moon looked astonished and sad. He asked Brahma dev for assistance. He was advised to worship Lord Shiva by Brahma dev. Moon began his severe penance to appease the deity while seated at the current location of the Somnath temple. In the end, Lord Shiva was moved by his devotion and showed up to bestow a blessing upon him. Moon requested the same thing since he wanted to be freed from the curse. His desire came true, and he regained his shine. He erected a gold temple in Lord Shiva's honour as an act of gratitude. Subsequently, the temple was constructed by Ravana using silver, Lord Krishna using wood, and Bheema, one of the Pandava brothers, using stone.

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4. The 37-foot-long flag staff of the temple is rotated three times a day and is located atop the pinnacle of the structure. 

5. According to legend, Somnath was a famous pilgrimage destination even before the construction of the temple since it was the sacred confluence of the three rivers, Saraswati, Kapila, and Hiran. 




(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert from the relevant field.)