Why did Shiva stop in Deoghar on his way to Lanka? Read the mysterious story of the founding of Baidyanath Dham.:It is believed that every devotee who comes here has their wishes fulfilled.

News Topical, Digital Desk : The story of the Baidyanath Jyotirlinga is not just a religious tale, but an intriguing amalgamation of unwavering devotion, ego, and divine justice. Located in Deoghar, Jharkhand, this Jyotirlinga is also known as the "Kamna Linga."

The story begins with Ravana, the king of Lanka. Ravana was a devout devotee of Lord Shiva, but he harbored a certain pride about his own power. He wanted Shiva to reside permanently in Lanka so that his kingdom would become invincible.

The Shiva Purana tells the story of Ravana performing severe penance in the Himalayas and, to appease Lord Shiva, cutting off his nine heads one by one. When he was about to cut off his tenth head, Lord Shiva appeared and asked him to ask for a boon.

Mahadev's Boon

Ravana requested Mahadev to accompany him to Lanka. Shiva agreed, but imposed an unbreakable condition. According to mythology, Shiva gave Ravana a lingam and said, "You may take it, but remember, if you place it anywhere on the ground before reaching Lanka, it will become fixed there and no one will be able to move it."

When Ravana left with the Shivalinga, there was commotion in heaven. The gods feared that if Shiva went to Lanka, it would be impossible to defeat Ravana. Then Lord Vishnu orchestrated a divine act. With the help of Varuna (the god of water), he filled Ravana's stomach with so much urine that he became restless.

Lord Vishnu's trick

At that very moment, Lord Vishnu appeared disguised as a simple shepherd (Baiju). Ravana called the shepherd and asked him to hold the Shivalinga for a while. According to ancient texts, as soon as Ravana handed over the Shivalinga, the shepherd (who was Lord Vishnu himself) placed the Shivalinga on the ground

When Ravana returned, he saw that the Shivalinga had stuck to the ground. He exerted all his strength, but Mahadev, as per his condition, remained motionless. Ravana realized his mistake, but it was too late. Defeated, Ravana pressed the Shivalinga down with his thumb and left. The place came to be known as "Baidyanath" after the shepherd Baiju, after whom the place became famous.