Jyotirlinga

Jyotrilingas are scared shrines of Lord Shiva; it is believed that Lord Shiva himself visited these places and hence they have a special place in hearts of their devotees. There are 12 of them in India.

Jyotilingas means "column or pilar of lights". The Stambha symbol represnts that there is no beginning or end.

When Lord Brahama & Vishnu had an arguement who was the supreme God, Lord Shiva appeared as column of light and asked each one to find the ends.  Neither could do it. It is believed that the places where these colums of light fell is where the jyotirilingas are located.

Since kaal means 'time' & 'death'. Mahakaleshwar i.e. Lord Shiva is called the Lord of Time & Death.

Location

The temple is located in the historical city of Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is situated on the banks of the holy river, Shipra.

Architecture

The Mahakaleshwar temple has been built in Maratha, Bhumija & Chalukya architectural styles. It has five levels, one of which is underground. There are images of Lord Shiva's consort. Goddess Parvaati (to the north), his sons, Ganesha (to the west) & Kartikeya (to the east) & his mont, (Nandi to the south).

On the second floor above the Mahakaleshwar linga is the Mkareshwar Linga. Enshrined on the third floor of the temples is an Nagchandreshwar - with Lord Shiva & Parvati seated on a ten-hooded snake & surrounded by other statues.

It has a tall spire(shikhara) with intricate & beautiful cravings.