Ancient Karmadeshwar Mahadev Temple: Older Than Kashi Vishwanath, A Varanasi Marvel

• Karmadeshwar Mahadev temple in Kandwa, Varanasi, built in 12th century, predates Kashi Vishwanath.
• Built by Garhwal kings, it showcases Nagar style architecture and is maintained by the Department of Culture.
• It's the first stop of Kashi's Panchkosi Parikrama; Lord Rama was freed from Brahmahatya sin here.
• Named after Karmad Rishi, the temple features a rare Shivling and is mentioned in Kashi Khandokt.
• Believed to absolve sins, fulfill wishes, and free from ancestral debts, attracting huge crowds.

Why It Matters: Varanasi's Karmadeshwar Mahadev Temple, older than Kashi Vishwanath, is a spiritual and architectural marvel.