Eklingji


Eklingji is a Hindu temple complex in Udaipur District of Rajasthan in western India. Eklingji is believed to be the ruling deity of Mewar Princely State and the Maharana rules as his Dewan.

History

According to the 15th century text Ekalinga Mahatmya, the original temple at Eklingji was constructed by the 8th century ruler Bappa Rawal. The original temple and Vigraha were destroyed during invasions by the Delhi Sultanate rulers. The earliest extant idol was installed by Hamir Singh, who also carried out extensive renovations to the main temple. Rana Kumbha rebuilt the temple, in addition to constructing a Vishnu temple. His 1460 inscription describes him as "the personal servant of Ekling".
In the late 15th century, Ghiyath Shah of Malwa Sultanate attacked Mewar, and devastated Eklingji. Kumbha's son Rana Raimal defeated and captured him, and obtained a ransom for his release. With this ransom, Raimal patronized the last major rebuilding of the temple complex, and installed the present murti at the main temple.
Originally, the temple likely belonged to the Pashupata sect, and was subsequently in the custody of the Nath sect. In the 16th century, it came under the control of the Ramanandis.