Know the history behind the historic temple dedicated to Yamraj, which Kangana Ranaut visited

kangana ranaut, chamba, yamraj temple

Explore the mystical Yamraj temple in Chamba, Himachal Pradesh, visited by Kangana Ranaut. (Source: Kangana Ranaut/ Instagram)

The actor-turned-politician (hopeful) Kangana Ranaut, who is now the BJP candidate for the Mandi Lok Sabha constituency, recently visited the charming town of Chamba in Himachal Pradesh.

Kangana Ranaut sought blessings at the esteemed Laxmi Narayan temple, also known as Lachhmi Nath ka Dera. This temple complex, boasting 84 temples, holds deep historical and religious significance for the community. Among these temples is the Dharamraj temple of Bharmour, a site believed to be associated with soul interrogation after death, according to local beliefs.

kangana ranaut, chamba, yamraj temple

The temple complex also features the Dharmeshwar Mahadev temple, accompanied by a peculiar witness box-like shrine where souls are said to stand after death. (Source: Kangana Ranaut/ Instagram)

The temple complex encompasses 84 temples dedicated to Hindu deities, with legends suggesting they have the power to grant liberation from the cycle of birth into 84 lakh species of life forms. Built by Raja Meru Varma in the 7th century AD, these temples were constructed using bricks and mortar made from ground lentils and butter.

A visit to this site offers a spiritually enriching experience. Let’s explore some of the notable temples within this vast complex.

One such temple is dedicated to Shiva and his 24 companions, known as Manimaheshwar Mahadev. Legend has it that Lord Shiva and his companions were enchanted by the tranquillity and beauty of Bharmour, leading them to choose it as their abode.

Another significant temple is the Narsingh Temple, housing an idol of the fiery deity, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, carved from granite. Local beliefs warn against speaking lies or making false vows within this temple, as it is believed to provoke divine wrath.

The temple complex also features the Dharmeshwar Mahadev temple, accompanied by a peculiar witness box-like shrine where souls are said to stand after death. Adjacent to this is the temple of Dharmeshwar Mahadev, believed to be guarded by four invisible doors made of different metals. These doors supposedly grant access to souls based on their karma. Nearby, a locked door leads to a secret cave. Legend has it that individuals who ventured into this cave in the past never returned. Consequently, the temple authorities now keep the entrance locked at all times. Locals claim to hear mysterious voices around midnight within this temple complex.

During her visit, Ranaut adorned the traditional attire of Chamba, known as Luanchari, consisting a blouse and a long skirt embellished with silver ornaments. In her social media post, the Fashion actor expressed her admiration for the beauty, culture, and people of Chamba, expressing a desire to maintain a strong connection with the town in the future.

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