What is special about Tilbhandeshwar Mahadev?
Tilbhandeshwar Mahadev is an old Shiva temple in the Bhelupur area of Varanasi, a short walk from the ghats. Tradition holds that its large, self-manifested linga grows by the size of a sesame seed (til) every year. It is especially busy during Sawan and on Mahashivratri.
Tilbhandeshwar Mahadev Temple
- Presiding deity
- Shiva
- Location
- Pandey Haveli, Bhelupur area, Varanasi
- From Kashi Vishwanath
- About 2–3 km (approximate)
On this page
Tradition
The temple
The present temple is commonly dated to the 18th century. The linga is notably large. The temple is in the lanes of the Bhelupur area, a few hundred metres from the river, and is often visited with Kedar Ghat.
When to visit
The temple is especially busy in Sawan, on Mondays and on Mahashivratri. A Makar Sankranti observance associated with sesame is also traditional.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Tilbhandeshwar linga really grow?
That is the temple's tradition and a matter of faith. We have not seen any scientific measurement.
Sources and further reading
We link to primary and authoritative sources. External links open in a new tab.
- Shri Tilbhandeshwar Mahadev Mandir (encyclopaedia entry with cited references) (opens in a new tab)
Wikipedia — Reference work, checked September 2026
Written and maintained by the KashiVishwanathTemple.net Editorial Team. Last updated . Found an error? Tell us — see our editorial policy.
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