Varanasi newest temple

I visited what I understand to be the newest temple in Varanasi. It was breathtaking! Resplendent with white marble, I was immediately struck by the number of Shiva Lingams.

This one greets you upon entering.

Lingams to the left

Lingams to the right

Lingams all around!

Then there was this separate room of white Lingams. It reminded me of a nursery.

In addition, there were several beautiful murtis (sacred statues) of the Gods and Goddesses.

Annapurna is the Goddess of food, nourishment & sacred abundance. Feeding people is a highly regarded sacred act in Hinduism.

Radha and Krishna

Durga

Ganesha

I noticed some differences between this temple and many of the other temples in Varanasi. They are ancient and there's a different feel to them. There's no photography allowed. There's a sanctity in the air that comes from centuries of worship being performed in a place. Both are powerful and holy, and there's a difference.

Perhaps the coolest part of this temple was the cow area. Cows are sacred in India.

For 100 rupees, you could get a bowl of food and feed the cows. We spent a lot of rupees feeding the cows. It was a most auspicious opportunity!